You're Clawsome: A Clean & Colorful One Layer Card with C.C. Designs

Hi friends, Rick here today on the blog, and I’ve got a fun one to share! I created this bold, bright one layer card using the Crusty Stamp Set from C.C. Designs, and let me tell you—it was such a joy to make. I love when a card comes together with just a few techniques, a pop of color, and a little sparkle, especially when the end result is totally flat and mailable.

Masking for a Big Impact (Without the Bulk)

I’ve always been a fan of techniques that make your stamps work harder, and masking is one of those simple tricks that adds instant wow. For this card, I used a bit of masking to layer two images from the Crusty Stamp Set. This gave the illusion of depth while keeping the design completely one layer.

I remember the first time I tried masking—I was a little nervous I’d mess it up. But once I saw how easily it brought the images together, I was hooked. Now I use it all the time when I want to create a little scene or stack elements like I did here.

Pro Tip: When you're cutting your mask, trim just inside the stamped line. That way, your background image hugs right up to the front one with no white halo.

Bringing the Scene to Life with Color

The fun really started once I pulled out my markers. I wanted something cheerful and unexpected, so I went with a rainbow-inspired palette. Using the Crusty Stamp Set gave me so much freedom—those quirky little sea critters are full of personality and practically beg for bold colors.

I also added some white gel pen highlights to give the images a little pop and sparkle with a touch of glitter glue. It’s those little finishing touches that really bring the scene to life.

Pro Tip: If you're coloring a one layer card, keep your shadows soft and your edges clean—this helps give the illusion of layers even when there aren't any.

Finished with a Simple Frame

To pull the whole design together, I blended a soft halo of color around the edge of the card panel. It’s a subtle trick, but it frames the focal point and keeps the eye right where you want it. The sentiment from the Crusty Stamp Set was the perfect final touch—playful and punny in all the right ways.

Video Tutorial

This card is a great reminder that you don’t need layers of foam tape or tons of embellishments to make something stand out. With masking, bright coloring, and a few thoughtful details, a simple card can still have major impact. I hope this inspires you to grab your favorite stamp set and give one layer cards a try!

Happy crafting,
Rick