Do you think there’s something magical about stencils? I do! The real magic happens when you pull the stencil away and the pattern is revealed…. kind of like today’s exciting news 🤔
I can finally share my secret – I am Guest Designing with Concord & 9th for their incredible Holiday release, and it’s huge! Over the next week, I’ll be sharing my cards, tips, and a few fun surprises, so don’t forget to pop back to see what’s next.
Would you like to see where the magic takes us?
I use affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link, I’ll receive a small portion of the sale at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support me and the shops we love 🥰!
#STENCILS
Stencils are one of my absolute favorite tools to create with – they make adding patterns and texture to your cards so quick and fun. Whether you want a subtle background or a bold statement, stencils give you endless possibilities. Plus, that magic moment when you lift the stencil and see your design revealed?
Stencil Tips – Quick & Easy!
- Keep it simple – a subtle, quick pattern makes for an easy backdrop for your design. No need to hunt through your design papers for the perfect color – just pick the ink that matches your project!
- Layer your inks – blend two or three colors for a richer, more dynamic background.
- Mix and match – combine different stencils to create your own unique patterns.
- Work from light to dark – start with your lighter shades and build up depth gradually, or add an ombre effect where the color goes from light to dark.
- Keep it clean – wipe off your stencil between uses to avoid muddying your colors (or accidentally contaminating your project 😲).
Card #1 – Plaid Stencil
I love the versatility of a plaid background and having a stencil to make my own bespoke patterns is perfect. I chose a unique combination of colors for this Christmas design, but you could easily switch it up to something more traditional.
You could also design this card with just the large sentiment as the focal point, but I decided to create a little foxy scene along the base of the card front for some extra critter cuteness!
BONUS IDEA: These stencils come as separate pieces, so if plaid isn’t your thing, you can also use them to create a quick, angled background. And you probably already know how much I love one of those!
Card #2 – Leafy Stencil
This leafy stencil makes such a fresh and festive background, and it’s so quick and easy to create a full patterned backdrop in just minutes. I kept the same color palette, but this time the sentiment takes centre stage.
For a fun twist, I perched our little fox on top of the sentiment for a playful accent – it’s a simple way to add interest without taking away from the message. These stencils can also be used separately; the ‘dots’ stencil would make a perfect snowy or confetti background.
These cards were quick, fun, and a great way to try out the new Holiday release from Concord & 9th. I’d love to hear – are you a stencil fan too? Which background would you try first: will it be the leafy scene or the plaid?
And don’t forget, I’ll be back over the week to share more inspiration from this amazing release!
Til then, crafty hugs,
P.S. Need supplies? Here are the links to the products I used today (some of these are affiliate links, so I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase—thanks for supporting my channel and the stores we love! 🥰
*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.
SUPPLIES
Concord & 9th – SHOP THE NEW RELEASE HERE
Concord & 9th Ink:Â Nectar | Sea Glass | Rainforest.
Concord & 9th Cardstock:Â Sea Glass | Clementine | Nectar | Poppy | White.
 Merry Mix Stencils SSS | C9 |  Seasons Greetings Bundle C9 |  Seasons Greetings SSS | C9 |  Seasons Greetings Die SSS | C9 |
 Accordian Tree Farm Dies SSS | C9 |  Accordian Woodland Dies SSS | C9 |  Holiday Charm SSS | C9 |  Concord & 9th – Cardstock SSS | C9 |
 Concord & 9th Ink SSS | C9 |  Nocturne SSS |  Mini Blending Brush Set ALT | SSS |  Copic Markers SSS |
 Tweezers ALT | SSS |  Bone Folder ALT |  Score Board ALT | SSS |  Sticky Grid Mat Ultra ALT | SSS | SB US |
 Mini MISTI SSS |  Platinum 6 ALT | SSS | SB UK | SB US |  9″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer AMZ |  Precision Glue Press AMZ | SSS |
Bearly Art Glue AMZ | SSS |  Glue Tape ALT | SSS |  Foam Tape NEW sizes! ALT | SSS |  Satin Masking Tape ALT |
I do, I do!! There is just something very calming about mindless ink blending over stencils, Therese! The reveal is often far different than you could imagine based on color choices, and blends, right?
I love your projects – congrats on designing with C&9th! I can see I will have to add this lovely Nectar to my Christmas favorites of pink, and aqua!
=]
mmmmm Nectar lol. I am so excited to be promoting Concord & 9ths Holiday release, it’s full of FUN!
Once again your creations have inspired me. Sent an order in today for the stencils. I can invision the leaf and plaid stencils in many color combinations for multiple seasons such as warm fall shades or pastel for spring. Love the ability to use my purchases in multiple ways.
I know right, this set of stencils is fabulous, used on their own or layered… very very clever design! I know you will love them Nancy!
This is weird — I posted a comment and it disappeared; only my name shows up. Sorry about that. I mentioned how adorable your cards are, beautiful colors and I love that you added such a cute fox to both cards,
Congrats on the new gig!
Thank you so much Caroline…. weird about your previous comment but a HUGE thank you for taking the time to repeat yourself and let me know, you have made my day!
Love these cards! The colours are so fresh and the little fox is adorable! The leaf stencil is so versatile and who doesn’t love a good plaid?! 🇨🇦
I agree Tammy, love me a plaid any day!