A Splash of Sunshine for a Color Challenge

Who says mermaids only belong underwater? Today’s card brings a splash of sunshine while using colors from the current LawnFawnatics card challenge #202. I’m feeling a bit silly and decided to create a story around this adorable land-loving mermaid!

The Inspiration

Every so often, a quirky idea pops into my head and I just have to turn it into a card. I was thinking up some beachy summer scenes when I thought, “What if a mermaid wanted a vacation from the ocean?” And naturally, she’d swim up to a tiny island, dry off a bit, and treat herself to a sweet, chocolate ice cream cone under the sun. Because, let’s be honest—magical creatures deserve a treat too!

Creating the Scene

This card started with the Platform Pop-Up Die which was cut from some light blue cardstock. In addition, I used the Platform Pop-Up Wave Wrap Around dies as well as Platform Pop-Up Palm Tree Inserts and Hammock & Trees Dies. All of these were used to create a classic tropical island scene.

The star of the show—an ice-cream-loving mermaid—was stamped and then colored with Ohuhu alcohol markers. She was then positioned on the island, giving her center stage. In her hand is a chocolate ice cream cone which I’m sure she loves- all while being surrounded by palm trees, sea creatures and warm, inviting sand. Sounds like paradise to me!

The Details Make the Magic

I had fun adding playful touches: a beach-combing crab beside her, a variety of seashells scattered in the sand, and a sentiment that reads “Make a Splash!” It’s the kind of card that brings a smile the moment you see it—and isn’t that what cardmaking is all about?

When to Send It

This card is perfect for summer birthdays, just-because notes, or even as a cheerful pick-me-up. It’s lighthearted, bright, and totally unique—just like the lucky recipient.

Supplies Used:

Platform Pop-Up Dies
Platform Pop-Up Wave Wrap Around Dies
Platform Pop-Up Palm Tree Inserts
Hammock & Trees Dies (extra palm trees)
Mermaid For You Flip-Flop stamp set (mermaid & sentiment)
Ocean Shell-fie stamp set (sea creatures)
Life is Good stamp set (crab & seashells)
Treat Cart stamp set (ice cream cone)
Ahoy, Matey stamp set (parrot)
Ohuhu Alcohol Markers
Gleeful Gradients paper (wave wrap around)
various card stock colors

Here’s another example of the Platform Pop-Up dies in action.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, the best cards come from letting your imagination run wild—and this mermaid card is proof that a little whimsy goes a long way. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape or just looking to make someone smile, remember: even mermaids need ice cream breaks.

Let me know in the comments—what’s the most unexpected scene you’ve ever created on a card?

Until my next quirky post…

~Krista

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