Birthday cards are probably the cards I make most often, and balloons are one of those designs that work for almost anyone. They can easily be dressed up or down, making them a fun choice for men, women, kids, and almost anyone on your list.

This card comes together quickly with the dies doing most of the work. And here’s a fun fact -- the largest balloon die in this set is approximately 4" x 5". That means it’s large enough to use on a banner or even create a whole card shaped like a balloon. I’m already thinking of all the possibilities!

One of the things I didn’t expect when I first became a demonstrator was how much I’d value the people. Of course, the discounts and early access to products are fun, but the friendships, encouragement, ideas, and support have become one of my favourite parts.

Whether you simply want people to stamp with, enjoy seeing what others are creating, or like having a place to ask questions and share ideas, being part of a creative community can make crafting even more enjoyable. I’ve met some amazing people over the years through classes, events, online groups, and team gatherings.

If you've ever wished for a few more crafty people in your life, this might be the perfect time to take a look.

Speaking of balloons and birthdays, if you love the look of today’s project but want an even quicker option, take a peek at the new Pretty Party Kit. It has the same fun celebration feel with cheerful balloon designs and pretty accents, but everything is already coordinated and ready to go. The kit makes 9 cards and includes almost everything you need right in the box.

One of the things I love about kits is how easy they make crafting. They're great for newer stampers, busy crafters, travel projects, or even those moments when you want to create without pulling out an entire craft room. Open the box and start creating!

The new ink pads are here, and there are a few changes that I think crafters are going to love. Here are my top 5 highlights:
 

1.  Gorgeous new colours
   Of course I had to start here! The new colours are soft, fresh, and fun to mix and match.  The new 'In Colors' are:  Barely Blush, Crisp Cantaloupe, Golden Glow, Hydrangea Hue, and Peaceful Pine.
    
2. Magnetic lids
   These are super easy to open and close, and the magnets help keep everything lined up nicely.  And they can be stacked together.
    
3. Ink on the lid design stays
   One feature many people already love is staying: the pad stores upside down so the ink stays closer to the surface and ready to use.
    
4. Felt-top pads are back
   These use felt instead of foam, giving a different stamping experience and helping provide smooth ink coverage.
    
5. A new shape, but still storage-friendly
   The pads are a little narrower and longer than before, giving them a refreshed look and feel. The good news? They still fit into the Stampin’ Up! storage system, so no need to replace your storage setup.
   New pad size: 4-15/16" × 3-3/8" × 5/8"

A Quick Note About the Transition

This won’t happen overnight. The new style ink pads are beginning with the 2026–2028 In Colors, with additional colours expected to transition as part of a future colour refresh.

And here’s the part I think many people will be happy to hear: the ink itself is not changing. The ink formulation and ink refills remain the same. The update is to the design of the ink pad, not the colour or the ink quality you already know and love.

There’s also no need to replace what you already own. Keep using the pads you have and love. 

I’ll be live this Friday at 3 PM Eastern with a brand-new project, and I’ll be sharing a few tips along the way.

🗓 Join me Friday at 3 PM on either:

📺 YouTube Channel – Click Here
📘 Facebook Page – Click Here
 

🔄 If you don’t see the video right away, just refresh the page — it should pop up!