If you’re looking for a fun, versatile way to add bold color to your cards, today’s tutorial is going to make your crafty heart do a happy dance! I’m showing you how to use your clear acrylic blocks and Stampin’ Blends in a whole new way—with a color blocking technique that’s easy, artsy, and oh-so-addictive. 🎨
Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned cardmaker, this post has something for everyone. I’m featuring the gorgeous Perfectly Pears bundle, which is currently available as an Online Exclusive (and yes, I’m totally smitten).
What is Color Blocking?
This technique uses a clear acrylic block as your “stamp”—you color directly on it with Stampin’ Blends, spritz it with rubbing alcohol, and press it onto cardstock. Once it dries, you’re left with a soft, abstract block of color perfect for backgrounds or die cutting. The best part? Every single print is unique!
Card #1: Simple & Sweet (Beginner)
This first card is perfect for new stampers—just stamps, ink, and paper. No fancy tools required!
Measurements:
- Card base: Old Olive, 5-1/2″ x 8-1/2″, scored at 4-1/4″ (21 cm x 14.8 cm scored at 10.5 cm)
- Layers: Basic White 2 pieces at 5-1/4″ x 4″ (14.3 cm x 10 cm) – one for the inside and one for the front.
Key Features:
- Color block background using Lemon Lime Twist, Old Olive, and a touch of Mossy Meadow Stampin’ Blends
- Stamped pear and sentiment (“A good friend is a gift”) using Secret Sea ink
✂️ Tip: Use line-art images for best results—they really pop against the soft, blended background.
Want to recreate this card? Scroll down for the full supply list and shop with me to grab your own bundle!
Card #2: Stepping It Up (Intermediate)
Ready to add some flair? The second card builds on the same color block base but steps it up with die cuts and texture.
Measurements:
- Card base: Old Olive, 11″ x 4-1/4″, scored at 5-1/2″ (29.7 cm x 10.5 cm scored at 14.8 cm) plus scraps for die cut
- Layers: Basic White 2 pieces at 5-1/4″ x 4″ (14.3 cm x 10 cm), one for the inside and one for the front with the edges torn for a distressed look
Key Features:
- Same color blocking stamping technique using a larger acrylic block
- Torn edges for added texture
- Die-cut branch using adhesive sheet backing for easy application
- Sparkle Dots for a touch of glam
- Sentiment: “Thank you”
🎨 Pro Tip: Use adhesive sheets on intricate dies like branches or leaves to avoid messy glue mishaps!
Don’t forget to add adhesive sheets and sparkle dots to your order—those details make all the difference!
Card #3: Avid Crafter Level – All the Layers!
This card is for my advanced stampers who love adding allll the things—layers, embossing, ribbon, and embellishments!
Measurements:
- Card base: Thick Basic White, 5-1/2″ x 8-1/2″, scored at 4-1/4″ (21 cm x 14.8 cm scored at 10.5 cm)
- Layer 1: Secret Sea cardstock, 5-1/4″ x 4″ (14.3 cm x 10 cm)
- Layer 2: Darling Daffodil cardstock, 4″ x 3″ (10 cm x 8 cm), embossed with Damask Designs folder
- Layer 3: Painted Pears DSP, 4″ x 3″ (10 cm x 8 cm)
- Layer 4: Old Olive scrap for die cuts
- Basic White 5-1/4″ x 4″ (14.3 cm x 10cm) for the inside plus scraps for die cuts
Key Features:
- Color blocked, stamped, and die-cut pears and leaves
- Dimensional sentiment stamped in Secret Sea and cut with coordinating label die
- Mossy Meadow & Gold ribbon (even if the ribbon gremlins try to hide it 😉)
- Secret Sea sparkle gems
💡 Heads up: When coloring with Blends directly on white card bases, the alcohol ink can bleed through. Layering helps hide that!
Love this level of detail? Join my August Workshop featuring the Perfectly Pears bundle! You’ll get hands-on instruction and a goodie bag of Stampin’ Up! products.
Supplies You’ll Need:
Here’s what I used to create all three cards. Click below to shop and support my small business 💚
Try It Yourself!
Color blocking is such a simple technique with BIG visual payoff. Whether you’re just starting out or have a craft room full of supplies, this is a great way to get creative and stretch your tools.
💌 Thanks for stopping by!
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Happy stamping,
💚 Judy
Disclaimer: The content shared here reflects my personal experiences and creative journey. The views and opinions expressed are my own and do not represent those of Stampin’ Up!®. This information is for educational and inspirational purposes only and is not intended as medical, financial, or legal advice. Results and experiences may vary.