Spotlight Stamping Like A Pro: Video Tutorial | C. C. Designs

Have you ever been halfway through a card and felt like something was missing? Not quite enough dimension or drama—but also not wanting to add bulk or layers that might make mailing tricky? That’s exactly where spotlight stamping comes in. It’s one of those techniques that feels extra fancy but is surprisingly simple once you give it a try.

Today, I’m sharing two fun cards featuring the Coffee & Latte Swissie Stamp Set from C.C. Designs, and both use this technique to add a sweet little twist to a classic layout. These Swissie girls are already full of personality, but spotlighting them with a soft oval frame gives them even more charm—and helps create a cohesive focal point that really draws your eye in.

Spotlight Stamping Like a Pro:

The Stamp Set That Started It All

As soon as I saw the Coffee & Latte Swissie Stamp Set, I knew I’d be making more than one card. These images are just so full of warmth—they instantly make me think of chilly mornings, oversized mugs, and cozy cardigans. You know the vibe: your favorite spot near the window, coffee in hand, and a crafty project on your desk. That’s the feeling I wanted to capture with these cards.

Each of the two Swissie images has its own little story to tell, so I decided to create a design that would really help them shine… literally, with a little embossing and watercolor glow!

Why Spotlight Stamping?

If you’re new to this technique, the idea is simple: you highlight a specific area of your stamped image—usually with a die-cut shape and by adding color—while keeping the rest of the image more subtle or in the background. It’s kind of like zooming in with a camera lens, but on paper.

Here’s what I love about it:

• It instantly creates a focal point without extra embellishments

• It works beautifully with large or detailed images

• It’s a sneaky way to stretch your coloring—no need to shade the full scene!

Pro Tip: If you're short on time (or supplies), this is a great technique to focus your energy and markers exactly where they matter most.

A Closer Look at the Process

For these cards, I started by stamping each of the Swissie images onto Bristol Smooth Cardstock using Versafine Onyx Black Ink, and then I heat embossed with clear powder. I always say—if you’re going to watercolor or use water-based markers, embossing first is a game changer. It locks in those lines and keeps your color right where you want it.

From there, I die-cut an oval right from the center of one panel, and used that piece to spotlight color the Swissie image. I also added just a touch of color through the window of the card front itself—only where the image would peek through. No need to color the whole thing when only a portion is showing!

Once everything was dry, it was time to line everything up. I love that moment when the die-cut panel snaps perfectly into place with the background—it’s like watching a puzzle come together.

To finish off the front, I added a soft stenciled background using a coffee-themed stencil from my stash. It was subtle, but it added just enough texture to balance the simplicity of the spotlight. I chose coordinating inks that wouldn’t compete with the focal image. A stamped sentiment, a few sparkly rhinestones, and some gel pen highlights later—and my cards were complete.

Why This Technique Works (Every Time)

One of the things I’ve learned after years of cardmaking is this: when in doubt, spotlight it. Whether you’re struggling with composition or you just want to try something a little different, this trick helps center your design and gives your eye somewhere to land.

It’s also a great solution for images that might feel too small on an A2 card. Framing them with a simple shape, like an oval or circle, suddenly makes them feel more intentional—and turns a tiny stamp into the star of the show.

Want to See It in Action?

I put together a full video tutorial to walk you through the process. If you're a visual learner (like I am), you'll find it helpful to watch everything come together step by step. Plus, I share a few more tips in the video that might spark ideas for how you can use this technique with stamps you already have.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried spotlight stamping before, this is a great set to start with. The Coffee & Latte Swissie girls are the perfect size and style for this kind of layout—and the whole process is so fun and relaxing. I loved getting to combine soft watercoloring with bold outlines and a bit of layered dimension.

And the best part? These cards are still flat enough to mail easily, but they have that “wow” factor when you open the envelope. That’s always the goal, right?

If you give this technique a try, I’d love to see what you create! Let me know in the comments—or tag me on social media. Happy crafting!

Spotlight Stamping Like A Pro Video Tutorial:

If you have problems watching the video here on my blog you can always watch it on my YouTube Channel by Clicking here!

(Wondering what I used in this video? Everything is linked to multiple sources in the thumbnails at the end of this post, or in the text below. Compensated affiliate links used when possible). As always I appreciate your support of my videos!

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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