HSS492 – A Bold Floral Birthday Card

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Hello, friends!

It feels so good to be back! If you’ve noticed I’ve been a little MIA lately, you’re absolutely right. Life has been wonderfully busy with home renovations and family commitments, which has meant my crafting (and blogging!) has taken a bit of a back seat. The good news is things are finally starting to settle down, and I’m crossing my fingers that I’ll have my craft room back up and running very soon. I can’t wait to get back to creating and sharing with you more regularly!

Today I’m excited to share my latest project for the Hand Stamped Sentiments Inspiration Challenge HSS492!

The inspiration board immediately caught my eye with its vibrant pinks, warm sunset oranges, bold black accents, and beautiful florals. Rather than recreate one specific image, I pulled inspiration from the overall colour palette and modern floral feel.

For my card, I blended Melon Mambo and Timid Tiger together using a Blending Brush to create a bold ombré background. I absolutely love how these two colours melt into each other—it reminds me of a gorgeous summer sunset!

To keep the focus on the colourful background, I heat embossed the label and birthday greeting from the Exciting Times stamp set in white. The crisp white sentiment really pops against those vibrant colours.

The finishing touch was adding the gorgeous black Floral Flight Accents. Their bold outline design creates such striking contrast and frames the sentiment beautifully without hiding too much of the blended background. A few 2026–2028 In Color Butterflies add just the right amount of sparkle and movement to complete the design.

One of my favourite things about inspiration challenges is that everyone sees something different. Whether it’s the colours, patterns, florals, or overall feeling of the inspiration board, it’s always amazing to see the variety of projects our design team creates.

I’d love to hear what inspires you most from this challenge board. Is it the tropical sunset, the bold black-and-white patterns, or those gorgeous bright florals?

Be sure to hop over to Hand Stamped Sentiments to see the rest of the Design Team’s beautiful creations, and I hope you’ll play along with us this week!

Thanks so much for stopping by, and thank you for sticking with me while life has been a little hectic.

Want to grab the supplies for this card? Shop the links below or head to my shop.


SHOP HERE

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

The join process has changed a bit (sign up for $135 and get a $170 coupon) and you now get a fantastic Welcome Box too. The perks once you’ve joined remain the same.

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
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  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

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HSS486 – Zooming into Inspiration!

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It’s time for a new challenge over at Hand Stamped Sentiments , and this week we have a fun Inspiration Board for HSS486!

From race cars and checkered flags to sports and action-packed scenes, this board is full of energy, movement, and bold colour—and that’s exactly what inspired my card.

I was immediately drawn to the race car and checkered flags, which led me straight to the Ready Set Go stamp set. I wanted to capture that fast-paced, high-energy feel, so I designed my card with strong diagonal layers to mimic speed and motion.

My base is Coastal Cabana, with blended panels to create a racetrack-style background. The repeated “ZOOM!” stamping adds to the sense of movement, while the angled design keeps your eye travelling across the card.

The race car is coloured in Timid Tiger and Poppy Parade—inspired by the bold, vibrant tones from the board. I popped it up for dimension and added a few enamel dots for a playful finishing touch.

🏁 Inspired by the board:

  • Checkered flags → stamped accents
  • Race car → focal image
  • Action/movement → diagonal layout & “ZOOM!” background
  • Bold colours → bright, high-contrast palette

This card would be perfect for anyone who loves cars, sports, or anything fast and fun!

Be sure to check out the full inspiration board and join us for the challenge—I’d love to see what inspires you!

Want to grab the supplies for this card? Shop the links below or head to my shop.


SHOP HERE

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!

Be sure to visit the Hand Stamped Sentiments blog to see all the gorgeous inspiration from the design team—and then join us by creating your own project using this colour challenge.


HSS #485 | Unbridled Beauty Sketch Challenge

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This week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Sketch Challenge was a veratile layout! I found myself using the Unbridled Beauty set again to create this rustic card.

The center panel is stamped in Early espresso to create a full country scene. Then coloured with Stampin’ Blends.

I layered it onto a torn piece of Early Espresso cardstock and then onto the Country Woods DSP.

I tied a piece of twine around the whole layer before adhering to the Basic Beige card base.

My final piece was an embossed sentiment on the DSP – that in hindsight would have been easier if I had done it before gluing all the layers. Live and learn!

This card is actually part of a card class to go that I offering in my PDF shop. You can click below to grab it. I am not currently offering in person classes due to a move and home reno – I’ll be back in April or May.

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!

Be sure to visit the Hand Stamped Sentiments blog to see all the gorgeous inspiration from the design team—and then join us by creating your own project using this colour challenge.


HSS #483 | Unbridled Beauty Inspiration Challenge

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This week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Inspiration Challenge was a beautiful hues of blue! I was tempted to play with flowers – but I was playing with the Unbridled Beauty Bundle which worked beautifully with the wood grain and the blues and greys.

I started with a Night of Navy card base, then added a layer of Country Woods 12X12 DSP bordered with some Basic Grey. The card base was stamped with the horseshoe in Night of Navy Ink. The sentiment was also stamped in Night of Navy.

I stamped the horse in Basic Grey and coloured the horse with Smoky Slate Blends.

This card is actually part of a card class to go that I offering in my PDF shop. You can click below to grab it. I am not currently offering in person classes due to a move and home reno – I’ll be back in April or May.

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!

Be sure to visit the Hand Stamped Sentiments blog to see all the gorgeous inspiration from the design team—and then join us by creating your own project using this colour challenge.


HSS #482 | Wooly Friends Sketch Challenge

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This week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Sketch Challenge was so fun! Used the Wooly Friends Punch Bundle to create this playful card.

I started with a Calypso Coral card base, then added a layer of sunshine from the Beach Boardwalk 12X12 DSP. The Baker’s Twine was coloured with Calypso Coral Blends.

I stamped the sheep in Memento Black and coloured the wool with a hint of Cloud Cover and the bows with Summer Splash.

This card was quick to create, but oh so cute.

I’d love to see what you can do with this fun sketch. Share your creations using the hashtag #HSS482.

A few other reminders:

🎉 Bonus Days – Time to Redeem! February 3–28, 2026

Here’s how it works:

  • There is no limit to the number of coupon codes you can redeem on an order during the redemption period. If you’re redeeming multiple codes, you must put a space between each code.
  • You cannot redeem them after February 28.
  • You can redeem Bonus Days coupon codes for month-to-month Paper Pumpkin subscriptions and new prepaid subscriptions.
  • Coupon codes will reduce the commissionable amount of an order.
  • Some restrictions apply. Coupons can’t be redeemed towards Starter Kits and you cannot use them on exchanges.

Want to Stamp More With Me?

Join my February Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the February 28th class

JOIN me online EVERY Monday for card making fun. Or find the replays on You Tube. The class below aired Feb 2nd – watch the replay and you can grab the PDF Tutorial in my shop: https://payhip.com/b/H8Nuq

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.
  • THIS MONTH ONLY – get the new Stamp Positioner tool as a bonus in your starter kit!!

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!

Be sure to visit the Hand Stamped Sentiments blog to see all the gorgeous inspiration from the design team—and then join us by creating your own project using this colour challenge.


HSS #481 | Encircle With Love colour challenge

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There’s something about a soft pink colour palette that instantly feels warm, cheerful, and full of heart—and this week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Colour Challenge delivers exactly that! 💕

For HSS481, we’re playing with Strawberry Slush, Flirty Flamingo, and Bubble Bath, and I couldn’t resist leaning into a clean, layered design with subtle texture and a pop of sparkle.

I started with a Strawberry Slush card base, then added an embossed Basic White layer using the Hearts of Love 3D embossing folder for quiet texture without overwhelming the design. The focal panel features Celebratory Sips DSP creating movement and interest while keeping the look soft and cohesive.

A simple Bubble bath 1/4″ ribbon tie adds gentle detail, while the circular sentiment—popped up with Dimensionals—draws the eye and ties the whole card together. A few sparkly embellishments (Strawberry Slush and Pretty in Pink Gems) finish it off with just the right amount of shine.

This colour trio is perfect for love cards, thinking-of-you cards, or happy mail just because. I hope it inspires you to give this week’s challenge a try!

🎉 Bonus Days – Time to Redeem! February 3–28, 2026

Here’s how it works:

  • There is no limit to the number of coupon codes you can redeem on an order during the redemption period. If you’re redeeming multiple codes, you must put a space between each code.
  • You cannot redeem them after February 28.
  • You can redeem Bonus Days coupon codes for month-to-month Paper Pumpkin subscriptions and new prepaid subscriptions.
  • Coupon codes will reduce the commissionable amount of an order.
  • Some restrictions apply. Coupons can’t be redeemed towards Starter Kits and you cannot use them on exchanges.

Want to Stamp More With Me?

Join my February Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the February 28th class

JOIN me online EVERY Monday for card making fun. Or find the replays on You Tube. The class below aired Feb 2nd – watch the replay and contact me to get your card class kit (Feb 2-8, 2026).

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.
  • THIS MONTH ONLY – get the new Stamp Positioner tool as a bonus in your starter kit!!

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!

Be sure to visit the Hand Stamped Sentiments blog to see all the gorgeous inspiration from the design team—and then join us by creating your own project using this colour challenge.


HSS #479 | Nature Walk Thank You Card + Nature Walk Mega Stamp Camp

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The first Hand Stamped Sentiments challenge of 2026 is here, and I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off the year than with the timeless elegance of the Nature Walk Suite from Stampin’ Up! 💙🌿

For HSS #479, I created a clean and layered thank you card that highlights the soft, organic beauty of this suite. The Nature Walk Designer Series Paper and Natural Hues 12X12 Textured Specialty Paper adds subtle texture and warmth, while the coordinating leaf die cut brings gentle movement and balance to the design. I kept the colour palette calm and classic, letting the details shine without overwhelming the layout.

This card design is perfect for everyday gratitude cards, sympathy cards, or even thinking-of-you projects. Simple layouts like this are wonderful to keep on hand—and the Nature Walk Suite makes it easy to create something beautiful every time.


Be sure to check out the card recipe so you can easily recreate this project in your own craft room.

🌿 Nature Walk Mega Stamp Camp – Featured Suite
If you love this suite, you’ll be happy to know that the Nature Walk Suite is the featured suite in my upcoming Nature Walk Mega Stamp Camp, hosted with four other talented Stampin’ Up! demonstrators.

When you join the stamp camp, you’ll receive:

  • Multiple exclusive card designs featuring the Nature Walk Suite
  • Video tutorials you can watch anytime
  • Inspiration from five different demonstrator styles
  • A creative event you can enjoy from home, on your own schedule

👉 Register here:
https://form.jotform.com/leahdixon41/nature-walk-mega-stamp-camp

🎉 Bonus Days Are Coming – Starting January 6!
This is also the perfect time to shop because Stampin’ Up! Bonus Days start January 6 and run through February 2!

Here’s how it works:

  • Spend $60 CAD and earn a $6 CAD coupon
  • There’s no limit to how many coupons you can earn
  • Save your coupons and redeem them February 3–28

And don’t forget—every order also earns Stampin’ Rewards, so you’re getting rewarded twice! Bonus Days are a great time to grab the Nature Walk Suite, supplies for the stamp camp, or to stock up on crafting essentials.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope this card inspires you to play along with Hand Stamped Sentiments and take advantage of both the Nature Walk Mega Stamp Camp and Bonus Days while they’re here.

Want to Stamp More With Me?

Join my January Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the January 17th class

JOIN me online EVERY Monday for card making fun. Or find the replays on You Tube. The class below aired Jan 5th – watch the replay and contact me to get your card class kit.

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!


Merry Christmas — Hand Stamped Sentiments Colour Challenge #HSS478

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Today I’m sharing my card for the Hand Stamped Sentiments HSS478 Colour Challenge, and it’s the perfect project if you’re still squeezing in a few last-minute Christmas cards! I wanted something quick, clean, and still absolutely stunning—and this bold “Merry Christmas” sentiment delivered exactly that.

I stamped the Merry Christmas image in Shaded Spruce onto Basic White cardstock, then layered it over a piece of Shaded Spruce cardstock and a full background of Need for Tweed 12″ x 12″ DSP for cozy winter texture. The frame comes from the Textured Notes Dies, and I tucked in a few delicate vellum leaves cut with the brand-new Nature’s Symphony Dies—coming in January! A sprinkle of Traditional Sparkling Sequins adds just the right amount of festive shine.

It’s getting late in the season, but if you need a card that’s fast and fabulous, this one is definitely the ticket.

This is my final HSS design team project for 2025, but I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be returning to the team again in 2026. Thank you for all the love and support this year—your encouragement means so much. 💚✨

Come join us for HSS478 and share what you create!

Need some supplies still – no problem – you can place an online order right now: https://www.stampinup.ca/?demoid=2189587

When you shop with me – you also get a bonus Tutorial with an order over $65 ( before rewards, shipping and taxes).

Want to Stamp With Me?

Join my January Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the January 17th class

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!


Huge Thanks — Hand Stamped Sentiments Sketch Challenge #HSS476

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Stampin’ Up!’s brand new Big Little Things Stamp Set (released November 4th, 2025) is full of charm and heart. I couldn’t resist using the sweet manatee image for this week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Sketch Challenge. It’s perfect for thank-you cards, birthdays, or just-because notes — and it pairs beautifully with subtle seaside tones.

Design Tip 💡

To get this soft ombré look on your background, lightly blend Lost Lagoon ink over your embossed panel using a Blending Brush. It highlights the raised areas and brings the waves to life.

Join the Challenge

I’d love for you to join this week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Sketch Challenge! Use the sketch as your starting point and share your creation with us. Whether you go bold or subtle, it’s all about having fun and getting creative.

Here’s a full list of supplies used as well as a printable card recipe.


HSS476Download

Save this card idea to your Stampin’ Up! Sketch Inspiration board — it’s a fun layout you can reuse for so many themes.

When you shop with me – you also get a bonus Tutorial with an order over $65 ( before rewards, shipping and taxes).

Don’t live in Canada? You can still get this tutorial in my PDF shop: https://payhip.com/b/dya8j

Want to Stamp With Me?

Join my December Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the December 6th class

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

Join Now!


Merry & Bright for HSS Color Challenge #475

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This week’s Hand Stamped Sentiments Colour Challenge is a gorgeous one — featuring Cherry Cobbler, Secret Sea, and Pool Party. These colours come together beautifully for a rich, festive look that’s perfect for holiday cardmaking.

For my project, I pulled out the Merry Christmas stamp set — I just love that elegant, bold font! I paired it with the sweet poinsettia image from the Jolly Holly stamp set for a touch of classic Christmas charm.

The background layers showcase the Regal Distressed Designer Series Paper — that subtle pattern adds just the right amount of texture and warmth. To finish off the design, I tied on some Secret Sea ribbon for a soft pop of colour and shimmer.

A few stamped poinsettias and low profile sparkle dots complete the look for a simple yet stunning holiday greeting card.

If you haven’t yet, hop over to the Hand Stamped Sentiments Challenge Blog to see the rest of the design team’s creations — and play along with us this week!

Here’s a full list of supplies used as well as a printable card recipe.

Product List
HSS475 TutorialDownload

This cheerful card is perfect for holiday giving—and so much fun to create!

Want to Stamp With Me?

Join my November Card Class to learn new techniques and create beautiful projects. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!

RSVP now for the November 8th class

Looking for even more inspiration and more ways to enjoy stamping? Join my Stampin’ Up! Ink Pad Pals team!

  • Save 20%+ on your orders.
  • Get free access to my monthly card class tutorials.
  • Enjoy our monthly team meetings with stamping fun and collaboration.

Right now we also have 2 great starter kits deals to choose from! This is too good to pass up.

Contact me to find out more or see the details on my website.

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