Day 31 Grand Finale Teepee Christmas Tree Card Tutorial 🎄✨

 

 What a gorgeous way to finish our 31 Days of Christmas in July Craftalong!

For Day 31, we’re making a very special Teepee Card decorated as a Christmas tree. It’s a fun fold, a display card, and a beautiful handmade Christmas keepsake all in one.

After a whole month of cards, boxes, bags, tags, scrapbook pages and gift ideas, this card brings everything together beautifully. We’ll use cardstock, Designer Series Paper, die-cuts, foil, a stamped sentiment and a little clever folding to create a card that stands up like a Christmas tree.

This is one of those projects that looks impressive, but once the scoring is done, it comes together step by step.

Teepee Christmas Tree Card
This card is made from a rectangular cardstock base and an added square base piece. The folds allow the card to stand in a teepee shape, and it closes with a Velcro dot so it can be displayed or folded flat.

You will need:
Mossy Meadow cardstock
Designer Series Paper
Real Red cardstock
Basic White cardstock
Silver foil cardstock
Scraps of DSP for die-cut presents
Scraps of silver foil for present tops
Stamps for sentiment
Stocking dies or Christmas dies
Present dies
Velcro dot
Dimensionals
Adhesive
Bone folder
Paper trimmer
Scoring tool
Cutting Measurements
Teepee Base Pieces

Cut Mossy Meadow cardstock:
29cm x 14.5cm
14.5cm x 14.5cm
Designer Series Paper Panels

Cut Designer Series Paper:
2 pieces at 13.5cm x 13.5cm
Cut each square in half on the diagonal.

This will give you 4 DSP triangles for decorating the teepee panels.

Bottom Triangle Covers
Cut Designer Series Paper:
5cm x 5cm
Cut this square in half on the diagonal.

These small triangles will cover the cardstock that shows at the bottom of the teepee.

Front Decorations
Cut Real Red cardstock:
12cm x 9cm for die-cutting the stocking
Use scraps of Designer Series Paper for die-cutting presents.
Use scraps of silver foil for die-cutting the present tops.

Sentiment Strip
Cut:
Basic White cardstock scrap for sentiment strip
Silver foil scrap for sentiment strip

The exact size can suit your sentiment, but a long, narrow strip works beautifully across the front of the teepee.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Score the large teepee base
Take the Mossy Meadow cardstock measuring 29cm x 14.5cm.

Place the 29cm side across the top of your scoring tool and score at:

14.5cm

This gives you two square panels.

Now score diagonally from the centre score line to the top outer corner on both sides.

You will score:

from the centre fold to the top left corner
from the centre fold to the top right corner

These diagonal score lines create the teepee shape.

Fold and burnish all score lines well.

2. Score the square base piece
Take the Mossy Meadow cardstock measuring 14.5cm x 14.5cm.

Score it once on the diagonal, from one corner to the opposite corner.

Fold and burnish the diagonal score line.

This piece becomes the inside base that helps the teepee stand.

3. Test the teepee fold
Before gluing anything, do a dry fit.

Place the 14.5cm square base piece on the inside of the large rectangle base.

Line up the diagonal score line of the square piece with the centre score line of the rectangle piece.

Now gently bring the sides of the card around and fold the teepee into shape.

Check that everything folds smoothly.

If there is any grabbing, buckling or catching as the card folds, trim a tiny sliver from the two sides of the square base that will be glued down.

This little adjustment makes a big difference and helps the teepee fold neatly.

4. Glue the square base in place
Once you are happy with the dry fit, glue the square base to the inside of the rectangle base.

Make sure the centre score line of the rectangle lines up with the diagonal score line of the square.

Press firmly and allow the adhesive to grab.

Fold the card again to make sure it still opens and closes smoothly.

5. Add the Designer Series Paper triangles
Take the 2 pieces of DSP measuring 13.5cm x 13.5cm and cut each square in half diagonally.

You now have 4 large DSP triangles.

Adhere these triangles to the teepee panels.

These pieces decorate the outside panels and give the card its Christmas tree look.

Take your time lining up the triangles so you have a neat cardstock border around the edges.

6. Cover the exposed cardstock at the base
Cut the 5cm x 5cm Designer Series Paper square in half diagonally.

Use these smaller triangles to cover the cardstock that shows at the bottom of the teepee triangle panels.

This gives the base a tidy, finished look and helps the whole project feel polished.

7. Add the Velcro closure
Fold the card into the teepee shape.

Decide where the panels overlap neatly.

Add a small Velcro dot to close the card.

This allows the card to stand as a teepee, but still open and fold flat for storage or gifting.

A Velcro dot is perfect because it keeps the card secure without making it permanent.

8. Die cut the stocking
Use the Real Red cardstock measuring 12cm x 9cm to die cut your stocking.

This will be the main feature on the front of the teepee card.

You can layer the stocking with Basic White, DSP, foil or extra die-cut details if you’d like more dimension.

Attach the stocking to the front panel of the teepee card.

9. Die cut the presents
Use scraps of Designer Series Paper to die cut small presents.

Use scraps of silver foil to die cut the present tops, bows or accents.

Layer the silver foil pieces onto the DSP presents.

These little presents look lovely tucked around the base of the stocking or clustered near the bottom of the tree.

Adhere some flat and pop others up with Dimensionals for extra interest.

10. Create the sentiment strip
Stamp your greeting onto a strip of Basic White cardstock.

Cut a strip of silver foil slightly larger than the Basic White sentiment strip.

Cut the silver foil sentiment strip in half horizontally.

Line up the Basic White sentiment strip over the silver foil pieces so there is a narrow silver border at the top and bottom.

Adhere the Basic White strip to the silver foil pieces.

Add Dimensionals to the back and attach the sentiment strip to the front of the teepee card.

This creates a lovely little shine without using too much foil.

11. Finish the front panel
Decorate the front panel with your stocking, presents and sentiment strip.

You can also add:

• small foil stars
• rhinestones or bling
• ribbon
• twine
• extra die-cut leaves
• a heat embossed greeting
• small stamped details

Because the card already has a strong Christmas tree shape, you don’t need to overload it. A few special details are enough.

Displaying the Card
Once the Velcro dot is closed, the card stands beautifully as a little Christmas tree.

It would be lovely on a mantel, shelf, desk, Christmas table, sideboard or tucked into a handmade gift.

It also folds down, making it a practical card to give or store with your Christmas card stash.

Make It Your Own
This Teepee Christmas Tree Card is easy to change by switching the colour theme.

Try:

• Mossy Meadow, Real Red and silver
• Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla and gold
• Old Olive, Crumb Cake and red
• Night of Navy, white and silver
• soft pink, white and silver for a pretty modern Christmas look

You can use patterned DSP for all the panels or mix patterned paper with embossed cardstock for extra texture.

Day 31 Challenge
For today’s grand finale, make a Teepee Card decorated as a Christmas Tree.

Use your scraps, offcuts and spare die-cuts. Add a little foil if you have some left. Heat emboss the greeting if you’d like a special finish, and tie everything together with a simple colour theme or your favourite Designer Series Paper.

And just like that, we’ve made it to the end of 31 Days of Christmas in July.

Cards, boxes, bags, tags, scrapbook pages, gift packaging and keepsakes — all ready to tuck away for December.

Thank you for crafting along with me.

Merry Christmas in July! 🎄✨

 

August Delicate Dreams Craftalong — Four Beautiful Cards to Make Together

August Delicate Dreams Craftalong — Four Beautiful Cards to Make Together

There is something especially lovely about setting aside a little time to craft, and the August Delicate Dreams Craftalong is the perfect excuse to make a cuppa, gather your tools and enjoy a relaxing creative session.

Join me on Sunday, 30th August 2026, as we create four beautiful handmade cards using the gorgeous Delicate Dreams Suite of products from Stampin’ Up!

This suite has such a lovely mix of soft florals, natural foliage, warm metallic details and versatile Designer Series Papers. While some of the patterns are delicate and pretty, others have a stronger, more understated feel—which makes the suite surprisingly useful for all sorts of occasions.

Four Cards, Including Two for the Men in Your Life
During the craftalong, we’ll make four different cards that show just how versatile the Delicate Dreams papers can be.

Two of our projects will have a softer floral style, making them perfect for birthdays, thank-you messages, thinking-of-you cards or simply sending a little happy mail.

We’ll also create two masculine-themed cards, just in time for Father’s Day. Masculine cards can sometimes feel a little tricky, but the deeper colours, leafy designs and warm neutral patterns in this suite make them much easier to create.

The finished cards will be suitable for dads, grandfathers, husbands, sons or any of the special men in your life. Of course, the greetings can easily be changed to suit birthdays, congratulations or general occasions too.

Your Craftalong Kit
Your kit will include the prepared cardstock, Designer Series Paper and project pieces needed to create the four cards along with me.

Much of the measuring, cutting and planning will already be done, so when craftalong day arrives, you can settle in and enjoy putting everything together.

I’ll guide you through each card step by step, sharing tips and ideas as we go. Beginners are very welcome, and experienced cardmakers can add their own little touches and variations.

You’ll simply need your usual basic cardmaking supplies, such as adhesive, scissors and the inks or tools listed with your kit.

A Relaxing Afternoon of Evening
Craftalongs are not about rushing or creating perfectly. They are about taking a little time for yourself, enjoying beautiful papers and making something by hand.

By the end of our session, you’ll have four lovely cards ready to send—and plenty of ideas for using the Delicate Dreams Suite in future projects.

Craftalong Details

Craftalong: Sunday, 30th August 2026
Projects: Four handmade cards, including two masculine designs
Kit orders close: Sunday, 16th August 2026
Availability: Kits are limited

Please order early so I have time to prepare, pack and post your kit before the craftalong.

Order your August Craftalong kit here:

I would love to have you join me for a gentle, creative afternoon with the beautiful Delicate Dreams Suite.

Day 23 Christmas in July Craftalong W-V Fold Christmas Card Tutorial

 

Welcome to Day 23 of the Christmas in July Craftalong.

Today’s card is a fabulous W-V Fold Card. It has a wonderful concertina-style base that forms a W when viewed from above, with a smaller folded feature panel that forms a V. Put them together and you get a card with movement, dimension and plenty of places to show off your beautiful A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper.

This is one of those fun fold cards that looks impressive, but once you understand the folds, it is very straightforward. Choose your favourite cardstock colour for the base, add DSP, embossed panels or stamped mats, then finish with a sentiment and a few little scraps for decoration.

Finished Card Style
This card has:

•  a concertina W-fold base 
•  a smaller V-fold feature panel 
•  layered front panels 
•  a sentiment focal point 
•  space for DSP, embossing, stamping and embellishments 

Supplies
You will need:

•  A4 cardstock for the card base 
•  Matching cardstock for the V-fold piece 
•  A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper 
•  Basic White or Very Vanilla cardstock for stamping 
•  Scraps of cardstock and DSP for decorating 
•  Stamps and ink 
•  Stylish Shapes dies, punches or other label dies 
•  Embossing folder, optional 
•  Adhesive 
•  Dimensionals 
•  Paper trimmer 
•  Scoring tool 
•  Bone folder 

Cutting Measurements
Card Base
Cut cardstock to:
14cm x 28cm
Use any colour you like for the base. Real Red, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Secret Sea or Mossy Meadow would all work beautifully with the A Stitched Season DSP.

V-Fold Piece
Cut matching cardstock to:

7.5cm x 15cm

This should be the same colour as your card base.

Card Base Mats
Cut 3 or 4 pieces to:

• 4cm x 13.5cm

Cut 3 or 4 pieces DSP to:

• 3.5cm x 13cm

You can decorate three panels and leave one plain, or decorate all four panels.

Back Panel Mat
Cut one piece DSP to:

• 4cm x 13.5cm

Cut one piece Basic White cardstock to 

• 7cm x 7cm

V-Fold Mat Layers
Cut:

• Mat 1: 7cm x 7cm
• Mat 2: 6.5cm x 6.5cm
• Mat 1 is your backing mat. Mat 2 is your DSP, stamped panel or focal mat.

Sentiment and Decoration Pieces
You will also need:

•  scraps of Basic White or Very Vanilla for sentiment 
•  scraps of DSP for decorating 
•  die-cuts, punched shapes or stamped images 
•  optional ribbon, buttons or small embellishments 

Scoring Measurements
Score the Card Base
Place the 28cm side along the top of your scoring board.
Score at:

• 4.5cm 9cm 
• 13.5cm 
•  18cm 

Score the V-Fold Piece
Place the 15cm side along the top of your scoring board.
Score at:

• 7.5cm 

Fold in half and burnish well.

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Create the W-Fold Base
Start with your 14cm x 28cm card base.
After scoring at 4.5cm, 9cm, 13.5cm and 18cm, fold the card base accordion-style.
Burnish each fold well with your bone folder.
When you look at the card from above, the folded section should form a W shape.
Take a moment here to make sure the folds sit neatly. This is what gives the card its lovely movement.

2. Create the V-Fold Piece
Take your 7.5cm x 15cm cardstock piece.
Score at 7.5cm, fold in half and burnish.
When viewed from above, this piece should look like a V.
This will become the feature panel that sits across the W-fold base.

3. Add the Base Card Panels
Take your 4cm x 13.5cm base mats and stick the 3.5cm x 13cm DSP mats to them.
Adhere these to the panels of your W-fold base.
You can use DSP on every panel, or mix DSP with embossed cardstock and stamped cardstock.

The A Stitched Season DSP is perfect here because the narrow panels show off the patterns beautifully. Try using:

• a Christmas tree pattern 
• a quilt-style print 
• a red small-pattern DSP 
• a green plaid or stitched-look paper 

You can keep the panels all in the same colour family, or mix patterns for a cosy patchwork Christmas look.

4. Add the Back Panel
Add your back panel mat to the final large section of the card.
This back section is a good place for a calmer piece of DSP or cardstock, especially if the front panels are busy.

5. Decorate the Outside of the V-Fold
Take the V-fold piece and make sure the fold opens to the left.
This is important so the card opens properly once attached to the W-fold base.
Adhere your 7cm x 7cm mat layer to the outside of the V-fold.
Then adhere your 6.5cm x 6.5cm DSP or stamped layer on top.
You can decorate one side or both outside panels of the V-fold, depending on how much detail you want.

6. Attach the V-Fold to the W-Fold Base
Now it’s time to attach the V-fold piece to the W-fold base.
Place the V-fold piece onto the card base as shown in your video layout, making sure the V opens to the left.
Only add adhesive to the outer third of the V-fold panels. Do not cover the whole back with glue.
This allows the V-fold to move properly when the card opens and closes.
Press gently and check the movement before the glue sets completely.
Open and close the card a few times to make sure everything moves freely and sits neatly.

7. Stamp and Cut the Sentiment
Stamp your chosen Christmas sentiment onto Basic White or Very Vanilla cardstock.
Good sentiment ideas include:

• Merry Christmas 
• Christmas Wishes 
• Sending Warm Wishes 
• Joy 
• Peace on Earth 
• From Our Home to Yours 
• Handmade Christmas Wishes 

Punch or die-cut the sentiment.
The Stylish Shapes dies work beautifully for this card because they give a clean stitched edge that suits the A Stitched Season DSP so well.

8. Add the Sentiment to the V Panel
Attach the sentiment to the V-fold panel.
Be careful with placement:
• On the inner part of the V panel, keep embellishments flat. 
• On the outer panel, you can use Dimensionals for extra lift. 
This helps the card close neatly without bulky pieces catching in the folds.

9. Decorate With Scraps
Use small scraps of DSP and cardstock to decorate the card.
You might add:
• a small die-cut stocking 
• a stamped Christmas tree 
• holly leaves 
• tiny stars 
• a small banner 
• a stitched circle 
• a button tied with thread 
• a little bow 
This is a perfect card for using those small but pretty offcuts that are too nice to throw away.

10. Check the Fold and Finish
Once everything is attached, open and close the card gently.
Check that:
• the W-fold base moves freely 
• the V-fold opens the correct way 
• the sentiment doesn’t catch 
• bulky embellishments are only on the outer areas 
• the card sits neatly when closed 
Add any final stamped accents or faux stitching if you like.

Design Tips
For a balanced look, choose one bold DSP pattern, one quieter pattern and one plain or embossed cardstock panel.
If your DSP is very busy, keep the sentiment simple and clear.
If your base card colour is dark, use a light sentiment panel so the greeting stands out.
A Stitched Season DSP has such a lovely quilted Christmas feel, so this card looks especially good with stitched dies, faux stitching and button embellishments.

Make It Your Own
You can adapt this W-V Fold Card in lots of ways.
Try:
• using all Christmas tree DSP panels 
• adding a stamped stocking to the V panel 
• making the V panel into a mini scene 
• adding a small photo for a keepsake card 
• using embossed cardstock instead of some DSP panels 
• adding ribbon around one panel before attaching it 
• creating a matching gift tag from the leftover scraps 

This would also make a beautiful card for someone special because it has that little extra surprise when opened.

Day 23 Challenge
Today’s challenge is to make a W-V Fold Card using your favourite colour cardstock and A Stitched Season DSP.

Decorate the W-fold base with DSP, embossed or stamped panels, then add the V-fold feature panel with a stamped sentiment and a few scrap decorations.

It’s a wonderful way to combine fun folds, pretty paper and handmade Christmas charm in one very special card.

Day 22 Christmas in July Craftalong Mini Milk Carton Tutorial A Sweet Little Gift Box Using A Stitched Season DSP

Today we’re making a Mini Milk Carton Box, and honestly, this is one of those little projects that never stops being cute. It’s small, neat, giftable and very easy to decorate for Christmas.

These little boxes are perfect for: wrapped chocolates or sweets 
    • tea bags 
    • small handmade gifts 
    • table favours 
    • craft stall goodies 
    • neighbour gifts 
    • little thank-you presents 

We’ll make the box base from cardstock, then decorate all four sides with scraps, yes, scraps, from the gorgeous A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper. The quilt-style papers, trees, stars and Christmas prints are just right for this project because each small panel becomes a little feature.

Finished Project
A small milk carton-style gift box with decorated sides, a folded top and a stamped tag.

Materials List
You will need:
Cardstock
    • 1 piece cardstock for the box base 
    • Basic White or Very Vanilla cardstock for the tag 

Designer Series Paper
    • A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper 

Embellishments
    • Ribbon or twine 
    • Mini peg, clip or hole punch if you’d like to close the top that way 
    • Stamped tag 
    • Die-cut stocking, tree or holly 
    • Button 
    • Gold thread or twine for the button 

Tools and Adhesives
    • Paper trimmer 
    • Scoring tool 
    • Bone folder 
    • Paper snips 
    • Strong adhesive or Tear & Tape 
    • Hole punch if using ribbon closure 
    • Stamps and ink 

Cutting Measurements
Carton Base
Cut cardstock to:
    • 21cm x 15cm
Score on the long side at:
   •5cm, 10cm, 15cm and 20cm
Score on the short side at:
    • 5cm, 10cm and 13cm
The remaining 1cm strip on the long side becomes the side tab for joining the box.

DSP Panels
Cut A Stitched Season DSP:
    • 4 pieces: 4.5cm x 4.5cm
for the lower side panels
    • 4 pieces: 4.5cm x 2.5cm
for the upper side panels
You can use all the same pattern, or mix four different patterns for a patchwork Christmas look.

Tag
Cut Basic White or Very Vanilla cardstock to:
    • 3cm x 5cm
You can trim the top corners, punch the top, or cut one end into a banner shape.

Ribbon
Cut ribbon to approximately:
    • 20cm to 25cm
This gives you enough to tie the top closed or add a small bow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Score the Box Base
Start with your cardstock piece measuring 21cm x 15cm.
Place the 21cm side along the top of your scoring board and score at:
5cm, 10cm, 15cm and 20cm

Turn the cardstock so the 15cm side is along the top and score at:
5cm, 10cm and 13cm

Burnish all score lines well with your bone folder.

2. Identify the Sections
When your cardstock is in landscape position, you will have four main box panels plus a narrow side tab.
The bottom section will fold up to form the base of the box.

The middle section will be the main body of the box.
The top section creates the milk carton fold and closure.

3. Cut the Bottom Tabs
Along the bottom section, cut up each vertical score line only as far as the first horizontal score line.
This creates four bottom flaps plus the small side tab.

Trim away the small bottom rectangle from the narrow 1cm side tab so the box base folds neatly.
Slightly wedge the side tab if you like, so it sits neatly inside the box when glued.

4. Create the Milk Carton Top
At the top section, you’ll create the little folded milk carton shape.

On two opposite panels, gently pinch the top section inward to form the carton sides.

For a neat fold, you can lightly score diagonal lines on the two side panels of the top section, from the centre top down to the side corners of that top panel.
Don’t overthink this part. Once the box is assembled, the carton shape comes together easily when you pinch the top closed.

5. Add the DSP Panels
Before assembling the box, add your DSP panels.
Adhere the 4.5cm x 4.5cm DSP pieces to the four main lower panels.

Then adhere the 4.5cm x 2.5cm DSP pieces to the upper panels.

This is a lovely place to use different designs from A Stitched Season DSP. Try a tree print on the front, a quilt pattern on the back, and smaller red or green prints on the sides.

Decorating all four sides makes the box feel finished from every angle.

6. Assemble the Box
Add strong adhesive to the narrow 1cm side tab.
Bring the opposite edge around and adhere it to the tab, forming the box shape.

Press firmly from the inside and outside so the join is secure.

Fold in the bottom flaps and adhere them closed. For the neatest base, fold in the two side flaps first, then the back flap, then the front flap last.
Use strong adhesive so the box can hold treats without popping open.

7. Close the Carton Top
Pinch the top of the box together to form the milk carton shape.

You can close the top in a few different ways:
• punch two small holes and tie with ribbon 
• clip it closed with a mini peg 
• use a small bulldog clip 
• tie twine around the top 
• staple and cover with a ribbon or tag 
• use a little hook-and-loop dot if you want it reusable 

For a soft handmade Christmas look, ribbon or a mini peg is perfect.

8. Make the Stamped Tag
Take the 3cm x 5cm Basic White or Very Vanilla tag.
Stamp a Christmas greeting such as:
• Merry Christmas 
• Joy 
• For You 
• Warm Wishes 
• Handmade for You 
• Christmas Treats 

Decorate the tag with a small stamped image or stitched detail.

Attach the tag to the front of the box using Dimensionals, or tie it to the ribbon at the top.

9. Add Die-Cut Decorations
Use your stocking, tree or holly dies to create a small decoration for the front of the box.

A little stitched stocking looks gorgeous hanging from the tag.

A tree die-cut works beautifully on the front panel.
Holly leaves tucked behind the tag add a sweet festive touch.

Keep the embellishment small so it doesn’t overwhelm the box.

10. Add a Button
Thread a button with gold thread or twine and tie it off.

Attach it to the tag, ribbon bow or die-cut decoration.

The button gives the box that lovely homespun finish and ties beautifully into the stitched, quilted feel of A Stitched Season DSP.

Finishing Ideas
Fill your Mini Milk Carton Box with:
    • wrapped chocolates 
    • peppermints 
    • mini candy canes 
    • tea bags 
    • handmade earrings 
    • small soaps 
    • wax melts 
    • gift tags 
    • tiny biscuits 
    • table favours 

These are wonderful to make in multiples because once you’ve made one, the next few come together very quickly.

Make It Your Own
Try making a whole set using different DSP patterns from the same pack.

You could make:
    • one for each Christmas lunch place setting 
    • a basket of neighbour gifts 
    • craft stall treat boxes 
    • teacher thank-you gifts 
    • little Advent surprises 
    • a matching set to go with handmade cards 

You can also change the look by switching the cardstock base. Real Red, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Secret Sea, Crumb Cake or Basic White would all work beautifully.

Batch-Making Tip
These Mini Milk Carton Gift Boxes are perfect for batch making.

To get a head start, cut several box bases at once, add your DSP panels, decorate the fronts, and apply the Tear & Tape to the tabs — but leave the boxes flat and unassembled.

Then, when you need a quick gift box, simply choose one from your stash, peel off the backing, fold it into shape and assemble it. In just a few minutes you’ll have a sweet little Christmas gift box ready to fill.

This is a lovely way to prepare ahead for neighbour gifts, table favours, craft stall items, thank-you presents or those last-minute little gifts that pop up in December.

Christmas Tree Scrapbook Page Tutorial Day 21 Christmas in July Craftalong

Today’s scrapbook layout is all about Christmas trees — the family tree, a favourite ornament, the year the lights finally worked first go, the handmade decorations, or that lovely quiet moment when the tree is glowing in the corner.

This page uses A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper in strips and panels to create a warm, quilt-style background, with room for one main photo, a title panel and an optional hidden journalling pocket.

Finished Layout Size
12" x 12" scrapbook page
You can adapt this layout to 8" x 8" or a smaller memory album by reducing the measurements.

Materials List
You will need:
• 12" x 12" cardstock for the base
Suggested colours: Basic White, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake or Secret Sea 

• A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper 
• Coordinating cardstock for photo mat and title panel
Suggested colours: Old Olive, Real Red, Cherry Cobbler, Secret Sea, Basic White or Very Vanilla 
• Basic White or Very Vanilla for journalling 
• Stamps for title, greeting or small accents 
• Christmas tree die-cut or stamped tree embellishment 
• Ribbon 
• Buttons 
• Twine or gold thread 
• Adhesive 
• Dimensionals 
• Paper trimmer 
• Bone folder 
• Optional: white gel pen or journalling pen for faux stitching 

Cutting Measurements
Page Base
    • Cardstock base: 12" x 12" 

DSP Strips
Cut several strips of A Stitched Season DSP:
• Vertical strip 1: 1 1/2" x 11" 
• Vertical strip 2: 1" x 11" 
• Vertical strip 3: 1" x 11" 
• Vertical strip 4: 1 1/4" x 7" 

These will sit down the left-hand side of the page.

For the lower horizontal section, cut:
• Horizontal strip 1: 8" x 1" 
• Horizontal strip 2: 8" x 1" 
• Horizontal strip 3: 8" x 1 1/4" 

You can use quilt-style DSP, tree patterns, plaid patterns or small red and green prints.

Photo Mat
For a vertical photo:
• Photo mat: 4 1/4" x 6 1/4" 
• Photo: 4" x 6" 

For a slightly larger layered look:
• Backing mat: 4 1/2" x 6 1/2" 
• Photo mat: 4 1/4" x 6 1/4" 
• Photo: 4" x 6" 

Title Panel
• Title mat: 4" x 4" 
• Title insert: 3 3/4" x 3 3/4" 

Suggested title ideas:
• Christmas Tree Memories 
• The Tree Is Up 
• Our Christmas Tree 
• Lights On 
• Handmade Ornaments 
• Around the Tree 
• Christmas Glow 

Hidden Journalling Pocket
Optional:
• Pocket backing: 3" x 5" 
• Journalling card: 2 3/4" x 4 3/4" 

You can tuck this behind the title panel or behind the photo mat.

Small Embellishment Pieces
• Small banner: 1 1/2" x 2 1/2" 
• Small stamped square: 1 1/4" x 1 1/4" 
• Sentiment strip: 1/2" x 2 1/2" 
• Die-cut Christmas tree: approx. 2 1/2" to 3 1/2" tall 
• Ribbon bow: approx. 15cm ribbon, or to suit 
• Buttons: 2–3 buttons tied with twine or thread  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Page Base
Start with a 12" x 12" cardstock base.

A light base such as Basic White or Very Vanilla gives the page a soft scrapbook feel, while Secret Sea or Old Olive will make the Christmas colours feel richer and more dramatic.

2. Add the Left-Side DSP Strips
Arrange your vertical DSP strips down the left-hand side of the page.

Place the first strip about 1/2" in from the left edge.

Layer the remaining strips beside and slightly overlapping each other. Use a mix of tree prints, quilt-style DSP and smaller red or green patterns.

Suggested placement:
• Place the widest strip closest to the left edge. 
• Add a narrow red strip beside it. 
• Add a green plaid or subtle pattern next. 
• Let one strip extend lower than the others for a layered look. 

Adhere the strips once you are happy with the arrangement.

3. Add the Lower Horizontal DSP Section
Place the horizontal DSP strips across the lower half of the page, starting from the left side and extending toward the right.

Position them about 7" down from the top of the page.
Layer the strips slightly so they create a wide band across the layout.

This becomes the anchor for your photo, title panel and embellishments.

4. Create the Photo Area
Mat your 4" x 6" photo onto the 4 1/4" x 6 1/4" photo mat.

For extra definition, add the photo mat to a larger 4 1/2" x 6 1/2" backing mat.

Place the photo on the left-centre of the layout, slightly overlapping the vertical DSP strips and sitting on top of the horizontal DSP band.

Leave room on the right side for the title panel.

Adhere the photo mat flat, or use Dimensionals if you want more depth.

5. Create the Title Panel
Stamp or write your title on the 3 3/4" x 3 3/4" title insert.

Adhere it to the 4" x 4" title mat.

Place the title panel on the right side of the page, roughly level with the upper half of the photo.

You can add a small stamped subtitle underneath, such as:
• Our favourite tree tradition 
• Lights, love and memories 
• Handmade Christmas magic 
• The year we decorated together 

Adhere the title panel flat if you are not adding a pocket. If you want hidden journalling, only add adhesive to three sides and leave one side open.

6. Add the Hidden Journalling Pocket
To create a simple hidden journalling pocket, adhere the title panel with adhesive on the top, bottom and right side only, leaving the left side open.

Slide the 2 3/4" x 4 3/4" journalling card behind the title panel.

Add a small tab, circle punch or ribbon pull to the edge of the journalling card so it can be pulled out easily.

Use this space for longer journalling, such as:
• who decorated the tree 
• where the ornaments came from 
• the story behind a special decoration 
• what made that year’s tree memorable 
• how your Christmas tree tradition has changed over time 

7. Add Stitched Details
This layout works beautifully with stitched details because the A Stitched Season DSP already has that cosy quilted feel.

Try adding:
• faux stitching around the photo mat with a pen 
• dashed lines around the title panel 
• stamped stitched details 
• white gel pen stitching around DSP strips 
• hand-drawn stitching around the page border 

Keep the lines light and imperfect — that’s part of the handmade charm.

8. Add the Christmas Tree Embellishment
Die cut or stamp a Christmas tree embellishment.

Place it near the lower right corner of the layout, overlapping the horizontal DSP strips.

This balances the tall photo on the left and reinforces the Christmas tree theme.

Add a small star, button or gem to the top of the tree if desired.

9. Add Ribbon and Buttons
Tie a small bow from ribbon and place it near the top of the title panel or near one of the embellishment clusters.

Tie thread or twine through your buttons and attach them to the page.

Good places for buttons:
• near the title panel 
• beside the photo 
• in the centre of a small stamped square 
• near the die-cut tree 
• on a little banner or tag 

Three embellishment clusters usually work well:
1. One near the photo 
2. One near the title panel 
3. One near the bottom right tree embellishment 
This creates a visual triangle and helps the page feel balanced.

10. Add a Small Banner or Accent Tag
Create a small banner from DSP or cardstock.
You could stamp or die cut:
• Joy 
• Merry 
• Christmas 
• Memories 
• Love 
• 2026 

Place the banner near the lower left of the photo or tucked into the vertical DSP strips.

This is a lovely way to use small scraps and add a little extra detail.

11. Finish the Page
Before everything is fully pressed down, check the page balance.

Ask yourself:
• Is the photo the main focus? 
• Can the title be read clearly? 
• Do the DSP strips feel balanced? 
• Is there room for journalling? 
• Are the embellishments spread out nicely? 

Once you’re happy, press everything firmly into place.

Design Tips
Use the tree-pattern DSP as one of the vertical strips so it ties directly into the theme.

Use the quilt-style DSP across the bottom for that warm Christmas patchwork feeling.

If your photo is busy, choose calmer DSP around it.
If your photo is simple, you can use bolder patterns.
A dark base or dark mat, such as Secret Sea, will make the reds, greens and creams really pop.

For a softer family album look, use Very Vanilla, Old Olive and gentle red accents.

Day 21 Challenge
Create a Christmas Tree Scrapbook Page using:
• one Christmas tree photo, 
• DSP strips, 
• a title panel, 
• stitched details, 
• ribbon, 
• buttons, 
• stamped accents, 
• and optional hidden journalling. 

This is a lovely page for preserving one of those Christmas moments that can otherwise slip by — the tree going up, the lights turning on, a handmade ornament, or the quiet glow of Christmas at home.

Product List

A Stitched Season Suite Collection (English) [168236] $151.00	White Willow 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Cardstock [166703] $17.50	Basic White A4 Cardstock [166781] $25.00	Very Vanilla A4 Cardstock [166785] $25.00
Stitched Stocking Bundle (English) [168231] $98.00	Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad [147090] $15.75	A Stitched Season Suite Collection (English) [168236] $151.00	Mini Stampin' Dimensionals [144108] $7.50
Paper Trimmer [152392] $49.00	Mini Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine [150673] $121.00

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Pastel Joy Fold Christmas Card Tutorial with Hints of Silver | Day 16 Christmas in July Craftalong

 

Today’s project is a pretty Joy Fold Christmas Card with soft pastel touches and a little elegant silver. This is a lovely fun fold because it looks impressive when it opens, but it’s actually quite simple once you understand the two card bases.

I've made two versions - one in Barely Blush, Silver Foil and the gorgeous Luxe White specialty designer series paper and one in Coastal Cabana, Silver Foil and a pattern from the beautiful Valley in Bloom designer series paper. Christmas doesn't have to be red, green and gold!

We’ll create a large Z-fold card base, then add a smaller card to the centre panel. Decorate the panels with foil mats and designer series paper, add a stamped greeting, and finish with a little  a small stamped, heat embossed, die-cut feature.

Finished Card Size
Approx. 5" x 5" square card

Materials List
You will need:
• Cardstock for the large card base 
• Cardstock for the smaller inside card 
• Silver Foil cardstock for mats 
• Luxe White Specialty Designer Series Paper or Valley in Bloom Designer Series Paper
• Basic White cardstock for the sentiment  
• Stitched Stocking Bundle, optional or a Christmas greeting stamp 
• Ink pad 
• Ribbon 
• Rhinestones
• Adhesive 
• Dimensionals 
• Paper trimmer 
• Scoring tool 
• Bone folder 

Cutting Measurements
Large Card Base
    • Cardstock: 5" x 10" 
Score along the 10" side at:
    • 5" 
Then flip the cardstock around and score at:
    • 2.5" 
This gives you the fold for the main card and the fold-back flap.

Smaller Inside Card
    • Cardstock: 8" x 4" 
Score along the 8" side at:
    • 4" 

Large Card Mats and Layers
• Silver Foil cardstock mat: 4-3/4" x 4-3/4" 
• Patterned paper layer: 4-1/2" x 4-1/2" 
These are for the large inside panel.

Side Flap Mats and Layers
Cut:
• Silver foil mats: 2 pieces at 2-1/4" x 4-3/4" 
• Patterned paper layers: 2 pieces at 2" x 4-1/2" 
These decorate the side flaps of the large card base.

Smaller Card Mats
Cut:
• Silver foil cardstock: 1 piece at 3-3/4" x 3-3/4"
• DSP: 1 piece at 3-1/2" x 3-1/2"
• White cardstock: 1 pieces at 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" 
These are for the inside of the smaller card.

Product List

Barely Blush A4 Cardstock [167690] $25.00	Card Stock A4 Coastal Cabana [131302] $25.00	Basic White A4 Cardstock [166781] $25.00	Silver Foil 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Specialty Pack [163096] $17.50
Luxe White 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Specialty Designer Series Paper [167947] $17.50	Valley In Bloom 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper [167935] $23.00	Rhinestone Basic Jewels [144220] $10.50	Stitched Stocking Bundle (English) [168231] $98.00
Phrases & Frames Dies [167586] $60.00	Embossing Additions Tool Kit [159971] $47.00	Versamark Pad [102283] $16.75	Metallics Wow! Embossing Powder [165678] $37.00
Heat Tool [129056] $56.00	Paper Trimmer [152392] $49.00	Mini Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine [150673] $121.00

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Day 2 — Quilt Block Gift Tag Set

 Welcome to Day 2 of our 31 Days of Christmas Challenge at Stampin’ Among the Gum Trees.

Today we’re making a sweet little set of quilt block gift tags using the gorgeous A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper — and because pretty handmade tags deserve somewhere pretty to live, we’re also making a surprise peek-a-boo gift box to hold them.

This is one of those lovely projects that looks thoughtful and special, but is really very achievable. And even better, it’s a beautiful way to use those small pieces of DSP that are far too pretty to throw away.

You know the ones. Those little strips and squares that sit on the side of your desk because you’re sure they’ll be useful for something. Today, they are.

Why Quilt Block Tags?
One of the things I love most about the A Stitched Season DSP is the cosy patchwork feel. The papers have that warm, homespun Christmas look — quilt blocks, soft greens, rich reds, creamy backgrounds, little stitched details and just enough traditional Christmas charm without being too loud.

That makes them perfect for gift tags.

A small tag doesn’t need a lot of decoration. A few little squares of DSP, a stitched label shape, a stamped greeting, a scrap of ribbon and perhaps a tiny button are enough to turn it into something really lovely.

And honestly, handmade tags are one of the easiest ways to make Christmas feel more personal without spending a fortune or spending hours and hours at the craft table.

Today’s Project
For today’s project, we’ll create a small set of Christmas gift tags using:
• cardstock tag bases 
• scraps of A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper 
• stitched label shapes 
• stamped Christmas greetings 
• red stitched ribbon 
• buttons or tiny die-cut embellishments 
    
Each tag can be the same, or each one can be a little different. I rather like making them as a coordinating set — not matching exactly, but all looking like they belong together.
You might use one tag with a little quilt block centre, one with a tiny stocking, and one with a Christmas tree or button feature. The colours and patterns in the suite will tie them all together beautifully.

The Surprise Peek-a-Boo Gift Box
And then we’re going to make a little box to hold them.
This isn’t just a plain box — we’re adding a peek-a-boo detail, which gives it that little extra “oh, that’s cute!” moment.

It’s the sort of box you could give as a small handmade gift on its own. Imagine filling it with a set of handmade tags and giving it to a friend, neighbour, teacher, craft buddy or someone who loves wrapping presents.

It would also be lovely for a Christmas market stall, a small thank-you gift, or even as a little extra tucked into a hamper.

The box keeps the tags together neatly, and it makes the whole project feel finished. It turns scraps of paper into a proper handmade gift.

A Lovely Way to Use Scraps
This is a very scrap-friendly project.

You don’t need full sheets of DSP for gift tags. In fact, smaller pieces often work better because you can mix and match the patterns to create that quilted look.

Use little squares, narrow strips, offcuts from card fronts, leftover pieces from die-cutting — all those bits that might otherwise end up in the bin.

Nothing needs to match perfectly. That’s part of the charm. Quilts aren’t about every piece being identical; they’re about bringing little pieces together to make something beautiful.
Paper crafting is exactly the same.

How to Use These Tags
These handmade gift tags would be lovely on:
Christmas presents, handmade food gifts, jars of jam or chutney, Christmas hampers, teacher gifts, neighbour gifts, gift bags, bottles, wrapped biscuits, homemade sweets or parcels wrapped in simple brown paper.

In fact, simple wrapping is where handmade tags really shine.

A piece of brown paper, a length of ribbon or twine, and one of these quilt block tags would look beautiful. Calm, cosy, thoughtful and very handmade.

And if you start making tags now, one little set at a time, you won’t be scrambling around in December looking for the last crumpled packet of gift tags from the back of the drawer. Ask me how I know.

Make Them Your Way
You can keep your tags very simple with just DSP and a greeting, or you can add a few extra details.

Try adding:
• a tiny die-cut stocking 
• a little Christmas tree 
• a button in the centre of a quilt block 
• a small silver or gold foil star 
• faux stitching with a white gel pen 
• a ribbon bow 
• a stamped “to” and “from” on the back 
    
If you’re making a few sets, keep the basic tag shape the same and just change the DSP. That way they come together quickly but still look interesting.

Today’s Challenge
Today’s challenge is:
Make three Christmas gift tags using DSP scraps.
That’s it. Three tags.
They don’t need to be complicated. They don’t need to be perfect. They just need to be made.
Pop them into your Christmas box now and you’ll thank yourself later. There is something very satisfying about slowly building a little stash of handmade Christmas things in July.