For most of us, crafting is a hobby, something we have limited time to do. In the ideal world we have unlimited time to plan, prep, and make a card. In reality, a few quick short cuts can help us get the most out of our crafting time! The purpose of this series is to make two cards after prepping once.  I hope I inspire you to take a few extra minutes to double your craftiness.

I began by creating two embossed backgrounds. While I was at my die cutting machine, I cut several different “wreath” style cut outs in different colors and paper types- a book page, vellum and card stock. Finally, I cut two versions of the “Thanks” die.

I then added a bit of color to make the embossed paper backgrounds pop- just swiping the Studio Calico stamp pads lightly across the paper. Then, I played with the various cuttings to find a layout I liked.

The only difference between the two cards is the piece I put between the card based and the “Thanks” die. In the feminine card I used a light piece of ribbon. In the more masculine card I used a striped piece of card stock.