Hello Everyone,
It feels like ages since I last sat down to write a blog post. January and February have been crazy busy months here at Dorrie’s Designs. The weather has been so wet and cold. I have to admit, I’m not a fan of the long, gloomy winter days filled with wind and rain. I can’t wait for warmer weather so Herbie and I can head out for walks and adventures without ending up cold and soggy.
Speaking of Herbie, he’s learnt a new trick—though I’m not sure he’s quite mastered the art of hiding yet! He absolutely hates the rain, so when it’s time for a walk, he dashes under the settee, convinced he’s invisible. The only problem? His tail sticks out, wagging in delight as he thinks he’s outsmarted me. I can’t help but play along, calling his name and watching his tail wag even more. But I have my own tricks too!
Recently, I treated us to an Alexa, and I discovered it can bark like a dog. The first time I tried it, Herbie flew out from under the settee, dashed straight to his secret stash of treats—because, of course, he wasn’t about to share with a new “dog” in the house! Little did he know, Mean Mummy was waiting with his lead. That day, we went for our walk after all!
How I got the inspiration for todays Rainbow Themed Greeting Card
When Herbie and I go for a walk, I like to mix up our routes each day. Sometimes we head to the local park or the beach, but if it’s been raining heavily, we go the long way around to visit Mum, sticking to the pavements to avoid the mud. As we walk, I love admiring the gardens along the way. Lately, I’ve been spotting the first signs of spring—snowdrops, daffodils, and crocuses pushing their way through the soil, adding little pops of colour to the winter landscape.
The other day, after a full day of rain, the sun finally decided to make an appearance in the late afternoon. Just as the world was cold, damp, and ready to call it a day, the sky lit up with the most beautiful rainbow—a little reminder that brighter days are ahead.
January and February are months full of birthdays, which means lots of card-making! I love how you can use the same theme to create a batch of birthday cards, yet each one turns out unique in its own way.
How I made my Rainbow themed greeting card
I began by cutting a piece of Basic White cardstock to 9.5 cm x 13.9 cm. Next, I chose the colours for my rainbow: Melon Mambo, Poppy Parade, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Lemon Lime Twist, Granny Apple Green and Summer Splash. I put my Basic White cardstock in a landscape position and starting from the left, I used a blending brush to apply Melon Mambo, followed by Poppy Parade, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Lemon Lime Twist, Granny Apple Green ending with Summer Splash I created stripes across the cardstock. I made sure to start on a scrap piece of paper first to avoid harsh lines, then blended onto the card.
My top tip: Always use a separate blending brush for each colour to prevent them from mixing and muddying the look.
Once the rainbow was blended, I used Memento Black Ink to stamp the daisies, stems, and leaves.
Next, I created the card base by cutting Melon Mambo cardstock. I scored it at 14.85 cm along the long edge of the A4 card stock and then cut it at 10.5 cm along the short edge. For a striking contrast, I made a Basic Black mat layer measuring 14.4 cm x 10 cm and adhered it to the Melon Mambo base. Then, I placed the stamped rainbow layer on top of the black mat.
To finish, I cut a Basic White layer 14.4 cms x 10 cms, stamped my sentiment, and glued it to the inside of the card.
My Rainbow Themed Greeting Card
New for 2025 My Online Product based Card Classes!
My dream is to bring people together to craft whilst having fun and making new friends. I have friends all around the UK so decided to try something new so we could craft together. This year, I started my online product-based card classes! These Zoom gatherings are all about sharing creativity, learning new techniques, and, most importantly, having fun. Each participant receives the same set of materials, including a stamp set, patterned paper, card bases, envelopes, and a detailed PDF with instructions to make five beautiful cards.
The first class of the year took place on January 21st, and we had such a fantastic time that I completely forgot to take any photos! It was a joy to see everyone putting their personal touch on the designs, chatting, and sharing their love for card making. Seeing the smiles, hearing the laughter, and watching everyone enjoy the creative process reminded me why I love hosting these classes.
For those who might be new to my page, I first introduced these online classes in November last year, and they’ve been such a wonderful way to bring together crafters from different places. Whether you’re an experienced card maker or just getting started, these classes are designed to be a fun, no-pressure way to create something beautiful while connecting with others who share your passion.
November 2024 My First Product Based Kit Class.
March 11th 2025 – Online Product Based Class
I am SO excited to announce my next online product-based class, happening on March 11th! This time, we’ll be crafting with the beautiful With You In Mind stamp set and the stunning Thoughtful Journey patterned paper. If you love creating heartfelt, handmade cards, you won’t want to miss this!
I’ve been having so much fun playing with everything in the kit, and I can’t wait to share all the designs and inspiration with you. This class is all about making the most of your supplies while creating five gorgeous cards that you’ll be proud to send to family and friends.
What’s Included in the Class?
✨ “With You In Mind” stamp set
✨ ¼ pack of Thoughtful Journey patterned paper
✨ Card bases & envelopes
✨ A detailed PDF tutorial for 5 beautiful card designs
✨ A live Zoom class, where I’ll walk you through each design step by step
Whether you’re new to stamping or a seasoned crafter, this class is designed to be fun, creative, and inspiring! Plus, you’ll have the chance to ask questions, interact with fellow crafters, and walk away with a collection of handmade cards.
I’d love for you to join me! Be sure to grab your spot and get ready for a fun-filled crafting session. Let’s create something beautiful together! Closing date to book by is this Friday, the 14th February.
Let me know in the comments if you’re as excited as I am! Who’s joining me?
Card and Chatter @ Bay Coffee Company – February 24th 2025
Join me for Card and Chatter at the Bay Coffee Company.
Are you looking for a fun, creative way to spend your Monday afternoon? Why not join us at The Bay Coffee Company in Brixham for our monthly Card and Chatter class!
Held on the third Monday of every month from 3.30pm to 5.30pm, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind, get crafty, and make new friends. For just £5, I’ll provide all the materials you need to create two beautiful, handmade cards that you can take home and be proud of. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, you’ll have everything you need to express your creativity.
But it’s not just about the cards! Card and Chatter is all about having fun and enjoying each other’s company. You’ll be part of a warm, friendly group where laughter and conversation flow freely. Sip on some delicious tea or coffee, indulge in scrumptious cakes, and let your imagination take the lead as we craft together.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Two beautiful handmade cards to take home
- All materials provided—just bring your creativity!
- A friendly, welcoming group where everyone is encouraged to join in
- Tasty cakes and refreshing drinks to keep you fueled throughout the afternoon
Whether you’re looking for a creative escape, a chance to meet new people, or just a good old chat with fellow crafters, Card and Chatter is the perfect way to spend your Monday afternoon.
So why not pop by? We’d love to see you there!
Details:
- When: Third Monday of every month, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
- Where: The Bay Coffee Company, Brixham Harbour
- Cost: £5 (materials and fun included!)
For more information or to book your spot, feel free to get in touch with me.
Well I think that is all my news for now. If you do make a Rainbow Themed Greeting card please do share a photo we would love to see.
The sun has decided to shine today so Herbie and I are off out on an adventure.
Until next time stay safe and happy crafting.
Fiona and Herbie
Product List
Great Blog Fiona, was a fun read. Like the idea of a rainbow card, might have to use that idea for one of online classes !
Thank you Pat. I had a great time making it. Please do share yours.
Wow what a busy young lady you have been and your classes are so lovely to go to you are such a good teacher I love coming to your classes god girl
Thank you Zoe. I love teaching, so glad you like coming