Turtle Tales & Card-Making Adventures: Unleash Your Creativity

By | August 12, 2025

Stampin' Up! Turtle-y Awesome | Just Stamp Miss You Sweet Friend

If you’ve been around my craft table for any length of time, you already know that I love to create cards that reach out and connect. Whether it’s to share a favorite memory, a funny moment, or a heartfelt wish, there’s just something magical about creating the card and sharing it with someone special.

This month, I’ve fallen “head-over-flippers” for the Stampin’ Up!’s Turtle-y Awesome stamp and dies bundle. These little turtles aren’t just cute — they’re bursting with personality, ready to star in your next handmade card. And here’s the fun twist: instead of just stamping a turtle and calling it a day, we’re going to give them personalities and tell their stories through our card designs.

Let’s dive into the storytelling in card-making — turtle style!

The Magic of Storytelling in Card-Making

One of the reasons I love card-making is that every card is a mini story. Think about it — the colors you choose, the sentiment you stamp, the embellishments you add… they all work together to say something unique. I love Stampin’ Up!’s suite collections to make all the coordination easy.

When you take a little extra time to imagine who your “characters” are (yes, even a turtle counts as a character!) and what moment in life they’re celebrating, you transform a simple handmade card into a keepsake. The handmade card is the tale that makes the recipient smile, laugh, or even tear up a little. It Makes Their Day!

Meet the Turtle Crew

Stampin' Up! Turtle-y Awesome Bundle

This month in my classes, we’re creating cards featuring three of my favorite turtle personalities. You can meet them now and start imagining the stories you’ll tell:

  • Birthday Bob – Bob’s the life of the pond! He wears his party hat proudly, loves bright colors, and always has a cake or balloon in hand (or… flipper). Perfect for birthdays of all ages.

  • Thankful Tina – Tina’s the mellow type who knows how to slow down and appreciate life’s little blessings: a simple flower, a feathered friend. She’s ideal for thank-you cards or notes of encouragement.

  • Gregarious Gary – Gary might be moving slow, but he’s full of song and energy. He’s perfect for celebration messages.

Each turtle has its own color palette, accessories, and personality, and we’ll be making all of them in this month’s In Person Class and Kit To Go.

How to Craft Turtle Personalities on Your Cards

If you’re ready to give your turtle some character, here are a few of my favorite tips:

1. Play with Color

Bright and bold for Birthday Bob, clean and simple for Thankful Tina, or high energy colors and musical notes for Gregarious Gary — your color choices are the first hint at your turtle’s personality. I love pulling colors from the Stampin’ Up! color families and mixing them for just the right feel. Even more, I love the patterned papers that offer easy-to-snip turtles or colorful backgrounds.

2. Add Accessories

Party hats, balloons, flowers, and lots of active gear,  — accessories tell your recipient who this turtle is and what they’re up to. The Turtle-y Awesome dies make snipping and layering a breeze.

3. Use Sentiments Creatively

Think of a Turtle-y Awesome Happy Birthday or the simple “Hooray!” or “Sweet Friend.”

4. Tell the Story Inside

Don’t forget the inside of your card. A simple stamped image or short message can continue the little story you started on the front. Imagine opening Birthday Bob’s card and finding the yummy cake or floating balloons inside.


Inspiration Gallery: Turtle Cards with a Story

Stampin' Up! Turtle-y Awesome | Just Stamp Birthday Turtle Card

Stampin' Up! Turtle-y Awesome | Just Stamp Celebration Turtle Card

When you see the finished cards, you’ll know exactly why I can’t stop making them. Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll create in class:

  • Birthday Bob’s Big Bash – Bright turtle shell texture, confetti paper, and an irresistible chocolate cake embellishment make this one an instant party.

  • Tina’s Heartfelt Message – Soft stripes atop a turtle-shell background and sweet flower and birdie give Tina’s card a serene, heartfelt touch.

  • Gary’s Song of Celebration – A bright color combo and a twangy banjo strike up a birthday ditty.

These are the cards to connect — slip them into the mail, tuck them into a gift bag, or hand delivery with a hug.


Your Turn: Make Your Own Turtle Tale

Turtle-y Awesome DIY Cards Class

Here’s where you come in. Whether you join me for the In Person Class or grab a Kit To Go, you’ll get everything you need to create your own little turtle tales. You’ll have the freedom to tweak the colors, swap accessories, and write the perfect inside message for your recipient. Click HERE for In Person details, or HERE for Kit To Go. Yes! Just the PDF Tutorial is available. Click HERE.

Not only will you have adorable finished cards, but you’ll also have the confidence to start adding more storytelling to all your card-making projects.

Whether it’s a birthday, a thank-you, or a miss you message, every card has a tale worth telling… and these turtles can’t wait to be the star of yours.

Here are the supplies I used to create these projects.

Patriotic Cards with Painted Stripes, Country Flowers and Round We Go

By | June 12, 2025

Ready to celebrate the USA this summer? Dive into vibrant reds, whites and blues for stunning patriotic cards — perfect for celebrating our Sweet Land of Liberty!

During today’s Live with AnaMarie, I shared the online Stars & Stripes Card Bash class. (It’s also available In Person and To Go!)

Here’s a closer look at each project.

Card 1: Hip, Hip, Hooray! USA!

Stampin; Up! Party Alphabet Dies | Just Stamp Patriotic Card

This card radiates patriotic spirit with its bold design. Featuring the new Party Alphabet DiesCountry Flowers bundles, and the beautiful Country Lace patterned paper. It’s definitely a showstopper. The Stack, Cut and Shuffle technique brings the background to life, while the cheerful greeting, “Hip, Hip, Hooray! USA!” adds the perfect finishing touch.

Card 2: Time to Celebrate

Stampin' Up! Round We Go | Just Stamp Time to Celebrate Patriotic Card

 

A floral delight! Using the Round We Go and Country Flowers bundles, plus the Party Banners dies, we crafted three pinwheel flowers in Cherry Cobbler, Basic Beige, and Misty Moonlight. The trio of blooms beautifully symbolizes the essence of celebration. It’s topped off with a  “Time to Celebrate” message.

Card 3: Flower Market Sweet Land of Liberty

Stampin' Up! Painted Stripes and Country Flowers | Just Stamp Patriotic Note Card

Faded glory meets elegance. The Country FlowersPainted Stripes background stamp, and Perennial Postage Dies come together to represent the 13 Stars & Stripes. Using Stampin’ Blends alcohol markers, the images were colored in the spirit of Americana art.

In Case You Missed It

In the video, I walk you through creating the patriotic cards. Click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp with AnaMarie channel to catch the replay. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe to the Just Stamp channel.

Join the In-Person Class!

Nothing beats gathering to connect and craft. Join friends at the crafty table on Tuesday, June 24 for our In Person class! Registration closes on June 20 — catch the Early Bird Bonus. Register by June 14 and make two bonus cards. CLICK HERE to register.

Get the Project Kit for FREE!

Want to craft the cards but you’re not local to the Just Stamp studio? Place an online order of $35+ in my Online Store by June 20 and receive the project kits for free. Crafting fun delivered right to your door! SHOP HERE by June 20 to receive the kit.

Why You’ll Love The Stars & Stripes Card Bash

  • Creative Freedom: Explore different combinations of reds and blues with Stampin’ Up! products allows for endless possibilities.
  • Innovative Techniques: Utilize the Stack, Cut and Shuffle technique and Stampin’ Blends offers new ways to enhance card designs.
  • Versatile Supplies: Incorporate new stamps and dies with tried and true favorites like Country Flowers and Round We Go for fresh, vibrant projects.
  • Patriotic Spirit: Craft cards that celebrate our country and create an easy way to Make Someone’s Day.

Here are the supplies I used to create these projects. Some are on the Last Chance list, and many are included in the current BOGO Sweet Suite Sale!

Product List


Get More from Every Ink Pad: How to Stamp Off Like a Pro

By | May 5, 2025

Just One Technique | Generational Stamping Technique with 1st, 2nd, Trd | Just Stamp Impressions Abloom

 

Ever wish your ink pads could do more than one thing?

Spoiler: They can.

And this week’s Just One Technique is all about squeezing every drop of color magic from the fresh new 2025-2027 In Colors by Stampin’ Up!™

If you’re anything like me, the second a new color collection launches, you want to use all the colors right now. But what if I told you… each ink pad already comes with up to three shades baked in?

This week, I’m showing you the Stamping Off Technique — also called Generational Stamping. It’s simple, beginner-friendly, and gives your stamped images depth, interest, and subtle shading without needing extra tools.

Here’s How It Works

  • Ink your stamp and stamp once — that’s full strength, First Generation.

  • Without reinking, stamp again — that’s a lighter shade, Second Generation.

  • Stamp one more time — hello, the softest shade, Third Generation!

The result? One ink pad. Three shades. Gorgeous layering, ombré looks, and tonal depth.
It’s the perfect way to stretch your supplies AND showcase each new In Color’s personality.

Look How the Generations Create Beautiful Stamped Images

The finished project showcases all the 2025-2027  In Colors! One inch cardstock strips snipped and arranged atop a soft embossed layer create a colorful backdrop for cheerful flowers and a from-the-heart sentiment — all from the new Impressions Abloom bundle available May 6, 2026. It’s a perfect card for Mom this Mother’s Day (May 11th)

Impressions Abloom by Stampin' Up!™ | Just Stamp Thanks For Being There Card

In this week’s video, I walk you through stamping off step-by-step using all five new Stampin’ Up!™ In Colors: Strawberry Slush, Timid Tiger, Darling Duckling, Cloud Cover and Secret Sea.
You’ll also see how I use the lighter and darker impressions to build a finished card that’s fresh, clean, and oh-so-colorful.

Click below or click over to the YouTube Just Stamp with AnaMarie channel and view the Just One Technique short video.

Ready to make the most of your ink pads?
Grab your stamps, watch the full tutorial on the Just Stamp with Anamarie YouTube channel, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a technique!

Stampin' Up!™ Impressions Abloom | Just Stamp Thanks for Being There Card Zoom

💌 And if you try this week’s trick, tag me @juststamp — I’d LOVE to see your take on the new In Colors!

Because at Just Stamp, we don’t just make cards…
We Make Someone’s Day — One Handmade Card at a Time!

Dry Embossing with Color: Just One Technique Every Cardmaker Should Know

By | April 28, 2025

Just Stamp Just One Technique

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.

Stampin' Up! Happy Hibiscus | Just Stamp Brayered Dry Emboss Thanks Card

 

 

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.

Stampin' Up! Happy Hibiscus | Just Stamp Brayered Samples

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!

Stampin' Up! Happy Hibiscus Bundle | Just Stamp Brayered Background Thanks Card Zoom

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.

Happy Hibiscus Bundle (English) [ 164880 ]

$59.25

Fluid 100 Watercolor Paper [ 149612 ]

$9.00

Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Thick Cardstock [ 159229 ]

$11.25

Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Cardstock [ 166780 ]

$14.00

Balmy Blue 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock [ 146982 ]

$11.50

Granny Apple Green Stampin' Pad [ 147095 ]

$9.00

Versamark Pad [ 102283 ]

$9.50

Basics Wow! Embossing Powder [ 165679 ]

$21.00

Basic Gray Classic Stampin' Pad [ 149165 ]

$9.00

Iridescent Pearl Basic Jewels [ 158987 ]

$7.50

Stampin' Brayer [ 162936 ]

$16.00

Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine [ 149653 ]

$130.00

Final Days for Free Gifts During Stampin’ Up!’s Saleabration Sale

By | February 26, 2025

Stampin' Up! Saleabration Shop & Earn

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

Stampin' Up! Bloom Impressions | Just Stamp Memorable Blooms Love & Thanks

 

Friendly Seagulls Stamp Set (and Other Saleabration Picks)

Stampin' Up! Friendly Seagulls | Just Stamp Card Class

 

 

 

 

Corner In Bloom

Stampin' Up! Corner in Bloom | Just Stamp Sweet 'n Simple Happy Birthday

 

Heart Shaped Die Bundle

Stampin' Up! Heart Shaped Bundle | Just Stamp My All My Thoughts of You

 

 

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!

Four Sweet ‘n Simple Cards from the Memorable Blooms Class

By | February 7, 2025

Stampin' Up! Memorable Bloom Bundle | Just Stamp Sweet 'n Sinple Love & Thanks Card

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.

Stampin' Up! Memorable Bloom Bundle | Just Stamp Sweet 'n Sinple On My Mind Card

Stampin' Up! Memorable Bloom Bundle | Just Stamp Sweet 'n Sinple Thanks So Much Card

 

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

 

 

Cardmaking the SIP Way! 3 Sweet ‘n Simple Designs with Corner in Bloom

By | January 23, 2025

Stampin' Up! Corner in Bloom | Just Stamp SIP Cards with With You in Mind

 

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

Stampin' Up! Corner in Bloom | Just Stamp Sweet 'n Simple Happy Birthday

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.

Blender Pens

$14.00

 

Create Cheerful Cards with the Terrific Toadstools Bundle!

By | January 18, 2025

Stampin' Up! Terrific Toadstools | Just Stamp Clean 'n Simple Plus Fun Folds

 

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

Stampin' Up! Terrific Toadstools | Just Stamp Clean 'n Simple Poppin' Up to say Hi!

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

Stampin' Up! Terrific Toadstools | Just Stamp 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

Stampin' Up! Terrific Toadstools | Just Stamp 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.