Kendra’s Card Challenge #21 – Card #15

Day 15 of 15 | Sketch 15

We made it to the final card of Kendra’s Card Challenge #21!

Card #15 features a bold yet streamlined layout that puts emphasis on clean lines and strong focal placement. The vertical panel design immediately creates structure, guiding the eye straight to the center sentiment.

For this card, I stayed within the cool winter palette and built the background using alternating blue patterned strips. The subtle texture of the polka dot embossed paper I used as a layer added interest without overpowering the design. I trimmed the corners of the card base for a finished, polished look that gives it just a bit of architectural detail.

The focal point is a layered circle element topped with the scripted “hello” sentiment. The combination of shimmer and smooth cardstock adds contrast and keeps the design visually engaging. I love how the metallic detail in the sentiment catches the light against the softer matte background.

Three enamel dots placed vertically along the right side balance the composition and reinforce the linear feel of the sketch.

Because this design relies on precise strip alignment and layered die cuts, I used my Tape Runner to keep everything secured evenly. Clean adhesion is especially important on geometric layouts like this. If you’d like to try it, visit www.taperunner.com and use code AMALIA10 for 10% off your order.

This final sketch wraps up the challenge with a refined, versatile card that could work for so many occasions. It’s been such a creative journey stretching one paper collection across fifteen different layouts.

If you followed along with the entire series, thank you! Which sketch pushed you the most creatively?

— Amalia

Kendra’s Card Challenge #21 – Card #14

Day 14 of 15 | Sketch 14

We’re nearing the finish line!

Card #14 brings a fun tag-style element into the spotlight. This sketch immediately stood out to me because it allows for a larger focal panel while still highlighting the surrounding patterned paper.

For this design, I continued using the Doodlebug “Snow Much Fun” 6x6 collection. The playful winter characters create an energetic backdrop, while the centered snowflake panel keeps the composition grounded. I added a coordinating strip that reads “Snow Much Fun” to tie the theme together and reinforce the winter vibe.

The oversized tag shape draws the eye upward, and the ribbon detail gives the card a gift-like feel. It almost doubles as a keepsake tag while still functioning as a traditional greeting card. The layered squares add depth without overwhelming the busy print underneath.

This layout required precise placement since the tag panel overlaps multiple patterns. I secured everything with my Tape Runner to keep the layers flat and clean. If you’re assembling multi-layered designs like this, having reliable adhesive makes a noticeable difference. You can visit www.taperunner.com and use code AMALIA10 for 10% off your order.

What I appreciate most about Sketch 14 is how it blends structure with playfulness. It feels cheerful, dimensional, and full of movement.

Only one card left in this challenge!

Have you enjoyed the tag-style layouts in this series? Let me know your thoughts — I love hearing how these sketches inspire you.

— Amalia

 

Kendra’s Card Challenge #21 – Card #13

Day 13 of 15 | Sketch 13

Welcome back!

Card #13 is based on Sketch 13, and this one really leans into clean structure with strong vertical lines. I’m still working from the Doodlebug “Snow Much Fun” 6x6 paper pad, and this sketch was perfect for showcasing multiple coordinating prints in one design.

The layout features alternating patterned panels that frame the center strip beautifully. I chose the snowman print for the middle to act as the visual anchor, then layered the sentiment circle directly over it to keep the eye focused front and center.

The “Thankful for you!” sentiment sits on a teal glitter circle, which adds contrast and just enough shimmer to elevate the card without overpowering the softer winter tones. The mint card base keeps everything fresh and cohesive.

To finish it off, I added a few enamel dots for light dimension and subtle texture — small details that make a big impact.

Because this sketch uses several narrow strips, clean adhesion really matters. I used my Tape Runner to secure each layer smoothly and evenly. If you’d like to try it yourself, head to www.taperunner.com and use code AMALIA10 for 10% off your order.

I appreciate how Sketch 13 demonstrates that repetition in pattern can create visual interest while still feeling organized and intentional.

We’re almost at the finish line of this challenge — two more cards to go!

What do you think of this layout? Would you rotate it horizontally or keep it vertical?

— Amalia

 

Kendra’s Card Challenge #21 – Card #7

Day #7 of 15 | Stretching 6 Sheets of Patterned Paper into 15 Cards

Welcome to Day #7 of my Kendra’s Card Challenge #21 series!

We are at the halfway point now and moving into the heart of the challenge. I am loving using the Snow Much Fun paper pad.

👉 Catching up? Make sure to see how we handled the vibes of Card #6 before checking out today’s bright celebration card!

Card #7: Best Wishes, (Sketch 7)

This card is a fun example of winter-themed paper crafting. It balances soft lilacs and bold purples with a touch of magical illustration.

Design Layout & Style

I used a lavender card base with light lavender cardstock. The focal point is a watercolored stamp from Elizabeth Craft Designs against a background of stamped snowflakes and stars.

• The Sentiment: A crisp white banner with the words "best wishes", popped up for dimension over the candle.

• Geometric Contrast: The bottom-left corner is anchored by a diagonal collage of patterned paper including:

  • Bold purple and white stripes.

  • Multicolor snowflakes on a white background.

  • A soft lavender grid pattern.

  • Faint white stars on a cream base.

Crafting Detail

• Fussy Cutting: The candle and banner have been precisely cut and adhered to the card face, using foam tape for a 3D effect.

• Tone-on-Tone Stamping: The snowflakes on the background are stamped in a shade of purple just slightly darker than the cardstock, creating a subtle, textured look.

***Pro-Tip: Notice the small banner at the top right—it mirrors the patterns from the bottom corner, which is a great way to "tie" the composition together and lead the viewer's eye across the card.

Want to See All 15 Cards?

I’m sharing one card per day as part of this 15-card series using Kendra’s Card Challenge #21.

🎥 Learn more about the challenge here: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=654MpJDjP4U

🧻 Shop the patterned paper used throughout this series: 👉 Doodlebug Designs Snow Much Fun 6×6 Paper Pad 👉 https://tidd.ly/3Zd7WSC

🧷 Strong adhesive makes all the difference: 👉 Shop Tape Runner at TapeRunner.com 👉 Use code Amalia10 to save 10%

✨ Join me tomorrow for Card #8 and we will be over halfway to the finish line!

Back in the Saddle with Gumpaste Lavender

It's been a while since I posted anything cake related so I thought I would share what did for a party this weekend. 

I made 24 gumpaste lavender stems last week and baked some chocolate chip cupcakes for a family party. It was the first in at least 6 years that I have done anything at this level. Working with gumpaste is very different than working with icing in a piping bag. Some would say it is easier because it doesn't require the same skill set. If I didn't have that skill set, I would agree. Since I do know my way around a piping bag, I think piping these out onto the cupcakes would have been faster, and therefore easier. 

I don't know why I didn't pipe these on instead of making them in gumpaste. These definitely give off a fancy vibe and while it was a family gathering, I wanted them to be extra special for this occasion. 

Each flower and leaf was painstakingly made by hand and assembled. I was glad I did it. I confirmed for myself that I've still got it!

I had all the supplies that I needed, I just needed some fresh gumpaste. Literally, everything else was in my stash, plus, plus, plus!

I will share a video on how I made them on my YouTube channel soon, so stay tuned for that.

Thanksgiving Cornucopia Cake Class

Once a year I offer a special project class in November, the week before the Thanksgiving Holiday. I call it a Cornucopia but is also know as a Horn of Plenty.

In this class we use a cupcake or a muffin as the base to create the horn shaped basket that holds the overflowing bounty of the fall harvest. I teach students how to make all the fruits and veg with buttercream icing. I love this project and I have made a number of these over the years.


It's a little old fashioned looking but that's exactly what I like about it!




I am offering the class on Sunday, November 22nd from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. That's just in time to serve for your Thanksgiving dessert.



Here is the supply list needed for the class, maybe I will see you there!

Supplies needed for Cornucopia Cake Project Class

- 1 large cupcake or muffin

- 1 10 inch round caked, iced and ready to decorate (optional)

- 2 Recipes decorating icing (recipe on previous page)

· Icing colored and separated as follows:

- ¼ cup of Red(tomatoes)

- ¾ cup of white(cauliflower)

- 1 ½ cups green (Cabbage, cauliflower, etc.)

- ¾ cup orange(carrots)

- ¾ cup golden yellow(corn)

- 2 cups Ivory

- Wax paper

- #7 flower nail

- Decorating turntable (optional but very useful)

- a tablespoon of cornstarch

- Cake Sparkles, white (optional but highly recommended)

- Small angled spatula and Flower lifter (or food safe scissors)

- Bath Towel and Paper towels

- Gallon size zip-lock bag

- Scotch tape

- A Show n Serve board or cake plate

- Small serrated knife

- Large disposable plastic cups

- You will need the following tips in the quantities listed:

- #21, #104, #233, #103, (3) #5, #349, #7, #14

- Additional tips if we have time for extra’s, #2 or #3

- Advanced preparation is important, please bring bags of icing filled and marked as follows:

- Clear disposable bag or 12 inch re-useable bag with ivory colored icing and tip #21

- 2 clear disposable bags each fitted w/a coupler with green icing

· one bag marked “green, tip #104 and tip #103

· one bag marked “green, tip #7, tip #14 and tip #349

- Clear disposable bag “yellow, tip #233” (or tip 3 if you cannot find #233)

- Clear disposable bags or 8 inch re-useable bags filled and marked as follows:

- Red, tip #5

- White, tip #5

- Orange, tip #5

Decorating icing (double batch recipe)

- 4 tablespoons water, milk or cream

- 2 teaspoon Wilton clear vanilla extract

- 2 teaspoon Wilton clear butter extract

- 2 teaspoon Wilton clear almond extract

- pinch of salt (optional) let salt dissolve with liquids before adding next ingredient

- 2 cup solid vegetable shortening

· Cream liquid and shortening on low speed until combined

- 2 lb. Sifted confectioner's sugar mixed with 6 tablespoons Wilton meringue powder

· Cover mixer with a kitchen towel and blend on low/medium speed with creamed shortening until fully combined, do not over mix.