Next Level Layers with a White Gel Pen - May 2026 Paper Pumpkin Kit Alternative Idea

I'm excited to share Alternative Card #7 from the May 2026 Paper Pumpkin Kit!

This card uses one of my favorite finishing techniques—a White Gel Pen! The hand-drawn white highlights that pull the whole design together.

I added white gel pen accents to each layer, creating faux stitching and sketch-style borders that make every panel pop. These little details are quick to add, but they give the finished card a polished, handcrafted look that perfectly complements the beautiful artwork from the kit.

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Supplies

Paper Pumpkin Subscription

[166815]

Old Olive 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock

[100702]

White Gel Pens

[166642]

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Measurements

String Lights Cardbase* - 2-1/2" x 4-1/4"

Coastal Cabana Envelope Back* - 4-1/4" x 2-3/4"

Yellow Envelope Back* - 3” x 4”

Old Olive Cardbase - 5-1/2" x 8-1/2" scored at 4-1/4"

Banner Label*

Large & 2 Small Lightbulbs*

Card Assembly Instructions

1. Cut the Pieces

Cut from a Yellow Envelope Back a 3” x 4” piece.

Cut from a Coastal Cabana Envelope Back a 4-1/4" x 2-3/4" piece. Flag the ends to create a banner.

Stamp along the bottom of the String Lights Cardbase piece in the yellow area the Tree image in Misty Moonlight.

Stamp the Stars in Misty Moonlight in the sky. Stay away from the String Lights.

2. Add White Gel Pen Details

This is my favorite part!

Stamp on the Old Olive Cardbase the Stars in Misty Moonlight ink in the top right and bottom left corners.

On the Coastal Cabana Envelope piece draw a loose sketch border around the edge with the White Gel Pen. Add this piece to the center of the cardbase.

Attach the String Lights Cardbase piece to the center of the Yellow Envelope piece. Draw inside the yellow left & right border faux stitched lines with the White Gel Pen. Add this to the center of the cardbase.

These simple accents help define each layer while giving the card a fun, whimsical feel.

Don't worry about making every line perfectly straight—the hand-drawn look adds to the charm!

4. Add the Greeting & Light bulbs

Stamp "Celebrate" in Misty Moonlight onto the white banner label in the kit. Flag the straight edge of the banner to match the other side.

Attach it across the upper portion of the center panel using dimensionals.

Add the layered light bulb die cuts to the right of the greeting using dimensionals.

The extra dimension draws your eye directly to the sentiment and helps create a balanced focal point.

5. Finish Touches

Add small White Dots with the Gel Pen around the stars on the Old Olive Cardbase.

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My Favorite Design Detail

The White Gel Pen completely changes the look of this card.

Instead of simply layering cardstock, each panel now has its own personality thanks to the faux stitching and sketch borders. Those tiny details add texture without adding bulk, and they make every layer stand out from the one beneath it.

Sometimes it's the smallest finishing touches that make the biggest impact!

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Video Tutorial

I’ve also created a step-by-step video tutorial showing exactly how this card comes together. If you’d like to craft along with me, be sure to watch the video!

If you enjoy stretching your Paper Pumpkin kits with creative techniques be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and join my Paper Pumpkin Cut Club! Members receive exclusive cutting guides, early access to tutorials, and members-only live streams.

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Thank you so much for stopping by! I hope this card inspires you to grab your White Gel Pen and start experimenting. It's amazing how a few simple lines can completely transform a card and give it that extra handcrafted touch.

If you recreate this project, I'd love to see it! Be sure to tag me on social media using @creativechelsey | #creativechelsey or email me at chelsey@creativechelsey.com.

Have a creative day,
Chelsey