When I first started making cards, my cards were incredibly basic. Like one layer of card stock folded in half basic. But as I made more and more cards, I figured out how to add layers and embellishments and make my cards a little bit more impressive.

I rarely spend more than a few minutes making a card but now I know some quick & easy tricks to step up my cards. If you’re looking to take your cards from basic to “Wow, you made that?!?” watch this video…

Paper Measurements:
Whisper White card base: 5-1/2″ x 8-1/2″
Bermuda Bay: 4″ x 5-1/4″
Whisper White: 2″ x 2-1/2″
Lemon Lime Twist: 2-1/4″ x 2-3/4″

Tip #1: Emboss Your Backgrounds

I love my Big Shot so much that I had to buy a second one. The fact that it can emboss pretty patterns into my card stock in just a few cranks of the handle is like pure MAGIC! Be sure to watch the video if you’re not sure how this works.

Tip #2: Add Layers

Oh if only I had learned this little trick earlier. It’s so easy to add a card stock mat behind your main image or greeting and it really makes it pop. My go-to mat is 1/4″ larger in both length and width.

Tip #3: Add Embellishments

Ribbons and rhinestones and enamel shapes, oh my! Really the list of available embellishments you can add to your cards is endless. And there are plenty that you can use that won’t add too much bulk to your cards. I like to keep them simple so my cards will easily go through the mail without extra postage.

What’s YOUR favorite way to step up your cards? Share in the comments below!

Supplies Used: (Click an image for more info or to order)