What do you do when you have a stack of beautiful Two-Tone Cardstock and you’re not sure where to start? You create with it, of course! I had so much fun diving into this versatile, white-core cardstock and cannot wait to show you just how many possibilities it holds. And let me tell you—it’s not just for layering. It’s for making your whole project shine.
One of my favorite ways to use it is to create quick, classy gift bags. I used both Old Olive and Misty Moonlight from the Weekend Adventures collection, and these bags turned out absolutely adorable. Add a ribbon handle and maybe a coordinating tag, and you’ve got a beautiful, handmade solution for any last-minute gift giving.
From there, I moved into background-making. Using the Sunflower 3D Embossing Folder with the Darling Duckling cardstock from the Memories in Bloom collection, I sanded the embossed areas to reveal the white core. It’s such a simple trick that adds stunning texture. A few finishing touches like die cuts from the Mixed Labels set and some soft Basic Beige ribbon, and I had a card that looked like I spent hours—when really, it came together quickly thanks to the magic of the cardstock.
I also shared a project that layered both sides of the Two-Tone Cardstock. Using the darker and lighter shades of Pecan Pie, I created depth and dimension that brought the whole card together. The Forever Plaid 3D Embossing Folder helped the Old Olive background panel stand out, and I couldn’t resist adding some colored artwork with my Stampin’ Blends. Even the inside of the card got a little love with layered Two-Tone accents surrounding the Basic White writing panel.
Then there’s the card that truly felt like art. I die cut a large Fresh Freesia circle using the Spotlight on Nature dies, stamped it with a text image, crumpled it a couple of times, and then sanded it to give it that aged, weathered look. The white core shined through beautifully, and with a few Coneflower Celebrations butterfly and some Pretty Peacock details, it all came together in a way that makes people say, “Wow!” when they open it.
And what better way to finish than with a beach scene? I tore pieces of Pecan Pie and Pool Party cardstock to mimic sand and sea, using both the front and back of each sheet for variation. I added a die cut tote bag from the Notes & Totes set, tucked in some Extraordinary Flora Ephemera, and even tied a sweet scarf to the handle. The white core of the torn edges gave that windswept beachy feel—no special ink blending needed!
Whether you’re a seasoned cardmaker or just exploring new ideas, Two-Tone Cardstock opens up so many creative paths.
I’m entering the art piece card (above) into two challenges – AAA Cards Challenge #294 where the theme is “Follow My Lead” and The Paper Players #746 for a color challenge.
I’ve put together a free downloadable PDF tutorial for all five of these projects so you can follow along or recreate your favorites in your own style.
If you missed the premiere, you can catch the full replay on YouTube, where I walk through each project step-by-step. I’d love for you to subscribe while you’re there so you don’t miss future creative inspiration.
Thanks for being part of this fun crafting journey with me. I hope you enjoy the ideas and feel inspired to dig into your Two-Tone stash with fresh eyes and joyful creativity.
The next Paper Party Live on my YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@JuliaSueStamping) is July 17, 2025, @ 8 pm EDT; here are the cutting instructions so you can make this Fun Fold Explosion Card along with me:
- Stamp set of your choice
- Cardstocks/Designer Series Paper (DSP) – choose the DSP that you have on hand and then two coordinating cardstocks as well as some Basic White
- Choose three coordinating inks (I have Blueberry Bushel, Granny Apple Green, and Balmy Blue)
- You’ll want a bit of coordinating ribbon, scissors, your bone folder, and adhesive of choice
Cutting instructions –
- Card base 11” x 4 ¼”, score at 4 ¼” and 5 ½” (I’m using Blueberry Bushel)
- Coordinating Cardstock (I grabbed Balmy Blue): one piece at 5” x 1 ¾”, one piece at 3 ¾” x 3 ¾”, two pieces at 2 ¾” x 2 ¾”
- Basic White: one piece cut to 5” x 1 ½”, two pieces cut to 2 ½” x 2 ½”
- DSP: (I’m using Full of Life) one piece cut to 6” x 6”, one piece cut to 4” x 4”, and one piece cut to 1” x 4”
Finally, if you’re looking for a demonstrator to cheer you on in your crafting journey, I’d be honored to be that person for you. Happy stamping,
Supplies used are listed in the tutorials.
All of your cards are wonderful! The art piece card is a classic. Crumpling and sanding the Fresh Freesia card stock adds lovely texture and interest. I am so happy you played along in my color challenge at The Paper Players this week!
There’s nothing like some texture, is there, Ann? It really helps with making a card stand out! Thanks so much for creating the color challenge at The Paper Players. See you again soon!
Julia… love all the cards this week… the DSP you used on the beach bag is perfect! What an eye-catcher. Love how you put the “art piece” card together and used this week’s colors. Thank you so much for sharing your talents with The Paper Players!
I so appreciate your kind comments, Elizabeth! All these projects were a blast to create – and I ended up enjoying the two-tone cardstock much more than I would have imagined. I’m looking forward to playing along with The Paper Players again soon!
Julia, what a beautiful array of cards! I love them all! The way you used our color combo is fabulous! The butterfly is so pretty, too! Thank you for joining us at The Paper Players this week!
I’m so happy that you liked all the cards, Claire! I appreciate your kind comments. I’m so happy to play along with The Paper Players and am looking forward to future challenges.