Sometimes, connection looks like color.
Like the first swirl of Calypso Coral on a fresh piece of white cardstock, reminding you that you’re creating something joyful — something that can brighten someone else’s day.

Today’s Calypso Congrats Card is a celebration of those moments — the small wins, shared smiles, and quiet cheers that connect us through gratitude.

I started this card with the Darling Duckling base — its sun-kissed warmth feels like a celebration before the first stamp even touches paper.

After scoring at 3½” and 6¼”, I added the framed pear print from the Painterly Pears DSP. That pattern anchors the layout while keeping the design open and friendly — just like the word “Congrats.”

Using Sponge Daubers, I blended Calypso Coral and Darling Duckling inks on the pear stamps to create a natural gradient. Then I deepened the leaves with Old Olive Blends and added tiny Pecan Pie shadows for depth.

Each stroke reminded me that celebration doesn’t have to be loud — sometimes it’s a warm gesture shared quietly through paper and ink.

💡 Technique Tip: Use a light touch with the Sponge Dauber — let the colors overlap naturally so your pear feels hand-painted. Blend Calypso Coral into Darling Duckling for a sun-to-shadow effect.

Every “congrats” we give is a connection.
When we acknowledge each other’s progress — no matter how small — we strengthen the fabric of our creative community.

Crafting this card felt like writing a thank-you note to everyone who’s cheered me on this year: my team, my clients, my friends, and you — my fellow creatives who believe in beauty and healing through art.

🔗 Continue Reading

• The Space Between Thanks — Creativity as Connection

You can find the Perfectly Pears Bundle, Painterly Pears DSP, and Low Profile Sparkle Dots here

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🌍 Find Me Elsewhere

Today’s color-blend reel and photo set are up on TikTok and Threads — see the Calypso Congrats pear come to life 🍐✨
👉 @GemsPaperScissors on TikTok

Gratitude is a living color — and today, it looks a lot like Calypso Coral.
Let’s keep celebrating each other out loud and in color 💛