New year, new goals… and somehow, I’m already knee-deep in ink pads, blending tools, and purple cardstock. But honestly, there’s no better way to start a fresh year than by creating cards that celebrate family—the people who keep us grounded, cheer us on, and remind us that even on the coldest days, we’re never alone. These two winter cards were created for an Instagram hop centered on making cards for family, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting sentiment than “Snow One Like You.” Whether it’s a sibling, parent, grandparent, or chosen family, that phrase just fits—especially when paired with the sweetest polar friends. To me, it’s a reminder that the people we hold closest are truly one of a kind.
Ink Blend Magic
I created two different ink-blended backgrounds for these cards—and yes, there was a reason (besides the fact that I can never stop at just one blend).
The idea was to show how the same themed images can feel completely different depending on the mood of the background. One soft and dreamy, one deep and dramatic—just like family moments themselves.
The Lighter Blend (Instagram Voted Favorite)
As voted on my Instagram Stories, the lighter blend ended up being the most loved, and I totally get why. It has that soft, snowy glow that feels calm and comforting.
To create this background, I started with a piece of Bristol paper cut to 4.25 x 5.5. I then ink blended using Distress Oxide Inks in the following shades:
Shaded Lilac, Wilted Violet, Tumbled Glass, and Blueprint Sketch.
I worked back and forth between the colors, slowly building up the coverage and intensity, and stopping when it feels smooth and balanced.
The Darker Blend (My Personal Favorite )
For this one, I wanted rich saturation and depth, so I reached for dye-based inks. I began with a piece of light purple cardstock, but before adding any dye ink, I used a little trick.
Secret tip: I added a layer of Shaded Lilac Distress Oxide Ink first.
Why would I do that? I’m so glad you asked! 😄
I add Distress Oxide ink to most colored cardstock before applying dye inks because it helps the dye ink glide on beautifully and smoothly. Once that Oxide layer dried, I added the following dye-inks:
Simon Says Stamp Lilac, Simon Says Stamp Iris, and Catherine Pooler Blue Suede Shoes.
To brighten everything up, I brought in Distress Ink in Wilted Violet, then went back and forth between all the colors until the blend felt just right.
Creating the Cards
For both cards, I used the Polar Friends stamp set by Pink and Main—a collaboration with the incredibly talented artist Mommy Lhey. Her illustrations are full of personality and warmth, making them perfect for family-themed cards.
I colored all of the images with Copic Markers, then started arranging the scenes.
Putting it all together
On the darker background, I added white heat-embossed snowflakes for contrast and texture, and a simple sentiment from the Snow Sweet set. The clean design lets the rich blend and sweet imagery shine.
For the lighter background, I added the Holly days Dies frame from Pink and Main, and a simple snowy hill created with a hills die from my stash. The scene feels peaceful and gentle—perfect for a heartfelt family card.
I hope these cards inspire you to create something meaningful for the people who matter most. 💙
