Three Cards From One Fabulous Sketch
There is just something extra fun about letting a layout do the heavy lifting—and today’s post is all about exactly that. I started this creative journey with a new-to-me stamp set and a whole lot of curiosity.
While browsing the Stampin’ Up! website, I spotted the adorable sample card created for the Good Luck stamp set and noticed I could access a “recipe” for recreating it. That was all the invitation I needed to CASE it. Once I gathered my supplies and started playing, the creative momentum kicked in and I couldn’t stop at just one card.
The first card stays close to the original inspiration and leans into bold, happy color. Granny Apple Green sets a fresh tone, paired with the green oval patterned paper from Florals In Bloom DSP running along the right side of the card front. The focal art panel features gold coins heat-embossed in rich metallic gold, with extra sparkles stamped just beyond the pot to give the illusion that the coins are practically bursting out. A layered gold foil banner tucked behind the art panel adds shine and visual length, while the sentiment overlaps multiple layers for a cohesive, intentional look. A scattering of Loose Gold Sequins finishes the card front beautifully, while the inside mirrors the layout with a matted writing panel and coordinating DSP strip along the right edge.
Once I realized how strong and versatile this layout was, I immediately pulled it out again for a second card with a completely different vibe. This version has a slightly more rugged, masculine feel thanks to a Pretty Peacock card base and Nature Walk DSP in a grid pattern. Instead of stamping the focal panel, I dry embossed Cloud Cover cardstock with the Birch Wood 3D Embossing Folder for texture.
The tools from the Trusty Tools stamp set were stamped, colored, and die cut, then layered onto the panel along with distressed silver foil nuts and bolts created using the Black Ice Technique. The banner becomes more subtle here, cut from Pecan Pie, and the sentiment—because life happens—reads “Happy Belated Birthday,” stamped in Pretty Peacock. Inside the card continues the same clean, coordinated finish with a matted writing panel and DSP accent strip.
The third card proves just how playful this layout can be. A Blueberry Bushel card base anchors the design, while Square Snippets DSP brings in pattern and movement. This time the art panel is also DSP, layered with a Darling Duckling banner and a cheerful bee focal image. The bee was stamped, punched, and assembled with vellum wings for a soft contrast, then popped up with a Dimensional for personality.
The “Love You” sentiment tucks neatly under the bee and overlaps the banner slightly, tying all the layers together. A few Darling Duckling Low Profile Sparkling Dots add just the right amount of shine. Inside, the design stays consistent with a matted Basic White panel and a coordinating DSP strip along the right side.
One layout, three completely different cards—and each one feels intentional, finished, and ready to send. This is exactly why I love documenting layouts I enjoy. Once you’ve done the thinking and planning, you can return to it again and again with new stamps, papers, and themes.
I’m entering the Trusty Tools card into the Hand Stamped Sentiments #480 Challenge, with my Birch Wood Embossing Folder, and tools on the card, along with the muted colors and grungy feel, I think it’s a good fit. I’m entering the Bee My Valentine card into the Shopping Our Stash Challenge #566 where the theme is Love Me Do.
Here’s the layout diagram I created. This is a great go-to design that works for nearly any occasion. I have the measurements listed in the free PDF.
I’ve also created a full video walking through this layout and how it comes together. You’ll be able to see how the layers interact, how the banner trick works, and why overlapping elements makes such a difference in the final design.
To make things even easier, I’ve created a FREE downloadable PDF tutorial you can use at your craft table. It includes all the measurements and details so you can confidently recreate these cards—or use the layout with supplies you already have on hand.
This layout is officially a keeper in my craft room, and I hope it becomes one you reach for again and again too. Whether your style is shiny and bold, rustic and textured, or sweet and playful, this design truly does it all.
Supplies used:
These cards are so cute.
Thank you so much, Cindy! That means so much. You’ve truly made my day!
That sketch made a trio of great cards!! Way to go shopping your stash!! That sweet bumble bee is perfect for our “Love Me Do” challenge over at Shopping Our Stash!! Deb Horst, DT #SOS566
Thanks, Deb! Sometimes we forget about things that have been sitting in our craft space for quite a while since we’re busy playing with the new. I really appreciate the Shopping Our Stash challenges since the challenge forces us to look around at the tried and true craft goodies.
A fun way to layout the tools! I also really like your color palette. Thanks for joining the hand stamped sentiments challenge!
I really thought this was a fabulous challenge to enter. I don’t think I had seen it before, so it was nice to create with the inspiration in mind. Thanks so much for your kind comments, Patti.
Loving your color palette for the Tools card, Julia! A nice layout and very versatile. Thanks for sharing your creativity with us at HSS this round. Cheers, Jolanda – DT
Thanks, Jolanda! I truly appreciate you stopping by and leaving such positive comments. It’s a great challenge.