If you’ve ever done a deep clean of your crafting space, you know the feeling—rediscovering supplies you forgot you had, laughing at a few “what was I thinking?” purchases, and that awesome feeling as you remember why you bought that pretty paper in the first place.

This week I’ve been working on decluttering and organizing my craft room—not for perfection, but for my peace of mind and to make space for creativity. And friends, I have found some treasures!

Today I’m sharing a full-length video that shows:

• How I’m using some of my “found” supplies and paper stash
• Card making ideas using some of those saved patterned papers
• A sweet and creative way to share your stash—perfect for gifting to fellow crafters, grandkids, or anyone who enjoys a little crafty fun

Watch the full video below:

There’s something so satisfying about taking those half-used paper packs, leftover scraps, and forgotten embellishments and turning them into beautiful cards. Whether it’s a quick card set or a few layered card designs with coordinating scraps, it feels good to use those supplies to make a difference.

And you know what? It helps ease that little twinge of guilt we sometimes feel when we’re dreaming of new crafting supplies.  When we use what we have, we’re creating space, physically and creatively, for new ideas and new products that inspire us.

A Gift from Your Stash

One of my favorite ideas from this week? Putting together a little stash-sharing gift.
It could be:

• A small bundle of paper scraps and extra embellishments for a fellow crafter

• A card kit-in-a-bag for a friend who wants to start crafting

• A simple project pack for your grandkids (or kids!) to spark their creativity

Add a ribbon or tuck it into a handmade pocket as seen in the video  and you’ve got a thoughtful, no-cost gift that encourages creativity.

I hope this inspires you to dig into your stash, get crafty, and share your creativity with others.

I’d love to hear—what’s the best thing you’ve found while organizing your craft supplies?

If you've been following along with me this week, you know we’ve been talking about using the supplies we already have—especially that beautiful patterned paper we tend to hold onto for “just the right project.”

Well, today I want to take it one step further and show you how to use those pre-cut pieces of paper to create a sweet little stack of cards that you can gift to someone else.

Your stash has the power to bless others.

Once your paper is trimmed down to card front size, you’re already halfway there. Add in a simple sentiment stamp, a few embellishments if you’d like, and you’ve got a beautiful set of cards ready to go.

Today I’m sharing a short video as I create a stack of cards from just a few pieces of patterned paper. It’s amazing how quickly they come together once everything is prepped and ready!

You can watch the reel here:

These types of projects remind me that handmade doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.

This set of cards is going into a little gift bundle—a thoughtful surprise for someone I know who loves to send notes but doesn’t always have the time to make cards herself. I’m simply tucking them into a bag and add a coordinating tag for a sweet presentation.

Think about it… who in your life might appreciate a small bundle of handmade cards?

• A neighbor

• A friend from church

• A caregiver

• A new mom

• A teacher

• A fellow crafter

You never know how a small, heartfelt gift can brighten someone’s day.

And just in case you need the reminder today:

You’re allowed to use your pretty paper.

You’re allowed to enjoy your supplies.You’re allowed to create and give and still want to purchase something new later.

There’s no guilt here—only joy and blessings. When we use what we have, we’re making space (physically and emotionally) to be more intentional with both our crafting and our giving.

So go ahead—grab those pieces of patterned paper, stamp a sentiment, and start stacking up some cards to share. It’s a simple project, but one that brings so much heart to your crafting.

If you’ve ever held a pack of patterned paper in your hands and thought, “It’s just too pretty to cut,” you’re in good company.

There’s just something about the colors and the patterns...paper crafters are naturally drawn to it!  And it’s so easy to build up a collection with papers saved for “something special” that hasn’t come along yet.

I know this is bound to sound familiar with many of you...right?

Today I want to offer a little encouragement —it’s time to use the paper. Yes, the pretty paper. Yes, even that one you’ve been hanging onto for years!

The truth is, our supplies are meant to be used and loved—not stored away for a someday that never comes. And when we do use it, we are not just creating something beautiful, we are creating something meaningful.

Handmade cards and paper projects can brighten someone’s day, offer encouragement, celebrate special occasions, or simply say, “You matter.” That piece of patterned paper that’s been tucked away? It could be the beginning of a card that brings a smile and make someone feel loved.

In a reel that I'm sharing today, I’m giving you a tip I use to actually use the paper instead of just admiring it.

Cutting your 12x12 paper down into card front sizes makes it easier to grab and use in the moment. It’s a simple shift, but it will make a big difference in how often you reach for your patterned paper.

You can watch the short video right here:

If you’ve ever felt a little guilty for wanting to buy more supplies, here’s something to remember:

When we use what we have, we make room for creativity, for inspiration, and yes, even for new supplies.
And, using your stash just makes you feel good. Give your beautiful supplies the purpose they were made for...create something that will make a difference in someone’s life.

That’s the kind of “special project” that’s always worth using the good paper for.

If you’ve been paper crafting for a while, chances are you’ve got a little stash. Okay... maybe a big stash. A beautiful collection of patterned paper, ribbons, embellishments, and bits and pieces you’ve held onto “just in case” or because they were too pretty to use.

Sound familiar to you?

You’re not alone, friend. I’ve been there, too. That’s why this week on Ink and Inspirations, I’m embracing a little spring refresh with a focus on decluttering, organizing, and most importantly—using  the supplies we already have.

There’s something so satisfying about clearing out our creative space, not just to tidy up, but to make room for the fresh and the new. I’ve been going through drawers, bags, and finding things I forgot I had! Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I’m choosing to let go of the guilt and lean into cleaning out and creating with my stash.

Why This Matters

When we use our supplies, we’re honoring the intention behind every little purchase. That patterned paper you fell in love with? It’s time to let it shine! The ribbons and embellishments that have been tucked away? Let’s bring them into the light and put them to good use.

You’ll see behind-the-scenes peeks from my own craft space this week, plus simple card ideas, stash-busting gift projects...ways to help you love your paper and other supplies all over again.

And if you feel a little tug to buy something new down the road? You can do it guilt-free—because you’ve made space and already made use and created something beautiful with what you have.

Let’s clear the clutter and create with joy together.  Be sure to check back throughout the week, and join me in the Ink and Inspirations Stampers Facebook Group to share your progress and projects!

Today’s spotlight from the Last Chance List is another favorite that I've used many times — the You Are Beautiful stamp set from Stampin’ Up!

This set is all about encouragement, faith, and beauty  both in design and in message. This sample featured was from last week's LIVE with one of the beautiful scripture sentiments from the set, Proverbs 3:5–6, layered over that beautiful Blackberry Bliss plaid pattern with hand-stamped foliage.

During my LIVE video demonstration,  I walked through how to create it. You can find that video  by visiting this blog post.

The You Are Beautiful set is now officially retiring — and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. If you've been looking for a meaningful sentiment set that’s perfect for encouragement and faith-based cards this is one you'll want in your collection.

Click here to shop the Online Store for this stamp set and browse all the other retiring goodies, as well.

Thanks for stopping by today  and remember... you are beautiful, and your handmade cards make a difference. — Lisa

We continue to stroll down Last Chance Lane this week with another personal favorite — the Country Flowers Bundle from Stampin’ Up!

This one has been such a joy to create with. The images are sweet and so much fun to color. Whether you’re using watercolor pencils, Stampin’ Blends, or ink and a blender pen, these florals really come to life on your card fronts.

One of my featured projects from last week’s LIVE video uses this exact bundle and I just had to bring it back around today in case you missed it. Here's your gentle reminder that the Country Flowers Bundle is officially on the Last Chance List, which means it’s only available while supplies last.

Watch the replay of the LIVE video below for step-by-step instructions and a peek at how versatile this set can be!

The coordinating dies make it easy to add dimension and special details to your designs.  If you've been thinking about adding this bundle to your collection, now is the time!

Grab the Country Flowers Bundle before it retires:
Country Flowers Bundle

I’ll be back soon with more project favorites as we continue highlighting retiring products from the catalog. Be sure to follow along — and don’t wait too long if something catches your eye! 

Happy stamping,
Lisa

Exciting news, friends!

Starting later today, April 15, 2025, Stampin’ Up! is rolling out a brand-new Stampin’ Rewards program, and it’s designed to reward YOU for doing what you already love—shopping for your favorite creative goodies!

Here’s what you need to know:

You’ll Now Earn 10% Rewards on Orders of $20+

Yep, you read that right! Once you opt in to the new Stampin’ Rewards program, you’ll earn 10% back on every qualifying order of $20 or more (before tax and shipping). That’s like getting a mini treat with every cart you check out!

Here’s How It Works:

• Place any order of $20 or more
• Opt in to the rewards program when prompted (starting 4/15)
• Earn 10% of your product total back in rewards
• Redeem rewards on your next order or save them up and use within a year!

Your rewards are tracked automatically in your Stampin’ Up! online account, so there’s no need to write anything down or keep track manually. Just shop, earn, and redeem when you're ready!

Heads-Up for April 15th:

The Stampin’ Up! site will be down starting at 8 AM MT for about 6 hours as they make this new update. After that? It's reward time!

Don't Miss Out—Here's What You Need to Do:

• Make sure you have a customer account in the online store
• Don’t check out as a guest—you’ll miss out on your rewards!
• When prompted, opt in to the program to start earning
• Place your order with me, and start building those rewards.

If you’ve been ordering from me as a guest, now’s the perfect time to create your account so you don’t miss out.

Let’s earn while we create and treat ourselves to something fun on our next order. You deserve it! 

Books are already such thoughtful gifts—but when you wrap them in something handmade? That’s next-level special.

Today I’m sharing a quick peek at a sweet project I’m loving right now: another pocket-style book wrap, perfect for gifting your favorite inspirational or motivational reads. Think of it as a “Blind Date with a Book”… with a crafty twist!

What’s Inside the Pocket?

This wrap is made to hold small, flat items that add a personal touch. Here’s what I tucked into mine:

• A soothing peppermint tea bag

• A scripture card for encouragement

• A handmade bookmark

• A small pad of inspirational sticky notes

It’s like opening a little bookish care package—cozy, comforting, and full of heart.

I used the For The Books Bundle to add stamped images and sweet book-themed touches throughout. The stack of books is one of my favorite images—it’s charming, and totally fitting for this project!

Heads-up: This bundle is currently on Stampin’ Up!’s Last Chance List, so if it’s still on your wishlist, now’s the time to grab it before it retires!

You can catch a short video of this project below, and I’ve also shared a longer video walking you through the full process.

Shop the For The Books Bundle in my online store here and create your own bookish gift for someone special.

I’m so excited to share some happy mail news!

Congratulations to Karen Greenlee, whose name was randomly drawn as the winner of my April giveaway! She’ll be receiving a copy of Start With Hello by Shannan Martin—a book that speaks straight to my heart about kindness, community, and small acts of connection that make a big difference.

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

Want to be entered for the May giveaway?
Here’s how:

• Place an order HERE!
• Purchase an online class.  (This month's class coming soon!)
• Or, simply leave a comment on this blog post sharing something or someone you're grateful for this month!

No purchase is necessary—just jump into the conversation and spread a little love.

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

Today is National Bookmobile Day—and if you’ve ever climbed the steps into one of those magical rolling libraries, you know they’re about more than just books.

Bookmobiles bring access and opportunity right to the people who need it most. In rural areas, small towns, and underserved communities, these mobile libraries still serve as a connection to reading. They offer more than stories; they deliver possibility.

While the world keeps speeding forward, the bookmobile rolls on proving that access to knowledge should never be limited by location or circumstance.

Have you ever visited a bookmobile? I’d love to hear your story in the comments!

To mark the day, I created a handmade bookmark using my For the Books Bundle. It’s a sweet little reminder of why stories matter—and the joy of turning real pages. Whether you gift it, keep it, or tuck it inside your next library read, it's a little love note to books and literacy.

Lisa's Inklings:

• Cut Basic White to 2" x 6".  Stamp stack of books with Wild Wheat Ink. Die cut hole at top with die from For the Books Bundle.
• Punch DSP with Modern Oval Punch [162234].
• Die cut book pieces with Pretty Peacock, Wild Wheat, and Basic White CS with dies from For the Books Bundle.
• Assemble as shown.
• Use 2023–2025 In Color Jute Trim [161637] and Linen Thread [104199] through the hole to embellish.

Today’s card is perfect for sending a little love this Easter. Featuring an Easter sentiment from the Storybook Friends Stamp Set and the soft prints panel of the Storybook Moments Specialty Designer Series Paper, this design is cheerful and heartfelt.

This card is a sweet and simple project that comes together beautifully with a touch of handmade love—just right for the littles...children and grandchildren.

Lisa's Inklings:

• Lost Lagoon Card base: 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", scored at 4-1/4".  Layer in the same color cut 4" x 5 1/4".

• Focal image panel (ducks): 3" x 4"

• Wild Wheat Mat for focal panel: 3" x 4-1/4"; another piece of Wild Wheat for sentiment: 1/2" x 1 1/2".

• Inside panel in Basic White: 4" x 5-1/4"

With this simple layout and a few embellishments, you’ll have a card that’s just right for Easter greetings, springtime birthdays, or just sending a smile.

Want to create cards like this one?
You’ll find the Storybook Friends Stamp Set and more springtime supplies in my Online Store.  If you don't have the coordinating Storybook Moments Designer Series Paper, create your own focal point with the stamps from the Storybook Friends stamp set!

Let your creativity bloom this season by sharing your handmade Easter and Spring greetings. 

Who’s ready to add a little handmade charm to your Easter baskets or spring party favors? Today, I’m sharing two fun and simple projects that’s perfect for packaging sweet treats or small gifts for Easter or for any special occasion throughout the year!

These adorable treat packages are all dressed up with images from the Storybook Friends Stamp Set and the Storybook Moments Specialty Designer Series Paper,. From sweet bunnies to cheerful colors, these packages are sure to bring a smile to some little faces.

In this week’s Premiere Video, you can see step-by-step instructions on how to create both of these cute treat holders:

•  A triangle-shaped treat box
• A classic "sour cream" style pouch

Both designs are easy to customize with your favorite papers and stamps and they come together quickly, making them perfect for classroom treats, party favors, or little surprise gifts for friends and family.

Watch the video tutorial below so you can make these easy treats, too!
Ready to make your own sweet spring treat packaging?

Visit my Online Store to grab the Storybook Friends Stamp Set, the Storybook Moments Specialty Designer Series Paper, and all the supplies you need to create these fun and festive favors.

Let's make some cute and easy treat packaging for Easter or as a party favor for any occasion. These are all decked out with some cute images from the Storybook Friends stamp set and the Storybook Moments Specialty Designer Series Paper.

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/LisaBrownInk or Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/inkandinspirations/
Tune in on Thursday, April 3rd
7 PM ET, 6 PM CT, 5 PM MT, 4PM PT

Featured Products:
Storybook Friends Stamp Set: https://bit.ly/storybook-friends-stamp-set
Storybook Moments Specialty Designer Series Paper: https://bit.ly/storybook-moments-specialty-paper

Today, I’m excited to share a simple gift idea that’s perfect for spring (or any time of year!). If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I love dressing up pretty kitchen towels or tea towels with a little paper crafting flair.

For this project, I used the Citrus Blooms Bundle along with the gorgeous Mediterranean Blooms Designer Series Paper to create a custom wrap for a soft, citrus-themed kitchen towel. It’s a cheerful, handmade touch that turns an everyday item into something extra special that's perfect for a hostess gift, a friend, or a little pick-me-up for someone you love.

Tip: When creating gift wraps like this, coordinating your colors and textures makes all the difference. The bright lemons and rich blues in the towel coordinate beautifully with Azure Afternoon and Daffodil Delight. 

A little reminder...

The Citrus Blooms Bundle and the Mediterranean Blooms Designer Series Paper  are on the Last Chance List and only available while supplies last! So if you’ve had your eye on these beautiful products, now’s the time to add them to your collection.

Ready to make sweet, simple gifts like this?
Visit my Online Store to shop the Citrus Blooms Bundle  and browse the other treasures on the Last Chance List before they’re gone!