Tag: words & Wishes

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

If you’re looking for a fun fold card that’s easy to make but looks a little bit different, this Birthday Easel Card is the perfect project. Easel cards are always a favourite because they display beautifully when opened, yet fold flat to fit inside a standard envelope.

For today’s project, I’ve created two bright and cheerful birthday cards using the gorgeous Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper from Stampin’ Up! One card features the vibrant Azure Afternoon cardstock, while the second uses the beautiful Strawberry Slush. Both designs are quick to recreate and are ideal for birthdays all year round.

Birthday Easel Card - Artisan Sketched Garden - Easy Tutorial - Words and Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin 'Up! Demo - UK.
Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

A Simple Easel Card with a Hidden Surprise

The beauty of this design is its simplicity. The easel mechanism is easy to assemble, making it suitable for beginners while still being enjoyable for more experienced papercrafters.

Instead of using a traditional raised embellishment as the easel stopper, this card features a clever little flap. Not only does it support the easel when the card is displayed, but it also opens to reveal a hidden space that’s perfect for writing a secret message, adding a gift card or including an extra surprise for the recipient. It’s a lovely interactive feature that makes the card feel even more special.

Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper

The striking black and white floral patterns from the Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper really allow the colourful cardstock to shine. The bold contrast creates a modern look while still keeping the card elegant and versatile.

Using the same paper with two different cardstock colours shows just how easily you can achieve completely different looks from one pack of Designer Series Paper. Whether you prefer the fresh feel of Azure Afternoon or the vibrant pop of Strawberry Slush, both versions are equally eye-catching.

Birthday Easel Card - Artisan Sketched Garden - Easy Tutorial - Words and Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin 'Up! Demo - UK.
Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

Beautiful Layered Birthday Sentiments

The large layered birthday greetings were created using the Words and Wishes Dies. These oversized die-cut sentiments become the main focal point of the card, adding dimension without making the design feel overly complicated.

Layering the die cuts in coordinating colours helps the sentiment stand out beautifully against the bold floral background.

Finishing Touches

To complete each design, I’ve added embellishments from the Mix and Match Ephemera Packs. These ready-made pieces are a fantastic way to finish a card quickly while adding extra interest and colour.

The floral image complements the Azure Afternoon version perfectly, while the sweet cupcake embellishment adds a fun birthday touch to the Strawberry Slush card.

Measurements

  • Azure Afternoon / Strawberry Slush Cardstock:
    • A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
    • 14.85cm X 10.5cm X 1 piece.
    • 15cm X 5cm scored at 7.5cm
  • Basic White Cardstock:
    • 14.35cm X 10cm X 2 pieces.
    • 4.5cm X 7cm X 1 piece
  • Artisan Sketched Designer Series Paper (DSP):
    • 13.85cm X 9.5cm
    • 4.5cm X 7cm.

Why You’ll Love This Card

This Birthday Easel Card is a wonderful project because it:

  • Is easy to make, even if you’ve never made an easel card before.
  • Folds flat for posting.
  • Displays beautifully when opened.
  • Includes a hidden message flap for an extra surprise.
  • Makes great use of Designer Series Paper.
  • Can easily be adapted for different occasions by changing the sentiment and embellishments.

It’s one of those fun fold cards that looks far more complicated than it really is, making it perfect for impressing family and friends without spending hours crafting.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

If you’d like to make this Birthday Easel Card yourself, be sure to watch the step-by-step video tutorial below. I’ll guide you through the entire process so you can confidently recreate this design using your favourite papers and colours.

Whether you choose Azure Afternoon, Strawberry Slush, or another favourite Stampin’ Up! colour combination, I’m sure you’ll enjoy making this versatile easel card.

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card.

Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. – Words & Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. – Words & Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’re looking for a card that has the wow factor but is still surprisingly straightforward to make, then this Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card is one you’ll definitely want to add to your collection. With multiple folds, beautiful patterned paper and a striking centre panel, this design is perfect for showcasing your favourite Designer Series Papers while creating a card that’s sure to impress.

For today’s project, I’ve created two versions using different colour combinations, proving just how versatile this fun fold can be.

A Beautiful Showcase for Designer Series Paper

One of the things I love most about this card is that it really lets the Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper take centre stage. The multiple panels provide the perfect opportunity to display several sections of your favourite patterns without overwhelming the design.

The first card features a sophisticated Lost Lagoon card base paired with the soft floral patterns from the Everyday Essentials DSP. The cool tones create an elegant, calming design that’s perfect for thank-you cards, birthdays, or simply sending a thoughtful note.

For the second version, I switched to a Bubble Bath card base. This gives the card a much softer, feminine feel, with the pink tones beautifully complementing the colourful floral paper. It’s amazing how simply changing the cardstock colour completely transforms the finished project.

Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. - Words & Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. – Words & Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

The Perfect Fun Fold

Although this card looks intricate, it’s created using a series of simple score lines and folds that come together beautifully. The double gatefold opens to reveal the centre panel, while the double Z-fold adds movement and dimension, making the card interactive and fun for the recipient to open.

Fun fold cards are always a wonderful way to use your crafting skills to create something a little different, and this design is one that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. - Words & Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Learn How to Make a Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. – Words & Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Simple Yet Elegant Sentiment

Rather than adding lots of embellishments, I kept the focal point clean and elegant by using the Words & Wishes Dies to create the layered “Thank You” sentiment.

The die-cut greeting stands proudly in the centre of the card, allowing the surrounding Designer Series Paper to frame it beautifully. Sometimes a simple sentiment is all you need when the folds and patterned paper are doing most of the work.

Of course, this design could easily be adapted for birthdays, anniversaries, congratulations or any other occasion simply by changing the sentiment.

Measurements

  • Lost Lagoon / Bubble Bath Cardstock:
    • 28.5cm X 14.85cm – scored at 4.75cm, 9.5cm from either side on the longer side.
    • 19cm X 3cm scored at 4.75cm and 9.5cm.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 9cm.
  • Everyday Essentials designer series paper (DSP):
    • 14.35cm X 4.25cm X 4 pieces.
    • 4.25cm X 2.5cm X 4 pieces
    • 9cm X 2.5cm X 2 pieces.

Why You’ll Love This Design

This card is ideal if you:

  • Want to try a more advanced-looking fun fold without it being overly complicated.
  • Love showcasing beautiful Designer Series Paper.
  • Enjoy creating interactive cards that recipients will remember.
  • Need a design that works for almost any occasion.

It’s also a fantastic project for using coordinating papers and cardstock from your craft stash.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card is how easily it can be customised.

Try using seasonal papers for Christmas, elegant florals for weddings, bright patterns for birthdays or masculine papers for Father’s Day. You could even add stamped images, embossed panels or ribbon to personalise it further.

No matter which papers you choose, the unique fold ensures your card will always stand out.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

Fancy fold cards are always a wonderful way to add a little extra wow factor to your handmade creations, and today’s project is a beautiful Diamond Gatefold Card. This style of card looks intricate when displayed, but it’s surprisingly straightforward to create once you know the construction.

For this project, I created two different versions using the gorgeous Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper, each with its own unique colour combination. Whether you prefer bright and cheerful or elegant and sophisticated, this design works beautifully with a variety of colour palettes.

Two Beautiful Colour Combinations

The first card features a fresh and cheerful combination of Pool Party and Daffodil Delight. The soft blue tones paired with the sunny yellow accents create a light, uplifting design that perfectly complements the patterned papers.

The second version uses the rich elegance of Pretty Peacock with accents of Coastal Cabana. This colour combination gives the card a more dramatic and sophisticated feel whilst still allowing the beautiful designer paper to take centre stage.

Both cards showcase how versatile the same layout can be simply by changing the cardstock colours and paper patterns.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card - Step-by-Step Tutorial. - Beautiful Ordinary - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stamin' Up! Demo.
How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

What Makes a Diamond Gatefold Card Special?

Unlike a traditional gatefold card where two panels meet in the centre, a Diamond Gatefold Card features angled front panels that create a striking diamond shape when closed. The layered diamond focal point becomes the star of the design and provides the perfect place for a sentiment.

The dimensional shape makes these cards ideal for birthdays, celebrations, thank you cards, or any occasion where you want your handmade card to stand out from the crowd.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card - Step-by-Step Tutorial. - Beautiful Ordinary - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stamin' Up! Demo.
How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

Decorative Details

The beautiful floral image comes from the Boutique Blossoms stamp set. I stamped the image onto a circle punched from Basic White cardstock and attached it to one of the front panels to act as both a focal point and decorative closure element.

For the greeting, I used sentiments from the Words of Wishes stamp set. The simple “Happy Birthday” sentiment sits neatly across the centre diamond panel, allowing the patterned papers and unique card shape to remain the focus of the design.

The circle embellishment is created using a punch, making it quick and easy to reproduce this design for multiple cards.

Let the Designer Paper Do the Work

One of my favourite things about this project is how the Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper does much of the decorative work for you.

The mix of soft patterns and coordinating colours creates visual interest without requiring lots of stamping or embellishing. This makes the card perfect for batch creating whilst still looking impressive and detailed.

By layering the designer paper onto coordinating cardstock mats, the diamond shapes become even more defined, helping to emphasise the unique fold of the card.

Measurements

  • Pretty Peacock / Pool Party Cardstock:
    • 10″ X 4″ scored at 2″, 4″ & 8″
    • 4″ X 4″ X 3 pieces
  • Coastal Cabana / Daffodil Delight Cardstock:
    • 3 3/4″ X 3 3/4″ X 4 pieces
    • 3 3/4″ X 1 3/4″ X 4 pieces
  • Beautiful Ordinary designer series paper (DSP)
    • 3 1/2 ” X 3 1/2″ x 3 pieces in 2 coordinating designs.
    • 3 1/2″ X 1 3/4″ X 4 pieces in 2 coordinating designs.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 3 1/2″ X 3 1/2″

Perfect for Many Occasions

Although I’ve used birthday greetings on these samples, this fold can easily be adapted for many different occasions. Simply change the sentiment and papers to create:

  • Thank you cards
  • Wedding cards
  • Anniversary cards
  • Congratulations cards
  • New home cards
  • Thinking of you cards

The elegant structure makes it suitable for almost any celebration.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

If you’d like to recreate this Diamond Gatefold Card yourself, be sure to watch the accompanying YouTube video. I walk you through the entire process step by step, making it easy to follow along and create your own version.

You’ll find all the measurements and detailed instructions in the video so you can craft along with me at your own pace.

Final Thoughts

Fancy fold cards don’t have to be complicated, and this Diamond Gatefold Card is a perfect example. The combination of simple scoring, beautiful designer paper, and coordinating cardstock creates a card that looks far more complex than it actually is.

Whether you choose the bright Pool Party and Daffodil Delight version or the elegant Pretty Peacock and Coastal Cabana version, this design is sure to impress both the maker and the recipient.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

If you love creating elegant cards without lots of fuss, this project is a perfect example of how simplicity can still feel really special. Today I’m sharing two beautiful cards made using the Words & Wishes dies, paired with the gorgeous Bloom Boutique Designer Series Paper.

This DSP is such a dream to work with — delicate florals combined with subtle gold foiling make it feel instantly luxurious. I’ve echoed that gold detail in the die-cut sentiments to tie everything together beautifully.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card - Words & Wishes. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Closer Look at the Design

Both cards follow the same layout, making this a great design to replicate when you want to create multiple cards quickly.

The background features the Lazy Daisy embossing folder, which adds soft texture and interest without overpowering the focal elements. It’s one of those subtle details that really elevates a simple card.

A vertical strip of Bloom Boutique DSP adds contrast and draws the eye, while also showcasing that lovely gold foiling.

Card One – Thank You

The first card uses a Golden Glow card base, giving it a warm and uplifting feel.

The sentiment is cut in Hydrangea Hue, layered with gold to complement the DSP. The combination of soft blue and warm gold works so beautifully together, creating a balanced and eye-catching design.

Card Two – Best Wishes

For the second card, I’ve switched things up slightly with a Peaceful Pine card base.

This deeper tone gives the card a more classic and rich feel. The gold sentiment really pops against the darker colour, making it perfect for more formal or heartfelt occasions.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card - Words & Wishes. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Why This Design Works

This style of card is a go-to for so many reasons:

  • It’s quick and easy to recreate
  • You can change colours and sentiments for any occasion
  • It uses small pieces of DSP — perfect for using up your stash
  • The embossing adds texture without extra layers

It’s a great reminder that you don’t need lots of layers or complicated techniques to create something truly beautiful.

measurements

  • Golden Glow / Peaceful Pine Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm X 2 pieces
  • Bloom Boutique DSP – ( Designer Series Paper) – 13.35cm X 3cm
  • Hydrangea Hue / Peaceful Pine Cardstock – 13.85cm X 3.5cm.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ever stuck for inspiration, try starting with a simple layout like this and let your papers and sentiments do the talking. The combination of texture, a touch of shine, and a clean design is always a winner.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx