This year I am especially looking forward to the happy colours and new life that comes with Autumn. This month Stampin' Up! helped my garden grow with an Early Release of the Ornate Garden Suite from the new Annual Catalog! I've really enjoyed getting creative with the new stamps, dies, and gorgeous Designer Series Paper in the suite and I think you will, too!

Another thing that has brightened my outlook lately is the outpouring of generosity and creativity I see from my stamping friends, both locally and around the world. I've seen amazing examples of caring both big and small. Many are sending more hand-stamped cards to loved ones, some are sending stacks of cards to nursing homes or our healthcare workers, while others are using their sewing skills to make masks.

I love seeing the heart of my crafting friends and community in action. Thank you for whatever you are doing to share joy through creativity right now, big or small, it's all appreciated!

This month's Colour Inspiration combines the outgoing 2018-2020 In Colors with the early release Ornate Garden Suite. I think you'll like the results!

Oh, I wanted to share a little insider tip. The retiring In Colors usually sell out quickly, so if you want to stock up or get ink refills, it's better to get them now and not to wait for the Retirement List to post!!

Lovely Lipstick

Blueberry Bushel

Call Me Clover

ShonaGai - Colour Inspiration

What I'm Excited About This Month

I decided for this month's Colour Inspiration I would get the best of both worlds by combining some of the outgoing 2018-2020 In Colors with the early release Ornate Garden Suite and a top-pick from the Mini Catalogue!

The bright, bold 2018-2020 In Colors are fun and ideal for creating birthday and floral themes. I selected Blueberry Bushel, Call Me Clover, and Lovely Lipstick to feature since I think they make gorgeous, happy floral cards for Spring!

The first card features the early release Ornate Garden Suite. The flower image is front the Ornate Style stamp set (#152572) and the greeting is part of the Ornate Thanks stamp set (#149471). The colouring is done with the 2018-2020 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (#147159). This card is rich in texture and uses both the Ornate Floral 3D Embossing Folder (#152725) and the Ornate Layers Dies (#152726).

The second card features the Peaceful Poppies Suite from the Mini Catalogue. The main floral image is crated using the Painted Poppies stamp set (#) and the greeting comes from the Peaceful Moments stamp set (#151595). The colouring is done with the 2018-2020 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (#147159) and sponging. I also used the Ornate Floral 3D Embossing Folder (#152725) for the background texture on this card, the small floral patter is so versatile you'll use it a lot! This card also uses the Pretty Label Punch (#143715) and Lovely Lipstick 1/8" Grosgrain Ribbon.