Hi everyone,
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a sizable patterned paper stash that you keep adding to despite never using it on your cards. Patterned paper is so pretty, it’d be wrong to cut it, right? 😀 I decided to dig into my stash this week and whip up a few super quick cards that really allow the paper to shine on the card, with just an addition of some die cuts. They’re super quick, and it was so fun to dig through and pick some papers that I love.
My papers all came from the My Mind’s Eye Fancy That 6 x 6 paper pad which has double sided sheets, some of which have beautiful foil elements. I was going for classy, but this can work for fun, vintage, pretty, kids – any card type that fits your paper stash.
I chose a few papers from the pad and trimmed them down to a standard A2 card size (5.5″ x 4.25″). Take note of the pattern vs the size of your card. As you can see I used some paper that had bold stripes, so I made sure to trim the pattern so the stripes went horizontally, and I also trimmed the same amounts from each end so it didn’t look uneven on the card itself. I then adhered the paper using tape runner adhesive to a Neenah Solar White card base (110lb).
I then went through my stash of dies and chose some that would complement the paper – pretty much anything! I die cut out of neutral card (Neenah Solar White and Simon Says Stamp Black) so as not to detract from the paper itself which I wanted to be the star of my card. For the leaves and butterfly card, I popped it up on foam tape for more dimension. For the bird I just adhered directly to the paper with my Quickie Glue Pen.
For sentiments, I again went to simple die cuts and a sticker, but you could also stamp in black on white card or white embossing powder on black card – or a color that complements the paper. Again, I was trying to keep it simple and neutral against the paper.
I kept the finishing touches super simple with a scattering of sequins in matt gold, sparkling clear, or clear drops. You could also use Nuvo drops, enamel dots, or nothing! You are only limited by the size of your paper stash. These cards were so quick and simple to make, I think all three took about 30 minutes max if that. I’m going to be doing it again really soon with some other papers in my stash!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Jenny x
Mixing up patterns gives a great look to die cuts and can all more interest to a design than the simple solid color of card stock.