Do you have paper crafting supplies that are sitting untouched? If so, you’re not alone!
Are you ready to breathe new life into your forgotten stamps and dies? Join me as I share my favourite DIY paper craft hacks with you. As we recreate these floral cards and make some modern designs using your older supplies, perfect for cards for any occasion.
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Let’s take a peek at today’s cards?
You can jump straight into the video here or watch it in HD on YouTube HERE. Scroll for more pics and details.
#MODERNCARDS-OLDSUPPLIES
Let’s dust off your older supplies and create beautiful, modern floral cards. Using a fresh perspective, and today’s hacks, you can easily transform your stash into something contemporary and fun. Read on for an in-depth look into the tips and ideas that I shared with you!
Are you ready?
Idea #1 – Recreate a Recent Design
Sometimes, all it takes is a little inspiration from your previous creations. Recreating designs you have already made gives you a starting point and saves time, while still making your card feel fresh and modern. Both of today’s cards were based on recent card that I made, I was able to adapt these designs using older supplies.
Want to see the original cards? Click here.
Idea #2 – Modern Colour Palette
One of the easiest ways to update your supplies is by using a modern colour palette. I chose a vibrant teal and coral combination for my floral cards. This pairing works beautifully because it feels fresh, lively, and on-trend. Take a look at the colors in your stash… sometimes all it takes is a color update to make old supplies feel brand new.
Idea #3 – Check Your Stash
‘Shop’ your stash, take a good look at what you already have. Chances are, you’ll find some forgotten gems. In the video, I used older dies and stamps that I haven’t touched in a while. You might have something similar hiding in your stash that will work just as well!
*Half the fun in creating something is all about working with what you have.
Idea #4 – Any Medium
Whether you’re into ink blending, coloring with markers, or using embossing powder, there’s no limit to the media you can use to modernize older supplies. In my video, I used layered coloured cardstock to create the die-cut flowers. Experiment with what you have, and see how different mediums can give your older supplies a fresh, updated feel.
PRO TIP: You can use colours from anywhere – cardstock, ink blending, watercolours, pencils or even design paper.
Idea #5 – Timeless Images
Certain images never go out of style, and floral designs are a perfect example. If you’re using older dies or stamps, try selecting timeless images like flowers, leaves, or simple geometric shapes. These classic designs can easily be modernized with fresh color choices and textures.
Idea #6 – Use Texture
Adding texture is a simple way to elevate any card. I used glitter cardstock for the flower centers in my designs. Texture adds dimension and catches the light in such a beautiful way. You can also try embossing, adding some stickles, glitter, or even use foiled cardstock for even more visual interest.
Idea #7 – Clean & Simple
Modern cards often embrace less-is-more, so try to streamline your design for a sleek look. And even though the first card is a little ‘busier’, this second layout certainly has that bold clean and simple look, with plenty of open space to help the key elements shine.
Idea #8 – Bold Sentiment
Speaking of bold… a bold sentiment can make a huge impact. Try using a striking sentiment that stands out against the flowers. You can easily do this with older stamp sets – just make sure the sentiment is big, bold, and complements the overall design.
PRO TIP: Nesting circle or rectangle dies are the perfect way to ‘cheat’ a co-ordinating sentiment die.
Idea #9 – Adapt Images
If you’re feeling stuck on how to use a die or stamp, or need an image you don’t have, try adapting it. For example, if you don’t have a vase die, a circle or rectangle die can be used instead. Simply alter them by cutting off the top to the size that will suit your flowers and finished card design.
Don’t be afraid to play around with what you have and think outside the box.
Idea #10 – Mix & Match
Mixing and matching old and new supplies is a great way to refresh your stash. But, you can also mix and match different sets of dies such as I did. I chose to use leaves from a different die set to give me the look I wanted. It doesn’t stop there, you can also mix it up by using floral stamps instead of layered die cut flowers… or use stamped leaves instead, or even use them together.
Both of today’s cards have a combination of stamping and die cutting!
Idea #11 – Try Something New
Finally, don’t be afraid to try something new with your older supplies! Whether it’s a new technique, a different color palette, or an unexpected embellishment, embracing the unknown can lead to some beautiful results. Remember, the key is to experiment and have fun with it!
I was wary to try stamping the black flowers behind the bouquet, but you know what? It’s just a piece of paper and I decided that if I didn’t like it, I could start again. Guess what? I loved it!
I hope these tips inspire you to take a fresh look at your craft stash and start creating modern designs with older supplies! Whether it’s a few simple tweaks to your color palette or experimenting with new techniques, you can easily transform your forgotten supplies into something beautiful and contemporary.
I’d love to hear how you’re using your older supplies in new ways – I’d love you to share your ideas or creations in the comments below! What have you found in your stash that you can reimagine?
Happy crafting!
Sending crafty hugs your way!
SUPPLIES:
*Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon, this content is provided ‘as is’ and is subject to change or removal at any time. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Stamps: Altenew – CAF: Poppy (retired) | Mod Vases (retired) | Frosted Garden (retired).
Penny Black – Good Wishes | Smitten (envelope)
Dies: Altenew – Fantasy Floral Die (retired)
Cardstock: Altenew – Jet Black | Pale Gray | Rouge | Coral Bliss | Crimson.
Concord & 9th – Tidepool | Peacock | Nectar.
Ink: Altenew – Mint Choc | Pool | Dew Drops | Morning Frost | Evening Gray.
 Halftone Circles ALT |  Neenah Solar 110 AMZ | SSS | Neenah Solar 80 AMZ | SSS |  Altenew Cardstock ALT | SSS |
 Concord & 9th – Cardstock SSS |  Gilded Glitter Cardstock ALT |  Nocturne SSS |  Versamark Ink SSS | OTH |
 Warm Gray ALT | SSS |  Aqua Island ALT | SSS |  Dew Drops ALT | SSS |  Mini Blending Brush Storage ALT |
 Ink Blending Tool ALT | SSS |  Mini Blending Brush Set ALT | SSS |  Metallic Gold & Silver ALT | SSS |  Perfect Picker ALT | SSS |
 Tweezers ALT | SSS |  Bone Folder ALT |  Stampwheel 2.0 ALT | SSS |  Score Board ALT | SSS |
 Mini MISTI SSS |  Chuckie (pressure) Tool OTH |  9X12 Ultra Sticky Mat: Grid ALT | SSS |  Platinum 6 ALT | SSS | SB UK | SB US |
9″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer AMZ |  Glue Tape ALT | SSS |  Foam Tape NEW sizes! ALT | SSS | Bearly Art Glue AMZ | SSS |
 Satin Masking Tape ALT |
Therese, I love all of my layered die sets from Altenew – you’re right, they DO deserve another look!
I love both of your wonderful cards – especially that vase-full of loveliness!
=]
Just gorgeous!!! You have inspired me to get the blower out and dust off those oldies but goodies.
hahaha there was just a little dust lol.
I’ve been playing with older sets recently too, Therese! I love your new modern takes today. Fabulous cards once again!
I think we all must be doing just that, isn’t is the best fun Lisa!
I love how you added the background stamps to show off the bright and beautiful layered flowers, Therese. I’ve been trying to use more of my older stamps and dies too.
Many of the flowers I have feel like they are timeless and there are some that I just can’t part with lol. So glad you are having fun with your older supplies too my friend!
Lots to love here. Finally managed to get to a live on time. Just really enjoyed your reviving video. Two gorgeous cards💖💐💖
Yay! I had such fun, it’s good being back in the swing of things!
thanks once again for the inspiration, two fabulous cards, and I really needed that push to use some of my older dies and stamps.
Marie
Me too lol.