Ever wish your handmade cards could have those jaw-dropping textured backgrounds — without needing a cartful of fancy tools?

Same here.

That’s why I’m kicking off a brand-new how-to series called Just One Technique — where each episode focuses on one simple, satisfying cardmaking technique you can master in minutes.

First up, we’re getting hands-on with a Stamper’s Request: adding color to dry embossed backgrounds using a brayer. If you’ve ever stared longingly at those gorgeous raised patterns and wondered how to add a little more drama and depth without losing your mind (or your budget)… this one’s for you.

Creating stunning, colorful textured backgrounds doesn’t have to be complicated — or expensive. You just need a basic dry embossing folder, a brayer, an ink pad, and a sprinkle of creativity.

Here’s Why I Love This Brayer and Embossing Folder Technique

• It’s quick: You can create a dramatic background in under five minutes.

• It’s forgiving: No need for perfection; the natural texture does the heavy lifting.

• It’s versatile: Use any ink colors, embossing folders, and paper combos you like!

Take a look at the finished project.

In today’s video tutorial, I walk you step-by-step through the brayer technique, plus I share a peek at the finished card project featuring the colorful embossed background in action. You can click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp with AnaMarie channel and view. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe and set up notifications to be alerted of upcoming video tutorials.

What You’ll Need

• Embossing folder of your choice

• Die-cutting/embossing machine (Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine)

• Brayer (a small roller)

• Ink pad

• Cardstock

How It Works

1. Ink Up Your Brayer:
   Roll your brayer over an ink pad until it’s evenly coated. This is basically painting with a roller — no heavy pressing needed!

2. Roll Ink onto Your Embossing Folder:
   Lightly roll the brayer across the raised side of your embossing folder. You want the ink to catch only the raised design, not the recessed areas.

3. Add Your Paper and Emboss:
   Carefully place your cardstock inside the folder and run it through your embossing machine. When you peel it out, the magic happens: a beautifully textured, colorful background that looks way fancier than it was.

Pro Tips:

• Practice once or twice on scrap paper to get a feel for how much ink to use.

• Try metallic inks for a little extra drama.

• For a more subtle look, use a lighter hand with your brayer.

• Want even more dimension? Ink blend lightly over the top after embossing for a double effect.

Compare the Results!

Typically, color is brayered onto the raised image — the underside of the folder front — but brayering the debossed side results in a great effect, too. Below is a sample of the three embossed backgrounds possible with the embossing folder. The top left card is unbrayered, center is brayered on the raised surface and the right is brayered on the debossed surface.

More Help is On the Way!

If you’re ready to elevate your handmade cards with simple techniques that don’t eat up your entire weekend, Just One Technique is your new happy place.

Each new episode will break down a different cardmaking trick, hack, or how-to that will leave you thinking, “Wait — that’s it?!”

Make sure you subscribe to the Just Stamp with Anamarie YouTube channel so you don’t miss a single technique (and sneak peeks of the finished projects).
And if you loved today’s brayer embossing tutorial, leave me a comment or tag me on your creations — I love seeing your beautiful work out in the world.

After all, a handmade card isn’t just paper and ink — it’s joy, connection, and a little piece of your heart sent through the mail.

Now go grab that brayer, get inky, and start making someone’s day!

Here are the supplies I used to create these projects. Note: two ink colors will be available May 6, 2025. Darling Duckling (#165277) and Strawberry Slush (#165286). Click on any photo for details.

I’ve been playing with all my Saleabration goodies for a few weeks now, and I have to say… I’m obsessed!

What’s Saleabration? Just the BEST Stampin’ Up! sale of the year! With every $60 or $120 (US) you spend on Stampin’ Up! products before tax and shipping, you can choose a FREE Sale-A-Bration product. If you join Stampin’ Up! during Sale-A-Bration, you can build a Starter Kit full of products you choose. And you get to select one of two free bonus options. It’s the BEST deal!

Here’s What I Made with My Saleabration Goodies

Bloom Impressions Designer Series Paper

Friendly Seagulls Stamp Set (and Other Saleabration Picks)

Corner In Bloom

Heart Shaped Die Bundle

A Special Offer for Sweet Customers

Don’t miss out on the BEST sale of the Stampin’ Up! year! Before good things come to an end, grab your Saleabration gifts AND a gift from Just Stamp — Place an order for $75 before taxes in the Just Stamp Online Store using the Host Code XUDEKKY6 by Friday, Feb, 28, 2025 and receive an All Inclusive Fruit Salad Card Class by mail for FREE.  Make SIX Happy Mail cards — Just add your own adhesive! This offer ends Friday, February 28th. Want to see the class? Email Me at amp@anamariepalmerin.com

SHOP HERE

Saleabration Gifts to Choose From — While Supplies Last!

If you love quick and beautiful handmade cards, you’re going to adore the four Sweet ‘n Simple cards I showcased in this week’s Facebook Live! The cards were created with the lovely Memorable Blooms bundle and patterned paper you can earn for free with a $60 (US) order during Stampin’ Up!’s Saleabration promotion.

During the session, I demonstrated each step, walking you through the creative process to make these stunning projects. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just starting, these cards are easy to recreate and perfect for any occasion.

Miss the Live? Watch the Replay Here

I demonstrated how to make the heartfelt Sweet ‘n Simple cards during this week’s FaceBook LIVE. I shared the supplies, tools and step-by-step instructions. Don’t worry if you missed my Facebook Live—you can catch the replay and learn how to make the Sweet ‘n Simple Memorable Blooms cards. You can click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp YouTube channel and view. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe and set up notifications to be alerted of upcoming video tutorials.

Why You’ll Love This Class

• Quick & Easy Designs – Perfect for any skill level. These cards require the basic, essential cardmaking tools and just a few supplies.
• Step-by-Step Guidance – Clear instructions and detailed photos. Even if you’re new to cardmaking, the step-by-step process makes it easy to follow along. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to recreate heartfelt cards that will thrill the recipients.
• Flexible Options – Join in-person, get a kit, or download the PDF!

A Special Offer — Five Ways to Get This Class

Want to create these beautiful cards? You have multiple ways to join the fun and make them your own:

* FREE with $40+ order by Feb. 12, 2025, using the Host Code REE6DJP9. Shop Here
* FREE to new Stamparista Team Members – Join and enjoy this class as a welcome gift! Join Here
* In-Person Class on Feb. 15, 2025 – Come craft with me! Register Here
* Class To-Go – Get the full kit for just $25 + shipping! Register Here
* PDF Tutorial Only – Have the supplies? Grab just the tutorial for instant download! Purchase Here

What if I told you your next card design only needs stamps, paper and ink? Let’s keep it sweet and simple!

During this week’s Facebook Live Online Card Class, I showed how to create beautiful cards featuring the Corner in Bloom stamp set — an elegant floral stamp set you can snag for FREE during Stampin’ Up!’s Saleabration promotion. To make these cards extra special, I paired Corner in Bloom with the With You in Mind stamp set for perfect sentiments.

A Special Offer 

This is cardmaking as its simplest and best — the SIP way (stamps, ink and paper). And guess what? When you place a $40 order with me through Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, you’ll get the kit to make the beautiful cards for free as my thank you gift.  Click here to shop with the code.

The Corner in Bloom stamp set is a beautiful 8-piece stamp set you can use to decorate every corner of your paper crafts. This stamp set features gorgeous line-art floral stamps arranged for stamping corners and borders of cards, tags, frames, scrapbook pages, and other paper crafts. Color the florals with a new coloring technique each time you use this stamp for a custom look every time. Best of all — you can earn it for free with any $120 order (US) during Saleabration.

Card 1 With You in Mind Happy Birthday

Card 2 With You in Mind Thank You

Card 3 With You in Mind Thinking of You

Miss the Live? Watch the Replay Here

I demonstrated how to make the 3 Sweet ‘n Simple cards during this week’s FaceBook LIVE. I shared the supplies, tools and step-by-step instructions. Don’t worry if you missed my Facebook Live—you can catch the replay and learn how to make the Sweet ‘n Simple Corner in Bloom designs. You can click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp YouTube channel and view. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe and set up notifications to be alerted of upcoming video tutorials.

Here are the supplies I used to create these projects. Click on any photo for details.

Are you ready to add a touch of whimsy to your card-making projects? This week’s online card class is all about the Terrific Toadstools Bundle—a delightful set featuring charming mushrooms, toadstools, and a coordinating punch for effortless cropping.

This week I featured Clean ‘n Simple card inspiration along with two Fun Folds to share the charm of the Terrific Toadstools during Facebook Live demonstrations. Place a minimum $40 order in my online store using the Host Code BP39ETTN by Sunday, Jan, 19, 2025, and I will send you the kit to create the cards I demonstrated as a thank you gift.

What’s Included

Three Stunning Card Designs
This week’s class features not one, but three unique card designs guaranteed to brighten anyone’s day. Two of the cards are fun folds, adding an extra element of surprise to your handmade creations.

Free Card Kits with Your Order
Place an order of $40 or more in my online store, and I’ll send you the card kit for each card for free! These kits include everything you need to recreate the cards demonstrated in this week’s class — no stamped images per Stampin’ Up! policy..

Earn Even More During Saleabration!
Take your order to $60, and you’ll qualify for a free exclusive paper pack or other gift as part of the Stampin’ Up! Saleabration promotion.

Relive the Live Experience

If you missed the Facebook Live, don’t worry! The full video walkthroughs are now available on my YouTube channel, Just Stamp with AnaMarie. Watch as I guide you step-by-step through the process of crafting these cheerful cards. You’ll also get an up-close look at the supplies and techniques used.

Card 1 Clean ‘n Simple

I love using the coordinating punch — purchase the bundle and Save 10% — to quickly crop the mushrooms to layer. The coordinating Toadstool Gardens paper pack is FREE during Saleabration with just a $60 US purchase.

Watch the video tutorial on YouTube HERE. 

Card 2 Melon Mambo Fun Fold

Everyone loves a Fun Fold and a special technique! This card features both. On the card front you can spy the whimsical border created with Stampin’ Write Markers to make the toadstools POP. The Double Z Fun Fold opens to reveal your message bordered with the same  whimsical touch.

Watch the video tutorial to create the Double Z Fun Fold HERE.

Card 3 Display Easel Card

Everyone loves to display their special cards — this Free Standing Display Easel card makes it easy for the memories to thrive on their desktop or mantle. This fun fold isn’t just adorable—it POPS UP to deliver a special “You Are Magical” surprise! Heat embossing the greeting adds more WOW! magic. Don’t forget—you can grab the Toadstool Garden paper FREE during Sale-a-Bration

Watch the video tutorial HERE.

Why You’ll Love the Terrific Toadstools Bundle:

• Versatile Designs: Perfect for birthdays, thank-you notes, or just-because cards.
• Interactive Fun: Two fun-fold designs that add magic to every card.
• Easy to Use: The coordinating punch makes creating a breeze!

Don’t Miss Out!

Place your order by Sunday, January 19, to secure your free card kit and unlock the magic of this whimsical bundle. Don’t forget—Saleabration is the perfect time to stock up and earn extra goodies for your craft stash.

Shop Here with the Host Code to earn your gifts from Just Stamp and Stampin’ Up!

Here are the supplies I used to create these projects. Click on any photo for details.

Birthdays deserve more than just store-bought cards — they deserve a personal touch! This month, I’m excited to introduce the Birthday Celebrations Card Kit of the Month, designed to help you create beautiful, heartfelt cards with ease.

Plus, as a special bonus, my latest Facebook Live features an interactive Free-Standing Pop-Up Card that you can make using the kit supplies.

The Free-Standing Pop Up card features one of the Wildflower Birthday Designer Series Paper card fronts. The huge birthday cake makes a whimsical element that literally pops up and stands for display. The card template is a fun design that’s extra special, and (Bonus!) doesn’t require any dies or special tools to create. I featured the project during this week’s Facebook Live.

Miss the Live? Watch the Replay Here

Don’t worry if you missed my Facebook Live—you can catch the replay and learn how to make the Free-Standing Pop-Up Card in just 6 easy steps! You can click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp YouTube channel and view. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe and set up notifications to be alerted of upcoming video tutorials.

The Pop Up Folds Flat!

There’s no need for a special envelope or packaging. Simply slip the cake back into the card base. Then slip the card into a standard A2 envelope for easy mailing that requires no additional postage.

If  you love Stampin’ Up!’s Birthday Celebrations suite and want inspiration and materials to make lots of celebration cards, join this month’s Greetings Card Kit of the Month.   Click here for details.

What’s Included in the Birthday Celebrations Card Kit?

Pre-cut and scored cardstock for four cards and an adorable tote

Share of Wildflower Birthday Designer Series Paper

Share of coordinating embellishments

Spool of Coordinating Gold Thread

Step-by-step instructions to create stunning birthday cards

How to Sign Up

Ready to get crafty? Register today for this month’s kit and bring joy to every birthday celebration! Click Here for details.

Spread the Joy! Tag a friend who would love to create with you.

Here are the supplies I used to make the Free-Standing Pop Up Birthday Celebration card. Click on any photo for details.

Love and friendship are in the air, and I’m here to help you create stunning handmade cards with the Heart Shaped Bundle from Stampin’ Up! This exclusive bundle includes a versatile stamp set and coordinating dies—perfect for crafting heartfelt Valentine’s, Galentine’s, and friendship cards.

The best part? You can get this bundle FREE during Saleabration with a $120 order. Plus, when you shop with me and place an order of $40+ using Host Code WYHAYQ3B, you’ll receive a FREE card kit featuring the Heart Shaped Bundle. This kit includes pre-cut supplies and step-by-step instructions to create the cards I demonstrated during my Facebook LIVES.

Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorials

I showcased one card per day during my recent Facebook LIVES, walking you through the supplies, measurements and techniques for each design. If you missed the live sessions, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. You can catch the full replay of the demo on my YouTube channel.

Let’s Take a Look at the Card Designs

Card 1: Clean & Vibrant

This simple yet stunning card features a large heart die cut from the Online Exclusive Hearts of Elegance die set. The heart is beautifully stamped with the small trio of posy stamps from the Heart Shaped Bundle, giving it a delicate floral touch.
Click the link below, or head over to the Just Stamp YouTube channel.

Card 2 Stepped-Up Thank You Card

If you love texture and layers, this card is for you! This thank you card features Bloom Impressions Designer Series Paper, another fabulous Saleabration freebie you can choose with your qualifying order. The mix of embossed details and intricate die cuts makes this card a showstopper. Click the link below, or head over to the Just Stamp YouTube channel to watch the replay.

Card 3: Sweet Friendship Card

Perfect for Galentine’s Day or a special friend, this card brings a touch of whimsy with the Hearts & Hugs bundle from the annual catalog. The adorable critter holding a banner of hearts adds a fun and charming touch. Click the link below, or head over to the Just Stamp YouTube channel to watch the tutorial.

How to Get Your Free Card Kit

Place a $40+ order in my online store.
Use Host Code WYHAYQ3B at checkout.
Order by Sunday, Jan. 12 to qualify.
Your FREE card kit will be shipped straight to you so you can craft along with me!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create gorgeous handmade cards AND earn free crafting goodies during Saleabration! Shop today and let’s get stamping!

Here are the supplies I used to create these Sweet ‘n Simple Valentine and Friendship card. Click on any photo for details.

Shop Here
Watch the Facebook LIVE replays Here
Subscribe on YouTube for more tutorials Here

The holiday season is here, and there’s no better way to make your gifts stand out than with adorable holiday gift packaging. Whether you’re gifting something small or big, a thoughtful wrapping can make all the difference. But let’s face it – who has time for complicated wrapping techniques during the busiest time of the year?

That’s where Week 9 of the 12 Weeks of Christmas comes in! This week during the Facebook LIVE demonstration I shared how to create quick, easy, and adorable gift packaging for the holidays – and the best part? It’s super simple and doesn’t require any fancy tools or expensive materials. I chose Stampin’ Up!’s A Little Bit Festive Specialty Paper, Book Treat Boxes and the Gift Bag Combo Pack to make the projects super quick.

Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

If you missed the live session, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. You can catch the full replay of the demo on my YouTube channel. I shared the supplies, tools and step-by-step instructions to create the Quick & Easy Holiday Gift Packaging. You can watch the full tutorial by clicking the link below, or head over to the Just Stamp YouTube channel for more inspiration.

Be sure to subscribe and enable notifications to stay updated on future tutorials and craft ideas! Join the Just Stamp Email list to receive exclusive tutorials for future projects like this and more. Join here.

What You’ll Learn in the Live Demo

1. Creative Wrapping Ideas: From minimalist to festive, I’ll show you several different ways to wrap gifts that look fabulous but don’t take hours to do.
2. Budget-Friendly Materials: No need to go out and buy expensive wrapping paper or ribbons! You’ll learn how to make the most of materials you probably already have around the house.
3. Personalized Touches: Adding that personal flair is key. I’ll show you easy ways to incorporate handmade tags, custom bows, and unique accents that will make your gifts feel extra special.
4. Time-Saving Tips: Who wants to spend hours wrapping gifts? I’ll give you tips and tricks for wrapping multiple gifts quickly while still making them look fabulous.

Book Treat Box — Perfect for Jewelry or Sweets!

Large Gift Bag — Perfect for Kids’ & Women’s Tees!

Small Gift Bag — Perfect for Socks & Hand Lotions!

Why Handmade Gift Packaging Makes a Difference

In the rush of buying presents, it’s easy to overlook how much a thoughtful presentation can enhance the entire gifting experience. The way you wrap your gift says a lot about how much you care, and it’s a great way to show your loved ones you’ve put extra thought into their present.

When you make your own gift packaging, you’re not only saving money but also making something uniquely yours. Plus, it’s a fun activity that the whole family can get involved in.

So, grab your supplies, watch the demo, and let’s get wrapping!

Here are the supplies I used to create the Quick & Easy Holiday Gift Packaging

Click on any photo for details.