I am so excited to share my latest project with you today! There is something truly special about combining a crisp, debossed image with the soft look of stenciling. For this card, I wanted to showcase how you can take a beautiful floral image and make it pop by playing with contrasting colors and high-quality paper textures.
When I’m designing a card with multiple layers, the paper choice is everything. I selected a combination of Lessebo Colors Navy Blue for its deep, sophisticated tone and DCS Pearl Green Curry for a touch of elegant shimmer. To make sure the card feels substantial and professional in the hand, I always reach for Classic CREST Smooth 130 lb for my card bases—it handles the weight of heavy layers perfectly!
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Create the Focal Image
I started by using the Freesia Flourish PressPlate on a panel of Heavy Recycled Conservation White 110 lb cover. I used Better Press ink in Sapphire to get a deep, rich blue outline. The 110 lb cover is my go-to for this because it allows the plate to really “bite” into the paper, creating a beautiful debossed texture.
2. Layering the Color
Next, I pulled out the coordinating stencils. I worked through the numbered sequence (1-4) using Catherine Pooler inks. I love how the Sapphire ink outline interacts with the vibrant pinks and purples of the petals. The stenciling process is so meditative and brings the freesias to life instantly.
3. The Secret to Dimension
After stenciling, I used the coordinating dies to cut the image and the sentiment. Here is my favorite tip: Instead of reaching for foam tape immediately, I cut out two extra blank die cuts of both the flower and the sentiment. I used liquid glue to stack them together. This creates a rigid, “weighted” dimension that looks incredibly high-end and won’t flatten in the mail!
4. Die Cutting the Backgrounds
To frame my florals, I used the Rounded and Braided Rectangles dies. I cut the larger, detailed frame from the Lessebo Navy Blue and the smaller inner panel from the DCS Pearl Green Curry. That Green Curry cardstock has a gorgeous linen-like texture and a soft pearl finish that makes the floral colors sing.
5. Final Assembly
I adhered the Navy panel directly to my Classic CREST 130 lb card base with liquid glue. For a little extra “lift,” I did use foam tape for the Green Curry panel. Finally, I glued my stacked freesia and sentiment onto the center and added a few green flat sequins for a bit of sparkle.
Don’t be afraid to mix your finishes! Combining the matte, smooth surface of the Navy cardstock with the shimmery, textured Pearl Green Curry adds a level of visual interest that keeps the eye moving across the design.
Until next time, stay crafty!
Sweta.
🛍 Supplies | Easy Shopping List
Cardstock:
Heavy Recycled Conservation White 110 lb cover (For stenciling)
Lessebo Colors NAVY BLUE 83lb Cardstock
DCS Texture Pearl Green Curry 4×6 Card Stock
Classic CREST Smooth 130 lb (For the base)
Stamps & Dies:
Pinkfresh Studio Freesia Flourish PressPlate, coordinating stencils, and dies; Rounded and Braided Rectangles dies.
Inks:
Better Press Ink in Sapphire; Catherine Pooler Inks (Be Mine, Grape Crush, Lemongrass, Mardi Gras).
ADHESIVES:
Bearly Arts Liquid Glue, Foam Tape