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Writer's pictureRick Adkins

Two Cards One Layout!

Hello, crafty friends! Today, I’m excited to share something a little different: two cards, one layout! If you're like me, you know how sometimes a single layout can inspire multiple card designs, especially when you're working with versatile stamps like the ones I’m using today from my stash. I’ve had a lot of fun playing around with the Beary Good Day and Little Line Agenda stamp sets, and I can’t wait to show you how I turned one layout into two completely different cards.


Two Cards One Layout Blog Banner

Two Cards One Layout:

The Inspiration Behind the Layout

One of the things I love about card making is how a simple layout can be transformed with just a few tweaks in color and theme. When I started brainstorming for the Mama Elephant Guest Designer Call, I knew I wanted to create something that would stand out but still be true to my style. That’s when the idea hit me: why not create two cards with the same basic layout but give them entirely different vibes?


I’ve found that when you're in a creative rut or short on time, reusing a layout can be a lifesaver. Not only does it cut down on decision-making, but it also allows you to focus more on the fun parts—like coloring and embellishing! Plus, it’s a great way to see just how versatile your stamps can be.


Beary Good Day & One Line Agenda Birthday Card by Rick Adkins

Fall-Themed Birthday Card

Let’s start with the first card, which is all about celebrating those cozy fall vibes. I wanted to create a birthday card that felt warm and playful, so I chose a color palette in fun autumn hues—think warm oranges, browns, and reds.


Using the Beary Good Day stamp set, I stamped a little bear floating up with a couple of balloons. I then turned to the Little Line Agenda stamp set for the critters on the ground, carefully arranging them so that they all felt connected, as if they were part of one big, happy scene. What I love most about this layout is how the bear, with its balloons, adds a sense of movement and whimsy. And those little hearts and smiling clouds? They just bring the whole scene to life.


I think what makes this card special is the way the elements come together to tell a story. Picture this: a little bear, excited for the party, floating away on his balloons, while his friends cheer him on from below. It’s a scene that’s both humorous and heartwarming, perfect for a fall birthday.


Pro Tip: When working with multiple stamp sets, don’t be afraid to mix and match sentiments. I combined phrases from both sets to create a unique birthday greeting that tied the whole design together.


Beary Good Day & One Line Agenda Birthday Card by Rick Adkins Close Up

Halloween-Themed Card

Now, let’s switch gears and talk about the second card. For this one, I wanted to capture the spooky fun of Halloween, so I stuck with a classic Halloween color palette: purples, oranges, and blacks. Using the same basic layout, I created a nighttime scene with some ink blending, adding a moon stamped in gold pigment ink for a touch of magic.


This time, I focused on the Little Line Agenda stamp set for the main characters—bunnies tucked into flower pots. But here’s the twist: I positioned one bunny with its tail end sticking up, giving the card a playful, slightly mischievous feel. Behind the bunnies, I added a bear from the Beary Good Day stamp set, holding a bouquet of Halloween-colored flowers.


Beary Good Day & One Line Agenda I'm Sorry Card by Rick Adkins

What I love about this card is how it shows that even the same layout can evoke completely different emotions depending on the theme and colors you choose. The fall card is all about warmth and celebration, while this Halloween card brings in a sense of spooky fun.


Pro Tip: Don’t shy away from using non-traditional elements in your cards. The gold-inked moon might seem a bit fancy for a Halloween card, but it adds just the right amount of sparkle and helps set the scene for a magical night.


Beary Good Day & One Line Agenda I'm Sorry Card by Rick Adkins Close Up

Adapting the Layout for Other Occasions

One of the best things about this layout is how easily it can be adapted for other occasions. Whether you’re making cards for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, this simple layout provides a perfect canvas for creativity.


If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the critters for other characters, or change up the background colors to fit the season. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this hobby so much fun.


Pro Tip: Keep a sketchbook or a folder with your favorite layouts. Whenever you’re feeling stuck or need a quick design, you can pull from these tried-and-true layouts and adapt them to fit your needs. It’s a great way to keep your creative juices flowing without reinventing the wheel every time.


Two Cards One Layout Design by Rick Adkins

Final Thoughts

I hope these two cards inspire you to experiment with your own layouts and see just how versatile your stamps can be. Sometimes, all it takes is a little shift in perspective to turn one idea into something entirely new. I’d love to hear how you plan to use this layout in your own crafting—feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!


Happy crafting, and remember, there’s no wrong way to create. Just have fun with it!


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














Rick Adkins

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