Create Stunning Cards without adding a bunch of extra layers! You are going to LOVE today’s project! Do you feel you may be dreaming when you read that first sentence? Well, you’re not!
During my live on 3-24-2026, I shared one of my favorite go-to techniques. It gives you that polished, layered look—without actually layering. Yep… we’re talking about faux matting. And once you try it, you may never go back! Be sure to check the replay posted at the end of this post.
Let’s start with that dreamy background. Honestly… it steals the show!
I used Summer Splash, Daffodil Delight, Peach Pie inks. These colors blend into a soft, glowing sky effect.
Using blending brushes, I worked from light to dark. Basically, I let the colors melt into each other. This is one of the easiest ways to create stunning card backgrounds. There’s no “perfect” way to do it. Every blend turns out beautifully unique.
And here’s a little extra fun from the live. I also showed how to take your background up a notch on your painting projects. I added a bit of paint with my blending brush to create a sky effect. It adds a hint of texture. It also gives your project that “wow” factor without extra effort.
Now let’s talk about the real star of the show—the faux mat technique.
Instead of cutting and layering multiple pieces of cardstock, I kept it simple. I took my blended panel and gently rubbed the edges onto an ink pad. That’s it!
Altogether this creates a soft, inked border. It looks just like a real mat layer. It’s quick and mess-free. What a clever way to create stunning card designs. And your card stays flat for mailing.
Create Stunning Cards with This Simple Faux Mat Technique
For this card, I used Peach Pie, Summer Splash, and Basic White cardstock. Basically, these colors tie everything together matching the blended background perfectly. The result is a bright, cohesive look.
I also used the Notes & Totes stamp set. It may be retired, but the dies are still fabulous! CLICK HERE to check out a card I created with the dies. I added a soft floral frame around the sentiment. Then, I included a bold flower accent. It adds just the right amount of detail. It doesn’t take away from the background.
And can we talk about that sentiment—“sending warm wishes”? It fits this card perfectly!
This design works for so many occasions. Think birthdays, thinking of you, or just a little happy mail.
What I love most is how simple this card is. A few easy techniques come together beautifully. You don’t need fancy tools. You don’t need complicated steps. Just ink, paper, and a little creativity. We always love our S.I.P. (stamps, ink, & paper) projects.
So if you’re looking for something new, give this a try. Grab your blending brushes. Pick your favorite colors. Play with soft blends or bold edges. And don’t forget the faux matting trick. It’s a total game changer!
If you try it, I’d love to hear about it. I’d love to see how you create stunning card designs too. That’s the best part of crafting. We inspire each other 💛
Create Stunning Cards with the Supplies I Used
(Can be purchased HERE)
Stamps & Dies:
- Notes & Totes Stamp Set (retired)
Cardstock:
- Peach Pie Cardstock
- Summer Splash Cardstock
- Basic White Cardstock
Ink:
- Summer Splash Ink
- Daffodil Delight Ink
- Peach Pie Ink
- Memento Black Ink
Tools & Accessories:
- Blending Brushes
- Paper Trimmer
- Adhesive
my live replay on how I created this card.
Until we meet again. . .
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