Could framing be the easiest way to add instant elegance to a card design?

I’ve been exploring frames in my card designs recently, and I’m loving how they add instant detail and focus. Last time I used nesting squares to frame florals, and today I’m taking it a step further with ornate picture frame dies. If you missed the earlier ideas, you can click here!

Let’s take a quick peek at today’s card!

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Psst… before we start: This post is part of the new beatufiul Altenew Release.

And, this post contains affiliate links. If you choose to click and shop, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a lovely way to support both me and the crafty shops we all love.
Thanks a bunch 🥰!

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So what’s the design twist today?
I’ve been experimenting with how frames can shape a card – not just outline it – and this ornate picture frame is doing all the heavy lifting.

Card Inspiration – Just a Note

Typically a frame would hold an image, but in this ornate picture frame card design I let it take on a more decorative role. Instead of tucking the floral inside, I placed a bold blue watercolor bloom over the top, making the frame part of the focal point, not just a border.

To add a little sparkle and elegance, I filled the centre of the frame with glitter cardstock, letting the shine peek through behind the floral. It’s a small switch, but such a pretty way to let your frame do more than outline the design!

Ornate Picture Card Frame Design – Give It a Try!

Have you ever added your design on top of a frame instead of inside it?
It’s such a fun switch! And if you don’t have a decorative frame die in your stash, no worries – you can still play along.

Check out my previous post where I share ideas for creating your own frame using nesting dies and simple techniques that work with supplies you already have.

PS. Did you know that this detailed frame is created using a coordinating embossing folder and die set… you may already know my thoughts on embossing folders at the moment! 🥰

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And if you loved this idea, stay tuned – I’ll be sharing two unique ways to use picture frames very soon.
In the meantime, I’d love to hear how you’ve used frames in your cards – tell me in the comments below!
Happy papercrafting,

Special thanks to my crafty assistant, Chad (aka ChatGPT), for helping me stay on track with my Gemini brain, grammar, and spelling… well, all the things! 😄

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Twin Blooms ALT	Frozen Moments ALT	Scripty Sentiments Dies ALT	Foundation Brush Set ALT
Brushed Gold ALT | SSS	Dazzling Diamond ALT | SSS	Neenah Solar 110 AMZ | SSS	Neenah Solar 80 AMZ | SSS
Watercolor Paper Set 30 (Cold-Pressed) ALT | SSS	Vellum SSS	Embossing Ink ALT | SSS	Palette Perfection Bundle ALT | SSS
Large Palette ALT | SSS	Pure White ALT	Powder Tool SSS	WOW Heat Tool SSS
Sicilan Amber Gem Sparkles ALT	Bone Folder ALT	Perfect Picker ALT | SSS	Tweezers ALT | SSS
Fine Blade Scissors ALT | SSS	Stampwheel ALT | SSS	Score Board ALT | SSS	Platinum 6 ALT | SSS | SB UK | SB US
Platesaver OTH	9″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer AMZ	Precision Glue Press AMZ | SSS	Bearly Art Glue AMZ | SSS
Glue Tape ALT | SSS	Foam Tape ALT | SSS	Satin Masking Tape ALT