Today's project a simple yet beautiful card idea that’s just perfect for Mother’s Day. Featuring the Country Flowers Bundle, this design is elegant with just the right amount of texture and color to delight the recipient.

Whether you’re mailing this to your mom, blessing a dear friend, or giving it with a handmade gift, this card is a heartfelt way to say "love you". 

Below you’ll find the measurements so you can recreate this design with your own twist!

Lisa's Inklings:

• Card Base is cut 4 1/4" x 11" and scored at 5 1/2".
• Patterned paper is cut 4" x 5 1/4".
• The accent strip is cut 1 1/2" x 5 1/2".  It's textured with an embossing folder for added interest.
• The pail from the stamp set is partially stamped on a 2 3/8" Basic White circle.  The flowers are stamped on Basic White a die cut with the coordinating die.
• The sentiment is from an ephemera pack or your can stamp a sentiment and fussy cut it.
• Finish the inside of the card as desired.

If the Country Flowers Bundle has caught your eye, now’s a good time to grab it—it’s currently part of the Last Chance List, so it’s only available while supplies last.

--->Country Flowers Bundle

A handmade from the heart card is a touching way to share Mother's Day greetings.  Are you making cards any Mother's Day cards?  I'd love to hear about it in the comments. 

Mother’s Day is one of those times when handmade is just right. There’s something extra special about a gift that comes from the hearts and hands of little ones.

Today I’m sharing a delightful accordion-fold card project that’s perfect for children to give to their mothers or grandmothers. Whether it’s a classroom activity, a grandma-and-grandchild crafting session, or something you prep for your own kids to make for their mom, this idea is simple yet special.

The project features a fold-out design with four pockets, each holding a mini card. These can be used to write messages, draw pictures, or fill in simple “coupons” that promise sweet and helpful acts of kindness. It’s an interactive gift that’s as fun to create as it is to give!

You can see the basic process in today’s Reel, embedded below.

Lisa's Inkings:

• Cut pattered paper 8" x 12".  
• Score on 12" side, score at 3", 6", and 9".
• Turn and score on the 8" side at  2" for what will be the bottom.
• Card inserts measure 2 1/4" x 4".  The patterned paper strip measures 3/4" x 2 1/4".

Here are some suggestions for supplies:

• Designer Series Paper or patterned cardstock (double-sided is best!)

• White or light-colored cardstock (for the mini notes or “coupons”)

• Adhesive

• Ribbon for tying

• Heart punches, die cuts, or stamps for embellishing 

• Pens, crayons, or markers for decorating the mini cards

Bonus: 10 Message & Coupon Ideas for Kids (Ages 10 and Under)

Each mini card can hold something meaningful, even simple. Here are some sweet and age-appropriate ideas for what children can include:

1. "One Free Hug" – Redeemable anytime!

2. "I will help clean up my toys."

3. "Breakfast in bed, made with love!"

4. A picture of Mom or Grandma with a big heart drawn around it.

5. "Let’s read a book together."

6. "I will set the table tonight."

7. "I love you because..." (and let them finish the sentence!)

8. "One quiet time for Mom while I play."

9. "You are the best because..." (sweet responses always follow!)

10. A drawing of something they love doing with Mom or Grandma.

This card is more than just a cute craft—it’s a keepsake. A little book of love that Mom or Grandma will cherish forever. And the best part? It’s designed to be simple enough that even young children can make it with a little help.

Whether you’re crafting with the kids in your life or preparing this as a DIY project for others to enjoy, this accordion card is a meaningful and heartfelt project.

Stay tuned all week for more creative ideas to celebrate the mothers and mother figures we love!

Oh my goodness! It's almost May so you know what that means.  Mother’s Day is just around the corner.

For many of us, our own mothers may no longer be with us but that doesn’t mean the opportunity to honor mothers on this day ends. Maybe you have a daughter who’s now a mom herself, a sweet daughter-in-law raising little ones, or a friend who’s always had a motherly heart and a nurturing spirit. How special to reach out and say, “I see you. You’re doing an awesome job.”

This week on Ink and Inspirations, we’ll be sharing thoughtful and easy-to-make card and gift ideas using your paper crafting supplies. These projects are designed to help you bless the mothers and mother-figures in your life with something made from the heart.

Even if you’re new to paper crafting, I encourage you to follow along.  These ideas can be adapted to whatever you have on hand, and each one carries the same message of appreciation and love.

We’ll also have ideas for helping little ones (or grand-littles!) create gifts or cards for their own moms. Moms treasure something made with those little hands and big hearts!

So grab your patterned papers (from that stash!), use your favorite stamps, and join me this week as we make beautiful things to celebrate the special mothers in our lives.

As we wrap up our “Clear the Clutter, Create with Joy” week, I hope you’ve felt inspired to take a fresh look at your crafting space and your supplies! From rediscovering forgotten treasures to creating with what you already have, this has been such a meaningful journey for me and I hope the same for you.

And if you're still feeling the itch to organize a bit more (or maybe you're just getting started!), today’s post is for you. I’m sharing some helpful articles about decluttering and simple habits that can make a big difference—not just in your craft room, but throughout your home.

Here are some great reads with encouraging, bite-sized ideas for simplifying your space and clearing out the clutter:

• The 10-Items-a-Day Decluttering Challenge
• The Best Decluttering Tips of 2024
• Daily Habits That Prevent Clutter Before It Starts
• The No-Contact Decluttering Method

These articles are quick and motivating reads—perfect for sipping coffee and making a little game plan for your space.

Craft Room Decluttering Tips for Paper Crafters

If your craft space feels a little overwhelming, here are a few basics that can help you get things back to inspiring (instead of stressful):

1. Start Small: Choose one drawer, shelf, or bin at a time.
2. Group Like with Like: Keep all your embellishments, ribbons, stamps, or paper types in their own containers.
3. Label What You Can See: Clear containers with labels make it easy to know what you have (and actually use it!).
4. Use Vertical Space: Hanging bins, pegboards, or shelves can keep items accessible but off your workspace.
5. Keep a “Gift or Share” Basket: If you find extras, duplicates, or unused supplies, set them aside to bless a friend or grandchild.
6. Cut the Paper Down: Trimming your patterned paper to card-front sizes makes it easier to grab and create!

The most important thing I hope you take away from this week is this...

Your supplies were made to be used and shared.
That beautiful paper you’ve been saving? Cut it. Make a card. Share it with someone who needs a lift.
Those rediscovered embellishments? Bundle them up for a friend or young crafter and spread the joy.

Cleaning out your space doesn’t mean letting go of creativity—it means making more room for it.

If this week’s posts and videos have encouraged you in any way, I’d love to hear from you. What’s one thing you’ve created or shared this week from your stash?

Thank you for coming along with me—now, let’s keep using what we love to make a difference.

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.