Words That Matter | SPEAK + Artsy Abstracts with Chris Dring

One of the things I enjoyed most while designing the Simple Expressions collection was thinking about how just a few thoughtfully chosen words can become the heart of a handmade project. Sometimes it's the sentiment that catches our attention first, and sometimes it's the one thing the recipient remembers long after they've put the card away. That's exactly what inspired this collection -- bold, layerable typography that lets the words take center stage.

Today I'm delighted to share two wonderful projects that Chris Dring created using our SPEAK Simple Expressions stamps paired with our Artsy Abstracts Card Fronts. I love that she approached the same products in two completely different ways, showing just how versatile they can be.

For her first card, Chris paired on of the colorful Artsy Abstracts Card Fronts with a striking portrait from the Retro Femme ATC Pack. What caught my eye was how the portrait becomes the focal point while the SPEAK beautiful things sentiment naturally grounds the design. The black enamel dots echo the splatters in the background, creating a wonderful sense of balance without taking attention away from the focal image.

Her second card has a completely different feel. This time, the card front takes center stage, with the sentiment stamped directly onto the background. Chris also added subtle faux texture using our retired Mixed Media Grunge stamps, giving the design a little extra character while keeping the overall look clean and artsy. I love how this card proves that a meaningful sentiment and an expressive background can be all you need.

A Thought to Take With You

Today's featured word is SPEAK.

Words have an incredible way of building people up. Whether they're spoken, written inside a card, or quietly read during someone's day, kind words have lasting impact. I hope this little reminder encourages you to speak beautiful things -- not only to the people around you, but to yourself as well.

If you'd like to see the rest of the Simple Expressions collection, I'd love for you to stop by the shop and take a look. There are 18 expressive designs, each created to celebrate the words that matter most.

And don't forget our launch special. When you purchase any Simple Expressions stamp set, you can add one coordinating Paper Goods Pack at 40% off. Mix and match with our Card Fronts, ATC Packs, Collage Sheets, Pocket Backdrops, and Ephemera Cut-Outs Sheets to build a creative toolkit that's ready for cards, journals, tags, mixed media projects, and so much more.

Until next time, keep creating with words that matter.