Create a showstopping holographic background with this gorgeous birthday card designed by Cathie Allan. Using stamps, pigment inks, embossing powders, and magical shimmer powders, this tutorial walks you through each step to craft your own layered, luminous floral design. 
This project features the Unity Stamp Co. Birthday Blooms stamp set and highlights the brilliance of Lindy’s Gang Magical Shakers combined with copper ink and vellum. Follow Cathie’s expert technique to layer color and shine, resulting in a unique holographic background that takes your paper crafting to the next level.
👉 Watch the full video tutorial of Cathie Allan putting this project together RIGHT HERE.
Supplies Used:
Unity Stamp Co. Birthday Blooms
VersColor Pigment Ink (white)
Black Embossing Powder
Lindy’s Gang Magical Shakers
Brilliance Archival Pigment Ink (Cosmic Copper)
Peragamo Vellum
Unknown Ribbon
3D Adhesive
Instructions
Step 1:
Stamp the Unity Stamp floral image onto kraft cardstock using pigment ink and heat emboss with black embossing powder. The embossed lines will help keep your watercolor contained and crisp.
Step 2:
Paint over the stamped panel using Lindy’s Gang Magical Shakers pigment powders. Allow your background to dry completely before moving on.
Step 3:
Once dry, place the panel under clean paper and use a dry iron to remove the embossed lines. This flattens the surface for the next design layers.
Step 4:
Use a stencil to apply white pigment ink with a foam applicator, dabbing gently to add beautiful floral texture over the painted surface.
Step 5:
Heat set the white pigment ink using a heat tool or allow it to air dry completely.
Step 6:
Stamp the Unity Stamp again across the panel using Brilliance Cosmic Copper pigment ink. This final step brings the holographic background to life with a metallic shimmer.
The final card, accented with ribbon, vellum, and heartfelt sentiments, is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. Cathie’s technique is perfect for birthdays, encouragement, or any occasion where you want to impress with your handmade art. Here is a peek inside Cathie’s Card. 
✨ Don’t forget to watch the full video to see Cathie Allan in action and learn her expert tips for creating this breathtaking holographic background.
Have a wonderful day everyone!
🎉 SHOP! CROP! CREATE! at the 18th Annual Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnivals! 🎉
Get ready for an unforgettable crafting experience at Creative Scrapbooker Magazine’s Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnivals! Everyone is welcome to shop, learn, and get creative at our interactive marketplace featuring top vendors from across Canada. Or, take your creativity to the next level and register for a 2-day crop packed with inspiration!
📍 CALGARY: April 11 & 12, 2025
📍 EDMONTON: May 23 & 24, 2025
🛍 MARKETPLACE HOURS:
🗓 Friday: 10 AM – 9 PM (FREE admission after 6 PM!)
🗓 Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
🎟 TICKETS & REGISTRATION:
💖 Cropper Packages:
✨ The Embellished Cropper Package – $160 – SOLD OUT
✨ The Glittered Cropper Package – $110 – SOLD OUT
✨ The Basic Cropper Package – $85
🛍 General Admission: $5/day at the door
🔥 Doors open at 9 AM for registered croppers on Day 1!
📢 Don’t miss out—secure your spot and get ready for a weekend of creativity, community, and fun! 🎨✂️
[CLICK HERE] for full event details!
