In good taste masculine cards

I really struggle with cards with a masculine theme, it is something I am trying to overcome as my mother always asks for masculine birthday cards. I know that there is always a need for masculine cards but I loose my mojo and end up making something that looks awful (awful to me as I am a perfectionist.)

I decided that I wanted to create a simple birthday card for my brother in laws (they are both June babies.)

I loved the in good taste paper as soon as I saw it and though that it would be the perfect DSP to use. It is a stunning combination of photgraphic imagery (mainly tiles, who knew they could make such pretty papers) and gorgeous neutral patterns. I also wanted to utilise the stamps from the Looking Up Card Kit, Happy Birthday is one of my most used sentiments but this layout would also work for Thank You cards.

This card is simple to make and could be made using any combination of card and DSP. I used the Tailored Tag Punch but any punch or die could be used to create the shape. If you do not have shapes or dies, you could also use any shape for the sentiment.

The sketches for the card are below. You will also find a video of me making the cards (I have to confess it was recorded a while ago).

The Dimensions are:

Metric

Base: 21cm x 14.5cm scored at 10.5cm

Layer 1: 12.5cm x 8.5cm

DSP layer: - 12cm x 8cm

Strip: 12cm x 0.5cm

I love these cards and I will be using this sketch again.

Cards are Looking Good with the Looking Up All Inclusive Kits

I love Stampin’ Up! All inclusive kits, they contain everything you need to make 15 cards. It contains the ink, card bases, stamps and embellishments. The only thing you need to add are a bone folder and scissors. If you like having a bit of wiggle room when you add your toppers, then I would also recommend the Multipurpose glue.

THe kit comes in a compact box which can be used to store the kit and also would work as a beautiful present box when all the cards are made. It is a perfect size if crafting space is limited (in Uni Accomodation or small areas) or for crafting on the go (I have made a kit up on the train before.) Kits are perfect for new crafters but are also useful if you want to make quick easy handmade cards that your friends and family will adore.

The first picture shows the completed cards using the kit. The kit contains a gorgeous stamp set which has a number of very useful sentiments. I often find myself searching around for a ‘Happy Birthday’ or feel better soon sentiment and these are the perfect size for a number of uses.

The video below shows an overview of the all inclusive kit, there is also a second video, which gives more tips on using the kits and stamp storage.

I have had so much fun playing with the kit. I have created a few alternatives which are simple but still pretty. Look out for these coming out shortly. Whats your favourite kit?