If you’re anything like me, you probably love when a card comes together with a mix of textures and colors that make it feel extra special. Today’s project is all about capturing those warm, cozy autumn vibes and pairing them with the excitement of a birthday celebration. I’m using several fabulous products from WOW Embossing Powders, and I can’t wait to share how these powders transformed this card into a fall-inspired masterpiece.
Fall Leaves & Birthday Wishes:
A Card Full of Fall Textures
When it comes to card making, I’m always on the lookout for ways to add dimension and texture without making the design too complicated. Embossing powders are one of my favorite ways to achieve that. They bring in texture, shine, and color in a way that’s both fun and impactful. For this card, I went all out with a mix of WOW Embossing Powders, each one bringing its own unique sparkle and texture to the design.
I started by using the Fabulous Foliage Layering Stencils from Trinity Stamps. These stencils are perfect for layering up different embossing powders to create a stunning fall foliage effect. I placed a piece of teal cardstock from the Woodland 6 x 8 Pattern Paper Pad onto a sticky mat to hold it in place while I worked. Using a foam blending tool, I applied Ultra Slow Drying Embossing Ink through the first stencil layer, then began sprinkling on a mix of embossing powders: Olive and Rusty from the Quad Citrus Set, Pastiche Embossing Sparkles, Glass of Fizz, Sparkling Sunset from the Night on the Town Duo, and a bit of Brick from the Quad Building Blocks Set. The result? A rich, autumnal blend of colors and textures that almost felt like I was watching the leaves change before my eyes.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix embossing powders! It can feel a bit experimental at first, but the results are often stunning. The key is to layer the colors without overthinking it—let the powders do the magic!
Layering Stencils for Added Depth
Once the first layer of embossing was done and cooled, I added the stem details using the next layer of the Fabulous Foliage Stencil. For this, I used Granite Embossing Powder from the Quad Building Blocks Set, which added a neutral but slightly textured contrast to the colorful leaves. This layering process gave the card some depth and made those embossed leaves really pop against the teal background.
Once the embossing was cooled, I trimmed the panel down to 3 1/2" x 4 3/4" (8.9 cm x 12.1 cm)—a perfect size for layering on a birthday card. To create a contrast, I then cut a piece of orange cardstock to 3 3/4" x 5" (9.5 cm x 12.7 cm) and die cut a coffee mug and donut from the Fall Treat Die Set right from the center of the panel. I love finding ways to make the most of every scrap of cardstock!
Pro Tip: Always try to die cut elements from areas of cardstock that will be covered. This is a great way to save paper and get the most out of your supplies.
Adding Sparkle to the Details
With the main background ready, it was time to focus on the details—this is where things really get fun! I used WOW’s Frosted Glass Embossing Powder to add a frosty, almost sugar-like texture to the whipped cream and donut glaze (cut from Superior White Cardstock). These little details can take your card from pretty to wow-worthy with very little effort.
Next, I die cut some extra leaves and a pumpkin from the leftover teal and orange cardstocks and added a layer of Sparkling Sunset Embossing Powder over the leaves for that extra pop of shine. I have to say, seeing those leaves come to life with a little sparkle was my favorite part of the process. It reminded me of how the sun hits the leaves on a crisp fall morning—just beautiful!
Building the Scene
To bring everything together, I used some woodgrain patterned paper to create a window-like frame for the card. I love how wood textures pair with fall themes—they just seem to naturally complement each other. I layered the woodgrain pieces on the card base to create the look of a window with a little windowsill. Then, I added the cup and donut to the windowsill, stacking the embossed leaves and pumpkin around them.
The little sparkly leaves, whipped cream, and that donut just add so much personality to the card. I also added a few white gel pen highlights to the cup and donut to give them a bit more dimension. A quick swipe of Rusty Hinge and Faded Jeans Distress Inks on the blue leaves and the edges of the cup and donut helped to blend everything together and tie in the fall colors.
Pro Tip: When blending inks over embossed areas, go light! You want to enhance the colors, not cover up the beautiful embossing work you’ve done.
Finishing Touches
For the sentiment, I die cut "Happy Birthday" using the Enchanted Forest Dies and layered it over a shadow layer cut from Superior White Cardstock. I love using layered sentiments—they add just the right amount of depth and help draw attention to the greeting.
Finally, I attached the sentiment to the center of the card, making sure it had enough space to shine without competing with the other elements. A little bit of foam tape and liquid adhesive helped everything stay in place and added some dimension.
Wrap-Up
This fall-inspired birthday card was such a joy to create. From the rich textures of the WOW Embossing Powders to the playful fall details, this card has a little bit of everything. It’s perfect for celebrating a birthday during this cozy time of year, and I can’t wait to see how you put your own spin on it.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your embossing powders—mixing and matching colors can lead to some truly magical results. And as always, have fun with the details. After all, it’s the little touches that really make a card special!
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Materials Used:
Here you will find the list of supplies that I used to create today's card. All supplies are linked to supply sources below. Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you.
Happy Stampin'
Rick Adkins
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