This card was an absolute joy to design, bringing together elegant details and a crisp, clean style that makes it shine in every way.
The base of the card is Smoky Slate, a subtle gray that sets the perfect foundation for the layers to come. For the first layer, I used a stunning panel of White Glimmer paper. To ensure it adhered securely, I chose Tear & Tape Adhesive—always my go-to when working with Glimmer paper, as it provides that extra hold needed for a durable finish.
The top layer features a striking piece of Basic Black cardstock. In the bottom left corner, I used the flower silhouette from the Spring Corners Dies, cutting it out to reveal the sparkle of the Glimmer paper below. For the sentiment, I reached for the new Spring Corners stamp set, using VersaMark ink to stamp “Wishing You An Amazing Day” in the top right corner. A quick application of White Embossing Powder and a bit of heat-setting magic brought the sentiment to life.
Dimensionals were the perfect choice to adhere the top layer, giving the card a bit of lift and ensuring the black cardstock stays securely atop the Glimmer paper. Inside the card, I added a coordinating panel of Basic White, bordered by a panel of Basic Black, tying the design together with a polished, cohesive look.
I’m absolutely loving how this card turned out. The clean lines, the sparkle of the Glimmer paper, and the timeless combination of gray, white, and black make this card a showstopper. It’s amazing how such a simple palette can create such a striking impact.
I’m excited to share that I created this card for three fantastic online crafting challenges: The Color Throwdown #824, Craft Catz #685, and NBUS #70. For the Never-Before-Used-Schtuff, I used the Spring Corners stamp set and coordinating dies. I loved breaking them out and this challenge helped me do just that!
Measurements (in inches):
- Card Base (Smoky Slate) – 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4
- 1st Layer (White Glimmer Paper) – 5-1/4 x 4
- 2nd Layer (Basic Black) – 3-3/4 x 5
- Inside – Basic White 3-3/4 x 5, Basic Black 3-7/8 x 5-1/8
If you’d like to see this card come together step by step, be sure to check out the video tutorial linked below. I hope it inspires you to embrace the elegance of clean and simple designs in your own crafting projects.
Happy crafting, and thank you for stopping by!
An elegant and beautiful design, the glimmer paper behind the black top layer looks gorgeous.
Thank you for joining in at Crafty Catz
Chris
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Thank you so much, Chris! I’m so glad you enjoyed the design—I had so much fun playing with the contrast between the Glimmer Paper and the black top layer. I appreciate you taking the time to leave such a kind comment, and thank you for hosting such a wonderful challenge at Crafty Catz
This design is a real standout in black and glimmer and I love the CAS style, Julia! Thank you for inspiring everyone to use their NBUS! Happy New Year Hugs, Darnell
Thank you so much, Darnell! Your kind words mean the world to me. I’m thrilled you enjoyed the black and glimmer combo—it was so fun to create something clean and simple yet striking. I loved joining in with NBUS and appreciate all the inspiration you bring to the crafting community. Wishing you a very Happy New Year as well! Hugs right back to you!
What a lovely design, Julia! Love the technique, too. Thanks for playing along with CTD!
Thank you so much, Amy! I’m thrilled you liked the design and technique—I had so much fun creating with this week’s gorgeous colors. I always enjoy playing along with Color Throwdown. Thanks for all the inspiration you and the team share!
I love how the shimmer paper just shines through the die cut out! What a great card! Thanks so much for joining us for the Color Throwdown challenge!!
Thank you so much, Broni! I’m so glad you enjoyed the shimmer peeking through the die-cut—it’s one of my favorite parts of this card too. I always love the inspiration from the Color Throwdown challenges, and I appreciate you taking the time to leave such a kind comment!