Trying New Supplies? Start with a Card Sketch

images copyright 1990–2026 Stampin’ Up!®

You know that moment when you get new stamping supplies and just… stare at them?

Yeah. Same.

That’s exactly why I love using a card sketch. It takes the pressure off figuring out a layout so you can actually play with your new stamps, patterned paper, and colors.

I shared this sketch in yesterday’s post, and apparently I wasn’t done with it – because I sat down and made three more cards using brand new Stampin’ Up!® products coming in May.

If you missed the original post (with the sketch, measurements, and even more samples), make sure to check that out here.

Keep scrolling for three more ideas using the same layout – and grab the free project sheet while you’re here.

Octopus Hugs (Because One Hug Isn’t Enough)

This one made me laugh the second I stamped it. I mean… eight arms? That’s commitment.

I used the Thoughtful Octopus stamp set (coming as a new Online Exclusive) and paired it with the Beautiful Ordinary Life Designer Series Paper. The soft polka dot background with that colorful striped strip at the bottom works perfectly with this sketch – it gives you structure without feeling stiff.
​
The octopus is stamped in Petal Pink and layered on a circle from the Stylish Shapes dies. I added three little hearts stamped in Flirty Flamingo and popped them up with Stampin’ Dimensionals. The linen thread tied behind the sentiment adds just enough texture without making it fussy.

Fluttering By Hello

This card is all about that patterned paper.
I used the Velvet Meadow Designer Series Paper, and if you haven’t seen this in person yet – parts of it are flocked. Like actually fuzzy. It’s such a fun little detail that makes the card feel a little extra without doing anything complicated.

The butterflies are from the All Aflutter Bundle, and this is one of those bundles that just makes life easier. Stamp, punch, done. It’s a two-step stamp set, so you can keep it simple or layer it up for more detail.
​
I stamped the butterflies in Berry Burst and Bubble Bath and clustered them around the circle focal point. The sketch gives you that perfect anchor so you’re not guessing where things should go – you can just focus on playing with the stamps.

Simple Thank You with a Little Shine

This one is proof that a card sketch works just as well for something a little fancy.

I used the Scalloped Blooms bundle with the Bloom Boutique patterned paper in Crisp Cantaloupe and gold. And can we just take a second for Crisp Cantaloupe coming back? So glad it's going to be around as a 2026-2028 In Color.

The gold accents in the paper already do a lot of the work, so I leaned into that with a gold scalloped layer behind the sentiment. The ribbon adds a soft touch and ties everything together without overcomplicating the design.
​
This is a great go-to layout when you want something that feels a little elevated but is still quick and doable.

Same Sketch, Totally Different Cards

This is why I will never stop talking about card sketches.

Three completely different cards. Three different stamp sets. Three totally different vibes. One layout.
​
If you’ve got new supplies sitting on your desk and you’re not sure where to start – start with a sketch. It gives you just enough direction to get going without boxing you in.

FREE Project Sheet for this Card Sketch

Grab Your Free Project Sheet + Keep Creating

Make sure to grab the free downloadable project sheet so you have all the measurements ready to go.

And if you place an order of $50 or more, you’ll get my Creativity Made Simple card sketches and tutorials bundle – which is exactly what helps you turn your supplies into finished cards without overthinking it.

Orders of $75+ will also receive this month’s 16-card video tutorial bundle, and $100+ orders will get the make n’ take kit for next month’s card class.
​
Now tell me – which one of these would you make first?