A Quokka Kind of Thanksgiving | Kat Scrappiness

I had so much fun creating this Thanksgiving card using products from the new Kat Scrappiness Halloween Release! While the release includes plenty of spooky fun, I decided to take the adorable Festive Quokka Craft Dies in a completely different direction and give him a Thanksgiving makeover.

The Festive Quokka Craft Dies include fun seasonal accessories, and for this card I chose the pilgrim hat to turn my little Quokka into the perfect Thanksgiving character.

I also used the Notched Corner Rectangle Craft Dies, All Fenced In Craft Dies, Trio of Trees Dies, Tropical Hibiscus Die, and a sentiment from the Gobble Gobble Stamp Set to build my fall scene.

Supplies Used

• Festive Quokka Craft Dies
• Notched Corner Rectangle Craft Dies
• All Fenced In Craft Dies
• Trio of Trees Dies
• Tropical Hibiscus Die
• Gobble Gobble Stamp Set 

Step 1: Gather the Supplies

I started by gathering all of the products I planned to use for my card.

[Photo 1 – All products required to make the card]

I love having everything laid out before I begin. It makes it easier to visualize how all of the different pieces will work together to create the finished scene.

Step 2: Die-Cut and Shade the Quokka

I die cut all of the pieces needed for my Quokka and his pilgrim hat and shaded the individual pieces before assembling him.

[Photo 2 – Festive Quokka elements die cut and shaded]

The Festive Quokka Craft Dies make it easy to change up his look with the different accessories. For this card, I couldn't resist giving him his little pilgrim hat and turning him into the cutest Thanksgiving character!

Step 3: Create a Tree Stencil

Next, I used the Trio of Trees Dies to create a simple stencil for my background.

Instead of throwing away the negative piece after die cutting, I saved it and used the tree-shaped negative space as a stencil.

[Photo 3 – White cardstock with tree negative used for stenciling]

I love finding ways to get extra use out of my dies, and this was an easy way to add the tree shapes to my background.

Step 4: Prepare the Fence

I die cut the fence pieces using the All Fenced In Craft Dies and shaded them to add some depth and dimension.

[Photo 4 – Fence die cut and shaded]

I also die cut an additional fence so I could stack the pieces and give the finished fence a little more dimension.

You could easily skip a separate photo for this step and simply mention the extra layer when showing the finished fence.

Step 5: Cut the Main Panel

For the main focal area of my card, I used the Notched Corner Rectangle Craft Dies to cut a white cardstock panel.

[Photo 6 – Notched Corner Rectangle die with white cardstock panel]

The notched corners add a fun little detail and give the panel more interest than a standard rectangle.

Step 6: Blend the Background

Next, I blended my fall-inspired ink colors onto the white panel to create the background for my scene.

[Photo 7 – Ink-blended panel with inks used]

I wanted a warm autumn palette that would complement the Quokka, fence and foliage while still allowing the scene to have plenty of contrast. 

Step 7: Add the Tree Branches

Once the background was blended, I placed the negative tree piece back over the panel.

This time, I used the openings in the negative piece as a guide to add brown ink to the tree branches.

[Photo 8 – Negative tree piece positioned over the blended panel to add brown tree branches]

I repeated this on both sides of the panel to create the trees framing the scene.

I love that the same negative die-cut that helped me create the original tree shapes could also be used to add another layer of detail to the background.

Step 8: Add the Foliage

For another touch of autumn color, I die cut the pieces from the Tropical Hibiscus Die and shaded them to coordinate with the rest of my scene.

[Photo 9 – Tropical Hibiscus die cuts shaded]

I love using dies in unexpected ways, and with the right colors, the Tropical Hibiscus pieces worked beautifully as additional fall foliage. 

Step 9: Assemble the Quokka

With all of my individual pieces prepared, it was time to assemble my little Quokka.

[Photo 10 – Assembled Quokka wearing his pilgrim hat]

I absolutely love how his little pilgrim hat transforms him into the perfect Thanksgiving character. He's ready to celebrate!

The Finished Cards

After assembling all of the layers and adding the final details, my Thanksgiving scene was complete!

[Photo – Finished card, angled]

I had so much fun taking products from a Halloween release and giving them a completely different seasonal twist. The Festive Quokka Craft Dies made the perfect starting point, and the other dies helped me build a warm and cheerful Thanksgiving scene around him. And that little pilgrim hat might just be my favorite part! 

I love finding unexpected ways to stretch my craft supplies. Sometimes a little creative thinking is all it takes to take a product intended for one season and turn it into something completely different.

I hope this project inspires you to take another look at your own supplies and see what unexpected possibilities you can find! 

 

How to Create an Ocean-Themed Octopus Card with Colored Cardstock

There’s something about creating an underwater scene that makes paper crafting extra fun! From colorful sea life to layers of rolling waves, ocean-themed cards are perfect for playing with color, texture, and dimension.

Hi, I’m Carrianne, and today I’m sharing a playful ocean-themed card featuring an adorable octopus and a whole lot of underwater fun!

For this card, I used CutCardStock colored cardstock to create the various elements of my ocean scene. I love how using different cardstock colors can instantly add personality and dimension to a project while keeping the look bright and cohesive.

The octopus is the star of the card, surrounded by layered waves and underwater details. I used a combination of flat layers and dimensional elements to give the scene some depth and make the different pieces feel like they're moving through the water.

Creating with Color

One of my favorite things about working with colored cardstock is that it allows me to build a scene almost like putting together a puzzle. Each die-cut piece brings another color and layer to the design.

For the ocean, I used multiple shades to create variation throughout the waves. Layering the different blues gives the water more movement and keeps the background from looking flat.

I also added pops of color throughout the underwater elements to create contrast and draw attention to the octopus.

Adding Dimension

To bring the scene to life, I incorporated different levels of dimension throughout the card. Some pieces are adhered directly to the background, while others are raised with foam adhesive.

I especially love using this technique on scene cards because even small amounts of dimension can make the finished design feel much more dynamic.

A Fun Ocean Adventure

This card was such a fun project to create! The combination of bright cardstock, layered die cuts, textured waves, and an adorable octopus makes for a cheerful underwater scene that is sure to make someone smile.

CutCardStock cardstock made it easy to create all of the colorful layers while keeping the die cuts crisp and sturdy.

Want to see all the cardstock details, supplies, and step-by-step instructions for creating this ocean-themed card? Head over to the CutCardStock blog, where you'll find the complete tutorial and all the details for recreating this playful underwater scene.

Happy crafting! 

CHALLENGES:

SSS Monday Challenge - On/Under the Sea 

Word Art Wednesday - #766-767 

Double Trouble - #223 Thing 1, 2 

Halloween Release | Kat Scrappiness

Hello, crafty friends! The new Halloween release from Kat Scrappiness is full of fun products that make creating spooky scenes so easy! 

For today's project, I combined the Trio of Trees Die, All Fenced In Dies, and the adorable Witchy Boo Crew Stamp Set and Coordinating Dies to create a slimline Halloween card featuring a glowing moon, eerie tree, playful Halloween characters, and lots of festive details. 

Products Used

• Trio of Trees Die

• All Fenced In Dies

• Witchy Boo Crew Stamp Set & Coordinating Dies

Step 1 – Gather Your Supplies

I started by gathering the products needed for today's card, including the Trio of Trees Die, All Fenced In Dies, and the Witchy Boo Crew Stamp Set and coordinating dies.

Step 2 – Die Cut the Scene Elements

Using white cardstock, I die cut the fence and tree. Starting with white cardstock makes it easy to customize the colors with ink blending to perfectly match the Halloween scene.

Step 3 – Ink Blend the Fence and Tree

Next, I added shading to both the fence and tree using Distress Inks. The tree was blended into a dark silhouette, while the fence received soft gray shading to give it the look of weathered wood.

Step 4 – Stamp, Color, and Die Cut the Images

I stamped all of the Halloween characters from the Witchy Boo Crew Stamp Set, colored them with Copic markers, and die cut them with the coordinating dies. These cute images bring the spooky scene to life. 

Step 5 – Create the Background

For the slimline panel, I masked the moon before ink blending the background. I blended the sky with shades of blue and purple, then added darker ink along the bottom to create the ground. (The inks used are shown in the photo.) 

Step 6 – Add Splatter

After the ink blending was complete, I splattered the background with white ink to create the look of twinkling stars across the night sky. 

Step 7 – Reveal the Moon

Once everything was dry, I removed the moon mask and softly blended yellow inks over the moon to create a warm glow against the dark sky.

Assemble the Card

To finish the card, I adhered the tree to the background, added the fence with dimension, and arranged the Halloween characters to build the scene. I finished the design with sentiments and a few dimensional elements to add depth and interest.

I hope this spooky slimline card inspires you to create your own Halloween scenes with these fun new Halloween products from Kat Scrappiness. 

Thanks so much for stopping by, and happy crafting! 

CHALLENGES:

Word Art Wednesday - #766-767

Two Old Bats Halloween Challenge - August 

Pammie's Inky Pinkies - #2633 

Double Trouble - #223 - Thing 1,2 

Serving Up Sweetness with C.C. Designs

Hi crafty friends!

Today I’m sharing a fun and sweet card featuring the adorable chef from the C.C. Designs Apple Purple Pie Stamp Set. This little chef was perfect for creating a cozy bakery-inspired design while showcasing his delicious homemade pie.

For the background, I used the La-La Land Crafts On the Wall Stencil to create a distressed brick wall effect. I blended Tattered Rose and Worn Lipstick Distress Inks through the stencil, adding soft layers of color while keeping the focus on the chef. I finished the background with both white and red splatters to add texture and tie in the red accents throughout the card.

The chef was colored with Copic markers using a classic chef-inspired color palette. I gave him a bold red shirt, crisp white apron and chef hat, dark pants, and a warm golden pie topped with a bright red strawberry.

I layered the brick panel onto red cardstock and a black card base to create a bold contrast. A black fishtail banner with white heat embossing adds the perfect finishing touch with the sentiment “Pie Time.”

I hope this card inspires you to pull out your favorite stamps and create your own sweet bakery-themed projects!

Supplies used:

C.C. Designs – Apple Purple Pie Stamp Set

La-La Land Crafts – On the Wall Stencil

Copic Markers

Distress Inks: Tattered Rose, Worn Lipstick

Red, black, and white cardstock

White embossing powder

CHALLENGES:

Word Art Wednesday - #766-767

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Soft Floral Card with CutCardStock Cardstock

When it comes to handmade cardmaking, the right cardstock makes all the difference.

In this CutCardStock cardstock card tutorial, I’ll show you how smooth, high-quality cardstock can elevate ink blending, stenciling, and die-cut layering to create a polished, dimensional floral card.

CutCardStock cardstock works beautifully for layered stencil designs and crisp die-cut edges.

Hi, I’m Carrianne, and in this step-by-step tutorial I’ll share how I built this soft floral card using CutCardStock for every element—from background stenciling to layered assembly.

Supplies Used:

CutCardStock:
Surf
Classic Crest Solar White

Other Supplies:
Altenew Flowers and Petals Layering Stencil
Sweet Dreams Fresh Dye Ink
Red Cosmos Fresh Dye Ink
PhotoPlay Stitched Scallops Die
Hero Arts Rectangle Dies
Hero Arts Nested Rectangle Infinity Dies (focal panel)
Black ink (sentiment stamping)
Iridescent clear sequins (embellishments)
Adhesives and basic crafting tools (including blending brushes and foam tape)

All supplies laid out for the card.

Step 1: Create the Stenciled Background Panels

Using a Classic Crest Solar White panel, I started building the background with the Altenew Flowers and Petals Layering Stencil.

First, I applied the leafy stencil layers using Sweet Dreams Fresh Dye Ink and blending brushes to create soft blue foliage.

First two stencil layers (leaves) with inks and blending brushes.

Next, I added the floral stencil layers with Red Cosmos Fresh Dye Ink to create depth and contrast, transforming the panel into a fully layered floral design.

First two stencil layers (leaves) with inks and blending brushes.

Step 2: Die-Cut the Focal Panel

Once the stenciling was complete, I used a Hero Arts Rectangle Die to cut the focal area.

This helps frame the design and creates a polished composition for layering.

Rectangle die positioned on stenciled panel before cutting.

Step 3: Build the Layered Card Base

I adhered the die-cut focal panel to a Surf cardstock base cut with the PhotoPlay Stitched Scallops Die.

The scalloped edges add texture and contrast while highlighting the stenciled design.

Focal panel layered onto scalloped Surf base.

Step 4: Add Sentiment & Finish the Card

I stamped the sentiment in black ink onto Classic Crest Solar White cardstock and die-cut it twice for dimension.

The sentiment was placed on the lower right of the focal panel, and a few iridescent clear sequins were added for a subtle sparkle.

Finished card with sentiment and embellishments.

Tips for Working with CutCardStock

• Smooth surface allows even ink blending and crisp stencil details
• Sturdy weight supports layered elements without warping
• Clean die-cut edges enhance detailed designs
• Surf and Classic Crest Solar White pair beautifully for contrast

Final Thoughts

This project shows how quality cardstock can elevate every stage of cardmaking. From smooth ink blending to crisp die-cutting and layered assembly, CutCardStock performs beautifully throughout the process. Combining soft florals, structured layers, and subtle embellishments creates a polished, dimensional handmade card. 

CHALLENGES:

We Love Stamping - August *Blooms

Word Art Wednesday - #764-765 

Allsorts - #855 Colors of Summer

Flamingo Fiesta: A Card Full of Sunshine | Whimsy Stamps

Who can resist a little sunshine, tropical vibes, and a fabulous flamingo showing off those pretty pink feathers? 🦩🌴

This card was all about bringing a little summer happiness to the craft table! The Flamingo Summer Clear Stamp Set from Whimsy Stamps was the perfect starting point for creating a fun and colorful scene full of personality.

I wanted this card to feel like a sunny getaway, so I created a bright background using the Sun Rays Stencil to bring in those warm rays of sunshine. Then I added layers of playful shapes with the Boho Circles Die Set and the Extreme Postage Die Set to give the design extra texture and dimension.

Of course, the star of the show had to be that fabulous flamingo! With those gorgeous pink feathers and a little bit of color and shading, she was ready to stand proudly in the spotlight.

I love how a few simple elements—a cheerful stamp, bright colors, and fun layers—can come together to create a card that feels like a little piece of summer. This one definitely brought some sunshine to my craft room! 

Products featured:
🦩 Flamingo Summer Clear Stamp Set
🦩 Boho Circles Die Set
🦩 Sun Rays Stencil
🦩 Extreme Postage Die Set 

Want to add these fun Whimsy Stamps products to your own crafty stash? You can use my affiliate link to shop and support my creative journey:

🦩 Shop Whimsy Stamps: whimsy.stamps.com/CRAFTICARRI
🦩 Use my discount code CRAFTICARRI for your order!

Thank you so much for supporting my crafting adventures. I appreciate every one of you who cheers me on and helps me continue creating!

CHALLENGES:

SSS Wednesday Challenge - AG

Allsorts - #854

Inspiration Station - #87 

Festive Patterns & Christmas Cheer | Kat Scrappiness

Hi crafty friends!

I'm excited to share another holiday card featuring the adorable Christmas Gnome Stamp Set from Kat Scrappiness! This cheerful little gnome is the perfect focal point for a fun Christmas card, and I couldn't resist pairing him with the colorful Bright Christmas 2 Paper Pack.

For the background, I mixed and matched four different patterned papers to create a playful patchwork design. Layering the coordinating prints adds lots of festive color and interest while creating the perfect backdrop for the focal image. To help the gnome stand out against the busy background, I added a stitched circle die cut to the center of the card before popping the colored image up with foam tape for extra dimension.

The gnome was colored with Copic markers in non-traditional holiday colors then die cut with the coordinating die. I finished the design with a simple sentiment stamped in black and trimmed and cut with a sentiment strip die. A clean sentiment keeps the focus on the patchwork background and the adorable gnome while tying the entire design together.

I love how easy it is to create unique backgrounds by combining patterned papers from the same collection. Since they're designed to coordinate, you can mix prints with confidence and create a card that's full of color, texture, and holiday cheer.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope this card inspires you to pull out your favorite Christmas papers and create a festive holiday card of your own. 

CHALLENGES:

SSS Wednesday Challenge - Make Your Own Background

SSS Monday Challenge - Stitch it!

Double Trouble - #221 Thing 1, 3

Die Cut Diva's - Christmas in July

Snow Much Fun Christmas Card Tutorial

I'm back with another Christmas in July project to share with you! I’ve been having so much fun mixing bright, playful color palettes with cozy winter themes while celebrating the holiday spirit in the middle of summer. There’s something extra fun about snowflakes and snowmen when it’s warm outside!

This cheerful Christmas card is full of texture, dimension, and playful holiday charm with a bold, colorful twist. The combination of a snowflake cover plate, Caribbean blue background, and adorable snowmen holding gifts creates a joyful winter scene that feels festive any time of year. Carrianne here and I’ll be sharing a step-by-step look at how this card came together from cardstock selection to final assembly.

Supplies & Materials

CutCardStock

• DCS Caribbean Blue Cardstock
• DCS Dolphin Gray Cardstock
• DCS Wild Blueberry Cardstock
• DCS Raspberry Ice Pink Cardstock
• Classic Crest Solar White Cardstock

Other

• Waffle Flower Crafts Gifting Snowman Die
• Waffle Flower Crafts Snow Cheer Sentiments Stamp Set & Matching Die Set
• Concord & 9th Snowflake Card Front Die
• Distress Ink – Festive Berries, Weathered Wood
• Hero Hues Unicorn Pigment Ink

Step 1: Choose Your Cardstock

To fit the Christmas in July theme, I used a mix of cool winter tones with a bright, playful twist. The Caribbean Blue cardstock creates a bold snowy-sky backdrop, while Classic Crest Solar White keeps the snowmen crisp and clean.

For the gift boxes, I chose gray cardstock and accented them with pink and navy bows to bring in a fun pop of color while still keeping a cohesive winter palette.

Colored cardstock with dies laid out.

Step 2: Create the Background Panel

Use the snowflake cover plate die directly on the Caribbean Blue cardstock panel to create the snowflake design and impressed details throughout the background. This adds beautiful winter texture and dimension while allowing the bold blue cardstock to remain the focus of the design.

Trim the panel to 4" x 5.25", then adhere it to a white A2 card base for a clean, framed look.

Snowflake cover plate on Caribbean Blue panel.

Step 3: Add Ink Blending & Shading

Light ink blending adds depth without overpowering the design.

• Soft blue ink around the snowmen for grounding
• Gentle shading on elements for subtle dimension

This helps everything stand out while keeping the scene airy and cohesive.

Ink blended/shaded die cut pieces.

Ink blended/shaded die cut pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Snowmen Scene

Build the snowmen using white die cut pieces and fully assemble them.

Position them side by side in the center of the panel to create a strong focal point.

Then add the gray gift boxes so the snowmen appear to be holding them, bringing instant storytelling and charm to the card.

Assembled snowmen and gifts.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Once all of the elements were adhered to the card front, I completed the design by adding the sentiment and a few delicate snowflake embellishments for extra winter detail and texture.

The combination of dimension, layering, and bright pops of color helps bring the entire Christmas in July theme together.

Finished card on an angle.

Step 6: Finishing Details

Once everything was in place, I finished the card by adding a few delicate snowflake embellishments for a subtle touch of sparkle and extra winter charm.

The ink blended shading, textured snowflake background, dimensional snowmen, and colorful gift accents all work together to create a playful winter scene. I especially love how the Caribbean Blue background helps the white snowmen and colorful accessories stand out against the detailed background.

Before finishing the card, check the alignment and spacing of all elements and press the layers firmly into place for secure adhesion. If needed, mount the completed panel onto the white A2 card base.

Your Christmas in July winter scene is now complete!

Close-up of finished card.

Final Thoughts

I’ve really enjoyed exploring festive winter designs with bright, modern color combinations. The snowmen holding gifts add a sweet storytelling element, while the layered snowflake background and delicate embellishments keep everything feeling dimensional, festive, and cohesive. Sometimes simple layers, thoughtful color choices, and a bit of ink blending are all you need to create a magical handmade holiday card.

Happy crafting and Merry Christmas in July!

CHALLENGES:

BYSHC Christmas in July

Die Cut Diva's - Christmas in July 

Pammie's Inky Pinkies - #2629

Double Trouble - #221 Thing 1,3

SSS Monday Challenge - Add text

SSS Wednesday Challenge - CYO Background

ABC Christmas Challenge - N - No Stamping