ANOTHER MANLY BIRTHDAY: TIMELESS PLAID

Posted on by
Reply

There are lots of ways to use our Timeless Plaid DSP, and my latest-favorite-layout is a great example. Trim a piece to 3 3/4″ by 4 3/4″, cut it in quarters, and you’ve got a card!

  • Stamps: Elements of Text, Spooky Halloween, Something Fancy (retired)
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Old Olive/Misty Moonlight OR Gray Granite/Misty Moonlight OR Lost Lagoon/Pool Party
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Textured Notes dies, Linen Thread, Stampin’ Dimensionals

I made a bunch of these the other evening, because we’re entering Manly Birthday season in my family! Timeless Textures has two different designs in the same color way on each sheet, so I cut the paper to size, cut it in quarters, and flipped over two of the four quarters. Done!

Are you sold on this layout? I sure am!! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – get out that stash and make some cards!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

MAKING MANLY CARDS: USE YOUR DESIGNER SERIES PAPER!

Posted on by
Reply

Manly Cards shouldn’t be hard to design, but I always struggle a bit. I came across this great card layout using Designer Series Paper and realized it had a lot of Manly Potential. Best of all, it’s quick and easy!

  • Stamps: Elements of Text (Last Chance), Something Fancy (Retired)
  • Color Palette: Very Vanilla, Secret Sea/Mossy Meadow, Smoky Slate/Crumb Cake, Cloud Cover/Basic Beige
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Textured Notes dies, Linen Thread, Stampin’ Dimensionals

I tried this layout with two different designs from the Beautiful Gallery DSP pack. The DSP comes in 6×6 sheets, and I trimmed an inch and an eighth from top and bottom to get a 3 3/4″ height. I trimmed the sides to 4 3/4″ based on the image, centering the part I wanted to feature. The last step was to cut the resulting rectangle into quarters.

Elements of Text is such a great textural set of stamps! I wish it would be around much longer, but you can still snap it up from the Last Chance list. The sentiment, I’m sorry to say, is retired, but there are a number of current sets with similar fonts and sizing. Just search “happy birthday” in the Online Store. And the Textured Notes dies are truly indispensable- have I said that before??? 😆

This layout using Designer Series Paper is a great way to use up that DSP stash, and the end result is a stack of Manly Cards in a flash! Guys have birthdays too, you know.

Pull out your stash and start chopping.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

LLAMA CHRISTMAS OR LLAMA CELEBRATION??

Posted on by
Reply

Llamas are back – this time in landscape! Their necks aren’t quite as long, but there’s room for more of them, and more llamas can only be a good thing. Please tell me you agree.

  • Stamps: Long Time No See, Spooky Halloween
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Memento Black, Gray Granite, Smoky Slate, Lost Lagoon, Granny Apple Green, Poppy Parade
  • Accessories: Stampin’ Blends, Paper Snips (no longer available), Sweet Sorbet Bordered Ribbon (retired)

I really wanted this to be a Christmas Card, but when I switched out the sentiment I had second thoughts. This sentiment is from Coneflower Celebrations, and I think it fits better. Ugh. I need to find order a Christmas sentiment this shape!

Either way, this card was colored with Stampin’ Blends much the way Tuesday’s card was. The llama-neck-sweaters have 3 colors, and if you look closely you’ll realize that some of the llamas are Smoky Slate and some are Gray Granite. Those funny starry background bits are from Spooky Halloween, because it was sitting on my desk begging to be included (Yes, the stamps talk to me, and I respond. And yes, that probably means I’m certifiable.)

Look at their perky ears! They’re waiting for you to tell them how handsome they are!! Go ahead, make their day. And then shop the Online Store for your own perky llamas.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

LONG TIME NO LLAMA!

Posted on by
2

The only reason there isn’t a llama on my September DIY Calendar is that even without a neck it’s too tall. But there’s plenty of room on a card, especially a portrait-oriented card: check out my llamas from Long Time No See!

  • Stamps: Long Time No See, With You In Mind
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Memento Black, Crumb Cake, Petal Pink, Poppy Parade, Pool Party
  • Accessories: Stampin’ Blends, White Bakers Twine, Party Dots, Stampin’ Dimensionals, Take Your Pick tool, Paper Snips (no longer available)

I took my time with this one, and it was really fun. I shaded each of the llamas a little differently, but kept their llama-neck-sweaters the same colors. (Please tell me you get the joke.)

I used the Pool Party Stampin’ Blend to color some White Bakers Twine, then poked holes to wrap it around the tallest neck. For some reason, I’ve been obsessed with deconstructing the twine lately – no idea why, I just do it.

I also indulged a whim and fussy cut the word BIRTHDAY from With You In Mind. I tried a number of sentiments on labels and banners, but this is what the card told me it needed. (Yes, I talk to the cards. And they answer me.)

Long Time No See is an Online Exclusive from earlier this year, so who knows how long it will be around. I’m happy to have it as I love these dorky faces with their dorky noses! Add a little whimsy to your crafting. It’s good for your soul.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

DIY CARD-MAKING TIPS FOR SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS

Posted on by
1

One of the best reasons I know for making a handmade card is to honor someone special. I was invited to a bridal shower last month that I couldn’t attend (something about 2,363 miles over the ocean). I really wanted to be there, so I sent my heart in a handmade card:

  • Stamps: Delightful Wishes
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Crumb Cake, Timid Tiger
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Gallery Blooms dies, Textured Notes dies, Delightful Wishes dies, Patterns of Friendship die, Perfectly Pears die, Linen Thread, Dauber, vellum, Stampin’ Dimensionals

I used a LOT of different dies for this card. If it seems larger than usual, you have a good eye: I made this card a 5 inch x 7 inch format. I layered paper and texture, but since I had to mail it, I left off any embellishment other than my beloved Linen Thread.

My technique for this card was relatively simple: I set out a stack of papers of papers for layering and played with them, then die cut multiples of all my favorite floral bits and pieces and moved them in and out over the top panel until I was satisfied. It wasn’t exactly scientific, but it worked for me!

To add texture to the layers, I started with the Patterns of Friendship die. It’s one of my all-time favorites for texture, and I’m very sad to see it on the Last Chance list – but if you hurry, you can get a great deal on it. The Textured Notes dies are another product I consider indispensable for simple elegance – if they’re not in your crafty stash, maybe they should be!

Our niece – and Goddaughter – will be married in November, and that flight has been on the books for months! I won’t miss the wedding for the world. But since I couldn’t be at the shower, I sent her my love with a paper hug.

The 2026 DIY CALENDAR TEMPLATE is available! Buy it HERE.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

DIY CALENDAR BLOG HOP: SEPTEMBER 2025 LONG TIME NO SEE

Posted on by
3

It’s the first of the month, and it’s time for another DIY Calendar! The DIY Team stands ready to inspire you this month and every month. Fun Fact: We do not discuss what we’re doing each month. The other posts are as much a surprise to me as they are to you! Let’s see what’s happening in September.

  • Stamps: Long Time No See, Textured Notes
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Summer Splash, Granny Apple Green, Fresh Freesia, Memento Black
  • Accessories: DIY Calendar Template (2026 is now available! see below), Stamp Cut and Emboss Machine, So Swirly Embossing Folder, Stampin’ Blends, Stampin’ Dimensionals

I’m not usually on the Cute Animal Train, but I made an exception with this set. My husband grew up with dachshunds, and he tells some pretty fabulous stories. When we were first dating, the dachshund in residence was Max, and he was a very stubborn dog. But that’s a story for another time…

If you look carefully, you’ll see the Summer Splash mat is embossed with the So Swirly 3D Embossing Folder. I don’t usually do that, but when I went to find a scrap for the mat, this one was there begging to be chosen. Why not? It’s kind of fun.

Now go and see what the Team has created for September!

DIY CALENDAR BLOG HOP

Did you think I would forget 2026? I know some of you have been waiting for September!! Yes, the 2026 template is available. You can now purchase and download it right away – no more waiting til it’s daytime in Maui for me to respond 😆

Technology has a price, though. The template will be $6 this year, just 50 cents a month! You’re welcome to print multiple copies for yourself and for gifts. You are purchasing JUST a template: you’ll need to print and trim the pages.

2026 DIY CALENDAR TEMPLATE

I recommend Stampin’ Up! Basic White standard card stock. My printer doesn’t give me a crisp enough image, so I take my template and my paper to my local print shop. It’s worth the effort. I hope you’ll enjoy making your own DIY Calendar!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

CAN YOU CAPTION THIS? FRIENDLY SEAGULLS

Posted on by
Reply

If you’ve ever spent much time at the seashore, you’ve more than likely seen – and heard – the raucous chattering of seagulls. They’re bossy, they’re bullies, they’re thieves, and they’re a lot of fun to watch. I pulled out Friendly Seagulls and had some fun with these characters!

  • Stamps: Friendly Seagulls
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Crumb Cake, Pool Party, Daffodil Delight, Smoky Slate, Memento Black
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Stylish Shapes dies, 2 3/8″ Circle Punch, Toadstool Builder Punch, Stampin’ Write Markers, Blending Brush, Masking Paper

I began by stamping all three gulls, then masking them so I could use the Blending Brushes to create a background. I used the Toadstool Builder Punch to create a mask for some mounds in the sand. I colored the gulls with Stampin’ Write Markers (I’m sorry to see them discontinued!)

This card begs for a sassier, gull-like sentiment, but I couldn’t find anything in my stash. I’m going to hand letter one, but I’m open to suggestions. How would you caption this??

Friendly Seagulls is a 2025 Sale-a-bration exclusive making a final appearance on Last Chance. when it’s gone, it’s gone!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

COLOUR INKSPIRATION #193: SPOOKY HALLOWEEN

Posted on by
1

Colour challenges are a lot of fun, but I often end up scratching my head as I begin.My starting point is generally a stamp set, not a colour set, so it throws me off a bit. CI #193 isn’t a traditional set of Halloween colours, but after a few false starts, I got them to work.

  • Stamps: Spooky Halloween
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Cloud Cover, Balmy Blue, Highland Heather, Memento Black
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Spooky Halloween dies, Stylish Shapes dies, Perennial Lavender DSP, Kintsugi Inspirations DSP, Cloud Cover Faux Linen Ribbon, Purple Fine Shimmer Gems, Blending Brush, Stampin’ Blends, dauber, Wink of Stella, Stampin’ Dimensionals

There are a few adaptations on this card – I stamped on the Perennial Lavender DSP with Memento Black and Highland Heather for the background, and I stamped the sentiment on the Kintsugi Inspirations DSP. I also cut up the Cloud Cover Faux Linen Ribbon because I like the way it gets skinny and stringy.

It’s a small detail, but I cut off the cat’s paw and arranged it on top of the broom because the original looked unnatural. And there’s Stella on all of the Memento Black elements, because every Halloween card needs a little sparkle!

Here’s the INKpiration photo – how do you think I did? I had fun, and in my book, that’s the most important thing.

Have you tried a Colour Challenge? You can find all the details at the Colour INKspiration Facebook page.

(Note: Yes, I know in the USA we spell it color, but this is a South Pacific group and they spell it colour. For this post, so do I.)

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

CREATIVE TECHNIQUES WITH SUNFLOWER EMBOSSING FOLDER

Posted on by
Reply

I found a stunning project on a reel by the Pampered Stamper using the Sunflower Embossing Folder. It features vellum card stock (found many places, but no longer found in the Online Store.) She shared a great technique for embossing the vellum without cracking.

  • Stamps: Blooming Phrases
  • Color Palette: Basic White, Lost Lagoon
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Sunflower Embossing Folder, Textured Notes dies, Tear n Tape, Riverside Irregular Pearls

Jackie’s technique – and it’s a winner – is to place a sheet of card stock in the embossing folder with the vellum. That extra layer ensures the vellum will go through smoothly, and you’ll have an extra embossed panel to play with!

Because she is working with A4 card stock (slightly different dimensions than the USA) she was able to use the largest of the Textured Note dies to create her opening. For a 4 1/4″ x 5 1/2″ card front, you’ll want to use the second largest die to create your opening. If you cut the vellum to 4 1/8″ x 5 3/8″, you’ll have just enough room to securely adhere the vellum panel without having trouble centering it inside the card.

In my opinion, the best option for adhering the vellum is Tear n Tape. It securely holds the panel in place without gapping. I stamped a quick sentiment on the long, thin Textured Note die and adhered it to the front with Tear n Tape as well. A few Riverside Irregular Pearls finish it off. They’re on the Last Chance list, so if they catch your eye, catch ’em while you can! 😆

This is another great card for producing multiples, and would be perfect for all manner of special occasions. All products are available in the Online Store, although as of this exact moment the Sunflower Embossing Folder is out of stock. It’s expected September 1st.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

WOVEN TEXTURES FOR A MANLY CARD

Posted on by
2

The Woven Textures DSP is absolutely perfect for a Manly Card. This card is a CASE of a stunning card by my dear friend Cheryl Hamilton, and I didn’t make a lot of changes. I did choose to add some Gold Foil for a little shine, and of course every card needs Linen Thread!

  • Stamps: Patterns of Friendship
  • Color Palette:Crumb Cake, Pecan Pie, Early Espresso, Gold
  • Accessories: Stamp Cut & Emboss Machine, Textured Notes dies, Gallery Blooms dies, Woven Textures DSP, Gold Foil, Linen Thread, Stampin’ Dimensionals

Be sure you adhere your diagonal strips to the DSP panel BEFORE you attach the panel to the card stock mat. Ask me how I know. 😳

There are multiple variations within the Woven Textures pack, and there are certainly other die cuts that would work to embellish the sentiment panel. This is a design that can be adapted almost indefinitely – use what you have.

What DSP has been neglected in your stash? Isn’t it time you pulled it out? I’ve done my best to give you some ideas – let me know how it goes.

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.