Learn how to use die cut shapes to create a floating focal point on your card. And I have two different ways you can use this technique in your card making. The cards feature the Autumn Leaves Bundle from Stampin’ Up! However, keep in mind you can use any supplies you have on hand with this technique.
Creating the Focal Point
First let’s talk about how to create the floating focal point. Start by choosing the shape you want to use to create the focal point. For these cards, I chose a 3-inch diameter Deckled Circle shape, however this technique will work with a variety of different shapes such as a square, rectangle, etc. You can use cardstock or patterned paper with this technique too! Next, choose 3 different colors or patterns of paper. Cut each of the pieces to 3/8-inches wide. The length of the strips can vary, however, be sure that they are longer that the circle shape you plan to use.
The key to unleashing the magic with this technique is simply to adhere all the strips of cardstock or DSP to a piece of acetate paper also known as a window sheet. For these cards, I started with a 3-1/2 x 4 inch window sheet. Each strip is adhered to the window sheet leaving a little space in between to let the window sheet paper show through. This is what gives the illusion that the focal point is “floating.” Once you have adhered all the strips down the window sheet, then lay the circle die on top of the strips and run it through your embossing machine. Add the circle shape to your card front and decorate as desired!
Circle and Paper Variations
Now that you have an idea on how to use this technique, the possibilities are endless! The next couple of card ideas feature a 4-inch diameter circle shape with each paper strip cut at a different size. The paper sizes are 1/4-inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inches in width. Of course, I also had to use a larger window sheet which I cut to 4-1/4 x 4-1/4 inches. As I adhered each of the different size strips to the window sheet, I alternated the size and the colors (or patterns) of the strips I was using. Also, since I am using a larger circle, I decided to let part of it hang off the right side of the card when I adhered it. I simply trimmed off the part of the circle with a scissor so that the right side of the circle was flush with the card front.
It’s a super fun technique! Just a little tip for you…I recommend using Tear & Tape adhesive to adhere the strips to the window sheet. You can use liquid glue, but it smudges and moves around too much on the shiny window sheet surface. Be sure to watch the video HERE to see this technique in action! For more fun ways to use circle shapes, check out the Layering Circle Technique HERE.
Tutorial & Supplies
Now you have two different ways you can use the Floating Focal Point Technique in your card making. For a complete list of supplies and step-by-step instructions for creating these cards, feel free to download the printable tutorial.
I hope you enjoyed these card ideas and are inspired to play around with some of the scrap papers you have on hand! Have a fun and creative day! ~ Lynn
I enjoy your videos very much. I am 80 years old and I have been using stamp in up for 3o years. Your videos are great and give me new ideas. I don’t get out much so this is very helpful. Thank you Clarene
Super! I appreciate your sweet message and I am happy to hear the videos and card ideas are helpful.
I love the text in your messages, but every single photo is replaced with a blue box with a white question mark inside of it. It’s so disappointing!
Hi Linda, the best way to view everything is to click on the blog post link in the email that is sent when I publish the blog post. The blog post itself contains unaltered information. When the post comes via email, your email provider automatically removes pictures and videos as they are too large to be sent via email. That’s why you see a question mark instead of a picture. I hope that helps.