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    Greenery Lane: Washi Tape Background & Fun Fold Design

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    February 23, 2026
    Greenery Lane: Washi Tape Background & Fun Fold Design

    As soon as I flipped through the catalog, I was instantly drawn to the rich colors and natural feel of the Greenery Lane Washi Tape. This card was the perfect opportunity to play with those colors and experiment with a few fun techniques to make something truly unique.

    For the background, I combined two simple techniques that add beautiful depth and interest. First, I used a tone-on-tone stamping method by stamping Pretty Peacock ink directly onto Pretty Peacock cardstock. This creates a subtle, textured look that adds dimension without overwhelming the design.

    The second technique features the Greenery Lane Washi Tape applied to Basic White cardstock. Layering the Washi Tape this way transforms it into a custom designer paper panel! It’s such an easy way to create a bold focal point with minimal effort. Be sure to check out the video linked below to see exactly how this technique comes together.

    I also switched things up with the card layout. Instead of using a traditional folded card base, I started with a 5-1/2″ x 4-1/4″ Pretty Peacock panel as the foundation. The folded element is adhered directly to this base, creating a fresh twist on a fun fold design. I love experimenting with different structures—it’s an easy way to make a card feel extra special!

    This project is a wonderful reminder that a few simple techniques—tone-on-tone stamping, Washi Tape layering, and a creative fold—can turn one set of products into something completely unexpected and fun.

    Technique Video:

    Learn how to use Washi Tape as a Background.

    Cardstock Cuts for this project:

    • Pretty Peacock – 5-1/2″ x 4-1/4″ base panel
    • Lost Lagoon – 8-1/2″ x 3-1/2″ (scored at 4-1/4)
    • Berry Burst – 3-1/4″ x 2″ for Leaf Die
    • Basic White – 4″ x 3-1/4″ inside panel, 4″ x 3-1/4″ panel, 3-1/4″ x 3-1/2″ for leaves Dies, 1″ scrap for Label Die

    Stampin’ Up! products used to create this project:

    166877
    Greenery Lane Bundle (English) – 166877

    Price: $49.50

    166880
    Greenery Lane Washi Tape – 166880

    Price: $15.00

    104199
    Linen Thread – 104199

    Price: $5.00

    161678
    Lost Lagoon Classic Stampin’ Pad – 161678

    Price: $9.00

    150083
    Pretty Peacock Classic Stampin’ Pad – 150083

    Price: $9.00

    147143
    Berry Burst Classic Stampin’ Pad – 147143

    Price: $9.00

    150880
    Pretty Peacock 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 150880

    Price: $14.00

    133679
    Lost Lagoon 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 133679

    Price: $14.00

    144243
    Berry Burst 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 144243

    Price: $14.00

    166780
    Basic White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 166780

    Price: $14.00

    103683
    Mini Glue Dots – 103683

    Price: $7.25

    104430
    Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

    Price: $4.25

    144108
    Mini Stampin’ Dimensionals – 144108

    Price: $4.25

    Add All to Cart

    Supply List

    Continue reading →: Greenery Lane: Washi Tape Background & Fun Fold Design
  • Birthday, Card, Masculine, Technique

    Not a Scrap Wasted: Nature Walk Guy Cards

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    February 18, 2026
    Not a Scrap Wasted: Nature Walk Guy Cards

    I love it when a card design comes together with zero waste — especially when it uses up every last bit of beautiful paper. This set of cards featuring the Nature Walk DSP does exactly that! And as an added bonus, they’re perfect “guy cards.”

    Let’s be honest — I never seem to have a masculine card ready when I need one. So lately, I’ve been intentionally designing cards that work beautifully for men, especially birthdays.

    For the first card, I used the negative piece of the patterned paper after die-cutting the leaf. Instead of discarding it, I layered it over a coordinating script pattern from the same DSP and popped it up for dimension. The layered look adds subtle texture while still keeping the design clean and masculine.

    For the second card, I used the actual leaf that I die-cut. On this version, I adhered the leaf directly to the card front for a flatter finish. However, next time I plan to pop up the leaves with dimensionals to create even more depth and visual interest.

    The rest of the card design — including the inside — remains consistent on both versions, making this an efficient and repeatable layout.

    Overall, I’m so happy with how these turned out. Simple, classic, and ready to grab the next time I need a birthday card for a guy!

    Cardstock Cuts for this project:

    • Mossy Meadow – 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ scored at 4-1/4
    • Nature Walk DSP – 5-1/4″ x 4″ panel from green; 4-1/2″ x 3-1/2″ panel from script
    • Basic White – 5-1/4″ x 4″ inside panel; 2-1/4″ x 2-1/4″ for Circle

    Stampin’ Up! products used to create this project:

    166936
    Nature Walk Suite Collection (English) – 166936

    Price: $84.75

    166926
    Nature’s Symphony Bundle (English) – 166926

    Price: $46.75

    133782
    2″ (5.1 Cm) Circle Punch – 133782

    Price: $25.00

    166931
    Faux Bronze Pentagons – 166931

    Price: $9.50

    166912
    Nature Walk 12″ X 12″ (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper – 166912

    Price: $12.50

    133676
    Mossy Meadow 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 133676

    Price: $14.00

    166780
    Basic White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 166780

    Price: $14.00

    147111
    Mossy Meadow Classic Stampin’ Pad – 147111

    Price: $9.00

    147116
    Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad – 147116

    Price: $9.00

    104430
    Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

    Price: $4.25

    103683
    Mini Glue Dots – 103683

    Price: $7.25

    144108
    Mini Stampin’ Dimensionals – 144108

    Price: $4.25

    Add All to Cart

    Supply List

    Continue reading →: Not a Scrap Wasted: Nature Walk Guy Cards
  • 3D Project, Card, Gift Giving, Valentine’s Day

    Sweet Treats to Share with the Endless Love Suite

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    February 12, 2026
    Sweet Treats to Share with the Endless Love Suite

    For my final project with the Endless Love Suite, I created festive gift bags filled with delicious sweet treats for friends and colleagues. These Heart Gusseted Treat Bags are the perfect canvas for Valentine’s creativity — and they’re just as practical as they are cute!

    I mixed and matched the Made With Love Designer Series Paper, coordinating dies, and stamps to decorate the front of each bag. By varying the designs, I was able to showcase more of the beautiful patterns and have a little extra fun with the papers.

    And the best part? These treat bags hold a lot of goodies, making them perfect for sharing a generous dose of Valentine’s cheer.

    Cardstock Cuts for this project:

    • Made With Love DSP – 7-1/2″ x 3″ panel; 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ for Heart
    • Bubble Bath – 4″ x 3-3/4″ for Heart
    • Strawberry Slush – 2-1/2″ x 3/4″ for Label

    Stampin’ Up! products used to create this project:

    167062
    Endless Love Bundle (English) – 167062

    Price: $47.50

    167073
    Hearts Gusseted Treat Bags – 167073

    Price: $11.00

    167075
    Bubble Bath 1/8″ (3.2 Mm) Faux Linen Ribbon – 167075

    Price: $8.00

    167054
    Made With Love 12″ X 12″ (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper – 167054

    Price: $12.50

    165625
    Strawberry Slush 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 165625

    Price: $14.00

    161718
    Bubble Bath 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 161718

    Price: $14.00

    147083
    Cherry Cobbler Classic Stampin’ Pad – 147083

    Price: $9.00

    104430
    Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

    Price: $4.25

    Add All to Cart

    Supply List

    Continue reading →: Sweet Treats to Share with the Endless Love Suite
  • Card, Valentine’s Day

    A Whimsical Valentine with the Endless Love Suite

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    February 9, 2026
    A Whimsical Valentine with the Endless Love Suite

    I’m back with another Valentine’s Day card created with the Endless Love Suite, and this one leans into a little extra whimsy — which always feels just right for Valentine’s Day.

    The base of the card is built from simple layers of white, giving me the perfect canvas to let the stamped hearts and bold sentiments take center stage. I heat embossed “Happy” and “Day” on small strips of Poppy Parade cardstock and stamped “Valentine’s” in Bubble Bath to tie the whole color story together.

    Then came the fun part! I scattered stamped hearts across the front of the card and layered the words right over top. To add to the playful feel, I glued tiny die-cut hearts all around the design, creating movement and texture.

    I carried the heart stamping to the inside of the card for a cohesive finish. Looking back, I think adding a few of those die-cut hearts inside would have been an extra sweet touch — something I’ll definitely try next time!

    Valentine’s Day cards are the perfect excuse to embrace a little whimsy, and this one was such a joy to create.

    Cardstock Cuts for this project:

    • Basic White Thick – 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ scored at 4-1/4
    • Basic White – 5-1/4″ x 4″ panel
    • Bubble Bath – 3″ x 3/4″ for Words; Scrap for Hearts
    • Poppy Parade – 1-1/4″ x 3/4″ for Words; 1″ x 3/4″ for Words
    • Strawberry Slush – Scrap for Hearts

    Stampin’ Up! products used to create this project:

    167062
    Endless Love Bundle (English) – 167062

    Price: $47.50

    159971
    Embossing Additions Tool Kit – 159971

    Price: $27.00

    129053
    Heat Tool – 129053

    Price: $32.00

    165679
    Basics Wow! Embossing Powder – 165679

    Price: $21.00

    102283
    Versamark Pad – 102283

    Price: $9.50

    165286
    Strawberry Slush Classic Stampin’ Pad – 165286

    Price: $9.00

    147050
    Poppy Parade Classic Stampin’ Pad – 147050

    Price: $9.00

    119793
    Poppy Parade 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 119793

    Price: $14.00

    165625
    Strawberry Slush 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 165625

    Price: $14.00

    161718
    Bubble Bath 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 161718

    Price: $14.00

    159229
    Basic White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Thick Cardstock – 159229

    Price: $17.00

    166780
    Basic White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 166780

    Price: $14.00

    104430
    Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

    Price: $4.25

    103683
    Mini Glue Dots – 103683

    Price: $7.25

    Add All to Cart

    Supply List

    Continue reading →: A Whimsical Valentine with the Endless Love Suite
  • Card, Valentine’s Day

    A Sweet Start to Valentine’s Day Crafting

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    February 5, 2026
    A Sweet Start to Valentine’s Day Crafting

    Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and I’m excited to start sharing the projects I created using the Endless Love Suite. I had so much fun designing several Valentine’s Day cards and even a coordinating gift, and I’ll be sharing each one with you over the next few days.

    Today’s card is a simple design that really lets the Made With Love Designer Series Paper shine. The soft patterns create beautiful built-in layering without needing a lot of extra elements.

    To add dimension, I popped up a white heart and tied in a bit of ribbon for texture. After photographing the card, I couldn’t resist adding a few Strawberry Slush and Pretty In Pink Gems for just the right touch of sparkle.

    I finished the inside with a sweet sentiment and a subtle double-heart watermark for a polished, cohesive look from front to back.

    Stay tuned for more Valentine’s inspiration coming soon! 💗

    Cardstock Cuts for this project:

    • Strawberry Slush – 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ scored at 4-1/4″; 2-1/4″ x 1″ for Arrow
    • Made with Love DSP – 4″ x 3-3/4″ for Heart; 4″ x 3″ panel
    • Basic White – 5-1/4″ x 4″ inside panel; 4″ x 3-1/4″ panel; 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ for heart
    • Bubble Bath – 5-3/8″ x 4-1/8″ panel; 2-1/4″ x 1″ for Arrow

    Stampin’ Up! products used to create this project:

    167079
    Made With Love Suite Collection (English) – 167079

    Price: $98.00

    167062
    Endless Love Bundle (English) – 167062

    Price: $47.50

    167071
    Hearts Of Love 3D Embossing Folder – 167071

    Price: $11.00

    167075
    Bubble Bath 1/8″ (3.2 Mm) Faux Linen Ribbon – 167075

    Price: $8.00

    165615
    Strawberry Slush & Pretty In Pink Gems – 165615

    Price: $8.50

    167054
    Made With Love 12″ X 12″ (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper – 167054

    Price: $12.50

    165625
    Strawberry Slush 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 165625

    Price: $14.00

    161718
    Bubble Bath 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 161718

    Price: $14.00

    166780
    Basic White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 166780

    Price: $14.00

    165286
    Strawberry Slush Classic Stampin’ Pad – 165286

    Price: $9.00

    161664
    Bubble Bath Classic Stampin’ Pad – 161664

    Price: $9.00

    104430
    Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

    Price: $4.25

    103683
    Mini Glue Dots – 103683

    Price: $7.25

    Add All to Cart

    Supply List

    Continue reading →: A Sweet Start to Valentine’s Day Crafting
  • Checklist, Christmas

    A Thoughtful Reset: How I Pack Up Christmas for Next Year

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    January 3, 2026

    The New Year has arrived, but Christmas still lingers in the soft glow of lights and carefully placed décor around the house. I don’t rush this part of the season. For me, packing up Christmas is the final, intentional step—one that closes the chapter while quietly preparing for an even smoother holiday next year.

    Over the years, I’ve found that a little strategy now makes decorating far more enjoyable later. Here’s how I reset after the holidays with calm, clarity, and a plan.

    Pause Before You Pack

    Before a single ornament comes down, I document everything. I take photos of each room and save them in a dedicated “Decorations” section in my OneNote. This has become one of my most valuable holiday tools.

    These photos capture more than décor—they capture ideas, layouts, and the overall feel of the season. When next November rolls around, I’m not guessing what worked or trying to remember where things went. I can recreate favorite displays or tweak them with confidence, without starting from scratch.

    Store with Intention

    Thoughtful storage is the secret to stress-free decorating next year. I always pack up Christmas one room at a time, keeping items for each space together in clearly labeled bins. When it’s time to decorate again, I can work at my own pace—room by room—without pulling out everything at once.

    I also take a moment to reassess my storage setup each year. Are the bins still working? Is there a better way to use the space I have? A little organizing now saves time, space, and frustration later.

    Wrapping Up the Season

    Once the décor is tucked away, I shift into reflection mode. January is the perfect time to close the loop on the holidays:

    • Gift Lists: I archive this year’s gift list in my tracking app. Having a history of what I’ve given makes future planning easier and more thoughtful.
    • Next Year’s Ideas: I start a fresh gift list for the coming year. Inspiration doesn’t follow a calendar, and capturing ideas as they pop up makes December far less hectic.
    • Season Notes: I jot down quick reflections—what cookies were a hit, which gatherings felt just right, and which traditions brought the most joy. These “lessons learned” notes help me refine the season year after year.

    A Gentle Ending

    Packing up Christmas doesn’t have to feel like an obligation or a letdown. When done with care and intention, it becomes a satisfying reset—one that honors the season while quietly preparing for the next. By documenting, organizing, and reflecting now, I give myself the gift of ease, creativity, and joy when Christmas returns again.

    Continue reading →: A Thoughtful Reset: How I Pack Up Christmas for Next Year
  • New Years

    Happy New Year!

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    January 1, 2026
    Happy New Year!

    May this New Year bring you as much happiness as a cat lying in a sunbeam!

    Continue reading →: Happy New Year!
  • Checklist, Christmas, Organization

    Don’t Pack Up Christmas Just Yet!

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    December 27, 2025

    I hope you had a wonderful Christmas filled with joy, laughter, and all your favorite traditions. Now take a deep breath and relax—but don’t even think about packing up the holidays yet! The festive season isn’t over. Keep the lights glowing, enjoy the leftovers, and soak in those cozy vibes as we get ready to ring in the New Year.

    For us, the celebration continues in a big way. As many of you know, I’m an Ohio State Buckeye and Nathan is a Miami Hurricane, which means our New Year’s plans revolve around football—specifically the Cotton Bowl. There’s nothing quite like closing out the year cheering on your team, and this matchup should be a lot of fun to watch.

    Here’s to stretching the holiday magic just a little longer and kicking off the New Year with excitement, friendly rivalry, and plenty of team spirit.

    Continue reading →: Don’t Pack Up Christmas Just Yet!
  • Christmas

    Merry Christmas!

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    December 25, 2025
    Merry Christmas!

    Merry Christmas from my family to yours.

    (Left to Right: Olivia, Fuzz, Little; Nathan and Nicole, Ortensia, Berlioz)

    Continue reading →: Merry Christmas!
  • Christmas, Foodie, Travel

    A Holly Jolly Christmas in Asheville

    Published by

    Nicole Black

    on

    December 22, 2025
    A Holly Jolly Christmas in Asheville

    Our Christmas trip this year took us to Asheville, North Carolina and the iconic Biltmore Estate—and it truly was the perfect destination for festive fun. Asheville and its surrounding towns go all out for the holidays, offering something magical for everyone, from cozy small-town celebrations to grand, elegant traditions.

    We began our trip in Franklin, where we spent a few wonderful days visiting our friends Beth and Newman. It was such a gift to slow down, catch up, and simply enjoy time together. Their home is nestled into the side of a hill (or mountain!) and the views are absolutely breathtaking—one of those scenes you could admire every single day and never tire of.

    From there, we headed to Asheville and jumped right into the holiday cheer. We explored the neighboring town of Black Mountain during their Holly Jolly Celebration, admired the sparkling displays at the Arboretum’s Winter Lights, and of course, spent time at the crown jewel of the area—the Biltmore Estate.

    One of the highlights of our stay was dinner at The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. The views were incredible, the atmosphere was elegant, and the food was outstanding—truly a memorable evening.

    Later that night, we experienced the Candlelight Christmas Tour of the Biltmore House. Seeing the estate illuminated by candlelight, adorned with stunning Christmas décor, was nothing short of magical.

    The next day, we returned to the Biltmore Estate in daylight to explore more at a relaxed pace. We enjoyed lunch at Village Social, then made our way to the winery to sample their wines—a perfect way to round out our time on the estate.

    While in Asheville, we also visited The Omni Grove Park Inn to see the entries for the National Gingerbread House Competition. The Inn itself is breathtaking, built into the side of a hill so that you enter on the 10th floor. Out back, stairs wind down the hillside and lead to a scenic golf course below.

    The gingerbread displays were unbelievable—each one more detailed and creative than the last. I truly don’t know how the judges choose a winner!

    The lobby’s two massive fireplaces immediately drew us in, and we couldn’t resist grabbing a snack and a drink to enjoy fireside. Being able to cuddle up in front of a roaring fireplace is something I especially miss during the holidays while living in Florida.

    We also made sure to indulge in some spectacular hot chocolate—because what’s a Christmas trip without it?

    Overall, our Asheville Christmas trip was absolutely amazing. Between spending time with great friends, enjoying delicious food, and soaking in so many beautiful holiday traditions, it was a getaway we’ll treasure for years to come. Asheville truly knows how to do Christmas, and this trip left us feeling full of joy, gratitude, and holiday spirit.

    Continue reading →: A Holly Jolly Christmas in Asheville
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Hello,

I’m Nicole

I am a project manager by day and a crafter by night. I love Christmas and want to do it all every year. I will share with you how I do it and enjoy it too!

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Recent posts

  • Greenery Lane: Washi Tape Background & Fun Fold Design

    Greenery Lane: Washi Tape Background & Fun Fold Design

  • Not a Scrap Wasted: Nature Walk Guy Cards

    Not a Scrap Wasted: Nature Walk Guy Cards

  • Sweet Treats to Share with the Endless Love Suite

    Sweet Treats to Share with the Endless Love Suite

  • A Whimsical Valentine with the Endless Love Suite

    A Whimsical Valentine with the Endless Love Suite

  • A Sweet Start to Valentine’s Day Crafting

    A Sweet Start to Valentine’s Day Crafting

  • A Thoughtful Reset: How I Pack Up Christmas for Next Year

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