DYI Paper Bag Gift Pouch

We all have a few lunch bags (or as I like to call them, paper sacks) lying around the house — so why not turn them into something fun and functional? This quick and simple project transforms ordinary lunch bags into adorable gift pouches perfect for small treats, note cards, or gift cards.

The best part? You only need a few supplies and

few minutes to create it!


What You’ll Need:

  • 2 paper lunch bags

  • Paper trimmer or scissors

  • Adhesive or glue

  • Brads or ribbon

  • Take Your Pick Tool (or a hole punch)

  • Stamps, DSP, and embellishments for decorating

 How to Make It:

  1. Trim your first bag:
    Cut about ½ inch off the top edge (the open end) to remove the ridge.

  2. Fold the first bag:
    Fold it from the bottom toward the opening, leaving about 1½ inches from the top. Set this one aside.

  3. Prep your second bag:
    Fold this one from the top opening down toward the bottom square, aligning the top edge flush with the bottom line.
    Add a bit of glue to hold this fold in place.

  4. Combine the bags:
    Fold the second bag in half and adhere it to the top of the first bag — this should create three flap layers.

  5. Add your finishing touches:
    Use your Take Your Pick Tool (or a hole punch) to pierce two holes in the top outer corners. Add brads or thread ribbon through for closure.

  6. Decorate to your heart’s desire!
    Add patterned paper, stamped images, or a little tag to give your pouch that handmade charm.

This little pouch is such a versatile project — perfect for small gifts, thank-you treats, or even holiday goodies. ๐ŸŽ€ It’s a creative way to repurpose simple materials into something adorable and useful!

Want to see it come together step by step?
๐ŸŽฅ Watch the full tutorial on my YouTube channel 



Tuesday Tips & Tricks: Crafting on the Go with Kits!

Kits are perfect for crafting on the go! ๐Ÿงก

I’ve been so excited to finally put together this Sweet & Spooky Treats Kit, and what better time than a little road trip? My husband always jokes that I can’t go anywhere without creating or working on something — and honestly, he’s not wrong! 

 

That’s what I love most about these Stampin’ Up! kits — everything you need is right there in the box: pre-cut pieces, embellishments, adhesives, and easy-to-follow instructions. Just grab a pair of scissors, and you’re ready to craft anytime, anywhere!


These fun little treat bags are heading to a special group of people I recently met, and I can’t wait to see the smiles they bring. ๐Ÿ’•

If you haven’t tried a kit yet, I highly recommend it. They’re great for:
✂️ Crafting while traveling or on lunch breaks
๐ŸŽ Quick gifts and thoughtful gestures
๐Ÿ’Œ Stress-free creative time

So next time you hit the road, don’t forget to pack a kit 

(and maybe a little extra adhesive — just in case ๐Ÿ˜‰).

Happy crafting, friends!
— Christina ๐Ÿ’›

Shop with ME!

 

Autumn Toile - Sketch of the Day


Feeling a little Autumn Toile with November right around the corner! This simple sketch layout turned into the perfect cozy fall design — complete with warm tones, pumpkins, and all those Autumn Wishes feels. ๐Ÿ‚✨

Sometimes the simplest sketches make the prettiest cards! ๐Ÿ’›


 

Who's ready for some Scrapbooking fun?

Let’s get together one more time before the holiday hustle kicks in! ๐ŸŽ„๐Ÿฆƒ
Join me for a cozy afternoon of crafting at our Keeping Traditions Scrapbooking Workshop — where we’ll relive the joy of the holidays and create something truly special.

We’ll be using the Keeping Traditions Scrapbooking Kit, which makes three gorgeous two-page layouts with festive papers, traditional Christmas designs, and charming embellishments. You’ll love the classic colors and the extra sparkle from the optional Wink of Stella glitter brush technique! 



๐Ÿ“… When: Saturday, November 22nd
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
๐Ÿ“ Where: The Honey Hole, Marshall, TX

 Kit Details:

  • Makes three 12" x 12" scrapbook spreads

  • Step-by-step instructions along with myself helping you along the way.

  • Beautiful Designer Series Paper and cardstock

  • Stickers, precut images, and photo placeholders

  • Color palette: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Pool Party, Real Red, Secret Sea

Additional Tools (optional but helpful):

  • Stampin’ Dimensionals (optional)

  • Stampin’ Seal (must have day of class)

  • Paper Trimmer & Snips (must have day of class)

  • Old Olive Ink Pad (optional)

  • Wink of Stella Glitter Brush (optional)

  • Multipurpose Liquid Glue

Whether you’re a new crafter, busy crafter, or just love a good creative afternoon, this kit is the perfect way to wrap up your crafting year! 

Seats are limited, so grab your spot today — and let’s make memories together before the holiday rush begins! 

You can save your spot two ways. Purchase the kit with link below and add any extra items you may need and have it delivered to your door and bring kit with you day of event.

Purchase Kit Here

OR 

Pay HERE and I will order the kit for you and you will receive it the day of class. 

Must RSVP buy placing order or payment to me no later than Friday, Nov. 7th.

Spooky Sweet Matchbook Style Gift Card/ Candy Treat Holder

If you’re looking for a quick and cute last-minute treat idea, this little matchbook-style gift card or candy holder is the perfect project! It measures 3-1/4" x 4-1/4" — just the right size to tuck in a mini candy bar or even slip in a gift card for a sweet surprise.


Whether you’re creating for Halloween, teacher gifts, or party favors, this design works for so many occasions. Swap out the paper, colors, and embellishments, and you’ve got a completely different look every time!

My favorite part? ๐Ÿ’•
It’s so simple to make — just a few cuts, folds, and adhesives, and you’ve got a fun, functional, and totally adorable treat holder. You can decorate it with your favorite DSP, add a stamped sentiment, or even a little ribbon for extra flair.


Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • ✅ Quick & easy to create

  • ๐ŸŽ Perfect for candy, gift cards, or notes

  • ✂️ Great way to use paper scraps

  • ๐Ÿ•ธ️ Adaptable for any holiday or occasion

Whether you’re making a few for coworkers or a whole batch for trick-or-treaters, this little project is bound to bring smiles.

So grab your trimmer, pick out your favorite paper, and let’s get spooky and sweet! ๐Ÿ‘ป๐Ÿฌ

Supplies Used:

  • Designer Series Paper (Spooky Sweet DSP # 166191 or your favorite theme) 4" X 12" cut off 3" Score the now 4" X 9" piece @ 3", 6" You will also need 1/8" X 3" piece and (X2) 3-1/4" X 3"

  • Cardstock: 3-1/4" x 9-1/4" score @ 3-1/2, 4" 8-1/4"

  • Stapler & adhesive for closing the bottom flap and adhering the DSP.

  • Candy or small gift card to tuck inside

  • Ribbon, stamps, or embellishments for decorating

Tip:
Add a little sentiment tag or small image to the front for an extra pop of fun — and don’t forget to tag me in your finished project!



 

Creative Pre Retreat Challenge Cards

Every few months my upline and her friends create an unforgettable retreat.
Launch their is always these fun challenges to create from.  

Scroll down to see my take on each of the layouts 
given from some 
wonderful creative women. 


Layout Designed by Connie Stewart.


This layout was shown by Brandy Cox. 


Layout Design by Sharon Armstrong


Layout Design by Jackie Bolhuis.

If you want to learn more on how you can get in on this creative community and more I invite you to join my team of Crafty Inked Queens. Where we create, inspire, and learn from another. 


 

Free Shipping! Starts Today. October 22-24, 2025



Since I’m busy working on my Christmas cards and upcoming classes, I know I’ll be needing plenty of all the things!


I’ve already started my list — cardstock, gems, ribbon, envelopes, and adhesive (all my go-to crafting essentials!).
What’s on your must-have list this week?
Now’s the perfect time to stock up — enjoy FREE SHIPPING on orders of $75+ (before rewards, tax, and shipping) from October 22–24, 2025!

 

Tips & Tricks: Meet the Take Your Pick Tool

The Take Your Pick tool is a multipurpose precision tool that helps with small or meticulous tasks. This tool includes a nice no-slip rubber grip as well as two multi-functional tips. One tip has a tacky putty end used for picking up and applying sequins, gems, or other small objects. The other end has two changeable tips with a paper piercing tip, spatula and stylus. 


Meet the Take Your Pick Tool — the Swiss Army Knife of crafting!

This little multitasker does it all:
✨ Picks up sequins, gems & tiny embellishments (tacky putty tip)
๐Ÿช„ Pokes out die-cut pieces (piercing tool)
๐Ÿงท Lifts & applies embellishments (spatula tip)
๐Ÿ“ Scores paper perfectly (stylus tip)

Add the Die Brush Tip attachment, and you’ll be removing die-cut bits like a pro! ๐Ÿ™Œ

If you don’t have this tool yet — trust me — it’s a total game changer for any cardmaker or paper crafter.

Take Your Pick Tool 

Brushed with Beauty Sketch of the Day


Sketch of the Day

This week I decided to use the Brushed with Beauty DSP and Petals of Beauty stamp set to bring this sketch to life. I love how simple yet elegant this layout is — perfect for showing off your favorite patterned papers!


Colors used: Calypso Coral, Petal Pink, and Mossy Meadow. 

 

Frankenstein Gift Bag Tutorial

It’s easy to make, super cute, and guaranteed to put a smile on someone’s face this Halloween. Perfect for classmates, coworkers, or party favors.

Supplies Used:
Basic Black CS, Granny Apple Green 2-Tone CS, Basic White CS, Basic Black Stampin Write Marker, 1" Circle Punch or Die, 3/4" Circle punch or die, Scissors, Frozen Edge Dies (Retired), 



Measurement for bag: 6" X 6" CS (X2) 
Score on three sides at 1-1/2" 
Watch video tutorial above to see how to assemble. 

Thanks for stopping by and viewing how to create this fun guy. If you enjoyed this and can't wait to create your own. Make sure to follow my blog to come back for more fun 
creating ideas. XO - Christina



 

Traditions of Christmas: Mystery Project


Here’s my card from today’s Team Project LIVE!

I had so much fun creating this festive design using the Traditions of Christmas suite and a touch of sparkle.


Supplies Used:
Cherry Cobbler Cardstock: # 119685
Basic White Cardstock: # 166780
Traditions of Christmas DSP: # 165853
Black & White Gold Bakers Twine: # 166005
Cherry Cobbler Ink: # 147083
Old Olive Ink: # 147090
Christmas Greenery Stamp: # 165870
Traditional Labels: # 165854
Traditional Sparkles Sequins: # 165875
Ornamental Christmas Dies: # 166000
Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine: # 149653

 

Tuesday Tips & Tricks: Identify your colors at a galance.


Tuesday Tips & Tricks: Identify your colors at a galance.
Adhere a 1/8" punch of coordinating cardstock to your ink refill caps using Multipurpose Glue or Glue Dots - it's a quick and easy way to identify your colors at a glance.

 

Sketch Challenge: Christmas Style


Today’s sketch of the day is simple in design but can easily be transformed into something truly beautiful with the right papers, ribbon, and a touch of creativity!


Make sure to come back for a new fun easy to follow sketch. 

Supplies used:
Cherry Cobbler CS, Traditions of Christmas, White CS, Shaded Spruce ribbon and ink, and Jolly Holly stamp set. 


 Two incredible Starter Kit offers available October 1–31! If you’ve ever thought about becoming a demonstrator, now is the perfect time to join my team and start your creative journey.

✨ Choose Your Starter Kit Offer:

  • ๐ŸŽ $125 USD  worth of products for just $35 USD 

  • ๐ŸŽ $189 USD worth of products for just $99 USD 

That’s an amazing value and a perfect way to kick off your Stampin’ Up! adventure!

But joining is about more than just the kit — here’s why you’ll love being part of the Stampin’ Up! family (and my team ๐Ÿ’•):

๐ŸŒŸ Community – Connect with crafters from all over the world and enjoy the encouragement, inspiration, and friendships that make stamping so special.
๐ŸŒŸ Product Perks – Get 20–25% off your favorite products, plus exclusive early access to new releases and catalogs.
๐ŸŒŸ Experiences – Create, share, and inspire others through fun crafting events, workshops, and classes.
๐ŸŒŸ Empowerment – Build confidence, develop new skills, and grow your circle while doing something you love.
๐ŸŒŸ Supplemental Income – Run your Stampin’ Up! business on a flexible schedule and earn a modest supplemental income.
๐ŸŒŸ Incredible Value – With the two best Starter Kit offers ever, you’ll save big and fill your kit with the products you love most.

Whether you’re looking for discounts, community, a fun side business, or just more crafting joy, there’s a place for you here.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Ready to join? Don’t wait — these offers are only available through October 1 - 31, 2025.

I’d love to welcome you to my team and share this amazing creative journey with you.


 

Traditions of Christmas Shaker Card

If you love shaker cards, you’re going to love

creating this card!
I love creating fun, simple, and festive cards, especially when we use beautiful paper the
Traditions of Christmas DSP — perfect for adding that extra sparkle to your holiday crafting.



Switched this one up using Moden Christmas DSP. 
Do you prefer Traditions of Christmas or Modern Christmas?


Measurements:
Bubble Bath CS 8-1/2" X 5-1/2" Score @ 4-1/4"
Cherry Cobbler CS Layer 5-1/4" X 4"
DSP 5" X 3-3/4" 
Watch Video for details on assemble. 



Bubble Bath Cardstock # 161718
Cherry Cobbler Cardstock # 119685
Traditions of Christmas DSP # 165853
Ornemental Christmas Dies # 166000
Jolly Holly Hybrid Emboss Folder & Die # 166119


 Thanks for stopping by and viewing today. 

Hope you leave inspired. 

XO - Christina

Coffee & Cards - Road to Christmas

We had an absolute blast at
Coffee & Cards this morning!

So many great laughs and creative moments shared together.


If you’re looking for something fun to do, join us next time! We’ll be skipping November since I’ll be out of town, but mark your calendars for Wednesday, Dec. 10th – more details coming soon.


You’ll have the option to create with the featured kit or pick from one of my spotlight favorites. Can’t wait to stamp with you!




 

Handmade & Heartfelt Kit 30% off.


This past weekend I was busy helping others in creating at our daughter’s fundraiser, but that afternoon we sat down to enjoy the SU! Virtual Event recap and created with this beautiful
Handmade & Heartfelt Kit. ๐Ÿ’•
...... Probably one of my favorites to date!


✨ Today is the LAST DAY of the kit sale — don’t miss out! You still have time to grab your favorites and create something beautiful.


๐Ÿ‘‰ Click the link to start shopping kits today! https://www.stampinup.com/.../handmade-heartfelt-kit...




 

Love & Courage Card Class on the GO!!!!


Ready to craft something cozy and creative this October?

My October Card Class is here—featuring the beautiful Love & Courage stamp set! 

We’ll be creating 5 adorable handmade cards using some amazing products that

 celebrate the heart of the season.

So grab your favorite drink, pull up a comfy chair, and hang 

out with me LIVE on YouTube, October 27th for a fun, relaxed craft-along!

Here’s what’s included in your kit:
✨ 5 handmade card projects
✉️ Coordinating envelopes + embellishments
๐Ÿ“˜ Full-color PDF tutorial
๐ŸŽฅ Step-by-step video tutorial delivered straight to your inbox

Help:
๐Ÿ’› Cost: $25 + shipping = $32.95
๐Ÿ“ฆ Kits ship Friday, October 24th
✔️ Must prepay or place an order to reserve your kit

You can also get your kit FREE with a $30+ order, 

๐Ÿ‘‰ Shop with Me HERE

Supplies not included:

๐Ÿฉท Love & Courage Stamp Set #165935
๐Ÿ’— Pretty in Pink Ink #163807
๐Ÿ–ค Memento Ink #132708

or Pay directly through PayPal

Pay through PayPal

Don’t have the stamp set or inks? No problem! 

You can grab them easily in my online store—I’ll help you get everything you need.

๐Ÿ’Œ Downline Team Members: You’ll get the PDF + video tutorial FREE!
๐Ÿ’Œ Place a $35 order (before shipping/handling) and get the class FREE!

✨ RSVP today and let’s add a touch of Love & Courage to your crafting!


Thanks for checking out my blog. Hope you leave inspired. XO

 

Coffee & Cards