Out of This World Birthday Card – Simon Says Stamp Happy Camper Blog Hop!

Welcome class!

I'm super excited to be able to participate in the first day of the Simon Says Stamp Happy Camper blog hop--thanks for coming to my "classroom!"  You've arrived here from Carly Minner's blog, and you'll be heading to Rachel Alvarado's blog next!  If you  want to start today's stop at the beginning make sure to head to the Simon Says Stamp blog HERE and get caught up! We're giving away a $25 coupon to the Simon shop from EVERY stop on the hop from the comment section...leave a comment and the winners will be be posted on the Simon Says Stamp blog on Wednesday August 6th!  And even more fun--the not-yet-released Simon Says Stamp exclusive Sunflower Dance 3x4 stamp set is automatically added to your cart that contains any purchase of Happy Camper products! This gift with purchase will expire 8/3 at 11:59 pm EDT or while supplies last.

Today’s card is bringing the cutest kind of cosmic vibes thanks to the new Shoot For the Moon stamp set from Simon Says Stamp’s Happy Camper release! I couldn’t resist turning these little space animals into a playful galaxy birthday scene, and I’m sharing the full step-by-step process below in case you want to take a creative trip to the stars too ✨

So here's the lesson plan:

✨ Step 1: Create the Galaxy Background

I started with a piece of white cardstock and blended Picked Raspberry, Seedless Preserves, and Peacock Feathers Distress Inks to build a dreamy galaxy blend. A touch of Black Soot around the edges added depth and contrast.

Next, I used a damp brush to splatter some Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Perfect Opaque White Splatter to add some stars to the sky.  This background always looks like magic when it dries!

🌟 Step 2: Add Stars

Using a Simon Says Stamp CZ Design Simple Star stencil, I lightly ink-blended white pigment ink through the stars, then heat-embossed them with white embossing powder to really make them pop against the galaxy background.  I made sure to randomly scatter the stars as opposed to the linear pattern of the stencil...stretch your supplies!

🧑‍🚀 Step 3: Stamp & Color the Space Critters

On a separate piece of Copic-friendly cardstock, I stamped two of the sweet little astronaut animals and their spaceship using a black ink. I colored them with Copic markers—keeping the colors playful to match the galaxy background. I used teals, pinks, and warm neutrals for the pups’ helmets and suits.

After coloring, I fussy cut the images and added a touch of sparkle with a glitter pen on the helmets and rocket flame.

🌌 Step 4: Build the Scene

Once the background was fully dry, I trimmed it down and added a simple white panel along the bottom, edged with a strip of black glitter cardstock.

I stamped the sentiment “Hope your birthday is out of this world” from the same stamp set using black ink. It fit perfectly into the white space and really balanced out the vibrant top half!

I adhered the colored images with foam tape to add dimension, arranging them to look like they’re floating in space.

💫 Step 5: Finishing Touches

A few black Pawsitively Dazzling Gems scattered across the galaxy gave the card some added texture and shine. I love how they mimic planets or deep space stars!

Mounted everything onto a coordinating teal card base and called it complete!

💌 Final Thoughts

This card is full of playful, intergalactic joy and perfect for a birthday that deserves to be out of this world! The Shoot For the Moon set from the new Happy Camper release has so many adorable elements—I already have more ideas brewing.

Feel free to check out the entire Happy Camper release HERE, and below you can find the links to the products that I've used on this card. The links above and below are affiliate links, which just helps me fund this hobby at no additional cost to you, making it easier to create more lesson plans and creativity for all of you--I appreciate your support!

🪐 Supplies Used:

• Simon Says Stamp Shoot For the Moon stamps
• Simon Says Stamp CZ Design Simple Stars stencil
• Simon Says Stamp Embossing Ink
• Simon Says Stamp White Embossing Powder
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Dazzling Gems--Black
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Perfect Opaque White Splatter

Class dismissed!

“A Small Act of Kindness…” – A Big Win with Ellen Hutson’s Latest Release!

Welcome class!

I’m so excited to share this card today because it combines two of my favorite things: soothing swooshy shapes and heartwarming sentiments. I used goodies from the latest Ellen Hutson release—namely the Swoosh die set and the One Small Act die—and I think it turned out SO sweet.

Let’s get into the how-to, shall we?  So here's that lesson plan...

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Step 1: Create that Dreamy Background

Let’s talk about that swoopy background. This comes together so easily with the Swoosh die set. It’s perfect for building fun, wavy patterns that almost look like rolling hills or waves.

1. Pick a handful of coordinating cardstock colors. I went with a refreshing combo of soft mint, lime green, aqua, teal, and icy blue using  Concord and 9th's Sea Glass, Eucalyptus, Sprout, Aqua Sky, and Oceanside.

2. Die cut each color using the Swoosh dies—mix and match the curves!

3. Starting at the top of an A2 card front, begin layering the swooshes down, gluing each layer in place. It’s okay if it gets a bit wonky—they’re swooshes after all!

4. Once your background is set, trim the edges so they’re flush with the card base.

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Step 2: That Beautiful Bold Sentiment

Can we talk about how cute this sentiment is? The One Small Act die creates such an uplifting message in this adorable, hand-lettered style.

1. Die cut the One Small Act sentiment from a dark teal cardstock for contrast.

2. For the base shape, I used a soft, shimmery pearlescent vellum from Lawn Fawn and cut it into a teardrop shape to match the water/kindness theme. If you don’t have a teardrop die, you can freehand it or go with a large circle or heart—anything that speaks to you!

3. Carefully glue the sentiment onto the teardrop shape using the negative piece for alignment. A fine-tip glue pen is your BFF here—those skinny lines need a little precision love.

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Step 3: Sparkle, Baby!

To add some extra magic, I sprinkled on a few flat-backed gems. Just a touch of sparkle takes this card from sweet to swoon-worthy.

Pro tip: Use an embellishment wand or jewel picker to make gem placement easier (and keep the glue on your card—not your fingers!).

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Step 4: Assemble and Admire

1. Pop the sentiment panel onto the card front using foam adhesive for some subtle dimension.

2. Give it a good look and add a few more gems if needed.

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This card is perfect for any occasion when you want to show a little love, a thank you, a just-because, or even a note to lift someone’s spirits.

So tell me—what colors would you use for your swoosh background? Drop your ideas in the comments below or tag me on Insta with your creations!

Products Used (all can be found via Amazon):

• Ellen Hutson Swoosh coverplate
• Ellen Hutson One Small Thing Wafer die
• Ellen Hutson Essential Drops Nesting die set

Class dismissed!

Grateful for You

Welcome class! 

Today, I’m excited to share a step-by-step tutorial on creating this gorgeous "Grateful for You" card using Simon Says Stamp’s White Fusion Stencil and CZ Designs Thank You Basics stamps. This card is perfect for showing appreciation and adding a handmade touch to your sentiments.

So here’s the lesson plan:

🌿 Step 1: Create the Background

1. Cut a piece of cream cardstock slightly smaller than your card base.

2. Secure the White Fusion Stencil over the cardstock using low-tack tape.

3. Using blending brushes, apply shades of green ink (lightest to darkest) through the stencil. Start with Cabbage, add Artichoke for depth, and finish with Kale for bold accents.

4. Lightly spritz water over the inked background and dab away excess for a watercolor effect (optional).

✨ Step 2: Stamp & Embellish

1. Stamp "Grateful for You" from the CZ Designs Thank You Basics set in black ink on the lower half of the stenciled panel.

2. Add gold sequins or embellishments around the focal point for a touch of sparkle.

🎀 Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Wrap twine around the card front, tying a bow to one side for a rustic touch.

2. Mount the stenciled panel onto a dark green card base using adhesive. 

   
   

Products used: 

• Simon Says Stamp White Fusion stencil
• Simon Says Stamp CZ Design Thank You Basics Stamps
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Saturated Inks

Class dismissed! 

 

Hang in There – A Cheerful Encouragement Card!

Welcome class!

Today, I’ve got a fabulous card tutorial for you featuring bold colors, modern florals, and a powerful message of encouragement. I used the Simon Says Stamp Mod Plants and XL Stacked Greetings stamp sets to create this uplifting design, and I can't wait to show you how it all came together! I made this card to give to workers at Arches and Canyonlands National Parks which we are visiting this week.  Things are a bit overwhelming at the Moab parks due to budget and staffing cuts.  My husband and I treasure our national parks and the time we get to spend hiking in them, and wanted the workers to know that we hope they can find strength during these trying times.

 

 So here's the lesson plan:

Step 1: Create the Background Panel

First, I grabbed a cream-colored cardstock panel and stamped that gorgeous Mod Plants pattern using assorted earth toned Pawsitively Saturated Inks.

I love how this background has a warm, modern botanical feel—the perfect blend of bold and subtle tones! The Paprika and Honey inks add such a nice contrast, while the Clay ink softens the whole look.

💡 Pro Tip: Stamping in a random arrangement gives a more organic feel. I rotated the stamp as I went to keep the pattern interesting!

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Step 2: Cut & Layer the Panels

Once the background was fully stamped, I die-cut it with a stitched rectangle die to give it that subtle dotted border (such a lovely touch!). If you don’t have a die like this, no worries—a regular paper trimmer works just fine.

Next, I adhered the background panel to a kraft card base for a nice earthy contrast. I also considered layering it over a burnt orange panel for extra depth, but I ended up keeping it simple with just the kraft.

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Step 3: Stamp & Prep the Sentiment

Now, let’s talk about that bold sentiment!

I stamped the "Hang in there. Things are tough, but so are you." sentiment from the XL Stacked Greetings set onto a piece of kraft cardstock using Nutmeg ink (a deep brown).

I just love how clean and crisp this sentiment looks—big, bold, and straight to the point!

To give it some dimension, I trimmed the sentiment down into a rectangle and popped it up on the card with foam tape.

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Step 4: Add Twine for a Finishing Touch

To soften the look and add a touch of texture, I wrapped some natural jute twine around the sentiment panel and tied a simple bow. This little detail really helps bring everything together and adds a touch of handmade charm!

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Step 5: Assemble & Admire!

Time for the final steps:

1. Adhere the sentiment panel (with foam tape) onto the center of the card.

2. Step back and admire your gorgeous, modern encouragement card!

💡 Bonus Tip: If you want to add even more texture, consider using embossing powder for the sentiment or distressing the edges of the cardstock for a rustic feel.

I absolutely love how this card turned out—modern, warm, and filled with positivity! The Mod Plants background is so versatile, and paired with the XL Stacked Greetings, it makes for a bold yet heartfelt design.

Products used:

• Simon Says Stamp Mod Plants stamps
• Simon Says Stamp XL Stacked Greetings stamps
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Saturated Inks
• Waffle Flower A2 Piercing Layers dies

Class dismissed!

Paper Hugs

Welcome class!

Today, I’m walking you through how to create this beautiful, floral-filled “Paper Hugs” card. It’s packed with soft stenciled blooms, layered textures, and a pop of vellum magic. Plus, we’re using some gorgeous inks from Pinkfresh Studio to make those flowers come alive! So, grab your supplies, and let’s get crafty!

Here's the lesson plan:

Step 1: Create the Floral Background

Start by cutting a piece of white cardstock slightly smaller than your card base. Grab your Spellbinders Color Expressions Garden Stencil and place it over the cardstock. Using your blending brush, apply Pinkfresh Studio Peony and Begonia inks to build up those dreamy pink blooms. Use a light hand at first, then go in with a bit more ink for depth.

Next, use Mulberry Blush to add darker accents to the centers of the flowers. For the leaves and stems, grab a soft green ink (like Pinkfresh’s Meadow) and blend away! You’ll love how this background comes to life.

Pro Tip: If you want extra dimension, try adding a second layer of stenciling slightly offset. It’ll create a soft, shadowed effect!

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Step 2: Add Some Texture with Kraft & Vellum

Now, let’s build our layers! Take a piece of kraft cardstock and cut it to the size of your card base. To add some subtle detail, I used Pinkfresh Studio's Diagonal Plaid press plate and white pigment ink.

Next, cut a strip of vellum—this is where the magic happens! The vellum will soften the background just enough to let the sentiment pop while still showing off those gorgeous florals.

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Step 3: Die-Cut & Assemble the Sentiment

Time to add the main sentiment! I used CZ Design's Spring In My Step stamps that I just got off of a resale page....love this set.  I stamped it with Distress Oxide ink in Gathered Twig and clear embossed over the top. 

For the “YOU ARE MY PERSON” strip, stamp it onto a piece of pink cardstock and heat emboss it in white. Adhere this right on top of your vellum piece.

Pro Tip: A tiny bit of twine behind the vellum adds a nice rustic touch without overpowering the design!

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Step 4: Assemble & Embellish!

Now for the fun part—putting it all together!

1. Adhere the floral panel to your kraft card base using a tape runner.

2. Attach the vellum strip with tiny dabs of glue behind the letters so it doesn’t show through.

3. Add glossy accents to the flower centers for a dewy look.

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Step 5: Admire Your Work & Send Some Love!

And that’s it! A beautiful, heartfelt card with layers of floral goodness, vellum softness, and a warm, cozy sentiment. Perfect for sending to a friend who could use a little extra love.

I hope you had fun making this with me! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to share your creations.

Products Used:

• Spellbinders Colorful Expressions Garden Stencils
• Simon Says Stamp CZ Designs Spring In My Step stamps
• Simon Says Stamp Vellum
• May Arts Natural Twine
• Pinkfresh Studios Diagonal Plaid Press Plate
• Simon Says Stamp White Pigment Ink

Class dismissed!

 

Rainbow Bliss: A Happy Easter Card Tutorial!

Welcome class!

Can you feel that? Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! What better way to celebrate than with a bright, happy, and totally adorable handmade card? Today, I’m going to walk you through creating this gorgeous pastel-striped Happy Easter card using some of my favorite Simon Says Stamp goodies.

 So here's the lesson plan:

Step 1: Creating the Striped Background

First, let’s bring that gorgeous rainbow-striped background to life.

• Grab your Simon Says Stamp Wide Stripes Background Stamp and your favorite spring ink colors.

• Ink up the stamp in sections, overlapping each color slightly into the next for a smooth ombré effect.

• Stamp it onto a white cardstock panel, and BAM—instant Easter vibes!

Pro Tip: If you want super crisp lines, use a MISTI stamping tool to line things up perfectly!

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Step 2: Die-Cutting the Sentiment

Now, let’s cut out our "Happy Easter" sentiment using the Simon Says Stamp Bouncy Happy Easter Die.

• Die-cut the sentiment three times—once from white glitter cardstock and again from white cardstock so that you can add dimension to the die cut.

• Layer them together with a tiny dab of liquid glue, and layer onto a shadow of Vellum.

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Step 3: Adding the Floral Details

Time to get a little fancy with the Aurora Blooms Greenery Dies.

• Die-cut the leaves from plain white cardstock (I love the clean, elegant look).

• Arrange them around your sentiment, tucking a few under the words for a natural, organic feel.

• Attach them with a mix of foam tape and glue for varied dimension.

Bonus Tip: Add a couple of tiny white die-cut flowers for extra sweetness!

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Step 4: Assembly Time!

We’re almost done! Now, let’s put it all together.

• Adhere your striped background to a white A2 card base.

• Pop your Happy Easter sentiment in the center using foam tape for depth.

• Arrange and secure the die-cut greenery around the sentiment.

• Finally, sprinkle some white enamel dots or tiny pearls for a finishing touch.

I just LOVE how fresh, bright, and happy this card turned out. The combo of pastel stripes, glittery die cuts, and delicate florals is giving all the springtime vibes! Whether you send this to a friend, family member, or display it on your Easter table, it’s sure to bring a smile.

Are you making Easter cards this year? Let me know in the comments what colors YOU would use! And if you recreate this, tag me on Instagram—I’d LOVE to see your version!

Products used:

• Simon Says Stamp Wide Stripes Background stamp--oops, it's been retired!
• Simon Says Stamp Aurora Blooms die
• Simon Says Stamp Bouncy Happy Easter Die
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Saturated Inks

Class dismissed!

Simon Says Stamp Rain or Shine Instagram Hop!

Hey crafty friends! Today, I’ve got a fresh, vibrant card that’s sure to bring a smile to your face! We’re playing with the gorgeous Mod Plants stamp set from Simon Says Stamp’s Rain or Shine release, and let me tell you—it’s a total game-changer for bold, modern backgrounds!  Swing by my Instagram linked in the sidebar to participate in the Instagram Hop this card is a part of...you'll have a chance to win a $25 Simon Says Stamp gift card!

So, grab your favorite ink pads, some die-cutting magic, and let’s dive right in!

Step 1: Pick Your Color Palette & Supplies

For this card, I wanted to go for a fresh, tropical vibe with blues and greens, so I grabbed:
✔ Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Saturated Inks in Tidepool, Ocean, and Spring
✔ Mod Plants Stamp Set – Our star of the show!
✔ Simon Says Stamp Hello Die – A chunky, modern greeting is a must!
✔ Sentiment Strip Stamp ("you make me smile") – Because happy vibes!
✔ Clear Gems – For a little sparkle, of course!
✔ White & Teal Cardstock – A crisp base makes everything pop.

Step 2: Create the Background

This Mod Plants stamp set is so fun and bold, and I knew I wanted to create a random, organic pattern.

1️⃣ Cut a piece of white cardstock to 4” x 5.25” (a bit smaller than the card base).
2️⃣ Grab your pool and cool green ink pads and start stamping the different leafy images all over the panel.
3️⃣ Don’t stress about perfection! The beauty of this design is in the imperfect, playful layout.
4️⃣ Once happy with the coverage, set it aside to dry.

Step 3: Add the Bold "Hello" Die-Cut

Now, let’s bring in that big, beautiful “hello” for a statement greeting!

1️⃣ Die-cut the “hello” twice—once from teal cardstock and once from white cardstock (this creates a nice shadow effect).
2️⃣ Layer them together using liquid glue, slightly offsetting them so the white peeks out.
3️⃣ Adhere this to the lower right of the stamped panel with foam tape for extra dimension!

Step 4: Stamp & Emboss the Sentiment Strip

The little sentiment strip just ties it all together!

1️⃣ Stamp “you make me smile” onto the white card base using teal ink.
2️⃣ Trim it down into a skinny strip and glue it just under the "hello."

Step 5: Assemble & Embellish!

It’s all coming together!

1️⃣ Mount the stamped panel onto a teal cardstock base (A2 size).
2️⃣ Scatter a few clear gems around the card for that little extra sparkle.
3️⃣ Step back and admire your handiwork!

This card is simple, modern, and cheerful—perfect for brightening someone’s day! You can totally customize it with different colors or swap out the sentiment for any occasion.

I hope this inspired you to get inky with the new Mod Plants set—trust me, it’s a must-have! Let me know in the comments: What colors would YOU try with this design?

Products used:

• Simon Says Stamp Mod Plants stamps
• Simon Says Stamp CZ Design Hello die
• Simon Says Stamp Pawsitively Saturated Inks

Class dismissed!