An Easy Summer Handmade Card Using Coordinating Washi Tape
This summer handmade card came together thanks to one of my favorite time-saving techniques — creating a whole collection of coordinating die cuts.
One of the things I enjoy most about collections like Summer Happiness is how beautifully everything works together. Coordinating washi tape, dies, and stamps make it easy to create cards that feel polished without spending hours choosing embellishments.
I paired the Summer Happiness Washi Tape with the playful watercolor circles pattern from the Brights Painted Patterns Designer Series Paper. The colorful washi tape becomes the star of the design, while the background adds enough interest without competing for attention.
I also covered a larger piece of Basic White cardstock with the washi tape before die cutting the coordinating images. In just a few minutes I had flowers, sunglasses, drinks, fruit, cameras, and other summer icons ready to use –not only for this project, but for several future cards as well. It's one of those simple techniques that saves time later. I love having a small container filled with ready-made embellishments whenever inspiration strikes.
A Small Detail That Makes a Big Difference
The greeting “Summer Adventures” was stamped in Coastal Cabana ink and fussy cut before lightly blending ink around the edges with a Blending Brush.
For a busy background I sometimes will add ink around the edge of a sentiment instead of another cardstock layer. It creates just enough contrast to help the greeting stand out while keeping the card light and clean.
The finished design feels cheerful, relaxed, and perfect for celebrating all the little moments that make summer special. Whether you're sending vacation wishes, documenting summer memories, or simply saying hello, this design could be adapted for so many occasions.
If you've never tried creating a full sheet of coordinating die cuts before, give it a try. It's a wonderful way to get even more value from your supplies, and you'll thank yourself the next time you want to make a quick card.
Check out this cute card idea for summer celebrations.
