Waterside Retreat Creative Fold Card

There is something so calming about a day spent near the water — the sound of the waves, the soft breeze, and the feeling of slowing down. That peaceful feeling inspired today’s handmade card featuring the Stampin’ Up! Waterside Retreat Suite Collection.

I created this card using a creative fold design that gives the card a fun surprise when it is opened. From the outside, it looks like a beautiful layered card, but the inside reveals a unique fold that creates extra space for a message and adds a little “wow” factor.

The soft coastal color palette was the perfect match for this design. I used the beautiful imagery from the Waterside Retreat Designer Series Paper along with coordinating elements to create a relaxing beach-inspired scene. The woodgrain pattern adds a natural, rustic touch while keeping the focus on the peaceful waterside theme.

The front of the card features a layered focal point with the beach accessories, including the chair, paddle, and beach details, creating the feeling of a quiet afternoon by the shore. These elements were all fussy cut from the DSP paper. A simple sentiment, “Today Is Your Day,” completes the design and makes this card perfect for encouraging someone special.

When the card opens, the creative fold reveals additional decorated panels and a place to write a personal message. I added subtle stamped seagulls inside to continue the coastal theme and carry the design throughout the card.

Creative fold cards are one of my favorite styles because they take a handmade card from beautiful to memorable. They are a fun way to showcase patterned paper, create dimension, and give the recipient a little surprise when they open it.

Pool Party Card Stock:
- 2 piece cut to 4-1/4 x 5-1/2
- 3 x 4-1/4
- 1-1/2 x 5
- 3/4 x 2-1/8
Thick Basic White Card Stock:
- 5-1/4 x 9-1/4 scored from both ends at 1-3/4 and then at 5-3/4 from one of the ends.
- 1/2 x 1-3/4
Waterside Retreat Designer Series Paper
- woodgrain design on front: 4 x 5-1/4
- front design layer: 2-3/4 x 4
- Side panel strip: 1-1/4 x 4-3/4
- woodgrain strip inside: 3/4 x 4