Modern Christmas Suite: 3 Chic Cards (Ornament, Star & Trees)

 If you’re itching to kick off Christmas card season with something elegant (and quick!), you’re going to love the Modern Christmas Suite. Think classic black and white, luxe gold foil, and simple layouts that look oh-so-fancy. Tonight I’m sharing three chic designs: a gold-star showstopper, a joy-fold with evergreens, and an inlaid ornament that feels like jewelry for your card front.

Why the Modern Christmas Suite?

This suite makes it easy to craft “wow” cards fast. The specialty DSP gives you black-and-white patterns on one side and gold foil on the other—so every piece you cut feels designer. Add the Ornamental Christmas bundle (stamps + dies), twine, and optional large gold hoops, and you’ve got endless mix-and-match options.

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Card 1: Wishing You Peace & Joy (Gold Star)

Vibe: Minimal, luxe, timeless
You’ll need:

• Basic Black card base (8-1/2" x 5-1/2", scored at 4-1/4")

• Basic White inside panel (5-1/4" x 4")

• Brushed Gold Foil (3-1/4" x 3-1/4")

• Modern Christmas DSP (3" x 3")

• Gold heat-embossing supplies (VersaMark + Gold EP)

• Star die, Black/Gold baker’s twine, Dimensionals

How to assemble:

1. Layer the 3" x 3" DSP over the 3-1/4" square foil. Wrap twine around the panel four times and tie a bow to the left (tweezers are your best friend).

2. Die-cut a gold star and pop it up in the center with a single Dimensional.

3. Gold heat-emboss “Wishing you peace and joy” on a 1/2" strip of Basic Black; pop it across the panel to finish.

Pro tip: When heat-embossing on black, swipe first with an embossing buddy to keep stray powder at bay and get that crisp, metallic shine.

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Card 2: Joy-Fold “’Tis the Season” with Trees

Vibe: Interactive, classic, warm
You’ll need:

• Thick Basic White (9" x 4-1/4", scored at 5-1/2") – main base

• Thick Basic White (8-1/2" x 3-1/4", scored at 4-1/4") – inner flap

• DSP panel (4" x 5-1/4") + front layers: Basic Black (4" x 3-1/4"), DSP (3-3/4" x 3")

• Circle die-cut (≈3") for sentiment

• Mossy Meadow ink + cardstock for trees, Memento for trunks (or a Basic Black Blend)

• Low-profile gold dots, Dimensionals, Adhesive

How to assemble:

1. Adhere the 4" x 5-1/4" DSP inside the main card base. Center and adhere the smaller folded card (inner flap) onto the left panel of the main base.

2. Layer Basic Black (4" x 3-1/4") with DSP (3-3/4" x 3") and adhere to the small front flap.

3. Stamp “’Tis the Season” slightly left-of-center on the circle, pop up with Dimensionals.

4. Stamp two Mossy Meadow trees; color trunks; die-cut. Adhere one flat behind the circle; pop the second with Dimensionals so it overlaps the right edge of the circle.

5. Finish with three gold dots for a rule-of-three sparkle.

Pro tip: Place Dimensionals only where the circle sits on the small flap—so your card still opens easily.

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Card 3: Inlaid Ornament with Diagonal Embossed Panel

Vibe: Sophisticated, textural, couture
You’ll need:

• Thick Basic White base (8-1/2" x 5-1/2", score at 4-1/4")

• Basic Black layer (5-1/4" x 4")

• Basic White layer (3-3/4" x 5")—cut diagonally, then trim 1/4" from the straight edge of both pieces to create a channel

• Christmas Words Collage 3D embossing folder (hybrid)

• Ornament dies: outline (Black), solid backer (White), detail inlay (Gold Foil) + topper (Gold)

• Black/Gold baker’s twine, Gold dots, Dimensionals, Tear & Tape (as a “holder” for angled twine)

How to assemble:

1. Emboss the two White diagonal pieces. Stamp “Merry Christmas” on the lower piece in Memento and let it dry.

2. Adhere both diagonals to the Black layer, keeping an even gap between them for the twine channel. Wrap twine on the angle and secure on the back (use Tear & Tape to coax it into place), tie a small bow.

3. Die-cut: Black ornament (outline), White ornament (backer), Gold detail circles + topper. Adhere Black outline to White backer; inlay Gold pieces; add Gold topper.

4. Pop the ornament over the twine channel with Dimensionals; add three gold dots.

Pro tip: Inlay tiny pieces with micro-dots of liquid glue—just enough to hold, not enough to ooze.

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What’s New & Can’t-Miss

• Paper Pumpkin (November: “Wrapped in Cheer”) – Subscribe by November 10 for festive treat/gift-card boxes with tags, twine, and classic holiday colors.

• Online Exclusives – Fresh holiday goodies (including this suite!) available online—some while supplies last.

• 12 Days of Crafting Advent Calendar – I’ll be opening one box per night this week—join me live and craft along!

• Best Join Offer I’ve seen: Choose $125 in product for $35 or $189 in product for $99—both with free shipping and a past Paper Pumpkin kit. If you’re curious, let’s chat—no pressure, just options.

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I hope these ideas spark your creativity and make holiday cardmaking feel joyful, not stressful. Tell me: which card is your favorite—the star, the trees, or the ornament? Drop a comment, save this for later, and share with a crafty friend who loves black, white, and gold as much as we do!

Festive Friends Christmas Cards: Quick, Cute & Gift-Ready!

 

It’s officially Christmas card season, my friends — and I couldn’t be more excited! This week, I kicked things off with the Festive Friends Bundle, and let me tell you, it’s the perfect mix of fun, festive, and adorable. Between the sweet little elf, the sparkly snowman, and a Santa card that doubles as a gift-card holder, these projects will have you ready for holiday gifting in no time.

So grab your coffee (mine’s always close by 😉), and let’s dive into some easy, merry cardmaking!

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🎁 The Bundle That Brings the Joy

The Festive Friends Bundle from Stampin’ Up! has everything you need to create whimsical Christmas cards that will bring smiles all season long. The set includes coordinating dies for every image — from Santa and his jolly hat to the sweetest little elf you’ve ever seen. You’ll also find trees, snowflakes, and a variety of tag shapes that make layering and embellishing so simple.

I love that it works beautifully with other seasonal favorites too, like the Traditions of Christmas Designer Series Paper and a touch of Wink of Stella for that frosty sparkle.

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🧝‍♂️ Quick & Cute: Our Merry Little Elf

First up was our cheerful elf! I used Old Olive Stampin’ Blends for his outfit and Petal Pink for his skin tone, then gave his button a pop of Real Red. The design features a stitched circle layer and a fun label die borrowed from the Fright Night bundle — proving that mixing and matching your dies is half the fun!

Tip: When coloring with alcohol markers, work in small sections so your ink blends smoothly while still wet.

Add a few sequins, and voilà — one adorable card ready to make spirits bright.

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☃️ Shimmery Snowman Delight

Next came the snowman — glistening with Wink of Stella from head to toe! His scarf and hat are colored in Real Red and Old Olive, and his nose in Pumpkin Pie (of course!). I layered him over a piece of glimmer paper and used a few die-cut snowflakes for texture and movement.

Don’t forget to decorate the inside of your cards too! I added a stamped tree and a few snowflakes for that extra “wow” when it’s opened.

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🎅 A Gift Card Holder That’s Santa-Approved

The last project of the evening was my favorite — a simple card that doubles as a gift card holder! The card base is scored at 5½" and 9", creating a pocket for your gift card. I used tear-and-tape to secure the edges, added a bit of designer series paper for contrast, and finished with our jolly Santa colored in Real Red, Petal Pink, and a little Smoky Slate shading.

The sentiment “Santa’s Coming to Town” says it all — perfect for friends, teachers, or anyone on your list.

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✨ A Few More Notes

• The October Paper Pumpkin Kit subscription is open until October 10th — you’ll make nine Christmas cards with coordinating envelopes and festive embellishments.

• Don’t miss the Kit Sale running Tuesday–Wednesday, where you can save up to 30% on all-inclusive kits (including that gorgeous card keeper box!).

• And if you’ve been thinking about joining Stampin’ Up!, the $35 Join Special this month is the best I’ve ever seen. You’ll pick $125 in products, pay just $35, and get free shipping — plus 20% off future orders.

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💌 Let’s Keep Crafting Together!

I had such a blast creating these cheerful Christmas projects, and I hope they inspire you to get festive early this year. Which one was your favorite — the elf, the snowman, or Santa’s gift card holder? Let me know in the comments below!

Until next time, happy stamping, and may your week be filled with sparkle and creativity.

💖
Katrina
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

Cozy Fall Cardmaking with the Autumn Trees Bundle

 Fall is officially in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with cozy cardmaking? This week during Stampin’ Sundays with Katrina, I featured the Autumn Trees Bundle from Stampin’ Up! and let me tell you—it’s a gorgeous set for capturing those warm, earthy autumn vibes. Whether you love layered leaves, sweet little deer silhouettes, or just the magic of fall colors, this bundle delivers.

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Why I Love the Autumn Trees Bundle

The Autumn Trees bundle is all about versatility. While it doesn’t include sentiments, it shines with beautiful images—think stately trees, falling leaves, and woodland critters. This makes it the perfect companion for any sentiment set you already own (I used a few from the Amber Autumn set). Pairing images with sentiments lets you stretch your creativity and customize your cards for any occasion.

Pro tip: If you don’t have a sentiment set handy, reach for a versatile one like The Right Words. It has a little bit of everything from thank-yous to birthdays.

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Three Simple but Stunning Fall Cards

1. Grateful For You

• Base: Thick Very Vanilla (11" x 4¼", scored at 5½")

• Design: Layered Designer Series Paper cut diagonally and mounted on Early Espresso cardstock.

• Focal Point: A die-cut tree adorned with leaves in Pumpkin Pie, Darling Daffodil, and Mossy Meadow.

• Finishing Touch: Old Olive twine tied in a neat bow and the sentiment “Grateful For You.”

👉 Tip: When cutting DSP on the diagonal, stack two pieces together and slice at once. Then mix-and-match patterns for effortless variety.

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2. Autumn Wishes

• Base: Early Espresso (11" x 4¼", scored at 5½").

• Design: That beautiful Toile Designer Series Paper for a cozy background.

• Focal Point: A die-cut deer paired with a simple oval label stamped “Autumn Wishes.”

• Inside: Don’t forget to stamp a sweet deer in the corner—it makes the inside as charming as the outside.

👉 Tip: Shape dies (like ovals and labels) are gold! Use them across your entire crafting stash, not just with the set they came from.

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3. Thanks

• Base: Cajun Craze (8½" x 5½", scored at 4¼").

• Design: A strip of DSP across the center.

• Focal Point: A stamped tree inked in Old Olive, then “bumped” with Crushed Curry and Cajun Craze for a multicolored look. The trunk was colored with Stampin’ Blends.

• Accents: A deer silhouette die-cut from Early Espresso, paired with a popped-up “Thanks” sentiment and a twine bow.

👉 Tip: Try the “bumping technique” for leaves. Stamp your tree in a base color, then lightly dab on other fall colors for a natural, blended look.

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Tips for Using Sentiment-Free Sets

One of the biggest takeaways from working with the Autumn Trees bundle is that image-only sets are more flexible than you think. They let you:

• Mix and match with ANY sentiment in your collection.

• Create cards that can stay sentiment-free until you’re ready to gift them.

• Focus on techniques like die-cut layering, ink blending, and color play.

So, don’t shy away from a set that’s “missing” sentiments—think of it as an open invitation to get creative!

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Special October Offers You Don’t Want to Miss

🍁 Join Stampin’ Up! for only $35 starting October 1st! Choose $125 in product, get free shipping, catalogs, business supplies, and even a past Paper Pumpkin kit. Or, join for $99 and pick $185 in product. Either way, it’s one of the best deals I’ve ever seen.

🎄 October Paper Pumpkin – Cozy Christmas: Create nine heartfelt Christmas cards with flocked accents and coordinating envelopes. Subscribe by October 10th to get yours.

🎁 Advent Calendar: A limited-time “12 Days of Gifting” kit full of crafty surprises. Perfect for yourself or as a gift!

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Wrapping Up

These three Autumn Trees cards were such a joy to create, and they truly capture the spirit of the season. I hope you’re inspired to pull out your fall colors and start creating!

👉 Which card was your favorite—Grateful For You, Autumn Wishes, or Thanks? Drop a comment below and let me know!

And don’t forget to join me next week—we’re kicking off Christmas crafting season! 🎄

Cozy Fall Cardmaking with the Amber Autumn Bundle

 Fall is finally here, and with it comes all the warm colors, cozy textures, and seasonal inspiration we crave in the craft room. This week, I had the absolute joy of working with Stampin’ Up!’s Amber Autumn Bundle, and let me tell you—this suite is a showstopper. Between the earthy tones, metallic accents, and timeless fall imagery, it’s everything you need to make heartfelt, seasonal cards.

Whether you’re a seasoned stamper or just dipping your toes into cardmaking, these projects are quick, simple, and oh-so-elegant. Grab a cozy drink, pull up a chair, and let’s dive in!

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🍂 Autumn Wishes with Rich Layers

The first card we created featured a Gray Granite card base paired with the Autumn Twall Designer Series Paper. The earthy patterns—complete with woodland critters and rustic textures—make the perfect backdrop.

The sentiment “Autumn Wishes” was stamped in Early Espresso ink on a stitched circle, then accented with hand-colored acorns and leaves. A few streaked dots were the final touch, adding a subtle bit of shine.

✨ Tip: Don’t be afraid to use up those small leftover DSP strips on the inside of your cards. It ties everything together beautifully!

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🌾 Blessed to Have You in My Life

The second card kept things wonderfully simple and showcased the softer, vintage look of the suite. Using a Very Vanilla card base and coordinating DSP, I added the heartfelt sentiment “Blessed to have you in my life.”

Layering Early Espresso cardstock behind the designer paper gave it just enough contrast, while a touch of linen thread added texture. It’s a reminder that sometimes less really is more.

✨ Memory Moment: As I worked with this paper, I was instantly transported back to my great aunt and uncle’s 70s wallpaper—it had the same vintage toile look. Isn’t it funny how paper can spark memories?

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🎃 Thanks with Pumpkins and Shine

The last design highlighted the Earthen Toned Metallics—a deep chocolate shimmer that’s even more stunning in person. Paired with richly colored pumpkins, squash, and corn (thank you Stampin’ Blends!), this card sparkled with fall abundance.

The metallic die-cut background gave an elegant frame for the focal image, while the sentiment “Thanks” finished it off with warmth and gratitude.

✨ Coloring Tip: Speed up your process by prepping extras. I colored one full image during prep so I didn’t have to make you sit through it on video—and it’s a great trick to batch-stamp and color multiple images at once!

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✨ More Cozy Inspiration

This season is full of crafting opportunities:

• 🎄 The October Paper Pumpkin Kit—“Cozy Christmas”—will create 9 festive cards with coordinating envelopes.

• 🎁 A brand-new Advent Calendar Kit drops September 23rd (don’t wait, these will sell out fast!).

• ✂️ World Card Making Day is October 4th, and Stampin’ Up! will host a craft-along with a special kit.

And don’t forget—I’ve created the Card Design Genie to help you design layouts, fun folds, and color combos in seconds. It’s free to use, and you can find it right on my blog.

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Wrapping It Up

The Amber Autumn Bundle truly captures the magic of the season—rich colors, rustic textures, and heartwarming sentiments that make your handmade cards extra special. Whether you’re sending autumn wishes, a note of thanks, or simply letting someone know you’re blessed to have them, this suite makes it easy to create something meaningful.

💌 I’d love to know: Which of the three cards was your favorite? Drop a comment, save this post for inspiration, or hop over to my shop to grab your own Amber Autumn Bundle before it’s gone.

Happy crafting, my friends!

3 Adorable Card Ideas with the Fluffy Squirrel Bundle

 There’s just something about squirrels that makes us smile—especially when they’re cute, fluffy, and holding tiny acorns or presents. This week during Stampin’ Sundays with Katrina, I featured the Fluffy Squirrel Stamp & Punch Bundle, and let me tell you—it’s stinkin’ adorable! Whether you’re crafting for fall, birthdays, or just because, these little critters bring a playful touch to any handmade card.

Today, I’m sharing three simple but oh-so-cute card ideas that you can recreate with this bundle. Grab your pecan pie ink, a little Early Espresso, and let’s get stamping!

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🍂 Card One: “May You Gather Happiness”

This first card sets the tone for cozy fall crafting.

• Base & Layers: I started with a Basic Beige card base and layered on gold-foiled paper from the Gathering Together Designer Series Paper pack.

• Accents: Two bannered strips of coordinating DSP added texture, topped with a stitched circle die cut.

• The Star: Our sweet squirrel was stamped in Early Espresso with a Pecan Pie filler, then punched out and popped up with dimensionals. His acorn was colored with Stampin’ Blends (light and dark Pecan Pie) for realistic shading.

• Finishing Touch: A sprinkle of Cajun Craze and gold gems brought in just the right autumn sparkle.

This card is quick, easy, and perfect for sending warm wishes during the fall season.

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🎁 Card Two: “Go Nuts, It’s Your Birthday!”

Who says squirrels are just for autumn? This birthday card proves otherwise!

• Base & Layers: Thick Basic White with a fun patterned DSP panel. I layered on a postage die cut piece for stamping.

• Squirrel Story: The first squirrel sits perched on a stamped and shaded tree stump, while a second squirrel (punched out this time) holds a fussy-cut present. The gift was colored in Cherry Cobbler and Darling Duckling Blends for a festive pop.

• Technique Spotlight: The sentiment, “Go Nuts, It’s Your Birthday,” was heat embossed in white on Early Espresso cardstock, then die-cut into an arched banner.

• Sparkle Factor: Coordinating gems added just the right birthday shine.

This card is playful, cheerful, and guaranteed to make someone smile!

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🐿️ Card Three: The Fuzzy Velvet Squirrel

This last design might just be my favorite—because who doesn’t love a fuzzy squirrel you can actually pet?

• Base & Layers: Early Espresso card base with an embossed plaid white panel, topped with a DSP strip. A diamond-shaped Darling Duckling cardstock layer gave it some bold contrast.

• Texture Magic: I stamped the squirrel on specialty flocked velvet paper, punched him out, and let the texture do the talking. (Tip: the ink takes longer to dry on velvet paper, so you may want to heat set it on low.)

• Sentiment: A simple banner strip stamped with “Can’t wait to see you again” tied the design together.

• Finishing Touch: A trio of embellishments brought balance and shine.

This card shows how easy it is to elevate your designs with texture—perfect for when you want to wow without a lot of extra effort.

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Tips for Working with the Fluffy Squirrel Bundle

• Layering DSP: Mix foiled and patterned papers for instant dimension.

• Heat Embossing: Always preheat your heat tool for smoother results.

• Velvet Paper: Be patient with drying times or give it a quick blast with the low heat setting.

• Punching Strategy: Stamp first, then punch for perfect alignment every time.

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Closing
I hope these three projects have given you some fresh ideas for using the Fluffy Squirrel Stamp & Punch Bundle. Whether you’re crafting for fall, birthdays, or just to bring a smile, this bundle is sure to become a favorite in your stash.

👉 Tell me in the comments—which card is YOUR favorite? The happy fall squirrel, the birthday squirrel, or the fuzzy velvet squirrel? Don’t forget to pin these ideas to save for later, and be sure to check out my YouTube channel if you’d like to watch the full tutorial replay.

3 Simple & Cute Halloween Cards with the Spooky Halloween Suite

 If you usually skip Halloween crafting (same, friend!), this one might change your mind. The Spooky Halloween Suite is so darn adorable—think a little “Boo Boo Bear” pup, a witchy kitty, and playful bats—that I couldn’t resist. Today I’m sharing three quick, cute cards you can make in under an hour: a pocket card with a bat pull tab, a sassy “Don’t Worry, Eat Sweets” kitty, and a clean “BOO” haunted-house design. Let’s play!

Card 1: Pocket Card with Bat Pull Tab

Why you’ll love it: It’s interactive but easy. Great for tucking in a mini note or a gift card.

You’ll need: Spooky Halloween DSP, coordinating cardstock (Petunia Pop + Basic White), bat tab die, circle/label dies (optional), adhesive, 1 ⅞" circle punch.

Measurements & scoring

• DSP: 9" x 6"

  • Score on the long side at ½", 2 ¼", and 6 ½".

• Insert layers:

  • Petunia Pop: 5 ⅜" x 4"

  • Basic White: 4 ⅞" x 3 ½"

Make it

1. Burnish all score lines. Trim away the small end tabs and miter the center tab for a neat fold.

2. Use the 1 ⅞" punch to take a small “bite” from the front panel (that’s your pocket opening).

3. Add adhesive along the edges, fold the flaps, and close to form the pocket.

4. Stamp “Happy Halloween” on the Basic White insert; add a ½" strip of matching DSP along the bottom.

5. Die-cut the bat tab in Pumpkin Pie, adhere to the top of the insert, then die-cut the bat again in Basic Black and layer it over the tab so the bat is black while the tab stays orange.

6. Add a colored character (that “Boo Boo Bear” pup gets me every time!) and a few puffy stars to finish.

Pro tip: Keep the bat’s wings above the top edge so it becomes a perfect pull tab.

Card 2: Don’t Worry, Eat Sweets (Witchy Kitty + Ribbon Trick)

Why you’ll love it: A ribbon threaded through the card fold adds instant “wow,” no bow skills required.

You’ll need: Basic Black card base, Basic White (inside), two DSP pieces, Petunia Pop iridescent ribbon, “witchy kitty” image + blends, small label die, sentiment (“Don’t Worry, Eat Sweets”), puffy stars.

Measurements

• Card base: 11" x 4 ¼", score at 5 ½".

• Inside panel: 5 ¼" x 4".

• DSP: 5 ¼" x 1 ½" (Petunia Pop print) and 3 ½" x 2" (Basic Gray print).

Make it

1. Adhere inside panel. Add both DSP panels to the card front.

2. Carefully cut a small slit at the top of the fold (use a craft knife) and thread the ribbon through the slit. Tie or knot as desired.

3. Stamp, color, and fussy-cut (or die-cut) the kitty. Pop her up on a small label.

4. Stamp the sentiment on a ½" strip and trim into two pieces (“Don’t worry” and “eat sweets”). Mount with mini dimensionals, staggered beneath her feet.

5. Sprinkle on puffy stars (black, white, and Petunia Pop) for sparkle.

Pro tip: If your sentiment is long, stamp once and trim into word blocks—instant designer look.

Card 3: Haunted House “BOO”

Why you’ll love it: Minimal layers, maximum impact—perfect last-minute card.

You’ll need: Basic Black base, Basic White (inside), gray-pattern DSP, Petunia Pop strip, stitched circle, haunted house + bats dies, “boo” word die, puffy stars.

Measurements

• Card base: 8 ½" x 5 ½", score at 4 ¼".

• Inside panel: 5 ¼" x 4".

• Gray DSP: 5 ¼" x 4".

• Petunia Pop strip: 1 ½" x 5 ¼".

• Large stitched circle for focal point.

Make it

1. Adhere inside panel, then the gray DSP to the front.

2. Add the Petunia Pop strip flush to the left with ~¼" gray border showing.

3. Pop up the stitched circle, then add the haunted house with minis (hide them behind solid areas).

4. Add two die-cut bats with glue dots and the “boo” word with tiny dots of liquid adhesive.

5. Finish with three black puffy stars in a visual triangle.

Pro tip: Place embellishments last to balance your focal cluster—think one near the sentiment and two near the image.

Color Notes & Inks

• Suite palette highlights: Petunia Pop, Basic Gray, Pumpkin Pie, Granny Apple Green, Darling Duckling, Cajun Craze.

• Ink spotlight: Memento for outlines; Cajun Craze shows up in the Paper Pumpkin ink spot this month for matchy-matchy projects.

Your Turn!

Which one are you making first—the pocket pull, the ribbon-through-the-fold kitty, or the clean “BOO” house? Tell me in the comments, save this for later, and share with a crafty friend who loves cute-not-creepy Halloween. 🎃

3 Easy Fall Cards with the Gathering Together Suite

Fall is officially in the air—and what better way to celebrate than with cozy cardmaking? 🍂 This week during my Stampin’ Sundays with Katrina live, I featured the gorgeous Gathering Together Suite Collection and shared three cards that are as easy to make as they are beautiful. Whether you’re ready to try a fun fold or just want a quick and simple project, these designs will give you inspiration for your autumn crafting.

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🍁 Card One: The Z-Fold Showstopper

If you’ve been itching to try a fun fold, the Z-fold is the perfect place to start. It’s beginner-friendly yet has that wow factor when it’s opened.

• Base: Cajun Craze cardstock, 8 ½" x 5 ½", scored at 4 ¼" and 2 ⅛".

• DSP Panels: Two pieces of Gathering Together Designer Series Paper (DSP), each 1 ⅞" x 5 ¼".

• Details: I layered an embossed Early Espresso circle (using the Gathering Leaves Embossing Folder) with a stamped sentiment, then added die-cut mushrooms, berries, and an acorn.

✨ Tip: When adhering your focal point to the front panel, only add adhesive to one side so you don’t accidentally glue your card shut. (Ask me how I know!)

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🍂 Card Two: Stitched Leaf Fun Fold

This second card is another easy fun fold with an elegant twist—literally, thanks to a bit of hand stitching.

• Base: Early Espresso cardstock, cut 8 ½" x 5 ½" and scored at 4 ¼". Then cut 1" off the front panel on each side to create two narrow flaps.

• DSP: Side strips cut ¾" x 5 ¼", and the center panel layered with coordinating DSP at 3 ¼" x 5".

• Feature: A large die-cut leaf stitched with Early Espresso twine. (Yes, I used an actual yarn needle—it worked perfectly!)

• Sentiment: “Many Thanks” stamped in Cajun Craze and popped up on a small banner.

✨ Tip: Don’t stress about “perfect” stitching. The pre-cut holes from the die make it super forgiving, and the rustic look fits perfectly with fall cards.

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🌾 Card Three: Quick & Simple Friendship Card

Sometimes, simple is best. For our final project, I kept it clean and classic.

• Base: Old Olive cardstock, 8 ½" x 5 ½", scored at 4 ¼".

• DSP: A piece with striking gold pinstripes—sometimes you just can’t resist the shimmer!

• Focal Point: A large stitched leaf popped up with Dimensionals.

• Sentiment: “Your friendship means the world to me,” stamped in Old Olive on a die-cut banner.

• Finishing Touch: A twine bow and a few Cajun Craze & gold dots.

✨ Tip: This layout works with any bold DSP pattern. Swap in Christmas paper for a quick holiday card, or florals for spring.

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Why I Love the Gathering Together Suite

This suite is all about texture and warmth. Between the gold foiled DSP, the earthy linen threads, and the leaf dies (which you can use with or without stitching inserts), the possibilities are endless. I can already picture these leaves cut from vellum, watercolor paper, or even felt for a cozy touch.

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Ready to Try?

If you’re feeling inspired, grab the Gathering Together Suite Collection and start creating your own fall cards. I’d love to see what you make—share your designs with me in the comments or on my Facebook page!

👉 Want to catch the full tutorial? [Join me live every Sunday at 7 PM EST on Facebook and YouTube for Stampin’ Sundays with Katrina!]

Add a Little Wow to Your Cards with My Fun Fold Class!

 

Do you love surprising friends and family with cards that open in unexpected ways? That’s the beauty of fun folds! They’re interactive, they’re memorable, and they turn a simple card into a little work of art.

That’s why I’m so excited to invite you to my Fun Fold Class featuring the Layered Thoughts stamp set.

For just $45, you’ll receive:

• Pre-cut card kits to make 4 stunning fun fold cards

• ½ pack of Florals in Bloom Designer Series Paper

• A pack of 2025–2027 In Color Flat Pearls

• Step-by-step PDF tutorial

• Shipping straight to your door

Whether you’re a beginner or an avid crafter, these fun folds will give you techniques you’ll come back to again and again.

🗓 But don’t wait—registration closes September 2nd, and kits will ship on September 10th.

👉 Click here to register now and save your spot!

Let’s add a little WOW to your cards together!

Fall Cardmaking with the Loveliest Tree Bundle

 As the leaves begin to change and the crisp air rolls in, fall becomes one of the most inspiring seasons for cardmaking. The rich colors, cozy textures, and warm sentiments make it the perfect time to share handmade cards with the people you love. In this week’s live, I featured the Loveliest Tree Bundle, an online exclusive that gives a heartfelt nod to Stampin’ Up!’s longest-running stamp set, Lovely as a Tree. With a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of fall color, this bundle is perfect for creating masculine cards, seasonal greetings, and simple designs that pack a big punch.

Let’s walk through the three cards we created together and the fun techniques you can try at home.

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Card One: A Multicolored Tree with the Thumping Technique

Our first card was a “Congratulations” card featuring a fall tree with stunning depth of color. For this look, I used the thumping technique—something you can only achieve with Stampin’ Write Markers (which, by the way, are retiring soon!).

Here’s how it works:

1. Ink the stamp with your lightest color first (I used Lemon Lolly).

2. Grab your darker markers (Pumpkin Pie, Cajun Craze, Cherry Cobbler, and Pecan Pie).

3. Gently “thump” the side of your marker onto the stamp, layering in random bits of color.

4. Huff on the stamp to remoisten the ink, then stamp it down.

Every impression turns out a little different, just like real fall foliage. I layered the tree on warm Pumpkin Pie and Cherry Cobbler cardstock, then finished it off with a simple “Congratulations” sentiment and a bow of linen thread tied to the trunk. Quick, easy, and full of wow factor.

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Card Two: A Masculine Sympathy Card with Designer Paper Strips

For the second card, I wanted to showcase how the Loveliest Tree works beautifully with patterned paper. Using the Weekend Adventure Designer Series Paper, I cut three strips in plaid, pinstripe, and tree patterns, then roughed up the edges to reveal a bit of that white core. These pieces add texture and a masculine feel to the design.

I paired them with a Cajun Craze card base and a stamped “Sending Heartfelt Sympathy” sentiment in Memento Black ink. The focal point is a die-cut tree—trunk in Basic Black, foliage in patterned paper—adhered with a little liquid glue. A few black Matte Dots finished it off. This is a thoughtful card with just the right balance of warmth and simplicity.

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Card Three: Clean & Simple Thank You

Sometimes, the best cards are the simplest. For this project, I went back to basics with a Basic Black card base, a piece of plaid designer paper, and a stamped “Thank You” sentiment. To finish, I tied a bow from the Baker’s Twine Essentials Pack in black and tucked it under the greeting with a glue dot.

This is the kind of design you can replicate quickly for mass-producing thank-you cards—or switch up the paper and sentiment for a whole new look. It’s proof that you don’t need a lot of layers or embellishments to make a card meaningful.

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Why I Love the Loveliest Tree Bundle

This set isn’t just versatile—it’s nostalgic. If you’ve been crafting a while, you may remember Lovely as a Tree, the longest-running stamp set in Stampin’ Up!’s history. The Loveliest Tree Bundle feels like a tribute to that classic, but with modern styling and coordinating dies to make cardmaking even easier.

It’s perfect for fall projects, but you’ll find yourself reaching for it year-round. From spring blossoms to summer greens, snowy winter scenes to cozy fall foliage, this tree can do it all.

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Try It for Yourself

If you’d like to recreate these cards, you’ll want to grab the Loveliest Tree Bundle, some fall-colored markers and cardstock, and a pack of Weekend Adventure DSP. Don’t forget to snag those Stampin’ Write Markers before they retire—they’re essential for techniques like thumping!

I’d love to know:
👉 Which of these three cards is your favorite?
👉 Have you ever tried the thumping technique before?

Drop me a comment below, and be sure to pin or save this post for later inspiration. Until next time—happy stamping, and may your fall be as colorful as your craft table!

Finding Peace in Paper: 3 Elegant Cards with the Peaceful Garden Suite

 

There’s something comforting about sitting down at the craft table with soft colors, textured paper, and a beautiful stamp set. This week, I featured the Peaceful Garden Suite from Stampin’ Up!, and let me tell you—this collection is an instant classic. With serene doves, heartfelt sentiments, and rich greenery, it’s perfect for sympathy cards, thinking-of-you notes, and even Christmas greetings. Let me walk you through the three cards we created during my Sunday Live!

Card 1: With Deepest Sympathy

Sometimes simple says it best. For this first design, I layered three narrow strips of Designer Series Paper in light, medium, and dark shades, giving the card soft dimension. A “With Deepest Sympathy” sentiment, tucked neatly between the strips, carries the message with quiet elegance.

• Tip: When tearing your paper strips, vary the edges slightly for natural texture.

• Detail: I blended Balmy Blue ink on a scrap of white before die-cutting tiny sprigs, adding a soft pop of color. A linen thread bow and a few embellishments completed the look.
  

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Card 2: Heartfelt Prayers

For the second card, I wanted to keep things clean yet eye-catching. Using Cloud Cover cardstock as the base, I added a slim strip of Secret Sea Glimmer Paper for just the right amount of sparkle. A square of DSP provided a soft backdrop, while the sentiment “Heartfelt Prayers” took center stage on crisp Basic White.

• Tip: Keep your layers aligned using your grid paper—it makes stamping and adhering a breeze.

• Detail: The finishing touch was a sprinkle of Hues of Blue embellishments in Cloud Cover, adding both shine and balance.

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Card 3: Peace on Earth

The final card embraced all the richness of the suite. I embossed a Misty Moonlight panel with the Peaceful Greenery 3D embossing folder and popped it up with dimensionals. A dove die-cut, framed sentiment, and a tiny sprig tied with linen thread brought everything together.

• Tip: Lightly blend Balmy Blue ink onto your sentiment label before stamping—it helps the dove stand out beautifully.

• Detail: A little glue dot trick let me anchor the bow neatly under the sprig—sometimes it’s those small details that make the biggest difference.

  

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Why I Love the Peaceful Garden Suite

This suite has something for every occasion. From sympathy to friendship, to Christmas, it’s versatile, elegant, and a joy to craft with. If you already own it, I hope these projects inspire you to pull it out again. If not, keep it on your wish list—it’s one you’ll turn to again and again.

I hope these cards inspire you to carve out a little peaceful crafting time this week. Which one is your favorite—Sympathy, Prayers, or Peace? Leave me a comment, save this post for later, or head to my shop to grab the Peaceful Garden Suite for your own collection. Until next time, happy stamping!