• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • HOME
  • SHOP
  • BLOG
  • TEAM
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

Papertrey Ink Blog

Clear Stamps, Dies, Paper, Ink, Kits

  • HOME
  • SHOP
  • BLOG
  • TEAM

Stenciling Tips to Add Pattern, Texture, and Depth

How to Create Beautiful Dimension with Die Cut Layering

Ink Blending Tips for Stunning Summer Cards

Guest Blogger: Yana Smakula

May 24, 2017      Nichole Heady      15 Comments

Hello, friends! This is Yana Smakula and I am excited to bring you my monthly video tutorial for Papertrey Ink from the “In The Studio with Yana” video series. I am sharing video tutorials on the 24th of each month, this is my second one, you can catch the first episode HERE.

 

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-1sq

I am a firm believer that one can never have too many Birthday cards on hand, so I always try to make them well in advance and today I’d like to encourage and invite you to do the same – join me and let's make a set of stylish Birthday cards in various colors. 

 

The card you see on the photo above is done in beautiful deep blue (using Enchanted Evening cardstock and ink). Different people tend to like different colors so when I was making these cards I had different tastes in mind. I wanted to create a set of similar yet slightly different birthday cards that are personalized in a way. And using a person’s favorite color is, I think, a great way to personalize a Birthday card.

 

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-8sq

Using Simply Chartreuse cardstock and Prairie Grass ink color 

I started working on my projects by stamping a gorgeous confetti border from the Good Times stamp set along the top edge of my cardstock panel. I also added a large Birthday word and a sub sentiment – “To A Very Special Friend”, although I changed the sub sentiments on my cards to diversify them a bit.  

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-9v

Using Hawaiian Shores cardstock and Tropical Teal ink color 

I did my stamping in Versamark ink and heat embossed images in Gold embossing powder. I happen to love gold very much (especially gold on blue), but you can also use other colors of embossing powder for this design. Think about using silver, platinum and other colors. 

I loved this design as is – it looked very much like pre printed stationery, especially that Birthday word that was stamped on a diagonal, but I wanted to add to it and make it pop. I was able to easily do that with the help of ink blending and tone on tone stamping. 

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-10sq 

Using Scarlet Jewel cardstock and Scarlet Jewel ink color

Using an ink blending tool and coordinating or similar color of ink I darkened the top part of my panel where I had the heat embossed confetti border. To embellish the bottom part of my Birthday cards I stamped florals from the Bloomin’ Cute stamp set. 

I also couldn’t resist adding a tiny sentiment square from the Better Together stamp set. The message reads “Handmade With Love”. I stamped it in matching ink color on some of my cards and heat embossed in gold on others. 

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-11h

Using Raspberry Fizz cardstock and with Autumn Rose ink color

I trimmed my panels to 4 x 5 ½ “ and foam mounted onto A2 top folding card bases made out of white cardstock. Lastly, I stamped the word “Wishes” in black ink onto white cardstock strips and foam mounted onto my cards to complete the messages. 

Yana-smakula-2017-PTI-May-Stylish-Birthday-Cards-12v

Using Winter Wisteria cardstock and Amethyst Allure ink color

I had a blast making these cards and considering I made a bunch they didn't take long to produce at all. I'd like to encourage you to pull out your stamps, inks and papers and create identical or similar projects! 

Have fun stamping! 

Supply-list

  • STAMPS: Birthday Cheer Stamp Set, Bloomin' Cute Stamp Set, Better Together Stamp Set, Good Times Stamp Set
  • INK: Enchanted Evening, Prairie Grass, Tropical Teal, Scarlet Jewel, Autumn Rose, Amethyst Allure
  • PAPER:  Enchanted Evening, Simply Chartreuse, Hawaiian Shores, Scarlet Jewel, Raspberry Fizz, Winter Wisteria
  • OTHER: White cardstock, Foam adhesive, Tape adhesive, MISTI stamping tool, Versamark Ink Pad, Hero Arts Gold Embossing Powder, EK Success Powder Tool Applicator, Hero Arts Heat Gun, Ranger Mini Round Ink Blending Tool, Spellbinders Circle Foam Refills

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Vicki Finger says

    May 24, 2017 at 2:34 PM

    As always, Yana, incredibly beautiful!

    Reply
  2. Cheryl Scrivens says

    May 24, 2017 at 3:52 PM

    Beautiful cards, Yana, and I love your work! What stunning colors, and I agree that the gold embossing is exquisite! Hugs!

    Reply
  3. Donna says

    May 24, 2017 at 4:32 PM

    I have always loved that confetti image and now i want it more than ever. Yana makes stunning cards and I love her clear, concise videos. She is always FABULOUS!

    Reply
  4. Diane B says

    May 24, 2017 at 4:37 PM

    Beautiful cards, as always.

    Reply
  5. Marilyn in Michigan says

    May 24, 2017 at 6:16 PM

    What a great card! Thanks for showing all the different colors, too!

    Reply
  6. Greta H says

    May 24, 2017 at 7:01 PM

    Love these–thanks for the inspiration, Yana!

    Reply
  7. Donna K says

    May 24, 2017 at 8:53 PM

    how fun to see all the beautiful colors using the same images. every one is the same yet each has a different feel. great inspiration.

    Reply
  8. Barb in kazoo says

    May 24, 2017 at 9:10 PM

    Stunning

    Reply
  9. Renee VanEpps says

    May 25, 2017 at 4:17 AM

    LOVE this idea Yana!! Great way to use up supplies and have a handful of cards at the ready 🙂 TFS!

    Reply
  10. christal mclean says

    May 25, 2017 at 7:12 AM

    Beautiful yet simple cards! The gold embossing makes them look expensive and elegant. Who wouldn’t love to receive a card like this! My first time watching your video and it was amazing and very informative. I feel anyone could recreate these cards using such detailed instructions. Thank you and now, I too am a admirer or your work.

    Reply
  11. StephClapper says

    May 25, 2017 at 8:45 AM

    This video ranks a 10 in my opinion! Easy to understand for every level of stamping and super inspirational! Thank you Yana, and I look forward to next month.

    Reply
  12. karen b says

    May 25, 2017 at 10:24 AM

    Yana, I love everything you make, and this video is one of my favorites! I always feel like we are sitting down together when I watch your videos and you have inspired me to try things I would not try otherwise! What a wonderful addition to the PTI line up, I can’t wait to see the next video!

    Reply
  13. Ann says

    May 25, 2017 at 12:28 PM

    Lovely!

    Reply
  14. Patsann says

    May 25, 2017 at 5:43 PM

    Yama your videos are awesome. I love your cards and thanks for the inspiration
    I am also looking forward to next month!

    Reply
  15. Liane says

    May 25, 2017 at 6:17 PM

    So inspiring-love the richness & warmth of the cards

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

papertreyink

papertreyink

Welcome to Papertrey Ink! We bet you have an amazing artistic side of you that loves to craft. We want to be your new home for everything stamp, dies, paper, and ink. Everything we offer will help you build a toolkit where you can create anything for any occasion for anybody. Take a look around and find your next project here.

INSTAGRAM

papertreyink

5,429 46,005

Simple Style • Endless Possibilities
#PapertreyInk #PapertreyProjects

Papertrey Ink | Paper Crafting

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳 Send a little p Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure

Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure
...

123 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy R Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife

Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife
...

79 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
Unbox inspiration! 🎨 Our Surprise Box is fille Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy  #CraftingInspiration

Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy #CraftingInspiration
...

175 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Sque A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card. 

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards

A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card.

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards
...

212 5

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨ Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose

Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose
...

115 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sw This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer! 

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.

This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer!

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.
...

189 6

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Ou Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove

Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove
...

148 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨ 

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts

Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts
...

170 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
They’re baaaack! Your favorite dies just rode b They’re baaaack! 
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
 🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again!  https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/

They’re baaaack!
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again! https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/
...

136 0
Follow on Instagram

FACEBOOK

Papertrey Ink

Email Subscription

I agree to be emailed to confirm my subscription to this list

Categories

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

  • Stenciling Tips to Add Pattern, Texture, and Depth
  • How to Create Beautiful Dimension with Die Cut Layering
  • Ink Blending Tips for Stunning Summer Cards
  • Introducing the PTI Summer Challenge
  • Project Inspiration: Hello Sweet Sunshine by Kelly Lunceford

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳 Send a little p Wanderlust meets paper craft! 🧳
Send a little piece of the world with the Tuck It: Travel Stamp Set — filled with iconic details from dreamy destinations. Pair it with the coordinating die set for the ultimate crafty getaway!

#PapertreyInk #TravelThemedCards #TuckItTravel #CardmakingAdventure
123 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 17

Open
Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy R Saddle up for something special! 🤎 Our Cowboy Reverie Stamp Set brings rustic charm and heartfelt western flair to your card making. From wild west dreams to timeless cowboy details, this set is perfect for adding a little rugged romance.

Whether you're sending a sweet “howdy” or capturing the spirit of the open range, this set has you covered.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife #WildWestVibes #CardmakerLife
79 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
Unbox inspiration! 🎨 Our Surprise Box is fille Unbox inspiration! 🎨

Our Surprise Box is filled with handpicked goodies that coordinate like a dream — stamps, dies, stencils, and more! Packed with exclusive tools and designs you’ll love creating with. Each box is themed, thoughtfully designed, and only available while supplies last.

Surprise yourself or a crafty friend! 🎁

#PapertreyInk #SurpriseBox #CardmakingJoy  #CraftingInspiration
175 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 16

Open
A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Sque A little lemon goes a long way! 🍋 Our Main Squeeze Stamp Set is bursting with charm — think lemonade pitchers, fresh-cut lemons, and all the zest you need for your next card. 

Whether you're crafting for a summer birthday, thank you card, or just because, the Main Squeeze Stamp Set will add the perfect citrus twist to your creations.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #MainSqueezeStampSet #FreshAndFun #handmadecards
212 5

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨ Share light, love, and a little extra hope 💛✨

Our Matthew 5 Mini Stamp Set from the Reflections series is a beautiful reminder to shine bright in every season of life. With timeless scripture and encouraging words, it’s perfect for cards, tags, or faith-filled notes that lift hearts and inspire others. A simple way to remind someone they are the light of the world—because kindness and faith never go out of style.🕊️

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #Matthew5 #ReflectionsSeries #FaithBasedCrafting #HandmadeCards #InspirationInInk #ShineYourLight #CardmakingWithPurpose
115 2

papertreyink

View

Jun 15

Open
This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sw This week’s Project Inspiration is strawberry-sweet perfection by @kellylunceford — bright, cheerful, and full of handmade joy. 🍓☀️ As the seasons shift, there’s nothing sweeter than rediscovering favorite supplies — and this strawberry-themed card is bursting with sunshine and charm! Kelly shares her annual tradition of crafting with strawberries, pairing fresh colors, layered florals, and playful die cuts to celebrate the start of a new season. Follow along step-by-step and create your own sweet slice of summer! 

Comment INSPIRATION for a link or hop over to our Papertrey Ink blog to check it out.
189 6

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Ou Signed, sealed, and beautifully stamped 💌✨ Our Vintage Postage Stamp Set lets you turn any card into a charming piece of happy mail! With its classic postal elements and elegant sentiments, it’s perfect for creating envelope-style card fronts that feel warm, personal, and full of vintage love.

#PapertreyInk #VintagePostage #HappyMail #SnailMailLove #CardmakingInspo #HandmadeCards #StampWithLove
148 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 14

Open
Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Kick up your creativity! 🤠🧵Our In Stitches: Cowboy Boot Die is the perfect blend of western flair and handmade charm. Designed with stitching details in mind, this die makes it easy to craft adorable, dimensional boots for cards, tags, and gift toppers.

Whether you're crafting for Father's Day, a country-themed birthday, or just want to add a little southern charm, this boot was made for makin’!✨ 

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #InStitchesDie #CowboyBootDie #WesternCraftVibes #HandmadeCards #CardmakingInspo #SewCuteCrafts
170 3

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
They’re baaaack! Your favorite dies just rode b They’re baaaack! 
Your favorite dies just rode back into town — and trust us, they won’t stay long! From fan-favorite layers to card-front classics, this restock is full of must-haves you’ve been waiting for.
 🛒 Shop Now before they're gone again!  https://www.papertreyink.com/back-in-stock/
136 0

papertreyink

View

Jun 13

Open
Tiny details, big love! 👶💗 Our Baby Steps Di Tiny details, big love! 👶💗 Our Baby Steps Die Set is packed with all the adorable pieces you need to create the sweetest baby shoes and pacifier accents for your handmade cards, tags, and keepsakes. 

From delicate bows and tiny laces to soft soles and pacis, every cut is a step closer to a card that melts hearts. Perfect for baby showers, announcements, or welcoming a little one into the world—because every card should start with a baby step.

Comment May for the link!

#PapertreyInk #BabyStepsDie #HandmadeWithLove #BabyCards #NewArrivalCrafts #CardmakingInspo #TinyDetailsBigLove
177 7

Copyright © 2025 · Papertrey Ink.