That Summer Feeling — Right in an Envelope
Is there anything better than opening your mailbox and finding a handmade card that practically smells like salt air and sunshine? These two Lakeside Retreat Center Flap Fun Fold cards are giving all the coastal vibes — think breezy beach days, bikes leaning against the dunes, and the sound of seagulls overhead. Whether you’re a seasoned paper crafter or just dipping your toes into card making, these beauties are going to make you want to grab your supplies and get crafting!
Blog Hop Fun
I’m joining some friends today to bring you more inspiration with the Lakeside Retreat Paper Pumpkin kit. So be sure to check out the BLOG HOPPERS links below for more inspiration.
Two Cards, One Gorgeous Kit
These cards are part of my Center Flap Fun Fold Series, and I have to say — this might be one of my favorite pairings yet. Both cards were made using repurposed pieces from the April Lakeside Retreat Paper Pumpkin Kit, which means you’re getting double the fun from one amazing kit
The soft Misty Moonlight blues, the weathered wood-grain designer paper, and those dreamy coastal images come together so effortlessly. It’s honestly hard to believe how much mileage you can get out of a single Paper Pumpkin kit when you think outside the box!
Card #1: The Center Pop Up — Sweet, Sunny, and “Thanks”-worthy
First up is the Center Pop Up card, and oh my goodness — the front of this one just stops you in your tracks. A charming vintage bicycle is parked right at the beach, surrounded by swaying sea grass and the most gorgeous watercolor ocean backdrop.
The woodgrain side panels frame everything perfectly, giving it that relaxed lakeside cottage feel. A sweet little “Thanks” label sits right at the top, making this card absolutely perfect for thank-you notes, summer birthdays, or just a cheerful “thinking of you.”
Card #2: The Arrow Center Pop Up — Where the Fence Becomes the Magic
Now, the Arrow Center Pop Up card? This one is chef’s kiss. The front features two diagonal flaps that open like an envelope, revealing a “Happy Birthday” greeting stamped inside — so unexpected and so fun for the recipient! The “Older. Wiser. Better.” sentiment heat-embossed in white on Misty Moonlight is everything — it’s the perfect cheeky birthday message for that friend who appreciates a little humor with her crafting.
The adorable seagull perched front and center just completes the whole coastal scene. Here’s one of my favorite tips for this card: cut small V-shaped notches along the top of the wood print paper strip to create the look of a fence! It’s such a simple little trick, but it adds so much character and dimension — it truly looks like a weathered coastal fence peeking up from the shoreline. Those tiny details are what make handmade cards so special.
Take the Tour – APPT Blog Hop
Instructions & Free PDF Download
I’ve got you completely covered with everything you need to make both of these cards! Inside the downloadable PDF tutorial, you’ll find all the cut measurements, scoring guides, diagrams, and step-by-step assembly instructions for both the Center Pop Up and the Arrow Center Pop Up cards. And because sometimes it’s just easier to watch than to read, I also have a video class walking you through the entire process. Head to my blog post to find the video and the full supply list — everything is linked and ready for you!
Center Flap Folds Video Class
Additionally, I have a video from my Center Flap Fun Fold class that walks you through how to make the card base, so you can watch it all come together before you pick up your scissors.
Shop the Supplies
All of the Stampin’ Up! products I used are available in my online store. If you’re looking for a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator, I’d love to help you with your paper crafting journey!
Center Flap Fun Fold Series
Love this style of card? There’s more where that came from! Click the thumbnails below to explore more tutorials in my Center Flap Fun Fold Series. I’m always adding new free tutorials to this collection, so be sure to check back often — you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!
More About the Lakeside Retreat Paper Pumpkin Kit
The Lakeside Retreat Paper Pumpkin kit comes with everything you need to make the cards shown in the kit instructions, including all the pre-stamped, pre-cut pieces, sentiments, and embellishments.
Stampin’ Up! has also released an official video showing you how to make the cards exactly as designed in the kit — be sure to check that out too!
HOW TO VIDEO
Refills Available While They Last
Loved the Lakeside Retreat kit? Great news — refills are still available, so you can grab extra supplies and make even MORE cards! But act fast, because once they’re gone, they’re gone for good. 🐦
Up Next: Sparkling Celebrations
The next Paper Pumpkin kit is the Sparkling Celebrations kit, and it looks absolutely amazing. To receive it, you need to subscribe by May 10th — don’t miss the deadline! And if you subscribe to Paper Pumpkin through me, you’ll also get access to my exclusive PPX Videos — alternate project video ideas for each monthly kit, created by me and the PPX Crew. It’s one of my favorite perks I offer my subscribers! 🎉
Come Craft With Me!
Whether you’re making a card for a summer birthday, a heartfelt thank-you, or simply because someone deserves a little coastal sunshine in their mailbox — these Lakeside Retreat Fun Fold cards are the perfect project. They’re fun to make, impressive to give, and they showcase just how versatile the Paper Pumpkin kits can be when you let your creativity run wild. I hope this tutorial inspires you to make something beautiful today!
Happy Stamping, Tami
PAPER PUMPKIN LINKS
Coordinates with April – June 2026 kits. Available now while they last.
Subscribe to Paper Pumpkin with me and get 6 alternate project PPX Videos each month.
REQUEST CATALOGS & VIEW SPECIAL OFFERS
CATALOG DETAILS
Explore the Wonderful World of Stampin’ Up!
Welcome to the vibrant universe of Stampin’ Up!, where creativity knows no bounds and every project is an opportunity to craft something beautiful. I’m thrilled to be your Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator and gateway to this enchanting realm of stamps, inks, papers, and more! Dive into our catalogs and more to discover a treasure trove of possibilities waiting to be unleashed.
CURRENT STAMPIN UP CATALOGS
2026 May – August
May 5 – August 31
Prefer flipping through pages instead of scrolling screens? Of course you do and I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to snag your hard copies:
- Place an Order in the Online Store: One of the simplest ways to receive a hard copy of the Stampin Up catalog is by placing an order in my online store.
-
- With each new catalog release I will automatically send a complimentary hard copy of the catalog to anyone who has placed an orde within 4 months.
2. Join my VIP Members Online Club: As a VIP member, you will automatically receive complimentary hard copies of the catalog with each new release. As well as all of the bonus perks membership offers.
- Join as a Demonstrator: If you’re passionate about crafting and want to take your hobby to the next level, consider joining Stampin’ Up as a demonstrator. Here’s how it can benefit you:
-
- Demonstrators receive complimentary copies of each new Stampin Up catalog directly from the company.
- Enjoy exclusive discounts, early access to new products, and opportunities to connect with fellow crafters.
- Share your love for crafting with others and earn income through sales and commissions.
4. Lastly, you can click the “Buy now” button above to order your hard copy from me.
US Shipping Only. Please allow 2-1/2 weeks for delivery.
Leave a Reply