Hello, fellow crafters! I am so excited to share these two fall-themed Step Up cards with you. They’re full of rich, autumnal colors, textures, and playful 3D elements that really pop! With the Step Up Card Die Set and Autumn Accessories VT Die Set from Pixi Dust Designs, these projects capture that warm, rustic feel of a cozy harvest season. If you’re ready to get into the spirit of fall with some interactive card-making magic, you’re in the right place!
When it comes to making seasonal cards, I love finding ways to add extra layers and textures that bring the card to life. These Step Up cards are a great example of that—they offer dimension without needing a lot of technical folding or extra tools. Plus, they’re a great way to use some of those beloved patterned papers and specialty cardstocks you’ve been holding on to!
Fall Harvest Time Step Up Card:
Card 1: A Rustic Scarecrow and Pumpkin Scene
For the first card, I started with Chocolate Bar Cardstock for the card base, which immediately adds a grounded, earthy tone to the design. Using a darker base like this works beautifully to make those warm, harvest colors really stand out.
Creating the Layered Background
The Step Up Card Die Set also includes layers, which is so handy for building up a dynamic background quickly. For the layers, I chose cardstock from the Harvest Smooth Cardstock 6 x 8 Paper Pad (from Scrapbook.com), a palette with colors that feel just like fall. One of my favorite things about using colored cardstock for layering is how it adds depth without needing to add a lot of ink or intricate background techniques—just stack and adhere!
Building the Scarecrow
Now, let’s talk about the star of this card: the scarecrow! With the Autumn Accessories VT Die Set, I was able to cut out all the pieces needed for a sweet scarecrow, using colors from the same Harvest Smooth Cardstock Paper Pad to keep everything coordinated. For a little extra structure, I layered the scarecrow on a die-cut outline from Neenah Solar White 80 lbs Cardstock. This outline not only gives the scarecrow a nice, polished look but also keeps those tiny pieces stable.
If you’re like me, you know the fun of “dressing up” die-cut characters! I layered each piece carefully, using Rusty Hinge Distress Ink to add some shading and bring out details, especially on the pumpkins. Pro Tip: A touch of Distress Ink on die-cut elements can give them a more realistic look and make them seem almost hand-painted.
Adding Those Finishing Touches
To add a little sparkle, I cut the sentiment and some of the leaves from gold glitter cardstock (Mixed Metals Glitter Paper Pad). Nothing says fall quite like a bit of shimmer, right? Adding these accents brings attention to key details in the card and gives the overall scene a cozy, warm glow. For even more texture, I cut some leaves from red and brown cardstock, and I layered a few of these around the scarecrow and pumpkins.
Finally, to finish off the whole card, I added a few highlights with a white gel pen. This simple step can really make elements like the scarecrow’s clothes, the pumpkin stems, and even the glitter leaves pop on the card.
Card 2: Whimsical Harvest Time Step Up Card
The second card takes a slightly different approach with a brighter, more playful feel. For this card, I chose Neenah Solar White Ultra Thick Cardstock for the base. Using a white base lets you be creative with color without overwhelming the design.
Patterned Scarecrow and Fun Textures
This scarecrow is a little different. I used patterned paper from the Willow Lane Pattern Paper Pad (from Scarpbook.com) and the Halloween 6 x 6 Paper Pad (Pixi Dust Designs) to give the scarecrow a playful, homespun look. Adding these patterns really brought a new layer of character to the card. If you want to play around with colors and patterns but worry about “overdoing” it, start with neutral tones for the base and add brighter patterns in smaller accents. This way, everything stays balanced but lively.
Roof Details and More Fall Fun
This Step Up card features a roof area that’s perfect for a little extra detail, so I cut pieces from the Halloween 6 x 6 Paper Pad for a touch of spooky whimsy. I also added a small door and window to make the scene feel like a tiny farm shed right at harvest time! For a final touch, I used purple patterned paper from the Halloween Paper Pad to cut out the sentiment “Harvest Time.” Against the white base, this sentiment really stands out and ties the design together.
I couldn’t resist adding a few gold glitter leaves from the same Mixed Metals Glitter Paper Pad I used for the first card, as they add a bit of shine and repeat that pop of gold to give both cards a sense of cohesion.
White Gel Pen for the Win
As always, I finished off the card with some white gel pen highlights. For pieces like the pumpkins, scarecrow, and leaves, these highlights make the colors look even more dimensional. It’s such an easy way to add a “wow” factor!
Final Thoughts
These Step Up cards have quickly become favorites in my fall crafting collection. I hope this project gives you a few ideas for your next seasonal card. With the Step Up Card Die Set and Autumn Accessories VT Dies from Pixi Dust Designs, it’s easy to create interactive, multi-layered scenes that stand out. I can’t wait for you to give these ideas a try, and don’t forget to check out the video tutorial for a closer look at how each card comes together.
Happy fall crafting, everyone!
Fall Step Up Card 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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