Using Repetition in Card Design

Hello! After recently posting this card, I began to reflect on how often I use repetition in card design. Repetition is a powerful design principle that enhances handmade cards by creating visual harmony, emphasizing focal points, and simplifying the design process. Let’s take a look at cards from my blog archive as examples. Click on the card image to be taken to the original post.

Repetition establishes a visual rhythm that makes the design feel cohesive and harmonious. By repeating a focal item, such as a scooter, a lighthouse, or a balloon, you create a pattern that the eye naturally follows. Use different colors for each repeated element to add interest. Arrange the elements in patterns, such as grids, rows, or clusters, to see what works best for your design.

Using Repetition in Card Design

Using Repetition in Card Design

Using Repetition in Card Design

Repetition can make the design process simpler and faster. Once you’ve decided on a shape or image to repeat, you can focus on other aspects like the color schemes and layout.

Using Repetition in Card Design

Repetition is a great technique for making the most of smaller focal items. By repeating a small die cut, and varying its colors, you can create a striking design.

Using Repetition in Card Design

Repetition is an especially useful technique when you’re unsure of what else to do. By repeating a single shape or image, you can fill space effectively, create visual interest, and ensure your card looks well-planned and artistic without complex details.

Die-cut Nautical “AHOY” Card

Hello! At the beginning of the month, I shared a round-up of summer-themed cards. Inspired by the post, I created a nautical-themed card that features a charming Impression Obsession sailboat. The cheerful “AHOY” is a perfect choice for sending warm wishes to any sea lover in your life and works for a multitude of occasions.

Die-cut Nautical "AHOY" Card

    • I used Echo Park patterned paper in my stash for the card base background. I discuss how patterned paper is a quick and convenient way to add character to card backgrounds HERE.
    • While designing the card, I thought back on the impact of a frame, which I discuss HERE. I chose the Lawn Fawn Say Cheese, Again die set to cut the Polaroid-style frame.
    • To create the background behind the frame, I used the now-retired, Taylored Expressions “On the Spot” embossing folder. I wrote about the use of embossing folders in cardmaking HERE.
    • I cut the sailboat, waves, and cloud from a variety of color cardstocks, and assembled as required. I used the Art Impressions Journal Letter die set to cut the letters that I glue to the frame.

Die-cut Nautical "AHOY" Card


Queen & Co. Safari-Themed Shaker Card

Hello! Today, I am sharing a safari-themed shaker card created with the Queen & Company Go Safari kit. The kit includes a sentiment stamp set, dies to create an alligator, a giraffe, a zebra, a monkey, an elephant, a tiger, a lion, and a hippo, as well as patterned paper, foam for the shaker pieces, and toppings. (While I created this card with my four-month-old granddaughter in mind, safari animals appeal to all ages!) I also used Foundation die sets – 3, 14, 19 – to create the paper layers and to cut my sentiment. The Foundation die sets include a variety of dies to up your cardmaking game.

Queen & Co. Safari Themed Shaker Card

Go Safari kit, Foundation 19 (scallop edge, sentiment banners), Foundation 3 (mat for the lion and behind dotted strip), Foundation 14 (dotted strip), Pearls Sampler (gold pearls), Tiny Trio Epoxy Bundle (orange enamel dots)

Queen & Co. Safari Themed Shaker Card

Looking for more inspiration? I previously shared cards created with another Queen & Company kit in THIS POST. Additionally, Queen & Company has a YouTube channel, a Facebook page, and an active (private) Facebook Fan Group for inspiration.

Congratulations Cards Roundup

“Bravo!” “You Did It!” “Hooray!” Welcome to a roundup of congratulations cards. Whether it’s a graduation, a new job, a new home, or a job well done – these occasions deserve to be celebrated in style. Sending a congratulations card is a way to recognize a friend’s or family member’s achievement.

In this post, I have used cards from my blog archive as examples. Click on the card image to be taken to the original post.

Cards can be sent to congratulate graduates from preschool all the way to graduate school. Additionally, handmade graduation cards can be tailored to incorporate the recipient’s school colors.

Featuring a sports car and festive balloons, along with the heartfelt message “You’ve turned your dreams into realities,” the card below stylishly celebrates a loved one’s accomplishments.

A “You’re so awesome” sentiment accompanied by a vibrant array of colorful die-cut stars is an uplifting way to celebrate someone’s achievements.

A whimsical card featuring a fox playing a horn and a punny sentiment can be sent for a number of congratulatory occasions.

Celebrate someone’s move to a new home with style and flair with a card featuring colorful paintbrushes.

Observations I did not include engagement, wedding, retirement, or new baby cards in this round-up. I have only created a handful of those cards over the years, and I am not sure I necessarily see them as part of the congratulations category.

For which occasions do you send congratulations cards?

Repetition in Design: Trio of Tropical Birds

Hello! Today I am sharing another card created with the Small Die of the Month kit from Spellbinders – “Tropical Friends.” I previously shared a card created with the kit HERE. On this card, I am embracing the design principle of repetition. Note: the sign-up window for new club subscriptions closes on the 27th.

Repetition in Design: Trio of Tropical Birds

Repetition in Design: Trio of Tropical Birds