Fall is such a beautiful time of year, filled with vibrant colors and cozy moments. As card makers, it's the perfect season to reflect those warm, rich hues in our designs. One technique that I've found particularly effective for capturing the essence of autumn is the Bokeh Effect. Today, I’m excited to share a project featuring the first of the Bokeh background techniques I shared in this post. With this project I’ve combined layers of stenciled ink with a gorgeous pop-up leaf design. This card not only celebrates the season but also gives a heartfelt message of gratitude, perfect for sending to loved ones during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Give Thanks Fall Card:
Creating the Bokeh Background
When I first discovered the Bokeh technique, I was instantly drawn to how it can create a soft, dreamy effect that adds depth to any card design. For this particular card, I wanted to evoke the feeling of fall leaves gently falling, using warm tones and layered stenciling.
To achieve this look, I used the Bokeh Stencil Trio from Waffle Flower Crafts. Starting with Distress Inks in shades of oranges, yellows, dusty pinks, and a hint of red (see list of colors used below in the supply list), I blended the inks through the stencil layers. I love how these colors come together to create a rich, autumnal palette that just feels like fall. For the final layer, I flipped the stencil over and applied Unicorn White Pigment Ink. This not only softened the overall effect but also added a subtle glow, reminiscent of early morning light filtering through the trees.
Pro Tip: Always clean your stencil between layers to avoid muddying your colors. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference in achieving those crisp, distinct layers.
Die-Cutting the Panel
After creating the Bokeh background, I knew I wanted to add an element that would make the card truly stand out. The Pop-up Fall Leaves Panel Die from Waffle Flower Crafts was the perfect choice. This die creates a lovely, intricate leaf pattern that adds both dimension and interest to the card.
Once the leaves were die-cut, I trimmed the panel down to 3 3/4" x 5" and layered it onto a piece of Pitch Black Cardstock from Hero Arts. The contrast of the black cardstock really makes the warm colors pop, adding a striking visual element to the card.
Pro Tip: When trimming your panel, make sure to use a sharp trimmer blade for clean, precise edges. This is especially important when working with intricate die cuts to maintain the integrity of the design.
Assembling the Card
With the background and leaf panel ready, it was time to assemble the card. I attached the trimmed panel to a top-folding A2 card base, cut from Neenah Desert Storm 100 lbs Cardstock. The natural tone of the Desert Storm cardstock complements the fall color scheme beautifully, adding warmth and texture.
For the sentiment, I used the Give Thanks Print Die from Waffle Flower Crafts. I cut the shadow layer from Neenah Solar White 80 lbs cardstock and the word sentiment die from gold holographic cardstock (from my stash) and Brown Textured Cardstock from Lawn Fawn. To add dimension, I layered the white word die cut with one of the gold holographic layers. Then, I offset the second gold holographic layer behind the Brown Textured Cardstock word layer, creating a shadow effect that adds depth and interest to the sentiment.
Pro Tip: When layering die-cut sentiments, use foam adhesive to add dimension and make your sentiment stand out even more. It’s a simple trick that adds a lot of visual impact to your card.
Finishing Touches
To complete the card, I added a few New Penny Rhinestones from Pajama Crafter Stamps around the sentiment. I love how these little touches of sparkle catch the light, adding just the right amount of bling without overwhelming the design. I placed three rhinestones at the top right of the sentiment and two at the bottom left, creating a balanced look that draws the eye to the focal point of the card.
Pro Tip: When adding embellishments like rhinestones, remember that less is often more. Placing them strategically can enhance your design without detracting from the overall look.
I hope this card inspires you to experiment with the Bokeh technique and explore new ways to incorporate rich fall colors into your designs. The combination of layered stenciling, intricate die cuts, and thoughtful embellishments creates a card that’s not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful—a perfect way to express gratitude during the Thanksgiving season.
As always, I’d love to see your take on this technique. Whether you’re making a fall-themed card or trying out the Bokeh Effect for the first time, feel free to share your creations. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t forget to check out the video tutorial where I walk you through this process step by step.
Thank you for joining me today, and happy crafting!
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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