Simple and Sweet: Make a Magical Mermaid Card in Minutes

Hey there, crafty friends! Have you ever had one of those days where you really want to make something—just sit down, play with your supplies, and enjoy the process—but you’re short on time or mental energy? I’ve been there more times than I can count. The good news? You don’t always need hours and dozens of products to make something beautiful. Sometimes, all it takes is a charming stamp set, a cute patterned paper, and a little creative spark.

Today I’m sharing a quick and cheerful mermaid card that came together in just a few simple steps—but still has that handmade magic we all love. It features the Mermaid Party Stamp Set from C.C. Designs, and it's perfect for when you want to create something delightful without diving into a full-blown crafting marathon.

Simple and Sweet: Make a Magical Mermaid Card in Minutes

Starting with a Clean, Crisp Canvas

Let’s talk card bases for a second. I always keep a stack of pre-cut and scored A2 card bases ready to go, but I also love cutting my own when I’m setting up for a creative session. For this card, I started with a sheet of Brilliant White 110 lb Smooth Cardstock—one of my go-to choices because it’s thick enough to hold up to layers and embellishments, but still scores and folds beautifully.

Here’s a little time-saver I’ve learned over the years: when I’m trimming a full sheet into card bases, I go ahead and make two at once. Score at 5 ½", then turn it and cut at 4 ¼". Boom—two top-folding card bases, one for now and one to stash for later. It’s a small thing, but it keeps me moving when I’m on a roll.

Patterned Paper = Instant Background

On days when I want something quick but still eye-catching, patterned paper is my secret weapon. It adds instant color, texture, and sometimes even tells part of the story. I reached for the Sunkissed 6x8 Patterned Paper Pad for this card and picked a piece with soft ocean-inspired tones that reminded me of gentle waves. I trimmed it down to 4" x 5¼", which gives just the right border when layered onto an A2 base.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to use patterned paper that’s already in your stash—even scraps can make great card fronts when cut to the right size.

A Quick Pop of Mermaid Magic

The star of the show here is that adorable little mermaid from the Mermaid Party Stamp Set by C.C. Designs. She’s full of personality and so fun to color—but don’t worry, I kept it simple! I stamped her using Memento Tuxedo Black Ink onto a 3" x 4" panel of OLO Premium Marker Blending Card, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite surfaces for coloring.

To keep things speedy, I used a limited color palette of Copic markers—mostly aqua, peach, and sandy beige tones. This not only saved time but also kept the look cohesive and light.

Pro Tip: When I’m pressed for time, I like to limit myself to three main colors and one accent shade. It takes the guesswork out of blending and helps the card come together faster.

I stamped the sentiment, “Just Keep Swimming,” right underneath the image in Versafine Clair Nocturne Ink. I love how bold and crisp this ink is—especially on sentiment stamping. It gives such a polished, finished look even with minimal effort.

Simple Layers with Sweet Details

To add just a bit of dimension, I adhered the colored panel to the card front using foam adhesive. That little bit of lift helps the focal image stand out against the patterned background. And for just the right amount of sparkle, I added three Crystal AB Rhinestones around the mermaid. It’s a small touch, but it really pulls everything together and gives the card a playful, bubbly vibe.

If you’re someone who loves shimmer (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t with mermaids?), a little Wink of Stella on the tail or a dab of Glossy Accents on the hair can take this design to the next level. I kept mine clean and simple today, but the possibilities are wide open.

Quick Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring

One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that a card doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful—or magical. This sweet little design came together in less than 30 minutes, but it still feels finished, thoughtful, and bright.

Whether you’re making a birthday card, an encouragement note, or just something fun to pop in the mail, this layout is super versatile. Swap out the background, use a different image from the same stamp set, or play around with the sentiment—once you have the basic formula down, it’s easy to make it your own.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been feeling short on time or low on inspiration, I hope this card reminds you that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right products and a playful spirit, you can create something beautiful and fun—even when life is busy.

Thanks for joining me today! I’d love to see what you create with the Mermaid Party Stamp Set—feel free to tag me or share in your favorite crafty group.

Until next time, just keep swimming and keep creating.

Simple and Sweet: Make a Magical Mermaid Card in Minutes Video Tutorial:

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(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

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