So Lucky to Create with Ocean Wonders!

The new Catherine Pooler Designs “Ocean Wonders” collection has completely swept me away with all of its beachy charm! Today’s card combines soft ocean textures, bright tropical colors, and some sweet seaside treasures.

I started by creating the card base background using the “Jellyfish Dance Layered Stencils” along with the brand new Oyster Ink. I love how this subtle pattern almost looks like flowing underwater grasses swaying in the ocean currents. It adds just the right amount of texture while still keeping the card soft and clean.

Next, I stamped and die cut several of the adorable seashell images from the “Beach Comber” stamp set. To give the shells lots of bright coastal personality, I used a cheerful blend of Lemon Sorbet, Creamsicle, Bellini, and also Sweetheart, and Pucker Up inks. The two-toned stamping really helps bring all those shell details to life!

For the design, I tucked the shells along the curved edge of the card to create the look of treasures buried in the sand. I absolutely love how the bright pinks and warm oranges pop against the crisp white background.

To finish everything off, I added the heartfelt sentiment from the “Inside Out: Love You” stamp set:
“some days I ask myself how did I get so lucky”

This card came together so beautifully and feels like the perfect mix of elegant and playful summer vibes.

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

~ Ally ~ 

Seahorses & Ocean Waves 💙

The new Catherine Pooler Designs “Ocean Wonders” collection is making waves and I am completely smitten with all the seaside inspiration! Today’s card combines soft ocean tones, layered waves and the sweetest pair of seahorses for a clean and elegant design.

For the focal point, I started by stamping and die cutting the adorable seahorses from the “Seahorses on Parade” stamp set. I used Quartz and Pink Champagne inks to create a soft tone-on-tone effect that gives them a delicate underwater feel.

To create the subtle background texture on the card base, I used the “Jellyfish Dance Layered Stencil” with the brand new Oyster Ink. I love how this stencil can be used in multiple ways! I also used portions of the stencil to add extra wave details to my layered ocean pieces.

The waves themselves were created using the “Melon Edge Die” and layered together with vellum, Juniper Mist, and Stone Blue cardstock. Once layered, I die cut the entire scene with a heart die to frame the sweet little seahorses together in their underwater world.

To finish the card, I added a simple sentiment from the “Beautiful Seas Sentiments” stamp set using Juniper Mist Ink.

I absolutely love how soft and peaceful this card turned out — the layered waves and muted ocean palette make it feel so dreamy!

Thanks so much for stopping by today! 🌊

~ Ally ~ 

Beachy Love with the New Ocean Wonders Release!

The brand new Catherine Pooler Designs release, “Ocean Wonders,” is almost here and it is packed with all kinds of seaside goodness! From shells and sea creatures to beachy sentiments and ocean-inspired textures, this collection is perfect for summertime crafting.

For today’s card, I reached for the beautiful “Beach Comber” stamps and dies to create this soft and playful ocean-inspired design. I stamped and die cut several shells using a cheerful blend of Lemon Sorbet, Creamsicle and Bellini inks along with pops of Sweetheart and Pucker Up for those bright pink tones. I absolutely love how these colors bring the shells to life!

 

To create the background, I used the tiny “sand” image from the stamp set and repeatedly stamped it using Midnight ink along with the gorgeous new Oyster ink. This added the perfect subtle beachy texture without overpowering the focal elements.

I also added some Lemon Sorbet bubbles from the new "Jellyfish Dance Layered Stencils". I used just one of the 3 cool layers of this set of 3 stencils.

The bold sentiment was created using the new Layered Love Word Die. I die cut the word from black cardstock and added a vellum outline behind it to help it stand out while still keeping the overall design light and airy.

To finish everything off, I splattered the panel with the beautiful new Pearl Shimmer for that perfect touch of sparkle and ocean magic.

The Ocean Wonders release is available for StampNation members today, and the full collection goes live for everyone tomorrow at 9am EST!

Happy crafting!

~ Ally ~ 

Quilted Posies ~ Catherine Pooler Designs

There’s something so satisfying about clean, repeating patterns—and the new Sizzix & Catherine Pooler Print & Pattern Tool makes it easier than ever to achieve that crisp, professional look!

For today’s card, I used the beautiful Print & Pattern: Patchwork Tile Stencil to create this soft and modern background. The tool really shines when it comes to lining everything up perfectly, allowing you to build a seamless pattern with ease. I blended together some Spa inks: Stone Blue, Juniper Mist, Pink Champagne, and Seafoam inks for a fresh, airy color palette that feels both playful and polished.

To add a bit of dimension and interest, I brought in the Friendly Florals Thinlit Dies. I die cut the florals from coordinating Catherine Pooler cardstock in Juniper Mist, Wintergreen, and Stone Blue, then layered them over the background for a subtle 3D effect. I love how these elements add just the right amount of texture without overpowering the pattern.

To finish things off, I added a sweet banner sentiment using a greeting from the Print & Pattern: Birthday Sentiments stamp set, stamped in Juniper Mist ink. It’s the perfect little touch to tie everything together.

This new tool and the entire Sizzix release are now available in the Catherine Pooler shop—and if you love creating custom patterns, this is definitely one you’ll want to try!

Thanks so much for stopping by! 💙

~ Ally ~ 

No Matter Where We Roam 🚐💚 ~ Catherine Pooler is Here!

 

Hi crafty friends!

Today I’m sharing another card featuring the adorable Happy Trail-ers stamp and die set from Catherine Pooler Designs. I just can’t get enough of these sweet little campers!

I started with the background by using the new Peak View stencil and blending in the gorgeous Getaway ink for a soft, scenic look. To add a bit of sparkle and texture, I finished it off with Disco Ball embossing powder, which gives the mountain peaks such a fun shimmer.

For the ground, I wanted something a little different, so I created that speckled soil using the new Rusted Roof embossing powder—it adds the perfect earthy texture for the camper to sit on.

To bring in a playful element, I created a faux lake using strips of the Trail Mix patterned paper, die cut with the Rick Rack Strips Dies. I love how the waves add movement and a pop of pattern to the scene!

The camper itself was stamped, die cut, and colored with Copic Markers, then popped up in the center of the circular window for dimension.

Everything is pulled together with the rich Aquatini cardstock, and I added a few Party Greens enamel dots for a finishing touch. The sentiment circle perfectly sums it all up—“No matter where we roam, you’ll always be my home.” 💕

This card was such a fun mix of textures, patterns, and techniques—perfect for sending a little love wherever the road leads.

Thanks so much for stopping by!  Happy shopping!

~ Ally ~ 

Couldn't Ask for a Sweeter Friend ~ Sweet November Stamps

There’s something so magical about fairies, and today’s card features two of the sweetest from Sweet November Stamps—“Gracie Greenglade” and “Whimsy Heathersong.” 🧚‍♀️✨

I paired these adorable friends together to create a soft, whimsical scene that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. To really set the mood, I used my Copic Airbrush System to build up a smooth, dreamy sky and soft grassy foreground. I love how the airbrushing creates that seamless blend of color—it makes the whole scene feel light and airy!

Both fairies were colored with Copic Markers, and I had so much fun bringing out their personalities with bright, cheerful colors. From their delicate wings to their sweet expressions, these images are just a joy to color.

To finish the card, I added a simple sentiment across the top—“I couldn’t ask for a sweeter friend”—which felt absolutely perfect for this design.

This card was sent off to one of my penpals, and I hope it brings a little extra magic and happiness to their day. 💛

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you feel inspired to create something whimsical today!

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler Designs – A Purr-fect Thank You

Today I’m sharing a fun and colorful thank you card featuring some fabulous products from Catherine Pooler Designs!

For the background, I used the Flirty Blooms Layered Stencil, but instead of layering the entire stencil design, I chose to use just one layer to create this playful pattern. I blended Sweetheart and Mardi Gras inks to form the soft pink and teal background, which gives the card such a bright and happy feel.

To add a little extra sparkle and interest, I splattered Pixie Dust Shimmer over the Sweetheart ink areas only. The shimmer catches the light beautifully and gives the background a subtle magical touch.

Next, I stamped and added the three adorable cats using Mardi Gras ink. I love how their playful poses add personality and movement to the card while keeping the overall design light and fun.

For the sentiment, I used a greeting from the “3 Times the Thanks Sentiment” stamp set. I stamped it onto one of the labels from the “More Sentiment Banner Dies,” which creates the perfect focal point across the card.

This card came together with a simple design, a bit of sparkle, and a trio of sweet kitties to say thanks in the cutest way possible!

You can find all of these supplies over in the Catherine Pooler Designs shop.

Have a great rest of the week!

~ Ally ~ 

The Petals & Purrs Release is Here!

The wait is over! The brand new Petals & Purrs release from Catherine Pooler Designs is officially in the shop today, and it is absolutely filled with purr-fect pals, beautiful petals, and so many fun new crafting goodies!

For today’s card I combined two of my favorite new products — the adorable kitties from the Purr-fect Pals Stamp & Die Set and the gorgeous Flirty Blooms Layering Stencil.

I started by creating the soft floral background using the Flirty Blooms Layering Stencil, blending Sweetheart ink to Rockin' Red ink Catherine Pooler inks for a sweet and cheerful look. I added a few splatters of the new Glitz Shimmer to give the background a little sparkle and shine.

Next, I stamped and die cut two of the playful kitties from the Purr-fect Pals set and popped them up on the card front. Their fun patterns and bright colors add so much personality to the design!

For the sentiment, I used the 3 Times the Thanks Sentiment Stamp Set paired with the stitched banner from the More Sentiment Banner Dies. The sentiment “you’re pretty special” felt like the perfect finishing touch for this sweet and playful card.

This release is full of fun critters, florals, and fabulous new tools for cardmakers, so be sure to head over to the Catherine Pooler Designs shop and check out everything in the Petals & Purrs collection.

Happy crafting! 🐾✨

~ Ally ~ 

Petals & Purrs Release – Sweet Kitty Thanks Card

The new Petals & Purrs release from Catherine Pooler Designs is full of adorable critters and beautiful florals, and today I’m sharing a sweet thank-you card featuring one of the kitties from the Purr-fect Pals Stamp Set.

To create the bright background, I used the gorgeous Flirty Blooms Layered Stencil and blended Tiara ink for those sunny yellow flowers. I added a few splatters of Pixie Dust Shimmer for a touch of sparkle that catches the light beautifully.

My adorable pink kitty was stamped from the Purr-fect Pals stamp set and cut out with the coordinating dies before being placed inside a stitched heart frame. I colored the kitty using Sweetheart ink to keep the soft pink theme going across the design.

For the sentiment, I combined the 3 Times the Thanks Stamp Set with the new More Sentiments Banner Dies, which create the perfect little stitched banner for greetings. The main panel was then matted with Sweetheart Cardstock to tie everything together.

To finish the card, I added a few light pink Party Reds Enamel Dots for dimension and a pop of shine.

This cheerful floral background paired with the sweet little kitty makes for such a fun way to send a heartfelt thank you!

You can find all of the new Petals & Purrs products coming to the Catherine Pooler Designs shop on Wednesday.  StampNation members will be able to shop early tomorrow at 12 noon EST.

And if you love cute critters and layered florals as much as I do, this release is definitely one you’ll want to check out!

Happy crafting! ✂️💕

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler & Sizzix ~ Yay for Happy Gardens!

Today I’m sharing a fresh and cheerful card featuring the brand-new Catherine Pooler Designs & Sizzix collaboration! This release is full of versatile dies, stencils, and fun sentiments—and I couldn’t wait to dive in with some of my favorites.

The Background

I started my card with the beautiful new Happy Garden 2 Layering Stencil. Using a soft and springy palette, I blended Melon Ice, Martini, Frosted, and Serene inks to bring the garden blooms to life. I love how these inks layer seamlessly for that soft botanical look.  I quick splatter of metallic silver watercolor paint added that touch of glimmer!

To give the panel a decorative edge, I reached for the Scallops & Dots Dies, which cut out that pretty scalloped border detail. It frames the design so sweetly and adds an extra touch of whimsy.

The Sentiment

For the bold focal point, I die cut one of the Exclamation Word Dies and blended it with Serene ink. A few touches of White Gel Pen accents help it pop against the background. To anchor the sentiment, I layered it over a vellum circle die cut from the Border Party Circles Dies—I love that these dies emboss the edge of the circle for just the right amount of subtle detail!

The Finishing Touches

The vellum helps soften the busy floral background while still letting all that stencilled goodness peek through. The simple “yay” sentiment really makes this card perfect for so many occasions—celebrations, accomplishments, or just happy mail to brighten someone’s day!

✨ All of the new Catherine Pooler Designs & Sizzix products are available now in the Catherine Pooler shop.

Happy shopping!

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler ~ With Love X's

Today’s card is all about clean design, bright colors, and a touch of floral charm using the Catherine Pooler Designs With Love stamp, die, and coordinating stencil set.

I started by creating a playful strip down the right-hand side of my card using Midnight ink and a stamp from the Absolute Favorite Floral stamp set. This subtle pattern adds just the right amount of texture without overpowering the design.

Next, I stamped the floral images, stencilled and die cut the gorgeous blooms from the With Love set using a vibrant palette of Sparkling Berry, Orange Peel, Serene, and Honeycomb inks. I love how these colors pop against the crisp white background! After die-cutting the flowers, I layered them over the X's strip for a balanced focal point.

The sentiment — “With Love” — is also from the With Love stamp set, and I love that the coordinating die set includes dies for all the sentiments too, making it easy to add that final touch.

A few scattered stars and small flowers complete the design for a card that’s sweet, simple, and ready to brighten someone’s day.

You can find the With Love bundle and all the inks I used over at Catherine Pooler Designs.

Have a great weekend!

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler ~ You're Supremely Superb!

Today I’m sharing a bright and cheerful card featuring some of my favorite Catherine Pooler Designs goodies! 

For the blooms, I reached for the With Love Floral stamp set, its coordinating dies, and the matching stencil. This trio makes layering color onto your floral images a breeze!

Isn't that starry polka dot background cute?!  I used some of the small stamps from the With Love Floral stamp set to create my own paper! 

Using my CP Premium Dye Inks in Honeycomb, Apricot, Sparkling Berry, Orange Peel, Serene, and Seafoam, I blended and stencilled each bloom in a soft yet vibrant palette. I love how these shades work beautifully together to create a fresh, happy look.  To enrich the depth of each bloom, I added some darker color of colored pencils.

For my card’s center panel, I used the Scallops & Dots Dies, giving my focal point a sweet, decorative edge. The sentiment, “You’re Supremely Superb,” comes from the Absolute Favorite Floral stamp set — a perfect phrase to send someone a little extra love and encouragement.

To finish off, I added some fun white gel pen accents! 

You can find all of these supplies in the Catherine Pooler Designs shop.

I hope you have a creative week!

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler ~ Showering You with Love

Hello crafty friends!

Today I’m sharing a bright and cheerful card that’s perfect for sending a little handmade love. This project features the gorgeous new "With Love" clear stamp set from Catherine Pooler Designs—and it's packed with charm!

I used this gorgeous stamp set to create the beautiful floral images and the sweet patterns on the umbrella. Speaking of the umbrella, how cute is that dimensional element? I used the coordinating "Under the Umbrella Die" to create that sweet paper pieced shape, filling it with stamped blooms and leafy greens.

For my background, I used the fabulous "Dreamy Damask Layered Stencils" with a bit of "On The Lake" ink and a few spritzes of water to achieve that soft, watermarked effect. It adds just the right touch of texture and elegance.

My color palette features a fresh mix of On The Lake, Honeycomb, Seafoam, and Serene—a dreamy combo that feels both light and joyful.

This card came together like a breath of spring air, and I love how the layers, textures, and florals all work together to deliver one sweet sentiment—“With Love.”

Thanks for joining me today! I hope this card inspires you to create something bright and beautiful this week.

Crafty hugs,

~ Ally ~ 

Catherine Pooler ~ A Little Soft & Sweet Thinking of You

Today I'm sharing a card that’s full of gentle color and heartfelt sentiment—perfect for sending a little love to someone special. 💛💜

This card features the beautiful new "With Love" stamp set and coordinating dies from Catherine Pooler Designs. I absolutely adore the mix of florals in this set—they're whimsical, easy to color, and perfect for a variety of occasions.

To build my background, I pulled out the dreamy "Dreamy Damask Layered Stencils". I softly blended four of my favorite Catherine Pooler Designs inks across the stencils: Serenade, Honeycomb, and Seafoam. These pastel hues create a soft and serene backdrop that lets the sentiment and florals shine.

To add dimension and a little playful detail, I framed the floral cluster using the lovely scalloped panel from the "Dashes & Ruffles Dies". The bubbly edges give the whole card a charming touch that pairs beautifully with the elegance of the damask pattern.

The sentiment, “Thinking of You,” comes right from the "With Love" stamp set and is nestled among the layered die-cut flowers. I used a combination of yellow, soft orange, and lilac tones to color the blooms, adding soft shading for depth and dimension.

This card is a gentle reminder that a handmade message can brighten someone’s day—whether it’s a friend, family member, or someone who just needs a little pick-me-up.

All supplies used are available now in the Catherine Pooler Designs shop. I hope this inspires you to mix your favorite inks and stencils for a delicate background of your own!

Happy crafting! 💐

~ Ally ~ 

Crafty Merkai ~ A Songbird Serenade & an Instagram Hop *PRIZE*

The latest release from Crafty Meraki is here, and it’s bursting with beauty, elegance, and song!  I’m so excited to share a card I created using the brand new Songbird Serenade stamp, stencil, and die set—part of the Meraki Melody collection, already in the shop!

This delicate hummingbird is the star of the show, surrounded by blooming florals and soft greenery. I used Catherine Pooler Designs inks to bring the bird and blossoms to life with soft, layered blends and a touch of splatter for sparkle. 💙💛💜

The coordinating stencil made it a breeze to color in the flowers and leaves, while the matching die set allowed me to pop up each element with beautiful dimension on a slimline card layout. The soft ivory background and gently deckled edges let all that color shine!

 What I Used:

• Crafty Meraki – Songbird Serenade stamp, stencil & die

• Catherine Pooler Inks – for vibrant, blendable color

• Metallic sparkly splatter – for finishing touches

• “Thank You” sentiment – from the stamp set, for that elegant final touch

🎉 Join the Hop on Instagram!

We’re celebrating the Meraki Melody release with an Instagram Hop and you’re invited! There’s a ton of inspiration waiting for you—and maybe even some prizes! 😉

✨ Head to @crafty_meraki to start hopping and see the full release lineup!
✨ You’ll find my post over at @i_card_so_hard along the way!

This release is singing with joy and I can’t wait to see what you all create with it. Thanks so much for stopping by—and don’t forget to hop along!

💗 Stay crafty,

~ Ally ~