I’m always so thankful for the inspiration we find in our crafting community and today’s card is a perfect example of that!

This week in my Premiere Video, I shared a masculine fun fold card that was inspired by a beautiful design I received from my friend and fellow paper crafter, Karen Greenlee. I loved her layout so much, I just had to CASE (Copy And Selectively Edit) it!

Using the Textured Notes Bundle and Woven Textures Designer Series Paper, I gave this fold a natural feel that’s perfect for the guys in our lives for a birthday, thank-you, or  note of appreciation.

You can watch the full process in my Premiere Video below where I also show you the sweet sympathy card Karen sent that inspired me to create this card.

 Lisa's Inklings:

• Base (Gray Granite): 5-1/2" x 8-1/2", fold in half and cut 2 1/4" off the front.

• Inside Panel: Basic White – 4 3/4" x 7-3/4".  Fold in half.

• Layered Panels:

  • Left DSP Panel for card front – 2" x 5-1/2"

  • Gray Granite Panels (2) – 2-3/4" x 3-3/4" 

  • Basic White panel for main image - 2-1/2" x 3- 1/2"

  • Sentiment Strip- Cut with die after stamping or cut a piece 7/8" x 2-3/8".

Here's a look at the inside of the card:

I love how this fold creates a special reveal. The Textured Notes images are elegant and perfect for adding interest. And that Woven Textures DSP brings the design together with a subtle, masculine style.

Want to recreate this look?
You can find the Textured Notes Bundle and Woven Textures DSP in my Online Store. These two products make it so easy to create for the guys with confidence and style.

Click here to shop now!

I hope you’ll give this fun fold a try and send it off to someone who could use a little encouragement or thanks. Your handmade cards really do make a difference.

As we continue our journey in creating masculine themed cards, here's another idea and it's a great fun fold!

Join us for our Premiere video this week and learn to make this great card using the Textured Notes Bundle and the Woven Textures DSP.

Tune in on Thursday, May 15th

4 PM ET, 3 PM CT, 2 PM MT, 1 PM PT

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/LisaBrownInk

or

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/inkandinspirations/

As we continue our journey in creating masculine themed cards, here's another idea and it's a great fun fold!

Join us for our Premiere video this week and learn to make this great card using the Textured Notes Bundle and the Woven Textures DSP.

Tune in on Thursday, May 15th

4 PM ET, 3 PM CT, 2 PM MT, 1 PM PT

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/LisaBrownInk

or

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/inkandinspirations/

As we continue our For the Guys: Thoughtful & Handmade series this week, I’m bringing a bit of crafting throw-back into the mix. Today’s project is a makeover of a masculine card I first created eight years ago, recreated with some of my favorite new products—the Textured Notes Bundle and the Woven Textures Designer Series Paper.

This updated design has warmth, rich texture, and a simplicity that works for the guys in your life—think birthday, encouragement, or even just a “thinking of you” note.

Lisa's Inklings:

• The original card had a bold, graphic look, but this remake adds natural warmth with layers of texture

• The Textured Notes Bundle brings in a soft, natural feel that’s ideal for men’s cards without feeling too rugged or too plain

• The mix of Woven Textures DSP adds visual interest and masculine charm

 I’ve embedded the original project video below so you can see where it started and just how easy it is to give your card layouts a fresh twist using current products!

 Here’s a closer look at the updated card...

If you’re like me and love revisiting past card designs, give this one a try using what you have...or, treat yourself to these beautiful products for a brand-new take.

Featured Products that you can find these in my Online Store and start crafting for the guys in your life today:

• Textured Notes Bundle

• Woven Textures Designer Series Paper

• Choose Happy Stamp Set (for added fun sentiments)

Let’s keep blessing others with handmade kindness—especially the men who might not expect it but always appreciate it. 

Let's continue our series on For the Guys: Thoughtful & Handmade with a masculine birthday card that’s stylish and simple to assemble. Whether you're crafting for a husband, son, friend, or co-worker, this card delivers a handmade touch without the fuss.

Crafted with the Woven Textures Designer Series Paper, this design highlights the natural feel of woven fibers, perfect for a masculine themed projections. The stamped leafy image from the Textured Notes Bundle is paired with a sentiment from the Choose Happy Stamp Set. With simple layers, strong textures, and clean lines, this card says “happy birthday” in a heartfelt way.

Featured on today's card:

• Textured Notes Bundle – This bundle has quickly become a favorite! The versatile images and sentiments are ideal for both everyday and special occasions, and the coordinating bordered dies are awesome for layering.

• Choose Happy Stamp Set – I used this cheerful sentiment set to give the card a positive, heartfelt feel perfect for birthdays.

• Woven Textures Designer Series Paper – This DSP adds the perfect touch of masculine charm with natural tones and patterns.

Want to see how it all comes together?
I’ve embedded a quick reel below to show the simple assembly step by step. It’s a great layout to keep in your files when you need a clean and classic design for any of the guys in your life.

I hope this project inspires you to add to your masculine card stash with confidence. With the right mix of texture and simple designs, your handmade cards can feel strong, thoughtful, and just right for him.

Ready to create your own?
You can find the Textured Notes Bundle and the Woven Textures Designer Series Paper in my Online Store. Just click below to shop:

• Textured Notes Bundle (English) [165556]
• Woven Textures 12" X 12" Designer Series Paper [165560]
• Choose Happy Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) [163701]

Thanks for stopping by today! I’ll be back soon with more ideas to help you create meaningful cards for the guys in your life.

Sometimes crafting cards for the guys in our lives can sometimes be a bit challenging, can’t it? With all the pretty florals,  ribbons, and soft colors we love, it’s easy to feel a bit stumped when it’s time to switch gears and create something with a masculine touch.

This week, we’re starting a new series here on Ink and Inspirations: For the Guys: Thoughtful & Handmade. These ideas aren’t just for Father’s Day... although that’s coming soon! We’ll be focusing on cards and paper projects for all the men we appreciate all year long. Think sons, grandsons, husbands, brothers, coworkers, neighbors, and friends.

We’ll explore:

• Masculine cards with easy layouts and even a fun fold!

• Colors in earthy tones and a rustic feel

• Designs with textures or darker botanicals 

• And of course, a featured masculine-friendly stamp and die bundle, the Textured Notes Bundle (English) [165556], you’ll love using for more than just “guy” cards!

You don’t have to give up your style to make a card that feels just right for him. And, if you're still a bit unsure about how to go about making masculine cards, you’re not alone. Let's take the stress out of it this week and have some fun!

Join the conversation! Over on my Facebook Page and Group, I’d love to hear from you:
Do you find masculine cards challenging? What’s your go-to style or color combo for the guys? Let’s share ideas and inspire each other!

Stay tuned all week long for project ideas, inspiration, and tips that will help you create with confidence for all the guys in your life.

Looking for a sweet, handmade way to give a small gift, cash, or a gift card? This little bag has you covered!

Whether you’re celebrating a mom, a graduate, a teacher, or anyone who deserves a little something special, this style gift bag is just the right size!

I created this version using fresh, spring-inspired patterned paper, Florals in Bloom from the new Stampin' Up! catalog,  a soft pink ribbon, and a stamped floral from Gallery Blooms. The result is a gift that feels extra special before it’s even opened!

This bag comes together quickly with just a few score lines and folds, and you can change the paper and sentiment to suit any occasion. It’s one of those go-to projects that you’ll find yourself recreating over and over.

Great for:

• Mother’s Day

• Graduation

• Teacher or nurse appreciation

• Birthdays

• Shower favors

• Just because!

Watch the simple assembly in the short video below...

Be sure to pin this one or bookmark the post—you’ll want to keep it handy for all your spring and summer celebrations.

It's time to share our latest happy mail recipient!

Congratulations to Margo Padios, whose name was randomly drawn as the winner of this month's giveaway! She’ll be receiving a copy of Holy Moments by Matthew Kelly—a book that's all about sharing kindness, building community, and making a difference with small acts of connection.

This giveaway is just one way I love to say thank you to this amazing creative community.

Want to be entered for the next month's giveaway?
Here’s how:

• Place an order HERE!
  (If you place an order from the new Catalog in May, you will also get access to my special private Facebook Group!)
• Purchase an online class or guide.  
• Or, simply leave a comment on this blog post telling us something that you're creating this month!

No purchase is necessary—just jump into the conversation and share with us.

I can’t wait to send another round of happy mail next month! ---Lisa 

Some projects are just too good to stay in the archives and this little gift box is one of them!

Originally shared over five years ago, this design is one of my favorites. It’s quick to put together, just the right size for a small gift, gift card, or cash, and perfect for so many occasions.

Today, I’m revisiting this project with two brand-new versions each with its own style. One is a bright, cheerful box with florals and soft colors, ideal for Mother’s Day, teacher or nurse appreciation, or a thank-you gift. 

The second version is bold and classic, just right for honoring a graduate.

To keep things simple, I’ve embedded the original video tutorial below so you can follow the same basic steps for creating the box. The dimensions and structure are the same The only thing that’s changed is the updated paper, stamps, and dies!

Lisa's Inklings:
Cut designer paper 6" x 9 1/2".  On the 6" side, score at 1 1/4" x 4 3/4". On the 9" side, score at 1", 2 1/4", 5 1/4", and 6 1/2". Cut and assemble as seen in the video.
Whether you're filling this box with hand cream, a gift card, or a sweet treat, this little box is sure to brighten someone's day.
Ready to start crafting? Take a look at the latest products in my Online Store to find the perfect paper and accents for your version of this timeless gift box.

With the new Stampin' Up! Catalog going LIVE tomorrow, May 6th, it's always exciting to see the new In Colors to add to your Stampin’ Up! collection! One of the standouts this year is the soft shade,  Cloud Cover. It’s a peaceful blue-gray that’s just beautiful.

However, I wanted to pass along a bit of important info. Stampin’ Up! recently discovered that Cloud Cover ink had a chemical reaction with the foam in the full-size ink pads. This caused a color shift or change that doesn’t meet their quality standards. As a result, the Cloud Cover Classic ink pad won’t be released to customers.

But don’t worry—there are still ways to use this gorgeous color in your projects!

Here are two options for inking up with Cloud Cover:

• Make your own ink spot using the Uninked Stampin' Spots (#141822) and the Cloud Cover Ink Refill (#165279).

• Or, order the Stampin’ Spot Assortment (#166716) from page 33 of the new catalog—it includes a pre-filled Cloud Cover ink spot.

Other Cloud Cover products will still be available, including:

• Cardstock

• Designer Series Papers

• Stampin’ Write Markers

• Stampin’ Blends

Personally, I’ll be using the refill + uninked spot method and grabbing the Blends in all of the new In Colors. Can’t wait to play with them all!

And just a quick note—you might see other demonstrators using the full-size pad. Stampin’ Up! is allowing demonstrators to purchase warehouse stock (with the understanding that the ink color may shift over time).

Let me know if you’re adding Cloud Cover to your collection too—I’d love to see what you create with it!

This time of year feels like a whirlwind, doesn’t it? Between the end of school and expressing gratitude to teachers and nurses, Mother’s Day, and graduation season, May is full of reasons to celebrate and recognize many special ones in our lives.

Whether you're honoring the amazing women for Mother's Day or preparing a handmade card for a graduate who's about to take that big step into life, recognizing teachers or nurses, one thing remains the same. It’s all about showing love from your creative heart.

Here at Ink and Inspirations, we’re making the most of this season by sharing some special cards and projects.
This week, I’ll be sharing both last-minute Mother’s Day ideas and kicking off our series of paper crafting projects for your graduates. Think cards, cash holders, gift card holders and more ways to celebrate your grads in style.

Want more ideas like these delivered straight to your inbox?
Sign up for the Ink and Inspirations Mailing List for weekly inspiration, project ideas, and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else.
Plus, get a FREE Online Card Class when you sign up!

Let’s create, celebrate, and bless the people we love one handmade project at a time. 

This time of year feels like a whirlwind, doesn’t it? Between the end of school and expressing gratitude to teachers and nurses, Mother’s Day, and graduation season, May is full of reasons to celebrate and recognize many special ones in our lives.

Whether you're honoring the amazing women for Mother's Day or preparing a handmade card for a graduate who's about to take that big step into life, recognizing teachers or nurses, one thing remains the same. It’s all about showing love from your creative heart.

Here at Ink and Inspirations, we’re making the most of this season by sharing some special cards and projects.
This week, I’ll be sharing both last-minute Mother’s Day ideas and kicking off our series of paper crafting projects for your graduates. Think cards, cash holders, gift card holders and more ways to celebrate your grads in style.

Want more ideas like these delivered straight to your inbox?
Sign up for the Ink and Inspirations Mailing List for weekly inspiration, project ideas, and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else.
Plus, get a FREE Online Card Class when you sign up!

Let’s create, celebrate, and bless the people we love one handmade project at a time. 

If you’ve followed me here on Ink and Inspirations for a while, you know how much I love giving pretty towels “dressed up” with a handmade tag. It’s one of my go-to gift ideas—and always a hit!

Today I’m sharing another version: a soft yellow towel with sweet bee theme wrapped with a simple matching tag. It’s easy to personalize with whatever stamps and papers you have on hand.

Whether you're gifting it to your mom, a daughter, a neighbor, or a friend who’s like a mother to you, this thoughtful gift will surely brighten her day.

 I’ll be linking to a few past posts that share more towel gift ideas and tags for different seasons and styles, so be sure to scroll down for even more inspiration.

• Lemon themed towel
• Trendy Toadstools
• Thanksgiving Theme

You don’t need fancy supplies to make a gift feel special—just a few paper crafting touches from you and made from the heart. 

For Mother's Day, what could be more special than a beautiful handmade gift?

Today, I'm excited to share a wonderful gift idea that you can create in an evening...A Gift Folder for Handmade Cards.
It’s a special way to bless a mother, daughter, friend, or grandmother with a set of cards they can use and treasure. 

In the video, you’ll see how easy it is to create a folder with pockets to hold a handful of beautiful cards and matching envelopes. It's a project that's both fun to make and a true blessing to receive.

You'll find the step-by-step tutorial in today’s video for creating the folder in the video below.

Lisa's Inklings:

• Choose a card that you have that would make a beautiful cover for the folder. If possible, cut this card front down to 4" x 5 1/4".
• Choose your colors of card stock and designer paper from the colors in the card you chose.
• For the folder, cut card stock 6 1/4" x 10 3/4". Score at 4 3/4" and 6".
• For the inside box to hold cards, cut the same color card stock to 5" x 8 3/8".  Score 2" on all sides.
• Cut a strip of designer paper 1" x 12" for the box.
• Don't forget to wrap the ribbon closure before the layers mentioned below.
• For layers on front: Card stock- (2) 4 3/8" x 5 7/8".  Cut designer paper- (2) 4 1/2" x 6".

For this project, I used the Country Flowers Bundle—a sweet and versatile stamp and die set that’s just perfect for designs such as this.

The Country Flowers Bundle is currently on the Last Chance List, available only while supplies last. If you love the look of today’s project, be sure to visit my Online Store and check availability while it’s still here!

And for a bit more of a discount, purchase the Country Flowers Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) [163405] and the Country Flowers Dies [163410] separately!

Creating handmade gifts like these makes them truly priceless and a treasure.

Thank you for crafting along with me. Let’s keep spreading joy, one handmade card (and an awesome gift!) at a time.