I’m always on the lookout for ways to stretch my supplies and create more with less, and my latest project did just that. Using a single card design, I challenged myself to create four uniquely styled cards—all featuring products from the Botanical Memories Collection by Paper Rose Studio. This project not only pushed my creativity but also reminded me why I fell in love with card making in the first place: the joy of transforming a simple idea into something beautifully unexpected.
Four Cards One Layout:
The Project Concept: One Layout, Four Unique Cards
There are moments when you just know you have a winning layout. I started with a classic card design and then decided to experiment by flipping and shifting elements around. The result? Four distinct cards that share a common foundation, yet each tells its own story. Whether you’re looking to make cards for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or just because, this project is a fun way to get the most out of your stash.
Card 1: Classic Botanical Design
For the first card, I started with the layout as it was originally designed. I chose three pattern papers from the Botanical Memories 6 x 6 Pattern Paper Collection to create a layered background. I set a bold botanical print as my base (cut to 3 1/4" x 4 1/4"), then layered a lavender textured paper (1 3/4" x 3 1/4”) on top. I even added two strips of blue textured paper—one at 1/4" x 1 1/2" and another at 1/4" x 2 3/4"—and matted these pieces onto Charcoal Black Cardstock for a crisp edge.
What really made this card shine was the die-cut floral details. I used white cardstock and vellum with the Aimee Etched Floral Die set, adding hints of Bubblegum and Berry inks for the petals, Lemon ink for the flower centers, and a graceful gradient on the leaves with Grass ink. I finished it off with a beautiful embossed die cut featuring a bird perched on a floral bird cage, a “Bestest Wishes To You” sentiment (complete with a fishtail banner), and three larger gems from the Crystal Clear Embellishment Mix. It’s a design that feels both modern and timeless—a true celebration of botanical beauty.
Pro Tip: When layering pattern papers, always cut your mat layers slightly larger (I use an extra 1/8” on each side). It not only frames your design beautifully but also covers any stray edges.
Card 2: A Bold Flip – Bright Florals and Stripes
For my second card, I decided to flip the layout to the left for a fresh, bold look. I selected a bright floral pattern for the main design and paired it with a sleek black-and-white striped pattern for contrast. The floral piece was cut to 3 1/4" x 4 1/4”, while the striped paper came in at 1 3/4" x 3 1/4”. Both pieces were matted with Charcoal Black Cardstock, and I positioned the smaller piece on the longer side of the larger one.
I then brought in three potted rose bush die cuts from the Botanical Memories Embossed Die Cut pack in varying sizes—arranging them with foam adhesive to add a playful dimensionality. To tie it all together, I used a scrap of white cardstock, ink blended with Lilac and Bubblegum inks for an ombré effect, and cut out a sentiment with the Vintage Hello Die Set. A few well-placed Crystal Clear gems sprinkled around the sentiment brought the design to life.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with orientation. Flipping your layout can completely transform a design and give it a fresh, new perspective.
Card 3: Vintage Tea Cup Vibes
For my third card, I flipped the design once more—this time placing the smaller strips on the left-hand side. I fell in love with the combination of a stacked tea cup pattern from the Botanical Memories Collection as the background and a vintage-style, black-and-white pattern featuring female portraits for the foreground (cut to 1 3/4" x 3 1/4”). Both layers were matted on Charcoal Black Cardstock, with extra strips of the same cardstock to add even more structure.
The focal point of this card was a set of tea cup die cuts. I used two different sizes from the Botanical Memories Embossed Die Cuts, creating a layered look with stitched circles from the Stitched Circles Metal Die Set (one in black glossy and one in white glossy cardstock). With foam tape securing the layered tea cups, I added a “Happy Mother’s Day” sentiment strip right below. A few additional touches of black cardstock and scattered Crystal Clear gems finished the look, giving it a vintage yet celebratory feel.
Pro Tip: When working with layered die cuts, foam tape is your best friend—it not only adds dimension but also helps keep the pieces securely in place.
Card 4: Chandelier Elegance
The final card in my series took a more dramatic turn. I chose a pattern from the Botanical Memories Pattern Paper featuring a large chandelier surrounded by florals (cut to 3 1/4" x 4 1/4”) and paired it with a blue textural pattern for the smaller piece. I layered these onto Charcoal Black Cardstock mat layers and attached the smaller piece just above the edge of a standard A2 card base, slightly off center to the left. The larger partner paper was then attached over, centered on the smaller layer.
To add more interest, I integrated two contrasting strips of Charcoal Black Cardstock—one narrow (1/4" x 1 1/2") on the left of the smaller piece, and a longer strip (1/4" x 3 1/2") on the top right of the larger piece. The pièce de résistance was a stitched circle cut from purple shimmer vellum, placed at the center of the larger pattern paper. I then affixed a floral chandelier embossed die cut right in the middle, using foam adhesive for that extra pop. A few scattered Crystal Clear gems and a “Happy Birthday” sentiment strip on the left-hand side brought the whole design together with a touch of festive elegance.
Pro Tip: When combining multiple elements, balance is key. Pay attention to how your smaller details (like cardstock strips) complement your focal image—they can truly elevate your design.
Tips for Stretching Your Card-Making Supplies
One of the things I adore about this project is how it shows that a single layout can yield a variety of designs. Here are a few quick tips:
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different orientations and layouts. Flipping your design even slightly can create a brand-new look.
Layer Wisely: Use your mat layers to create a clean, finished edge. It not only frames your design but also hides any rough cuts.
Embellish Thoughtfully: A few well-placed embellishments can transform your card. Whether it’s a gem here or a foam-taped layer there, these small details make a big impact.
Stay Organized: Keeping your supplies sorted by type and color can save you a lot of time and keep your creative flow uninterrupted.
Final Thoughts
This project has been a delightful reminder of how versatile and fun card making can be. With the Botanical Memories Collection from Paper Rose Studio as my go-to, I was able to reimagine one layout into four unique, eye-catching designs. Whether you’re making cards for a special occasion or just indulging in some creative expression, I hope this inspires you to look at your supplies in a new light and try something different.
I’d love to see how you take these ideas and make them your own. Please feel free to share your creations or even drop me a note about your favorite part of the project. Happy crafting, and here’s to making every card a little work of art!
Thanks for dropping by today I hope that you found a little spark of creative inspiration with my project today. Wondering what I used in this project? Everything is linked to multiple sources in the thumbnails in the Materials Used section, or in the text below. Compensated affiliate links used when possible.
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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