Rediscovered Delight: Layered Floral Cardmaking with Shady Designs Stamps

Discover how to create a vibrant, layered floral card while embracing white space. Using my own Shady Designs stamps, I’ll guide you through step-by-step colouring, stamping, and layering techniques for a beautiful handmade card.

This card was one of the first times I really challenged myself to embrace white space... something I used to be afraid of! Possibly still am!

I never shared it before as a single project, so I figured now’s the perfect time to revisit it - with fresh eyes, a refreshed voice, and a few easy steps if you’d like to try it yourself.

Step-by-Step Layering & Colouring: Downloadable instructions

When I made the card, I also wrote a set of “how-to” instructions as a PDF. Feedback suggested people preferred reading them directly on the blog, so I converted them to PNGs - right-click to save them if you’d like.

Instructions are below:

Alternatively, download the PDF HERE

Supplies used for the Layered Floral Card

Shady Designs A Bit On The Side stamp set
Shady Designs Make Your Own Bit stamp set
Sakura Koi Brush pens
Versafine Clair Nocturne ink
Acrylic stamp blocks or stamp platform
White cardstock
3D foam pads & glue

FAQ / Tips for Beginners

Q: How many layers should I use?
A: Stamp extra images and experiment — you can always trim or rearrange as needed.

Q: Can I use other colouring mediums?
A: Yes! Brush pens, watercolours, or coloured pencils all work beautifully.

Q: How can I make white space look intentional?
A: Leave clean areas, balance with colour, and avoid overcrowding.

Tips for Embracing White Space

• Leave parts of the card base clean to let focal images pop.

• Add subtle splatters or small accents rather than filling all space.

• Layer thoughtfully: balance colours and textures for visual interest.

 

About Shady Designs

These stamps are from my A Bit On The Side collection, which I designed as part of Shady Designs. The range belongs to an earlier chapter of my creative work, but I still enjoy revisiting the designs and finding new ways to use them.

For me, good stamp design has always been about flexibility — giving you elements that can be used individually, layered together or combined to create something completely different.

Revisiting Creative Freedom

This project reminded me how fun it is to play and embrace creative freedom. Letting go of perfection - filling all the space or doing things “the right way” - allows you to make cards with more joy and personality.

I hope this project inspires you to use what you already have, try a technique you usually avoid, or simply play.

Until next time, take care,

Lou

xxx