Create a Dino-rrific Handmade Card with C.C. Designs Dinosaurs and Ohuhu Markers

Lately, I’ve been reaching for some feel-good projects—the kind of cards that make you smile from the moment you pick up the stamp set. That’s exactly what happened when I pulled out the Dinosaur Stamp Set from C.C. Designs. These sweet little dinos are full of charm, and I couldn’t resist using the sleeping pair to create a bold and playful card design. I wanted this card to feel whimsical and warm—like a hug in card form—and with a little help from my Ohuhu Brush Markers and some well-loved patterned paper, it all came together.

Let’s talk about how it all unfolded and how you can use a few simple design decisions to bring a strong visual story to your cards—without over complicating the process.

Create a Dino-rrific Handmade Card with C.C. Designs Dinosaurs and Ohuhu Markers:

Let the Paper Lead the Way

This time, I actually started by picking out my patterned paper first. I know—gasp! That’s not always how I roll, but I had a vision of something vibrant and a little nostalgic, and the Dino-Mite 6x6 Paper Pad from Echo Park had exactly the vibe I wanted. That playful volcano-and-palm-tree background gave me an instant color palette: orange, lime green, warm brown, and a splash of blue.

From there, everything else started falling into place. I reached for the Dinosaur Stamp Set from C.C. Designs and chose the adorable sleeping duo. Something about their little snuggled-up pose just made my heart melt.

Pro Tip: If you ever feel stuck choosing colors for your stamped images, pick your patterned paper first. Let it guide your marker selection. It keeps the whole card feeling cohesive, and takes some of the decision-making off your plate.

Coordinating Colors with Ohuhu Markers

I stamped the image using Memento Tuxedo Black Ink on my go-to Hammermill Smooth Cardstock—a favorite combo when I’m using alcohol-based markers like the Ohuhu Honolulu Brush Markers. I wanted to make sure the colors popped, so I matched those bright oranges and blues right to the patterned paper for a high-impact look. These markers blend beautifully, and the brush nibs make it easy to get into those little curved dino bellies.

The leaves were the final touch to ground the image and add a little extra greenery, balancing out all that bold color with something earthy.

Framing the Focal Point

Once the coloring was done, I needed a way to spotlight the image without it getting lost in the busy background. I used a scalloped square die to create a frame for the stamped panel and added a soft blend of blue ink at the top and warm brown at the base to simulate a sky and ground. It’s subtle, but it gives just enough contrast and context to make the dinos feel like they belong there.

I built the card up on a crisp white A2 base and layered the patterned paper behind it, adding a strip of coordinating orange paper down the side for a pop of extra color and texture. The sentiment, also from the Dinosaur Stamp Set, reads “Have a Dino-rrific Day,” which felt just right for this sweet scene.

Pro Tip: If you’re using bold prints, break them up with white space or soft inking. It helps direct the eye exactly where you want it to go—right to the focal image.

Building Confidence Through Creative Play

Cards like this are what I love most about cardmaking. They remind me that we’re not just putting together paper and ink—we’re telling little stories. Whether it’s two sleepy dinos curled up for a nap or a clever sentiment that makes someone laugh, there’s always a moment of connection waiting on the other side of the envelope.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by coloring or struggled to coordinate patterned paper with stamped images, I hope this card inspires you to try something playful and new. Lean into the fun, and let your creativity guide you.

You can watch the full video tutorial to see how it all came together—and grab a few extra tips along the way.

Thanks so much for spending a little crafty time with me today.

Create a Dino-rrific Card with Ohuhu Markers, C.C. Designs Dinosaurs & Echo Park Papers Video Tutorial:

If you have problems watching the video here on my blog you can always watch it on my YouTube Channel by Clicking Here!

(Wondering what I used in this video? Everything is linked to multiple sources in the thumbnails at the end of this post, or in the text below. Compensated affiliate links used when possible). As always I appreciate your support of my videos!

Materials Used:

Here you will find the list of supplies that I used to create today's card. All supplies are linked to supply sources below. Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you.

Happy Stampin'

Rick Adkins

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Just a friendly reminder, as part of my commitment to transparency, please note that some of the links provided maybe affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is truly appreciated!

Additionally, I kindly ask that you always accept the tracking cookie for the affiliate websites. Rest assured, this will not in any way expose your computer to viruses or compromise your information. It's simply necessary for the company to attribute the sale to the affiliate, ensuring creators like myself receive their rightful commissions.

Your trust and support enable me to continue sharing creativity through my email lists, blog, and YouTube channel. Thank you for being a valued part of our crafting community!