Blog • Stamp4Joy

Crafting With You Tote Card Idea

April 19, 2025 No Comments

This Crafting With You tote card idea combines the retiring Crafting With You bundle with the new Notes & Totes Dies for a fun and cheerful design. Bright colors and sweet details bring this creative card to life. A mix of die cuts and designer paper makes it perfect for crafters who love clever combinations!

The stamps are gone, but the Crafting With You Dies are still available. They're retiring at the end of the month — or while supplies last — so I wanted to spotlight them one more time. I paired it with the new Notes & Totes Dies (coming in May) for a fun twist, and the result makes me smile every time I look at it.

A Tote-ally Adorable Detail

To create the tote bag I used a floral pattern from the Floral Delight Designer Series Paper and added a handle and tie in a subtle Pecan Pie print. I built the background with the yellow and white gingham from the same paper collection — so cheerful and perfect for spring!

To create the crafty elements, I made the paper trimmer with Basic Gray and Basic White cardstock, and added silver foil scissors for a little shine. The layered circles came from both the Stylish Shapes and Spotlight on Nature Dies.

Look What's Hiding in the Bag

Did you spot the little coupon tucked inside the tote? I include one with every order placed in my Online Store — a blank handmade card and a coupon for $5 off your next purchase. This one’s all ready to go to the next person who places an order with me!

If you’ve had your eye on the Dies used for this adorable Crafting With You tote, now’s the time to grab them. Supplies are limited, and once they're gone, they're gone.

Check out this painting card idea using the same set of dies.

Want more card ideas like this? Sign up here to get them straight to your inbox each week!

The Texture Toolbox Guide for Paper Crafters

April 15, 2025 No Comments

Add Wow to Your Cards with The Texture Toolbox.

If you’ve ever looked at a finished card and thought, “It’s pretty… but it needs something,” then The Texture Toolbox is for you. This downloadable guide is all about transforming your paper crafts from flat to fabulous using simple texture techniques.

Adding texture to your cards doesn’t have to be complicated — or require fancy equipment. In this guide I offer a variety of easy, eye-catching ways to

bring depth, interest, and a professional finish to your handmade projects.

Here’s a peek at what you’ll find inside:

A variety of no-stamp texture techniques that pack a punch
My favorite tools and tricks for adding dimension (without extra bulk)
Easy ways to layer, emboss, and distress with confidence
Tips for combining texture styles for maximum impact
Delivered as a PDF you can download and keep on your computer or print at home

Whether you’re brand new to card making or looking to refresh your creative spark, this guide is filled with ideas you’ll come back to again and again.

👉 The Texture Toolbox is available now as a digital download for just $17.

Don’t miss this chance to give your paper crafts the WOW factor they deserve.

Grab Your Copy of The Texture Toolbox Today

Idea for Thank You Cards

April 13, 2025 No Comments

A Textured and Dimensional Idea for Thank You Cards

If you're looking for a fresh idea for thank you cards, this one has a fun twist — literally! The circle spotlight technique and layered textures give this card a little extra something while keeping the color scheme clean and classic.

Simple Layers, Big Impact

I started with a Basic White card base (4-1/4″ x 11″, scored at 5-1/2″) and layered a 4″ x 5-1/4″ white panel on top of a slightly larger piece of Basic Black. That narrow black border adds just enough contrast to make everything pop, don't you think?

Spotlight and Dimension

The focal point is the lovely floral image from the Thankful Garden Bundle. I stamped and colored the

full image on the center of the white panel, then stamped it again on a scrap piece. That scrap version went through the Mini Corrugated 3D Embossing Folder and was die-cut with one of the medium Spotlight on Nature circle dies.

To add depth, I also colored and die-cut just the smaller flower and popped it up with Stampin’ Dimensionals over the matching spot.

Finishing Touches

The sentiment comes from the same bundle — I masked off part of it and stamped only what I wanted in black ink. A few white Neutral Matte Dots finish things off with a touch of texture and shine.

This idea for thank you cards is great when you want to highlight a beautiful image in a more creative way. The embossing and spotlighted die cut add interest without needing extra layers or embellishments.

Want to try it? Don’t wait too long — the Thankful Garden Bundle is perfect for all kinds of projects, and that embossing folder has been my go-to lately! It's really a must-have for subtle, stylish dimension.

Here's an uplifting handmade card using the Lovely Garden Suite Collection.

Discount Card Making Supplies

April 12, 2025 No Comments

Make the Most of Your Discount Card Making Supplies

If you're like me, you love pretty things and a good deal. This handmade card idea features several discount card making supplies that are being retired — so if you love the look you'd better grab them while you can!

The Country Flowers stamp set and coordinating Country Flowers Dies are both marked down and only available while supplies last. I paired them with Country Woods designer paper and the Textured Notes Dies, which are part of the Online Exclusives, along with the Mini Corrugated 3D Embossing Folder.

A Rustic Base With a Soft Touch

For the base I used Basic White cardstock. A lighter woodgrain paper was layered on top of Pool Party cardstock, with Pecan Pie ink sponged around the edges. Before gluing it down I distressed the edges with my Paper Snips. I repeated this with the darker wood paper, too.

Easy Embossing With a Lot of Impact

I cut a strip of Basic White cardstock and blended on Balmy Blue, Pool Party, and Pecan Pie inks. After embossing it with the Mini Corrugated 3D folder I gently swiped a few darker ink pads across the ridges. Smoky Slate, Misty Moonlight, and Early Espresso worked beautifully for contrast.

After cutting it into three random pieces I layered them onto more Pool Party cardstock and tucked it behind the focal panel.

Stamped Details That Pop

The container stamp from Country Flowers is such a fun shape, especially stamped onto patterned paper. I colored the flowers with my alcohol markers and used the coordinating dies to cut everything out.

I stamped the sentiment in Pecan Pie, cut it out with a Textured Notes die, and added a little folded scrap of ribbon underneath. Just a small detail, but it makes a difference.

Inspired by This Week’s Sketch

This card design was inspired by the sketch that will be featured in my next newsletter going out on Tuesday. Not on my list yet? You can sign up here.

Don’t miss out on these discount card making supplies — they won’t last long!

Here's a DIY birthday card design idea using a lot of the same products!

Notes & Totes Beach Card

April 8, 2025 No Comments

I'm sharing a little sneak peek today from the upcoming 2025–2026 Annual Catalog with this Notes & Totes beach card. This bundle is full of charm! Doesn’t it make you long for lazy summer afternoons — sunglasses on, a good book in hand, and the sound of waves nearby?

Customers can start ordering from the new catalog in early May, so stay tuned! I'll be sharing more ideas with this bundle soon.

Want more card-making inspiration? Join my mailing list for weekly creative ideas, and you’ll get a free card tutorial delivered straight to your inbox!

Here's another lazy days handmade card idea.

Card Ideas For Women

March 31, 2025 No Comments

A Simple Yet Elegant Handmade Card Idea for Women

When coming up with handmade card ideas for women, a simple white card with a bit of color can be quite sophisticated and feminine. Sometimes less is more — especially when you use texture and layering to add interest without overwhelming the design.

This one-of-a-kind birthday card was surprisingly easy to make and didn’t require a lot of supplies. I used Basic White and Crumb Cake cardstock for a clean yet warm look.

The “ripples” in the circle were created using the Mini Corrugated 3D Embossing Folder, adding a subtle touch of texture. I placed it behind a circular opening, which I cut using the second-largest circle die from the Stylish Shapes set. Doesn’t it create an interesting backdrop?

For the foliage I used the Painted Lavender Dies, which add a delicate, organic feel. The “Wishing” sentiment and birthday greeting came from the Delightful Wishes Bundle — both elegant choices for this design.

I love how the White and Crumb Cake combination turned out. It’s neutral, timeless, and perfect for any occasion. What do you think?

To finish the card I added a Linen Thread bow and a few white dots from the Neutral Matte Dots package. And, in true crafting fashion, I forgot to save the tiny die-cut dots for the I’s! Not to worry, though. I used a few extra embellishments instead. Problem solved!

If you’re looking for more card ideas for women, try incorporating neutral tones and texture for a classy, effortless look.

Check this technique out if you're looking for a unique handmade birthday card for a man.

Happy crafting!

Uplifting Handmade Card

March 11, 2025 No Comments

I created this uplifting handmade card for a dear friend who faces ongoing health challenges. She’s always there for me, offering encouragement when I need it most. The sentiment felt perfect — she truly makes a difference in my life!

This spring-inspired card features the Lovely Garden Suite Collection, which makes coordination effortless. I love using suites because everything works together beautifully — no guessing required! And it even includes the Thankful Garden Bundle, already discounted at 10% off — such a great deal!

Building the Background

I started with a 5-1/4″ x 3″ piece of green checked paper from the Lovely Garden 12″ x 12″ Designer Series Paper. To add interest, I used a die from the Fancy Border Dies to cut it straight down the middle, creating two mirror-image pieces. These were glued to the card front sides, leaving even spacing along the top, sides, and bottom. This design trick left a clean white space in the center — perfect for layering the floral focal point.

Coloring & Layering the Flowers

The flowers were stamped in Tuxedo Black Memento Ink on white cardstock and cut out using the coordinating Thankful Garden Dies. For coloring, I used the Thankful Garden Decorative Masks — a fun and easy way to add depth to the flowers and leaves. I pulled most of my colors straight from the designer paper to keep everything cohesive.

Finishing Touches

The sentiment fit perfectly in the long, narrow die from the Textured Notes Dies, and a few Starburst Sequins added just the right sparkle.

I love how this card came together — simple yet heartfelt. Handmade cards have a way of lifting spirits, and I hope this one brings a smile to my friend’s face. If you'd love creating an uplifting handmade card, like featured here, this suite makes it easier than ever!

Want more ideas? Check out this beautiful spring thank you card.

New Stampin' Rewards Coming Soon

March 4, 2025 No Comments

Big News! The Stampin’ Rewards Program is Getting a Makeover

Exciting changes are coming to how you earn and redeem rewards when shopping with Stampin’ Up! The new Stampin’ Rewards Program launches soon (April 15th), making it easier than ever to enjoy perks on every order.

How the New Program Works

Earn 10% in Stampin’ Rewards on every order over $20!
Rewards will be available to redeem on your next order.
Accumulate rewards over multiple orders and redeem when you’re ready.
You can even use your Stampin’ Rewards toward a Starter Kit!

For example, if you place a $50 order, you’ll earn $5.00 in Stampin’ Rewards to use on a future purchase. You can spend it right away or save it up for something bigger!

What You Need to Do

To start earning rewards you’ll need an online account. If you already have one, you’ll need to opt in once the new program launches. If not, you can create an account here, or I can send you an invitation.

Once you opt in you’ll have a personal rewards dashboard to track and manage your rewards. Keep in mind that I won’t be able to view or manage them for you, so be sure to keep an eye on your account!

Why the Change?

The old system required a $150 order to earn rewards, leaving many customers without perks. Now every order over $20 earns rewards, making it simpler and more rewarding for everyone!

Important Dates to Know

The Stampin’ Up! website will be down on April 15 (starting at 8:00 AM MT) for about six hours while the new system is integrated.
If you want to qualify for rewards under the current system, place your order before April 13.
Any unredeemed Starter Kit codes must also be used before the switch!

A Few More Details

Rewards expire after one year, so don’t let them go to waste!
The minimum purchase amount to earn rewards is before discounts, promotions, or redeemed rewards.
Full details will be available on the Stampin’ Up! website once the new program launches.

I’m so excited about this change to the new Stampin' Rewards, and I think you’ll love it too! If you have any questions or need help setting up your account just Contact Me.

Inspiration for Handmade Cards

February 25, 2025 No Comments

Looking for inspiration for handmade cards? You might already have a fantastic creative resource right at your fingertips — your Stampin’ Up! catalog! It’s filled with beautiful samples designed to spark ideas, whether you’re crafting from scratch or looking for a quick design to recreate.

For this card I pulled a simple but striking design from Page 33 of the January – April 2025 Mini Catalog (see it here). It’s the first sample on the top left featuring the Delightful Wishes stamp set. I loved the clean layout, and since I needed a card in a hurry this was the perfect solution!

One of the best things about using the catalog for inspiration is how easy it makes color coordination. If you ever feel stuck mixing and matching colors, just check the bottom of the page! The catalog provides a

list of colors used in the coordinating designer paper. I used a scrap of Peach Pie cardstock for my sentiment because it was already on my desk… perfect!

For the design I stamped the image on a top layer measuring 4-1/4″ x 2-1/2″, then tore the bottom edge for the added texture. I love how a small detail like this can add character to a simple card.

What do you think? Have you ever gone straight to the catalog for inspiration for handmade cards? Give it a try — it's a great way to get started when inspiration isn’t flowing!

Here's another simple card idea using products from the Floral Delight Suite Collection.

Lucky You! St. Patrick's Day Paper Crafting Fun

February 17, 2025 No Comments

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, which means now is the perfect time to start crafting! Whether you’re making festive cards, treat bags, or DIY decorations, giving yourself time to create means you’ll have everything ready to share a little handmade luck on March 17th.

If you love card making, try layering shades of green cardstock for a bold monochromatic look. Add a stamped or die-cut shamrock, a lucky sentiment, and a splash of gold embossing or shimmer paper for extra charm.

For a simple but stunning design, use a watercolor wash in different greens as your background, then stamp a greeting like “Wishing You Luck & Joy!”

Want to step it up? Add some texture with an embossed background or a stitched border for extra dimension.

Treat bags are another fun St. Paddy’s Day craft! Fill small bags with chocolate coins, rainbow candies, or even homemade goodies. Top them with a cute handmade tag using patterned paper, a clover-shaped die cut, and a festive sentiment. A little gold ribbon and a hand-lettered “Pot of Gold” message will make your treat extra special.

Looking for a no-stamping project? Try a St. Patrick’s Day banner! Cut out pennants in various shades of green, then add die-cut shamrocks, gold foil letters, or textured paper for a fun, festive touch. Hang it on a

mantel, wall or party table for instant charm! No matter what you create, starting early makes it easy to spread handmade joy in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

The Pick a Season stamp set is great for making handmade cards for many different occasions.

And check out this St. Patrick's Day card using hearts to make a shamrock!

Have you started crafting yet? Share in the comments — I’d love to see your creations!

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