Ink Matters: Choosing the Right Ink for Stamping Success

 

If you’ve ever stamped an image and thought, “Why does this look smudgy?” or “Why won’t my ink dry on this paper?”—you’re not alone! Picking the right ink for the job can make all the difference in your finished project. Let’s break down the basics of ink types so you can choose confidently every time you stamp.

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🖤 Dye Inks: Quick-Drying & Crisp

Best For: Everyday stamping, quick projects, and layering colors.
Dry Time: Fast.
Examples: Stampin’ Up! Classic Stampin’ Pads.

Dye inks are water-based and absorb into the paper quickly. That makes them perfect for crisp images and no-fuss cleanup. They're ideal for sentiments, background stamping, and when you need to move fast—like mass-producing cards.

Tip: Because they dry so quickly, they’re not the best for heat embossing unless you stamp super fast.

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✨ Pigment Inks: Rich & Slow-Drying

Best For: Heat embossing, stamping on darker cardstock, and juicy color.
Dry Time: Slow (can smudge if not heat-set).
Examples: White Craft Ink, VersaMark.

Pigment inks sit on the surface of the paper, giving a more opaque and vibrant look. They’re especially great for heat embossing since they stay wet long enough for you to add powder. Use them when you want bold looks or to stamp on vellum or dark cardstocks.

Tip: Heat-set for faster drying, or give ample time before handling.

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🎨 Solvent Inks: For Special Surfaces

Best For: Stamping on slick surfaces like acetate, window sheets, or metal.
Dry Time: Moderate.
Examples: StazOn.

Solvent inks are made to stick to non-porous surfaces. They’re your go-to when stamping on glassy, glossy, or plastic-like materials. Cleanup requires a special StazOn cleaner—regular stamp cleaner won’t do the trick.

Tip: Only use these on red rubber stamps—not photopolymer—as they can cause damage over time.

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🌊 Hybrid & Specialty Inks

Hybrid inks (like Memento) offer the best of both worlds—they dry quickly but stay crisp, making them great for coloring with alcohol markers like Stampin’ Blends.

Tip: Always test your ink with your coloring medium to prevent smearing or bleeding.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re layering colors, embossing sentiments, or stamping on acetate, the right ink choice can turn a frustrating project into a flawless one. Keep a small reference chart of your inks and what they work best for, and you’ll always be ready to create with confidence.

What’s your most-used ink pad? And which one are you curious to try more? Share your faves below—I’d love to know what’s in your ink stash!

Happy stamping,
Katrina 💖
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

🌈 3 Bold Boho Vibes Cards + August’s Farmhouse Florals Kit

 

Hello, crafty friends!

What a fun live we had this week! In case you missed it (or you just want to revisit all the details), here’s everything we covered—plus measurements and tips so you can recreate these projects at home.

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💌 Paper Pumpkin Update – Farmhouse Florals

We’re now in the August subscription period and the kit is Farmhouse Florals! You’ll make nine whimsical cards—three each of three designs.

✔️ Pre‑cut paper pieces and linen thread
✔️ Sentiments for inside and out
✔️ Coordinating colors: Calypso Coral, Darling Duckling, Gray Granite, Lost Lagoon, Pecan Pie, and Secret Sea
✔️ Ink spot: Secret Sea
✔️ Bonus stamp set included

✨ Pro Tip: Add on the Circle of Seasons dies (for subscribers only) to coordinate with this quarter’s kits—July, August, and September.

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✨ Online Exclusives & Tax‑Free Days

During the live I shared a quick QR code so you can shop Stampin’ Up!’s Online Exclusives with ease.

👉 Many states are also offering back‑to‑school sales tax holidays—perfect for stocking up on adhesives, markers, and blends!

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🌈 Boho Vibes Suite – 3 Bold Cards

We played with the Sunshine Vibes Bundle (part of the Boho Vibes Suite) to make three bright and simple cards. Here’s the recap:

1️⃣ Sending Good Vibes

• Base: Cloud Cover cardstock 8½" x 5½", scored at 4¼"

• Layer: Basic White 5" x 3¾", embossed with Pressed Flowers

• Accents: Three 1" DSP squares popped up with mini dimensionals

• Rainbow: Die‑cut arches from Secret Sea, Petal Pink & Cloud Cover, glued with tiny dots of liquid adhesive

• Finish: Cloud Cover ribbon and a sprinkle of coordinating dots

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2️⃣ Thanks

• Base: Thick Basic White 8½" x 5½", scored at 4¼"

• Layers: DSP 4" x 5¼" and 3" x 4"

• Die‑cut Panel: Basic White 3" x 3¾" using rainbow‑arch cutout die (save the extra arches for future cards!)

• Sentiment: “Thanks” in Secret Sea, die‑cut with smallest rectangle from Textured Notes Dies

• Finish: Dimensionals and a few Boho Vibes dots

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3️⃣ Hello

• Base: Secret Sea cardstock 8½" x 5½", scored at 4¼", with a 5¼" x 4" Basic White panel inside

• Layers: Basic White 3¼" x 4¼" layered with Cloud Cover 3" x 4"

• Rainbow: Die‑cut arches from Cloud Cover, Darling Duckling, Cherry Cobbler, Mossy Meadow & Secret Sea

• Sunburst: Stamped in Cloud Cover ink (available as an ink spot!)

• Sentiment: “Hello” in Secret Sea, popped up with dimensionals

• Bonus Tip: Save extra arches to mix and match for future rainbow cards.

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🧽 Quick Tip: Keep alcohol pads in your craft space—they’re fantastic for cleaning blocks and removing stray adhesive.

Thank you for hanging out with me during the live or catching the replay. I hope these projects spark your creativity! If you’d like the full PDF with step‑by‑step photos, just leave a comment or send me a message—I’d love to share it with you.

Until next time, happy crafting and sending you good vibes! 💛

The Power of Paper: Choosing the Right Cardstock for Every Project

 

When we talk about crafting supplies, cardstock might not sound glamorous—but it’s the foundation of almost every card, scrapbook layout, and 3D project. Just like you wouldn’t build a house without a solid frame, you can’t create a beautiful, lasting card without the right paper. Let’s break down why cardstock matters, and how to pick the best type for your next masterpiece.

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🏗️ Card Base Basics: Go Heavy

Start strong! Your card base should be a heavier weight cardstock—typically 100 lb or 110 lb (270–300 gsm). This thicker paper holds its shape, stands tall when folded, and won’t buckle under layers, glue, or embellishments.

Stampin’ Up! Thick Basic White and Thick Very Vanilla are two fantastic go-to options. They score cleanly, hold layers beautifully, and provide a crisp, professional finish.

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🎨 Color Matters: Match or Contrast? 

Color plays a big role in the mood of your project. Think about whether you want your cardstock to:

• Blend in: Match your focal point for a cohesive look.

• Pop out: Choose a bold contrast to make your layers or stamped image stand out.

When in doubt, pull colors directly from your Designer Series Paper or use the color coordination charts in the Stampin’ Up! catalog—they take all the guesswork out!

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🧵 Layer Like a Pro

When layering cardstock (for mats or die cuts), medium weight cardstock—around 80 lb—is perfect. It adds dimension without bulk and cuts cleanly with dies and trimmers.

Pro tip: Use foam adhesive between layers to add depth and shadow—it creates a wow-factor without any fancy tools.

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✂️ Specialty Cardstock Tips

Sometimes, you need a little extra sparkle or texture:

• Vellum: Great for soft overlays or die-cut accents.

• Foil and Glimmer Paper: Adds shine, but be sure to use a strong adhesive and burnish it well.

• Watercolor Paper: Ideal for ink smooshing, blending, or painting—prevents warping and holds pigment beautifully.

Each type serves a purpose, and experimenting with layers and texture can really elevate your designs.

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♻️ Scraps Are Gold

Don’t toss those leftovers! Use small cardstock scraps for punch shapes, sentiments, tags, or even layered embellishments. Keep a clear container near your workspace and reach for it first before cutting into a fresh sheet.

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Final Thoughts

Cardstock might not be flashy, but it’s one of the most powerful tools in your paper crafting toolbox. With the right weight, color, and texture, it sets the stage for every gorgeous project you create.

What’s your go-to cardstock color or weight? Share in the comments or tag me in your next creation—I love seeing how you layer up your paper magic!

Craft on,
Katrina 💖
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

Bold Sentiments, Pretty Papers: 3 Quick Cards in 30 Minutes

 Happy Sunday evening, friends! 💜 Thank you so much for hanging out with me live. We laughed, we layered, and we whipped up three beautiful cards in just over half an hour. Here’s the full recap so you can recreate them at home—and catch all the fun updates I shared along the way!

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✨ Paper Pumpkin August Kit – Farmhouse Florals

The August Paper Pumpkin window is open, and this kit is so good! You’ll make nine whimsical cards (three each of three designs) with pre‑cut pieces, linen thread, and stamps for both inside and out.
Coordinating colors: Calypso Coral, Darling Duckling, Gray Granite, Lost Lagoon, Pecan Pie, and Secret Sea.
🎁 Bonus: An extra stamp set is included this month!
👉 Be sure to subscribe by August 10th to get yours.

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💸 Don’t Miss Your Tax Holiday

If you live in one of the lucky states (or Puerto Rico!) with a summer tax holiday, you can stock up on adhesives, Stampin’ Blends, markers, watercolor pencils, and more—tax free on certain dates. Check my Facebook page for the full list, and grab the downloadable chart here.

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🖋️ Featuring the Layered Thoughts Stamp Set

This stamp set is all about bold sentiments that make your card come together quickly. Pair it with your favorite Designer Series Paper, and you’ve got instant eye‑catching cards.

💌 Card 1: Love You

• Crumb Cake base (4¼" x 11", scored at 5½")

• Blackberry Bliss layer & Perennial Lavender DSP

• Big bold “Love You” stamped in Blackberry Bliss

• Finished with a few brass butterflies—because why not?

💜 Card 2: Thank You

• Blackberry Bliss base (5½" x 8½", scored at 4¼")

• DSP cut into three 1¾" strips; flip the center strip for contrast

• Fresh Freesia “Thank” layered with Blackberry Bliss “You”

• Die‑cut using Textured Note dies, popped up with dimensionals, and more brass butterflies!

🎉 Card 3: Happy Birthday to You

• Highland Heather base (4¼" x 11", scored at 5½")

• DSP cut into two diagonal panels from a 6" x 6" sheet

• Sentiment stamped on a 2½" wide strip, trimmed on a fun angle

• Adhered and accented with—you guessed it—brass butterflies!

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🌟 Coming Soon: Fun Folds Class

Cyndy and I are teaming up again for a Fun Folds Class featuring this stamp set. Registration goes live in August, so hop on my email list to be the first to know. You won’t want to miss these layouts!

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In just over 30 minutes, we finished three cards that are perfect for beginners or anyone who loves quick crafting. Bold sentiments, beautiful papers, and just a few embellishments do all the work for you. Try these layouts with any Designer Series Paper and stamp set you love—you’ll be amazed at the results!

Thank you again for spending your Sunday evening with me. Wishing you a beautiful week ahead—see you next time with more crafty inspiration!

💜 Katrina

Creative Confidence: How to Choose the Right Sentiment for Your Handmade Cards

One of the most meaningful parts of handmade cardmaking is choosing the sentiment. It's the heart of your design—the reason your card exists. But if you’ve ever stared at your stamp sets wondering whether to go with “Thinking of You,” “You’ve Got This,” or “Just Because,” you’re not alone.

Let’s talk about how to pick the perfect message to match your handmade masterpiece.

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💌 Start With the Occasion

Before you stamp anything, ask: What is this card for?

• Birthday? You’ll want something festive or heartfelt like “Wishing You the Best Day Ever.”

• Sympathy? Keep it gentle and comforting—“With Heartfelt Sympathy” or “Thinking of You” are timeless.

• Just Because? Go playful or thoughtful with “You Make Me Smile” or “Hello, Friend.”

Choosing a sentiment based on the emotional tone you want to convey will guide your style and embellishments too.

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✍️ Match the Mood of the Card

Take a cue from your design! If your card is:

• Bold and bright: Try a fun sentiment like “Yay, You!” or “Let’s Celebrate!”

• Elegant and soft: Consider “Grateful for You” or “Sending Love.”

• Whimsical or funny: Don’t be afraid to use a pun or quirky phrase. (“You’re a-MAIZE-ing,” anyone?)

Your sentiment should feel like it belongs with the color palette, paper, and layout you’ve chosen.

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🖋️ Placement Matters

Where you put your sentiment can make a big difference:

• Centered sentiments draw attention—perfect for impactful messages.

• Side or corner placement lets your design shine and the sentiment support it.

• Tag or label sentiments add dimension and are easy to swap if you change your mind.

Stamp it directly on the card base or pop it up with foam adhesive for extra depth.

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💡 Bonus Tip: Keep a Sentiment Scrap Stash

Sometimes you stamp an extra sentiment or try one and change your mind—that’s okay! Keep those extras in a little organizer or envelope. They’ll be a time-saver the next time you need a quick finish.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right sentiment doesn’t have to be stressful—it should feel like adding the finishing touch to your creative story. Trust your instincts, match the mood, and don’t overthink it.

What’s your favorite all-purpose sentiment? Let me know in the comments or tag me when you share your next project!

Craft with heart,
Katrina 💖

Katrina’s Kreative Heart 

Coneflower Celebration: Simple Cards with Summery Charm

 

We might be melting up here, but the creativity is in full bloom! This week’s Sunday Live was all about the gorgeous Coneflower Celebration bundle—available now as part of the Online Exclusives—and I’m smitten. Coneflowers are some of my favorite real-life blooms, and these stamps and dies captured that sunny, rustic charm beautifully.

🌼 Card 1: “You Made My Day”

We started with a cheerful card using Darling Duckling cardstock and Calypso Coral Designer Series Paper. The star of the show? That big, beautiful coneflower, colored with a mix of:

• Light & Dark Calypso Coral

• Light Darling Duckling

• Deep 200 (for the cone)

• Light Old Olive (for the leaves and stem)

We added linen thread, dimensionals, and a few rhinestones to bring it to life. Simple, quick, and oh-so-happy.

🎉 Card 2: A Belated Birthday Fun Fold

Next up was a layered coneflower card using Timid Tiger and Darling Duckling with a vertical fun fold. The flower features stamped petals layered over the large cone die, and I used the same Blends as before to keep things cohesive.

We stamped the sentiment “Happy Belated Birthday” on the base and added subtle depth by doubling up on the flower center. It's the perfect mix of sweet and sassy!

🦋 Card 3: Embossed Elegance + Butterfly

Finally, we played with a brand-new favorite: the Sunflower 3D Embossing Folder (part of the July Online Exclusives). I embossed a piece of Peach Pie Two-Toned Paper, then gave it a light sanding with a sanding block for a distressed, vintage vibe.

We wrapped linen thread, added the heartfelt sentiment “I love that I’ve known you for so many birthdays,” and finished with a fussy-cut butterfly, colored with Light Calypso Coral and Light Darling Duckling.

💌 Want to Recreate These?

Download the FREE project sheets here — each card includes measurements, supplies, and step-by-step instructions.

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🛎️ Don’t Miss:

• August Paper Pumpkin: Farmhouse Florals → Subscribe by August 10

• Circle of Seasons Add-On Dies → Exclusive to Paper Pumpkin subscribers

• Virtual Album Retreat → July 16–18 (hosted by Stampin’ Up!)

• Sunrise Sailing Card Class → Registration closes July 15!

Thanks again for crafting with me, friends. I love sharing these Sundays with you—and I can’t wait to see what you create next.

Until then, happy stamping!
💛 Katrina

Elevate Your Cards with Simple Texture Techniques

 

If you’ve ever looked at a handmade card and thought, “Why does this look so polished?”, chances are the answer is texture. Adding texture is one of the simplest ways to take your cardmaking from flat to fabulous—and you don’t need fancy tools to do it. Here are some easy techniques that add tactile interest and depth to your projects.

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💨 1. Embossing Folders: Instant Dimension

Embossing folders are one of the fastest ways to create an eye-catching background. Whether it’s bricks, florals, or subtle polka dots, that raised texture brings your cardstock to life. For extra drama, lightly sponge ink over the raised areas to make them pop.

Tip: White-on-white embossed panels add elegant, understated texture perfect for wedding or sympathy cards.

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✂️ 2. Layered Die Cuts

Using multiple layers of die cuts (especially with sentiments or shapes) adds both visual interest and a subtle 3D effect. Simply stack two or three die cuts together with liquid glue.

Bonus: Try one layer in vellum or foil for added contrast!

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🎨 3. Ink Blending & Splattering

Blend ink on your card base using blending brushes or sponges to create a smooth gradient. Add splatters with water or diluted ink to give your background more texture without adding bulk.

Pro Tip: Metallic watercolor splatters are gorgeous for holiday cards or evening-themed designs.

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💌 4. Tearing & Crumpling

Sometimes, imperfection adds charm. Try tearing the edge of your patterned paper or gently crumpling a paper layer, then smoothing it out for a vintage, distressed look.

Great for: Junk journal-inspired layouts or shabby chic designs.

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🎀 5. Ribbon, Twine, and Embellishments

Even a simple strand of twine or a stitched ribbon can elevate a design. These tactile elements give your cards warmth and character—and they’re a great way to use up those little leftovers in your stash.

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Final Thoughts

Adding texture doesn’t have to mean adding bulk—or stress. Start with one technique, experiment with combinations, and watch your cards come to life in a whole new way.

What’s your favorite way to add texture to a card? I’d love to hear it—drop a comment or tag me in your next post!

Happy crafting,
Katrina 💖
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

Sail Into Summer with the Sunrise Sailing Card Class ⛵

 I’m so excited to announce a brand-new card class that’s perfect for summer—and I’m teaming up once again with my sweet friend Cyndy from Stamping the Wilde Way to bring it to you!

Introducing the Sunrise Sailing Card Class—a breezy, coastal-inspired class featuring the Sunrise Sailing Bundle from Stampin’ Up! This class is packed with soft summer tones, nautical vibes, and simple techniques to help you create four beautiful handmade cards.

Here’s What’s Included for $45:

• Pre-cut card kits to make 4 coordinated cards

• Half pack of the 2025–2027 In Color 6"x6" Designer Series Paper (20 sheets!)

• Full package of the 2025–2027 In Color Flat Pearls

• A PDF tutorial that includes color photos, step-by-step instructions, measurements, and a full supply list

• Shipping to your door—yep, it’s all included!

This class is perfect whether you’re brand new to card making or a seasoned stamper looking for some summer inspiration.

What You'll Need:

To complete the class as designed, you’ll want to have on hand:

• The Sunrise Sailing Bundle (or substitute a similar nautical set)

• Ink pads in Versamark, Darling Duckling, Petal Pink, Timid Tiger, Secret Sea, and Cloud Cover Ink Refill + an uninked Stampin' Spot (optional)

• Adhesives: Stampin’ Seal, Dimensionals, and your basic paper crafting tools like a paper trimmer, snips, die cutting machine, and blending brushes

Important Dates:

• Registration Closes: Tuesday, July 15, 2025

• Kits Ship By: Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Just Want the Tutorial?

If you already own the bundle and supplies and prefer to use what you have on hand, you can purchase the PDF tutorial only for $20.

A Special Gift for My Team

If you’re a member of my Kreative Hearts team, this tutorial is FREE for you on August 1st as part of your exclusive team perks!

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📬 Ready to set sail?
Click here to register now!

Let’s kick back, craft, and cruise into creativity together—this is one summer class you won’t want to miss!

Crafty hugs,
Katrina Wolfe
Independent Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

Bee-autiful Cards with the Meant to Bee Bundle 🐝

 Happy Sunday, friends! I hope you had a fabulous 4th of July weekend. Ours was full of food, family, and fun at my sister-in-law’s house—she really knows how to throw a picnic! 🎆

Despite the summer heatwave (hello, melting craft room), I powered through to bring you three adorable cards featuring the new Meant to Bee bundle. Here’s a quick look at what we made:

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🐝 Card 1: We Are Meant to Bee

We started with a thick Basic White card base and layered on die-cut octagons in Bubble Bath, Petunia Pop, and Old Olive. A touch of texture from the Exposed Brick embossing folder added extra dimension, and of course, our little bee stole the show—complete with stripes, wings, antennae, and a sweet smile. 💕

💡 Technique Tip: I used a rubber glue brush for clean adhesive placement on the delicate frame shapes—so much easier than fighting with adhesive sheets on a humid day!

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🐝 Card 2: Love This Life

This card was inspired by a sketch I found on Pinterest from Operation Write Home (an old favorite!). The Bubble Bath card base got a pop of cuteness with the Cute As Can Bee DSP and a simple sentiment strip stamped in Memento Black. A trio of starburst sequins added just the right sparkle. 🌟

💬 Quick and simple = perfect for busy crafters!

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🐝 Card 3: Our Hive

For this one, I used a Pool Party base and added a floral pattern from the same DSP pack. The sentiment “Our Hive” was built with layered die-cut words, and our bee buddy buzzed into the corner to complete the look. A couple of sequins and voilà!—card #3 done and dusted.

Click the title of each card to grab the downloadable/printable tutorial.

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🎁 Get the Class Free

You can get all the materials (pre-cut paper & embellishments) for these three cards FREE with a $35 order in my online store. I accidentally listed $35 instead of $40 on Facebook—so I’m honoring the lower price for you!

You’ll need the Meant to Bee bundle (or substitute something from your stash), but everything else is included.

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🌅 Sneak Peek: New Class Coming!

Keep an eye on your inbox tomorrow for the official launch of my next class: a Sunrise Sailing collaboration with my talented friend Cyndy Wilde from Stamping the Wild Way! If you’ve been looking for masculine card inspiration, this is the one.

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That’s all for now—thank you so much for hanging out with me during this sticky July Sunday. Until next time, stay cool and keep crafting! 🐝💛

With creativity,
Katrina

Sun-Kissed Creativity: Summer Themes in Paper Crafting

 

Summer is the perfect time to infuse your paper crafting with sunshine, color, and fun memories. Whether you're making cards to send warm wishes or documenting beach days and BBQs in your scrapbook, this season offers endless inspiration.

Card Makers:
Try incorporating pastel palettes like aqua, coral, lemon, and peach into your designs. Use heat embossing for shimmering sun effects or layer textures with embossing folders and die cuts for seashells, flip-flops, and tropical leaves. Fun folds like the waterfall or easel card can mimic the playful, laid-back vibe of summer.

Scrapbookers:
Create dynamic layouts using washi tape waves, photo corners shaped like sunglasses, and journaling cards that look like polaroids. Layer DSP that resembles sand or waves with stamped elements like sunbursts or picnic baskets. Bonus tip: use vellum to soften bright photos and add a dreamy, sun-faded look.

I hope these ideas spark your creativity. Stop by Facebook and share what you're working on, I'd love to see.

Happy Stamping,

Katrina 
Katrina's Kreative Heart

5 Color Theory Tricks Every Cardmaker Should Know

 When it comes to cardmaking and paper crafting, color isn’t just decoration—it’s the secret sauce that brings your designs to life. But choosing colors can be overwhelming, especially with so many beautiful inks, papers, and embellishments available. That’s where color theory comes in to save the day. Here are five easy color theory tricks that will help you create eye-catching cards with confidence.

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🎨 1. The Power of the Color Wheel 

The color wheel is your best friend. It’s more than an art class relic—it helps you find combinations that just work.

• Complementary colors (opposites on the wheel) like blue and orange create bold contrast.

• Analogous colors (neighbors on the wheel) like pink, red, and orange blend beautifully for a soft, harmonious look.

• Triadic colors (three evenly spaced) like red, yellow, and blue give a vibrant, balanced effect.

Try pulling out a color wheel next time you’re stuck—your design will thank you!

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🧁 2. Use the 60-30-10 Rule

This simple formula keeps your color balance on point:

• 60% main color (like your card base)

• 30% secondary color (mat layers or embellishments)

• 10% accent color (sentiments, small pops, or bling)

This trick gives your card a professional, polished finish without feeling overwhelming or dull.

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🌈 3. Go Monochromatic

Monochromatic doesn’t mean boring—it means cohesive. Choose one hue (like purple) and use light, medium, and dark shades.
It’s perfect for elegant, calming designs and great when you want to highlight textures or techniques like embossing or layering.

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🧃 4. Neutrals Are Your Secret Weapon

White, black, gray, kraft, and even metallics like gold or silver are considered neutrals in paper crafting. Use them to break up bold colors or to ground a busy design.
Don’t forget: a simple white-on-white card with texture can be just as striking as a rainbow masterpiece.

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💡 5. Let Your Paper Inspire You

Not sure where to start? Look at your favorite Designer Series Paper! Stampin’ Up! does the color coordination work for you—just pull a palette from the paper’s color list and use it as your guide.
No guesswork, all wow-factor.

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Final Thoughts

You don’t need an art degree to use color like a pro. With these simple tricks, you’ll start to see color differently—and your cards will reflect that extra touch of magic.

Now it’s your turn: what’s your favorite go-to color combo? Drop it in the comments or tag me in your next project on social—I’d love to see what you’re creating!

Happy crafting,
Katrina 💖
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

Product List

Color Coach™ (English) [166481] $12.50

Add All to Cart

Three Easy Background Techniques Using Prairie Grass by Stampin' Up!

 

Hello, crafty friends!

Can you believe we’re already sliding into July and the third quarter of 2025? Time is flying, but don’t worry—we’re using that momentum to fuel some creative playtime with a brand-new online exclusive: Prairie Grass.

This stamp set is beautifully simple, with classic silhouette-style grasses and heartfelt sentiments that make it perfect for thinking-of-you and sympathy cards. In this week’s Live, I showcased three easy card designs, each featuring a different background technique that you can totally recreate at home.

Let’s recap what we made:

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🌅 Card #1: Masking & Ink Blending

We used torn cardstock as a mask and blended Darling Duckling, Timid Tiger, and Old Olive to create a soft “prairie pasture” effect. The grasses were stamped in Secret C ink for a bold contrast. This one turned out to be a lovely sympathy card accented with the new In Color Flat Pearls.

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🎨 Card #2: Color Blocking with Acrylic Blocks

For this one, we stamped directly with our acrylic blocks! With Pretty in Pink, Petunia Pop, and Peach Pie, we created bold color blocks spritzed with water. Once dry, we stamped the large grass silhouette right over the top—simple, unique, and totally flat for easy mailing.

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🍷 Card #3: Alcohol Ink on Acetate

The final card was a little messy but so much fun! Using acetate recycled from a stamp set, we scribbled Stampin’ Blends in Melon Mambo, Calypso Coral, and Darling Duckling, then dripped 91% isopropyl alcohol to create dreamy blends and blooms. Once dry, we flipped it over and stamped a silhouette and sentiment. Every background turns out different—and that’s the magic of this technique!

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Don’t Miss:

• The July Paper Pumpkin Kit: Sweeter With You – featuring sun-kissed strawberries and gingham charm. Subscribe now!

• Buy One, Get One 50% Off Suites Sale – Don’t let your embellishments be the only thing getting the discount! Plan your cart wisely.

• New Online Exclusives dropping in July—including Prairie Grass! Check the website for updates.

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Grab Your Free Downloads

Full instructions and measurements for all three cards in downloadable PDF project sheets. Grab them right here: 

Ink Blended Sympathy

Ink Blocking

Alcohol Ink Background

Thanks for spending your Sunday with me. I appreciate you more than you know. Let’s keep crafting and connecting—see you next week!

Crafty hugs,
💛 Katrina

🖋️ Ink Types 101: Know Your Basics

Understanding the types of ink is the first step toward crafting success. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Dye Ink:

• Fast-drying and water-based, perfect for everyday stamping.

• Absorbs quickly into cardstock, so it won’t smear.

• Great for layering and creating crisp images.

2. Pigment Ink:

• Slower drying and richer in color.

• Sits on top of the paper, making it perfect for heat embossing.

• Ideal for darker or textured papers.

3. Hybrid Ink:

• A combo of dye and pigment, great all-purpose choice.

• Works for both stamping and watercolor techniques.

4. Solvent Ink (like StazOn):

• Permanent and quick-drying on non-porous surfaces (think acetate or vellum).

• Not recommended for use with alcohol markers.

5. Distress & Water-Reactive Inks:

• Designed for blending, watercoloring, and mixed media.

• React beautifully with water for textured effects.

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🎨 How to Pick the Right Ink for the Job

When you're planning your project, ask yourself these questions:

• Will I be coloring in my stamped image? If yes, use a waterproof ink like Memento Tuxedo Black with alcohol markers or StazOn with water-based mediums.

• Do I want to heat emboss? Then choose a slow-drying pigment ink like VersaMark or white craft ink.

• Am I creating a blended background? Distress Oxides or Stampin’ Up! classic inks on blending brushes are ideal.

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🧼 Don’t Forget Ink Care Tips

• Store ink pads upside down to keep them juicy (unless using Stampin' Up! ink, our pads are designed to be "upside down" when in the upright position!).

• Clean stamps immediately after use, especially when using pigment or solvent inks.

• Always label your ink pads by type so you don’t accidentally ruin your markers!

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💡 Crafter’s Pro Tip

If you're ever unsure which ink to use, do a tiny test on a scrap piece of your project paper first. It takes two seconds and can save your whole card!

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Inking is more than just stamping—it's an art form. With a solid understanding of ink types and a little practice, you'll add the perfect touch to every project. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned stamper, mastering ink choices will level up your cardmaking game!

Stay creative,
Katrina 💌
Katrina’s Kreative Heart

P.S. Got a favorite ink trick or technique? Share it with me on Facebook or Instagram—I’d love to see your ideas! 

Impressions Abloom: 3 Quick-Wow Cards, July Album Retreat & Paper Pumpkin Sneak Peek

 Hey crafty friends! 👋

Sunday’s LIVE was a whirlwind of pretty paper, fun folds, and juicy July news. In case you missed the stream (or want the written scoop), here’s everything we covered—from Stampin’ Up!’s upcoming Album Retreat to three Impressions Abloom cards you can whip up tonight.

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Housekeeping Highlights

What	Need-to-Know	Dates / Details
Album Retreat	12 double-page spreads (24 pages!)—all supplies included except adhesives & album	July 16–18
Online Exclusives	Holiday-themed goodies drop again	July 1– (watch the store!)
Paper Pumpkin – “Sweeter with You”	8 strawberry-sweet cards + circle-dies add-on (subscriber exclusive)	Subscribe by July 10

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Card #1 – Window Z Fun Fold

Inspired by Karen Titus’s clever fold

• Base: Pool Party — 8½" × 5½", score 4¼"

• Inside Z-Panel: Basic White — 8" × 5¼", score 2", 4"

• DSP: Floral Impressions 4¼" × 5½"

• Circle Stack: 2⅜" Pool Party, 2" Strawberry Slush, 1¾" Basic White

• Inks: Strawberry Slush, Timid Tiger, Pool Party, Misty Moonlight, Darling Duckling

• Tip: Punch the window after adhering the DSP so everything lines up.

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Card #2 – Easy Joy Fold

Quick, joyful, and fits a standard envelope.

• Outer Panel: Strawberry Slush — 4¼" × 5½"

• Inner Card: Basic White — 8½" × 3", score 4¼"

• Layer: Early Espresso — 3¼" × 4½"

• Front DSP: 4" × 2¾"

• Accent Dies: Old Olive stems, Strawberry Slush blooms (adhesive sheets make it mess-free!)

• Sentiment: “Thanks” (Everyday Arches dies)

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Card #3 – Classic Layout (Looks Fancy, Builds Fast)

• Base: Strawberry Slush — 8½" × 5½", score 4¼"

• Front Layers: Pretty in Pink — 4¼" × 3¼"; DSP — 4" × 3"

• Inside Panel: Basic White — 3½" × 5"

• Focal Bloom: Pretty in Pink + Strawberry Slush; center in Darling Duckling

• Leafy Die-cut: Old Olive

• Finishing Touches: Strawberry Slush ribbon & sparkle gems

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Ready to Craft?

Grab the Impressions Abloom bundle while it’s still an online exclusive, stock up on those sparkly Strawberry Slush gems, and remember to secure your seat at the Album Retreat (spots go fast). Need the July Paper Pumpkin? Hit that subscribe button by July 10 so the gingham-wrapped goodness lands on your doorstep.

Want the free PDF printable tutorial for all of these cards, be sure to subscribe to my mailing list before Tuesday 6/24/25! Join here

Happy stamping, and thanks a bunch for hanging out with me each week!

Katrina

Katrina’s Kreative Heart 💖