When I opened June’s Paper Pumpkin kit, from Stampin’ Up!, I was pleasantly surprised to see a beach themed card kit.  This was so different from the floral paper crafts I usually did and I couldn’t wait to sit down and play with it!

Once I laid out all the supplies in front of me, I realized that this kit had so much potential beyond the suggested instructions.  It was a kit that could challenge all skill levels of paper crafters from beginner to advanced.

Read on to learn how to take this kit from basic to extra fancy!

For beginner level card makers, simply follow the instructions included in the “A Little Smile” kit to make a set of 16 mini cards sized at 3 1/2″ x 2 1/4″.  There are also 16 coordinating envelopes and a small storage envelope to hold up to 4 of the mini cards.  This cute card holder is small enough to fit in a purse so you can spread cheer and kindness whenever the moment strikes!

To step up the level of difficulty to moderate, standard sized cards (A2) can be made.  Add an extra layer of background paper and play around with the arrangement of elements and orientation on the card to take these ones up a notch.

HINT: Cut the mini card base in half and use both pieces in the layout!

But what about all those extra mini envelopes?

Well… it turns out the envelopes are the perfect size for gift cards!  I stamped a matching sentiment on the envelope and tucked it inside the card as an additional gift. What a perfect combo to give to someone who needs their day brightened or as a Thank You to someone who has been kind!

The kit came with a great selection of stamps, as well as vellum, paper, and glitter elements.  More advanced crafters would easily be challenged to add more elements, background designs, and embellishments to create lots of fun, beachy layers!

(Adding an embossed background will give the card more texture. Try the Subtle 3D embossing folder which is one of my favourites!)

I made coordinating gift card envelopes for these cards too!

Here are the four sets of cards with their different levels of difficulty side by side:

I loved that this Paper Pumpkin kit was so versatile for crafters of all skill level. From  the basic project if you were a beginner to the more heavily layered cards if you wanted a challenge.

If you enjoy paper crafting and would like to receive a monthly Paper Pumpkin Kit, please sign up here.

For other alternate designs created with the stamps from this kit, visit my previous post about the Silicone Mat Stamping Technique.

Also, check back next week when I show one more project created with the leftover beach elements.  This one is not a card, but rather a home decor piece – you won’t want to miss it!!

Leah