Susan Harwood MissQsCraftingContinuum

 Hi Crafting Friend, This isn't the easiest post to write, but it's honest. This week, there’s no card to share. No photos, no list of supplies, no clever sentiment stamped just right. For a while now, I’ve been feeling creatively… empty. Not in a dramatic, throw-all-my-stamps-in-the-trash kind of way, but more like a quiet exhaustion that’s been building up behind the scenes. Each week, I sit down at my desk — the one that used to feel like my happy place — and lately, it’s been feeling more like pressure than play. It’s creative burnout. When I first started sharing my handmade cards and blogging weekly, it brought me joy. I loved crafting something new, writing about the process, and connecting with this amazing, supportive community. But over the last six years, the rhythm turned into a routine, and then into a responsibility I didn’t quite sign up for. Creativity doesn’t always work on a schedule. And when you're constantly pushing yourself to make — even when th...

 Hi Crafting Friend, If you're looking to create a heartfelt handmade card that radiates warmth and strength, this project is the perfect mix of elegance and encouragement. This design uses a new stamp set that will be available on September 3rd . The  Love & Courage stamp set by Stampin’ Up! is a beautiful collection of sentiments and imagery that speaks directly to the heart. Paired with rich Mossy Meadow  and cheerful Darling Duckling , the color palette brings depth and joy together in one perfect harmony. The star of the texture show? The Pressed Flowers embossing folder . It gives the background a delicate, natural dimension that makes the focal image pop even more. The sentiments were stamped in Darling Duckling ink  with select words highlighted by going over them with a black gel pen , keeping the tones warm and consistent. The contrast between the deep green and the sunny yellow is bold but still soothing—perfect for sending love, courage, or a...

 Hi Crafting Friend, Looking for a card design that blends rustic charm with botanical elegance? Check out this stunning project created using Stampin’ Up!'s Extraordinary Flora washi tape, stamps, and dies , and I couldn’t be happier with the result! The background sets the tone: I ran Old Olive cardstock through the Exposed Brick 3D embossing folder , adding realistic depth and texture. The distressed, natural look of the brick is a perfect contrast to the intricate details of the floral elements. To bring in warmth and brightness, I layered the design onto Darling Duckling card base , which adds a vibrant pop without overpowering the botanical theme. The focal point? A wreath of florals constructed from individual elements die-cut from  Extraordinary Flora  washi tape adhered to Basic White cardstock. The sentiment is stamped in Mossy Meadow ink —rich, earthy, and perfectly tied into the green palette. Whether you're sending this card to celebrate a special occasion, ...

 Hi Crafting Friend, There’s nothing quite like a handmade card to brighten someone’s day — and this cheerful “Hello” card is no exception! Created using the Stampin’ Up Beautiful Butterflies Bundle , Floral Charm Designer Series Paper (DSP) , and vibrant Watercolor Pencils , this project blends elegance and artistry in one delightful package. 🦋 Design Highlights: Beautiful Butterflies Bundle : These delicate die cuts add a whimsical 3D effect, bringing motion and joy to the card. Floral Charm DSP : With soft florals and gentle hues, this paper makes the perfect background — like a garden in bloom! Watercolor Pencils : I used them to add vibrant color to the butterflies, giving the card a bright, cheery finish. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this card is a simple and satisfying project you can create in under an hour. 💌 Looking for a card that simply says, “I’m thinking of you”? Try this design and let your creativity fly! 🛒 Want to make y...