Be a Unicorn! My granddaughter told me she liked flowers, unicorns, and sharks. And she gave me a countdown on the days until her birthday. I was graciously informed that she would like a card, just a card, and more quality time spent with her when I visit next. I can do that.
So as not to disappoint, I had to dig through my retired stamps and dies to find the Magical Day bundle (Magical Day stamp set and Magical Mates dies). And the retired Myths and Magic Designer Series Paper was the perfect background. If you do not have any of these Stampin’ Up! products, try using the current Hippo Happiness bundle and your favorite Happy Birthday sentiment.

This card came together quickly and is sure to please my 11-year-old granddaughter. Here is my FREE tutorial.
SUPPLIES & MEASUREMENTS
- PAPER
- Pool Party cardstock: 4-1/4″ x 11″ scored and folded at 5-1/2″
- Myths and Magic DSP (retired): 3-1/2″ x 4-3/4″ (retired)
- Tranquil Tide cardstock: 3-3/4″ x 5″ (retired)
- Thick Basic White cardstock: to fit sentiment plus scrap for unicorn
- Pool Party cardstock: to layer with sentiment
- STAMP SET
- Magical Day (retired)
- A Grand Kid
- Hippo Happiness
- DIES
- Magical Mates (retired)
- Hippo & Friends
- INKS & MARKERS
- Tranquil Tide ink pad (retired)
- Momento Tuxedo Black ink pad
- selection of Stampin’ Blends
- Wink of Stella
- OTHER SUPPLIES
- Artistry Blooms Adhesive backed sequins
- Blue Adhesive backed gems
- Strawberry Bakers Twine (retired)
- Dimensionals, Multipurpose Liquid Glue
- Envelopes (These are smooth and luxurious. Perfect for your handmade cards! You spend all that time creating, why not make that first impression wonderful for the recipient?)
- TOOLS
- Stamparatus or clear acrylic blocks
- Paper Trimmer & Paper Snips
- Cut & Emboss Machine (mini)
CREATING PIECES & PARTS
THE FOUNDATION
This is the SUPER EASY part. Adhere the DSP panel to the solid cardstock (Tranquil Tide). TIP: Designer Series Paper (DSP) is perfect for card backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to add embossing or other techniques over the DSP for unique and personalized backgrounds. I only layered here, no fancy technique.
THE UNICORN

Stamp the unicorn on Thick Basic White using Memento Tuxedo Black ink. Color the image in a rainbow of Stampin’ Blends colors to coordinate with the DSP. Use Wink of Stella to add an extra glimmer to the body of the unicorn and horn. Add Dimensionals to the back of the unicorn. I used 5. FACTOID: The one horn on the unicorn is also known as an alicorn. The true source of the alicorn is the narwal.
THE SENTIMENT
Stamp the sentiment onto Basic White cardstock using a coordinating ink and trim to fit the width of the card (3-3/4″). TIP: Because we are adding a cardstock frame, it is not necessary to use the Thick Basic White. I only purchase the Thick to make it easier on myself when choosing cardstock. Plus the Thick is the only way to go for card bases IMHO.
Cut a frame for the sentiment about 1/4 larger than the trimmed sentiment. adhere the two layers together.

ASSEMBLY
Assemble the card as shown. And then add a little surprise on the back…

I grabbed my A Grand Kid stamp set and used the ‘Happy Birthday’ sentiment for the message insert and one of the stamps for the envelope.

I hope you enjoyed this card as much as I did making it. Do you enjoy making cards for kids? Leave me a comment and share your favorite stamp sets for kids cards. We have awesome all-inclusive kits that you can use to create cards with your kids or give as gifts.
If you do not have a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator, I would love to share my knowledge and help you on your road to successful paper crafting. You can shop at my store 24/7, just click on the link in my signature.
I love the way you’ve used retired stamps for this delightful card — while also suggesting current options. Your granddaughter will love this card — and the time you will spend together!
There are some stamp sets that I do not think I will ever retire from my collection. Magical Days is one of them. I tend to keep grunge stamps too! 🙂 Thank you for your kind comments.
What a fun card! You definitely nailed the unicorn theme! I bet she loves it. 😊
I am very sure she will. I tried to get a shark in there but it just didn’t work. LOL!