One simple card template can truly deliver stunning results.
In today’s project, I’m showing you how a single off-center card layout can be used to create six distinctly different cards—each with its own style, mood, and purpose.
Rather than starting from scratch every time you sit down to craft, this approach allows you to rely on a strong layout and let small design changes do the creative work. By adjusting things like texture, orientation, shape, or materials, you can transform the same template into something that feels completely new.
In the video tutorial below, I walk through one complete card from start to finish using this off-center template. After that, I’ll share five additional cards made with the exact same layout so you can see just how versatile it really is.
You won’t find measurements in this post. Instead, all of the measurements for this card—and future card templates I share—are available inside my Card Template Inspiration Library, which is exclusive to my email subscribers. This keeps everything organized in one place and makes it easy to revisit your favorite layouts anytime you need a creative jump-start.
Watch the Video Tutorial
In the video below, I walk you step-by-step through creating the Off-Center Card Template using the Woolly Friends stamp set. I share tips for building the background, layering your focal image, and assembling the card so it feels balanced without being rigid.
This video focuses on one complete card from start to finish. Once you see how the template works, it opens the door to endless variations.
Accessing the Measurements
You’ll notice that I’m not including measurements in this blog post—and that’s intentional.
All measurements for this card, along with future card templates I share, are housed in my Card Template Inspiration Library. This library includes printable PDFs with measurements in both imperial and metric, making it easy for crafters everywhere to follow along.
Access to the library is available exclusively to my email subscribers.
If you’re already on my email list, simply fill out the form to be tagged for access. You won’t receive duplicate emails—this just lets me know to unlock the library for you.
The Featured Card: Woolly Friends
The card I created during the video features the Woolly Friends stamp set. This design uses a stamped background, a horizontal band to ground the layout, and a layered focal image placed slightly off-center. That intentional shift away from symmetry gives the card visual interest while still feeling calm and cohesive.
This layout is especially effective when you want your focal image to shine without overwhelming the rest of the design.
Five More Ways to Use the Same Template
To show just how versatile this layout is, I created five additional cards using the exact same template. Each one highlights a different way to adapt the design based on your needs, supplies, or the occasion.
A Round of Hellos – Floral Image Card
For this version, I added visual interest by embossing about two-thirds of the pink background layer instead of the entire panel. That small change adds texture without overwhelming the design.
I also rotated the focal image 90 degrees, turning the 2½” side into the vertical measurement instead of the horizontal. I did this to better accommodate the floral image and to demonstrate that the focal panel in this template can be used either direction with great results.
Valentine – Hugs & Kisses Card
In this variation, the designer series paper takes center stage. Rather than competing with it, I kept the rest of the design simple and intentional.
The horizontal band is embossed to add subtle texture, while the focal panel combines both the sentiment and the XO image. This shows how the template easily supports a bold patterned background while still keeping the card balanced.
Pet Sympathy – Version One
This version is all about simplicity and softness. I embossed the cardstock background to create gentle texture and added stamped paw prints to the horizontal band for a meaningful detail.
Instead of the standard rectangle layers, I swapped them out for a circle and a punched image. This small change shifts the feel of the card while still using the same template structure.
Pet Sympathy – Version Two
For this card, I used designer series paper as the background and coordinated cardstock for the horizontal band.
To accommodate my chosen image, I made the rectangle layers slightly larger than in the original design. This variation shows how easy it is to adjust scale within the template without losing the overall balance of the layout.
Merry Christmas Holiday Card
This holiday version uses embossed cardstock for the background, keeping the design clean and classic.
Instead of cardstock for the horizontal band, I substituted 1″ wide ribbon, instantly adding texture and a festive feel. It’s a great example of how the same template can work beautifully for seasonal cards with just a simple material swap.
Why Templates Matter
Using templates doesn’t limit creativity—it supports it. When the structure is already decided, you’re free to focus on color, texture, and storytelling through your cards. That’s where the joy lives.
If you’re someone who loves crafting but doesn’t always love the “figuring it out” stage, this Off-Center Card Template is one you’ll want in your toolbox. Templates work the same way sketches do—they give you a starting point and the freedom to make it your own. If you missed it, you may also enjoy my Triple Banner Sketch post, which shows another way to use a strong layout as a creative foundation:
https://stampinwithcraftyklock.com/2025/07/28/triple-banner-sketch/
If you’d like the measurements for this Off Center Card template (and future card layouts), be sure to subscribe and access the Card Template Inspiration Library, where all of my layouts are organized in one easy-to-use place.
And if you’re ready to recreate any of the cards you saw here, you can shop all of the supplies in my Stampin’ Up! online store. From cardstock and designer paper to stamps, dies, and embellishments, everything you need to get started is just a click away.
Thanks so much for stopping by and spending time at the craft table with me today.
Stay crafty,
Judy 💚