If you’ve ever found yourself debating whether to add just one more gem (or ribbon or twine or sequin…) to your card, you are definitely not alone! One of the most common questions I get asked is “how many embellishments is too many?”
In my latest video, I’m showing you what happens when you keep piling on the bling. And when maybe, just maybe, it’s time to stop! I walk through six handmade cards, each with a different level of embellishment, from whisper-quiet simple to absolutely full-on fabulous.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been creating cards for years, I’ve got some eye-opening tips and fun tricks to help you find the perfect finishing touch.
🎥 Watch the video now to see all six cards and find your sweet spot for sparkle!
What Counts as an Embellishment Anyway?
If it’s something you’ve added to your card that’s not technically needed, congrats, it’s an embellishment! Think:
- Rhinestones and sequins
- Pearls or enamel dots
- Ribbons, bows, twine
- Die cuts and stamped and cut out images
- Even a teeny bit of ink splatter or a tiny charm
Basically, embellishments are your secret sauce to take your design from “nice” to “oooooh!” But there’s a trick to using them well.
A Sprinkle or a Storm: What’s Your Style?
We’ll start with a super minimal, embossed thank you card that’s basically one gem and done. Then we gradually layer in a few more flourishes…a gold foil cake, a sweet ribbon bow, some pearly dots, a whole cluster of flowers and dimensional labels. By the time we get to our birthday card for a special “33rd,” we’re in full-on celebration mode! Ribbon tassels, rhinestones, gold foil numbers, the works are amping up this design!
And here’s the thing, none of these are “wrong.” That’s the beauty of cardmaking! It’s totally personal. You just want to be intentional with your choices so the eye knows where to look, and your sentiment still shines through.
Pro tip: Use embellishments in odd numbers and a triangle layout to naturally guide the eye.
These designs all have at least one embellishment. Which one appeals to you the most? Let me know!
Click here to leave a comment.
How Many Embellishments is Too Many
I go into lots more detail in the video so hit that triangle and find out just how to tell if you’ve overdone it…or not!
How to Make This Idea Your Own
Ready to play with embellishments? Here’s how you can try it for yourself:
1. Create a Bling Scale
Pick one card layout and decorate it three ways.
- Low key: Use a single embellishment, like one rhinestone near the sentiment on our thanks card.
- Mid-range: Add a bow and a couple enamel dots for some soft pizzazz in colours to complement the design.
- Maxed out: Go all in with gems, layered tags, bows and foil!
Compare the three to see which one you love best! That’s YOUR “embellishment style”!
2. Let the Paper Guide You
A bold patterned paper might not need any extra sparkle. But a clean, simple background? That’s a perfect place to pop in a glittery sequin or two. If you have a plain cardstock, or even some dry embossing, it might be begging for an embellishment. If you’ve got some patterned paper with loads of images or lots of sheen and shine, it might be better to leave them off.
3. Organize Your Stash
Trust me, when your embellishments are tidy, you’ll actually use them. You saw how I keep my embellishments close at hand in the video. But be sure to check out this quick tip for organizing your embellishments so your stash is inspiring, not overwhelming.
Still Not Sure?
Here’s a little gut-check I use.
If you’re reaching for the fourth embellishment just because, pause. Look at your card and ask yourself these questions:
- Is there a spot that’s a natural choice to put it?
- Will it help or complement the design?
- Is it just filling space?
- Is your sentiment fully visible and not competing to be seen?
If your sentiment is clear and your eyes know where to go, then go for it! But if your bling is stealing the spotlight from your beautiful work, maybe it’s time to call it good and done.
So next time you’re wondering how many embellishments is too many, remember this: there’s no wrong answer. There’s just your answer. Have fun with it. Try something new. And let your own sparkle shine through.
And if you’re not already part of the Design with Jo community, now’s the time to sign up here so you don’t miss out on more crafty tips, tricks, and exclusive tutorials!
