Big news for 2026! I’m thrilled to announce the launch of the Creative Community with EllyMae, a subscription-based space dedicated to crafting creativity and expert Silhouette troubleshooting.
This year, I’ll continue helping crafters troubleshoot their Silhouette projects—but now in a more interactive, subscription-based community. Your subscription supports the costs of hosting, administration, testing, and one-on-one troubleshooting time, while giving you exclusive access to tools, tips, and creative inspiration.
The first month’s exclusive video tutorial is now live inside the Community Forum, and it’s packed with value! I planned for a 1-hour tutorial… but it quickly grew into 1 hour and 30 minutes, plus a 6-minute bonus video where I break down an unexpected tool behavior I encountered during the project. While the design may look simple, this tutorial covers step-by-step instruction, real-time problem solving, and detailed troubleshooting.
Inside this tutorial, you’ll explore Silhouette Studio tools and features, including:
Drawing tools, scaling, offsets, fill colors, line colors, and thickness
Compound paths and the Replicate panel
Spacing tools, turning cut lines on and off, and Move By
Undoing alignment
Print & Cut tips and troubleshooting
…and that’s just the beginning.
Subscription Benefits:
Private Facebook Creative Community: Share projects, ask questions, and get Silhouette troubleshooting help from experienced users. Exclusively for subscribers.
Exclusive Monthly Video Tutorial: Receive detailed tutorials and bonus insights each month.
Future Perks: Additional benefits may be added as the community grows.
Other ways to stay connected and inspired in 2026:
Silhouette Secrets+ Facebook Page: Updates, tips, and inspiration — Follow here
Step-by-Step Classes: Hosted directly on my website with new releases planned for 2026 — Explore classes
Weekly Newsletter: Projects, artist collaborations, news, and sales — Subscribe here
Website Tutorials & Blog Posts: Ongoing tutorials and guides — Silhouette Secrets
If you’ve ever wanted a space focused on education, explanations, and real-world crafting solutions, this community was built for you.
👉 Find all the details about the Creative Community Subscription and join us today!Join Here
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THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Creativity doesn’t have to start from scratch—sometimes it begins with one simple design. In this Crafting Creativity feature, I’m sharing how one tag design by Rabea Bilz can be taken far beyond its original purpose. With a single file as the foundation, we’ll explore four creative tag craft projects that spark ideas and show just how versatile a good design can be. From paper crafting to dimensional and decorative projects, this is all about inspiration, creative possibilities, and seeing your designs in a whole new way.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crafting Creativity with a Layered Tag Design
Don’t feel limited to using a design for just one project. When you start thinking outside the box, a single file can open the door to countless creative possibilities. Try mixing materials, changing sizes, or adapting the design for completely different purposes—you may be surprised by what you can create. I hope this inspires you to stretch your creativity and even expand your supplies in new ways as you discover just how versatile your designs can be.
Project #1 – Layered Tag Design with Print and Cut
After I had the tags assembled I decided to grab a couple Gelly Roll pens and add a few special touches to the print and cut design.
Just a little bit of additional color or shine can really make things stand out on custom projects.
I created these as a custom monogrammed bag tag, but they could also be keychains or even a gift tag that’s reusable, multi-purpose, or part of the gift itself.
These are double sides bag tags. Make sure to mirror the design when creating a double-sided design so that it will match up exactly. For these particular shapes, they are symmetrical, so it’s not a necessity, but it is a good habit to get into, especially if you did not create the design yourself. This way the front and back will line up exactly with each other.
I used Siser Easyweed Adhesive HTV in the middle to glue the layers together. Faux leather or leatherette can also be glued with fabric glues, but I’m really loving the ease of use with the Siser Easyweed Adhesive HTV. Cut the HTV the same shape as the tag and then press on the backside of one, remove the carrier sheet and line up the layers and press again. Done!
Have you ever created a shaker card? What about a shaker tag? Or any other “shaker” project. Basically, to create a shaker, you are making a “pocket” where some material such as glitter, sequins, or fake snow can be contained.
I saw these new Gingerbread Cookie designs by Rabea Bilz and knew I had to use them!
This design is 4 layers. The background is a solid piece of cardstock, then a layer of Kraft cardstock with the Gingerbread design, a layer of clear transparency to hold the snow in, and then a final layer of the Kraft cardstock. Here is a look at my file in the Silhouette Studio software.
Rather than use my machine to cut the transparency, I simply used a scrap piece of cardstock to cut a template for the size I needed and then used scissors to cut the transparency down to size. This saved time finding the right cut settings and saved a blade since cutting plastic can dull it quicker.
Once the pieces are all cut, it’s time to assemble. I used the Precision Glue Press to adhere the Gingerbread layer to the backing and then set that part aside to dry. Next I used an adhesive tape runner to secure the transparency to the backside of the top layer. Then added double sided foam tape to the edges. Since it’s a shaker project, it has to be completely taped off so the shaker bits are contained. Then I added in the fake snow. You will have to test how much to add. Too much and it won’t move around easily. Then carefully remove the backing off the foam tape and secure the back layer over top of the foam tape.
For this one, I used the tag design to create ornament designs that could be sent to my Glowforge to cut, but you could also create ornaments with other materials that could be cut with the Silhouette machine such as cardstock, acetate, adhesive vinyl, sketch pens, and more!
A great big thank you to Rabea Bilz for contributing the free file for the Silhouette Secrets+ newsletter! If you missed grabbing the free design during the month, grab it HERE and start creating!
Each month I offer a free file for Silhouette Secrets+ newsletter subscribers. I love designing in the Silhouette Studio software and have shared some of my creations as well as look forward to collaborating with more artists in the future too!
Silhouette Secrets+ Newsletter
Never miss out on the news, tips, “secrets”, deals, classes, and more that I share on Silhouette Secrets+. Sign up for the newsletter and get information delivered to your inbox every Friday. Unsubscribe at anytime.
Sign up for the weekly newsletter HERE to have information delivered direct to your inbox and grab each month’s new freebie.
I hope this inspired you to look at your designs a little differently! It’s amazing how a single file can turn into so many unique projects when you let creativity lead the way. I loved exploring new themes and possibilities while showcasing just how versatile this design can be. If you’re craving even more inspiration, helpful tips, and creative project ideas, be sure to visit the Crafting Creativity section on the Silhouette Secrets+ website — click HERE to explore what’s waiting for you!
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THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Creating a custom sublimation tumbler doesn’t have to be complicated! In this step-by-step DIY tutorial, I’m sharing an easy and creative way to make vibrant, one-of-a-kind tumblers using Artesprix Sublimation Inks. This project combines simple techniques like plastic wrap and heat resist mask to achieve stunning results—perfect for beginners, girls’ nights, craft nights, handmade gifts, or even small business projects. In this post, you’ll find the full video tutorial, a complete supply list, and helpful tips to confidently create your own custom sublimation tumblers from start to finish.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Want to know what I love about the Artesprix sublimation inks, paints, markers, and stamp pads. They make me step outside my comfort zone and accept what comes. That each project I create is unique and even if I did the same exact steps the next time, it would still look different.
For these custom wine tumblers, I used the Artesprix Heat Resist Mask and cut a monogram out with my Silhouette.
Here is a look at my design file. The letter ‘E’ is one of those that can look really ugly in many fonts and always takes me forever to find one I really like. On the left side, I have the keepers, until I find the one that speaks to me the most.
In the video you’ll see that the first monogram I tried was just the letter and because I didn’t have a solid background it is a “hidden message” monogram. I couldn’t stop there and had to create another, so I added a frame around the letter too.
I have better luck with securing the Artesprix Heat Transfer Resist directly to the blank and then there is no space for the sublimation gases to leak in underneath during the process. For a design that has pieces like the second one with the frame, I used transfer tape to transfer it to the blank just like you do with adhesive vinyl.
The shape of the tumbler and the crinkled paper gave it a unique look on the bottom.
I think it turned out unique and it completely shows that sometimes you just have to take “control” and throw it out the window. Now, I kind of want to try the wrinkle, cloudy technique on purpose. While I cannot control the final outcome on colors and pattern, I was able to “fix” the monogram so it’s no longer a “hidden message” and it turned out so crisp.
I don’t waste any of the sublimation ink. Anytime there is extra paint or ink, I will grab a sheet of copy paper and make a new print, let it dry, and then add it to my stash. As long as the sublimation pages don’t get wet or aren’t subjected to high heat, you can use them for a year or longer after they’ve been made.
Here is a look at the “hidden message” monogram on the right.
Looking for the step-by-step video? It’s linked right below the supplies section.
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
If you love layered paper projects and clever cutout designs, you’re going to enjoy today’s Silhouette Studio tutorial! In this step-by-step guide, I’m sharing how to create a Peekaboo Layered Calendar—a cutout-style design where the background shows through for unique look. This tutorial walks you through the full design process in Silhouette Studio, along with a supply list, and helpful tips with your Silhouette software. Whether you’re crafting a calendar for home décor, gifts, or adding unique designs to your shop, this project is simple, fun, and perfect for any skill level.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I absolutely love how this lotus flower design cut out and the pink and yellow holographic cardstock seemed just perfect for it.
The brand-new Peekaboo Layered Calendar video tutorial is now live! Click the link below to watch the full step-by-step guide and learn how to design this cutout-style calendar in Silhouette Studio. After watching, be sure to scroll down — you’ll find a complete supply list, in-progress photos of this project, and additional project ideas too!
Here is a look at my original design file showing all of the calendar pages.
When I am working with a multi-page print and cut project, I will create separate files for each page. With print and cut, it is very specific and you do not want to move anything on the screen after the page is printed.
Having each page in a separate file will allow me to be able to easily recreate the project again if I want and also allows me to setup and print page 2 and 3 while the first page is cutting. I simply copied and pasted the next set of calendar sheets onto a new design mat and saved that file as Pg 2.
The holographic cardstock was thinner than my 110 lb cardstock, so I did cut an additional backing and then used an adhesive tape runner to secure the background to it. This gave it a bit more weight so it would hold the straight shape more. I also did that on the next one too because I printed the graphics on Epson Presentation Paper – Matte, so it is a lighter weight paper, but has an excellent print quality to it and I love using it.
I can’t just print one image on a page though, so I did make some variations on this one and printed several.
Now I can swap out the images through the year if I want to and have these bright, colorful faces to look at throughout 2026.
And once I started with these projects, it really is hard to stop. And this is why the video tutorials or blog posts are delayed. I love creating new projects and have to force myself to stop to get other things done.
And then I go and ask my daughter what kind of design she would want. “A whale shark, of course, Mom!”
This peekaboo calendar turned out awesome too! I had to order a bit taller easel for this design though as it measured about 5″ tall and my smaller easels didn’t work well. My daughter loves this Whale Shark design by La La Shiba and I’ve used it on quite a few projects from temporary tattoos, water bottle decals, and shirts too!
I have so many additional ideas for the calendar designs. I’ll come back and update when I get more of the peekaboo designs made.
There are so many different design ideas you can create using the same tools shown in this video. I hope you take the tools I shared and put them to use and start creating.
Here is another example of a layered desktop calendar design.
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THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
If you love creating interactive cards, this JOY Spinner Card is a must-try holiday project! In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to design and assemble this layered spinner card using Silhouette Studio, along with a complete supply list and helpful tips and additional resources. Watch the full video, grab the supplies below, and let’s create a festive card that’s sure to impress!
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
This card design was first shared in my Silhouette Secrets+ Facebook group and my admin did a bit of sleuth work and found who we believe is the original designer for this spinner card idea. This card design was inspired by Dress My Craft. Make sure to grab the Dress My Craft spinners linked in the supply list below.
One thing leads to another… down the rabbit hole I went and Dress My Craft has so many neat ideas to create with the spinners.
Create the layered look with the same colors of cardstock or mix it up and do multiple colors. I cut both to see what it would look like, but I think I prefer the white layered on top of each other with the offset. I am so glad I saw my admin (Teresa’s) card ideas and included that into the video tutorial. I think it really makes it stand out.
I love being able to create designs in the Silhouette software, and projects like this JOY Spinner Card truly show how versatile it can be! If you haven’t already, be sure to watch the full video tutorial on the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel for step-by-step instructions and extra tips. I hope this inspires you to create your own interactive card and continue learning even more about what Silhouette can do!
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Have you ever found a card template so versatile that it instantly becomes a go-to favorite? That’s exactly what happened when I started creating with the Accordion Filled Gatefold – Card Blank by Quietfire Designs. This beautiful, interactive card base is the perfect foundation for endless creativity—and in today’s Crafting Creativity feature, I’m sharing five completely different card designs, all made from this one stunning template.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
From a spooky Halloween card, to a warm and cheerful hello friends, to a vibrant bouquet of flowers, a playful Open If You Dare theme, and even a classic happy birthday design, this single cut file transformed effortlessly to fit every style. Each project highlights just how easy it is to take one card template and customize it for any season, celebration, or creative idea.
If you love stretching your Silhouette files and want inspiration for making more with what you already have, you’re going to love exploring the versatility of this Quietfire Designs favorite. Suzanne at Quietfire Designs has amazing designs and this is just one. I hope this gives you some ideas on how you can expand your supplies!
Each month in the Crafting Creativity series, I take one design file and explore just how many unique projects it can inspire. I love showing how a single cut file—like this month’s Accordion Filled Gatefold card template—can be transformed into cards for any theme or occasion. These posts are all about stretching your Silhouette skills, sparking fresh ideas, and proving that one thoughtfully designed file can open the door to endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re a longtime Silhouette user or brand new to cardmaking, Crafting Creativity is here to help you imagine, explore, and create with confidence!
Crafting Creativity with Accordion Filled Gatefold Card Blank
Suzanne at Quietfire Designs has amazing designs and this is just one of the card templates available in the Silhouette Design Store or check out the bundle of card templates HERE. Suzanne also has assembly videos on the Quietfire Designs YouTube channel too! It makes it so easy to assemble the card designs – find those HERE.
I hope this gives you some ideas on how you can expand your supplies!
Project #1 –Halloween Card
I grabbed some Halloween themed paper in my stash and created this themed card.
This one I had a lot of fun collecting “friends” to share from different files by Quietfire Designs.
Once I gathered all of the designs I wanted to use, I turned the cut files into a print and cut so I could do it all on one sheet.
Here’s a look at my print and cut design file. I always like to fill up my page when doing print and cut, so I ended up making two card designs using different patterned papers.
Once I had all the designs I wanted for the card sized to fit, I turned them all into a print and cut page. Since these were designed to cut each individual piece, I simply selected them all and on the Send tab chose “Cut Edge”.
I used the flowers and greenery design from the Flower Posy Gift Card Box – Design #346522 and cut 9 to layer inside the card. When needed, I would snip off sections of the greenery that didn’t fit well and then glue them in underneath the flowers in other spots to fill it in and make it unique.
The front section has 3 of the flowers and greenery placed together and I enlarged the bow on the design to “wrap” around all 3.
I ended up with an extra set of flowers and added that to the front belly band for the card closure.
This card is another combination of designs by Quitefire Designs.
And if you are daring enough to open the card, here is a look at the inside.
I started with an idea in my head and then simply cut out the pieces I knew I wanted to use from each of the design files. Then started moving them around and seeing where they would best fit.
A bright, fun card filled with balloons! And… it was all created with scraps. This was another card that was “built” as I went along. It may be a little over the top with balloons, but that’s the best part – you can customize it however you like!
I drew the balloon using the Flexishapes tool in Silhouette and then just cut a bunch from different colors. The Happy Birthday is a sentiment from the Dinosaur Birthday Card in a Box by Quietfire Designs. I sized and arranged the words together, then made an Offset around it.
This was the perfect sentiment for the card as both Happy and Birthday are both welded together, so it was easy to glue using my new Precision Glue Press.
A great big thank you to Suzanne at Quietfire Designs for contributing the free file for the Silhouette Secrets+ newsletter for the month of October! If you missed grabbing the free design in October, grab it HERE and start creating!
This year I started offering a free file each month for Silhouette Secrets+ newsletter subscribers. I love designing in the Silhouette Studio software and have shared some of my creations as well as look forward to collaborating with more artists in the future too!
Silhouette Secrets+ Newsletter
Never miss out on the news, tips, “secrets”, deals, classes, and more that I share on Silhouette Secrets+. Sign up for the newsletter and get information delivered to your inbox every Friday. Unsubscribe at anytime.
Sign up for the weekly newsletter HERE to have information delivered direct to your inbox and grab each month’s new freebie.
Did this spark some creative ideas for you? It’s always exciting to see how one card template can lead to so many completely different designs! I had such a great time dreaming up each of these themed creations and showing just how versatile the Accordion Filled Gatefold file can be. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, tips, and creative project ideas, be sure to browse the Crafting Creativity section on the Silhouette Secrets+ website — click HERE to explore!
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
If you’ve ever spotted a hidden gem at a thrift store and talked yourself out of it… this project is your reminder to turn back and grab it! That’s exactly how this Etched Tiered Tray came to life. I found a gorgeous three-tiered glass tray tucked behind a stack of dishes, walked away, and then thankfully circled back to bring it home. Today I’m sharing how I transformed that thrifted treasure using custom-designed stencils created in Silhouette Studio and Etchall etching creme. With the right design setup and a few simple steps, you can get beautifully crisp results that make any glass piece look high-end and completely personalized.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you have a cutting machine, you have unlimited possibilities of custom designs at your fingertips.
I started by measuring each level of the tiered tray. This gives me a starting point to draw out a template in Silhouette Studio to design within. If the tiered tray has a curve to it, then you’ll want to make sure to account for that. Adding a stencil onto a curved area can get a bit tricky to lay it straight and flat. I created my stencils so the design would be on the flat area before the curve starts.
Here is a look at my working file in Silhouette Studio.
On the left side are some designs I was playing around with to decide what I wanted to work with. I settled on using the Cherry Blossom Design by Tanya Batrak. On the right you can see the design for each level of the tiered tray. The outer oval is the template from my measurements and then I was able to design within the template for each level.
I knew I wanted something that went all the way around and I designed an oval frame using the same technique that I shared in the video tutorial on the Silhouette Secrets+ channel – Creating a Circle Frame in Silhouette Studio with Basic Tools.
Then I brought in the Cherry Blossom Design and scaled it to the size I wanted and placed it on top of the oval frame.
I modified the design a bit by cutting off the branch on one side and then for the largest tiered tray, I cut off the top 3rd flower and used edit points to make the design smooth. So each layer of this tiered tray is a bit different. Here is a close up look at my final designs.
I then made an offset of the entire design and subtracted the offset from the circle frame to give the design some space and set it apart.
Here is a look at my stencil file on the Send tab in Silhouette. I used the Cut by Line Color tab so I could set up 2 different settings and have it kiss cut around the stencil and then cut the red cut line all the way through on the offset around the entire design. This way the center of the design was cut out for me by the Silhouette machine.
Then I grabbed a color of Oracal 651 adhesive vinyl that has been in my stash for awhile and not used. Scraps or colors that you don’t use often are great for stencils.
Once the designs were cut, then carefully weed out the design. And if you mess up in the weeding or application process, grab another sheet of vinyl and cut another one. I messed up along the way on one decal and ended up cutting another stencil. So glad I have this option with owning a cutting machine!
If your tiered tray comes apart easily, it may be easier to apply the stencils and etch by taking it apart. My husband suggested I do this, but with the rubber rings separating each layer, I didn’t want to mess something up taking it apart or putting it back together, so I worked with it fully assembled.
This meant that I needed to cut the stencil apart for 2 of the layers to wrap it around and apply to the bottom of the tier.
I looked for a good section of the design to slice it apart at that would be easy to line up and get connected again when I was applying.
Find some way to set up so your glass is secure and is as flat as possible for the stencil application and while the etching creme is on the glass.
Since I left my tiered tray assembled, I propped it up using my bulk roll of AT65 Transfer Tape.
This was actually a really sturdy way to hold my tiered tray and it was stable, secure, and level the entire time.
Make sure to clean the area where you’ll be applying the adhesive vinyl with alcohol first to remove any dirt and debris so you get a good adhesion. And then let it dry completely.
The bottom layer was the easiest since it was the most accessible and that is where I started. I applied the Oracal 651 adhesive vinyl stencil and then I applied a bit of heat to help the adhesive vinyl to adhere well. I have some intricate areas and I wanted to give myself the best chance of success and not have any bleed. While this is step is not mandatory for glass etching, I do think whatever you can do to set yourself up for success saves your time and money.
Not all glass etches too! And I wasn’t sure if this would work or not on the tiered tray. Starting with the bottom layer first, this was my test. I heated it a bit and then carefully smoothed down the vinyl edges all along. Be careful as hot glass looks the same as cold glass. I then waited for the glass to cool completely before applying the Etching creme so that the adhesive could set up and less likely to move around on the smooth surface.
The next step isn’t mandatory either, but I do feel it will help you be successful! Tape off the edges around the stencil in case any etching creme gets outside of where you want it to be. It never fails that if the etching creme even touches an area you don’t want it to etch, it will.
Use painter’s tape or in this case, I had lots of excess transfer tape and since it was an oval object on a curved surface, I ended up cutting smaller sections of the AT65 transfer tape and applying it around the outer edge and the inside edge of my stencil.
For flat objects, you can simply make your stencil larger to cover a larger area of the object. However, on a curved object that can be more difficult to lay the adhesive vinyl completely flat, so I chose this method.
Next, I applied the Etchall etching creme around the entire design. And set my timer for 20 minutes.
The next steps are very important! After 20 minutes, carefully remove any excess Etchall etching creme and put it back in the bottle. It can be reused over and over again. Then I take a paper towel and wipe away any excess. And once all the excess has been removed, I will run water in my sink and then washed the entire design and remove the stencil while under running water.
It worked!!! So I dried it off and then repeated the same steps on the other 2 layers of the tiered tray.
As you can see I have 2 different colors of adhesive vinyl as I messed up weeding the top layer stencil. Easily remedied by cutting another stencil with my Silhouette machine.
All the extra steps to secure with heat and taping off the design paid off!
This etched tiered tray project turned out fantastic!!!
The hardest part about glass etching is getting a good photo and in this case, getting a good photo that shows all 3 levels off well.
I love being able to create custom and unique projects. This one was quickly claimed by my youngest, who put it to work immediately. I asked if she could to a “lifestyle” photo for me to use and this is what she did.
It is definitely being put to good use and she loves it.
Check out more information for even more creative ideas and tips to take your crafting to the next level HERE!
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Creating custom card designs in Silhouette Studio is easier than you might think, and today I’m excited to share a step-by-step Tri-Fold Shaped Edge Card tutorial now live on the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel! This project is perfect for any occasion, and once you learn the process, you can customize it with your own text, images, and themes. You’ll find the full supply list conveniently located right below the video link, so you can gather everything you need and craft along with me.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Head over to the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel to watch the full step-by-step tutorial. I walk you through each part of creating a Tri-Fold Shaped Edge Card so you can follow along at your own pace and customize it to match any theme or occasion. And while you’re there, I’d love your support—click the Like button, leave a comment to share what design you plan to create, and make sure to subscribe for more Silhouette tips and project inspiration. Don’t forget to tap the bell so you’re notified as soon as new tutorials are released!
Ready to design your own? Once you’ve watched the tutorial and are inspired to start creating, here are the supplies I used for my Tri-Fold Shaped Edge Card. Feel free to follow along with the same materials or customize your project with what you have on hand—either way, you’ll be crafting a unique card in no time!
This is a card design that can be used all year long and for many different situations.
Here are a couple more designs that I created too!
Mix and match different paper patterns with the same designs to create different looks.
This is a great way to use up scraps papers or smaller sheets too!
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
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Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Does anyone else get total brain freeze when someone asks what gifts you want? Whether it’s for a birthday or the holidays, I instantly get that deer-in-the-headlights look. Even if I had a list going, it somehow flies right out the coop the moment someone actually asks.
So this year, I decided to create a Holiday Gift Guide not just for those shopping for the creative makers in their life—but also for anyone like me who needs a little help remembering what we actually love. Inside, you’ll find my go-to crafting tools, creative kits, and favorite supplies that I use all year long in my own craft room. Whether you’re a Silhouette or Siser fan, a paper crafter, or just dipping your toes into DIY, these gift ideas are practical, inspiring, and perfect for any skill level.
Let’s dive into the top crafting gifts for creative makers this holiday season!
Here’s a list of my favorite tools, supplies, and crafty goodies that I use all year long, and they make perfect gifts for makers at any skill level.
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Now before I share more, keep in mind that you do not need ALL of these items and that it’s taken me years to collect the craft supplies and tools that I currently use and recommend. I will also be adding to this list as new light bulb moments pop up with new ideas.
*prices subject to change & what is shown below are at the time of publication as of 11/21/25
A new tool kit was announced at the 2025 Silhouette Summit – originally it was stated it would be available in November. I asked for an update and was told they didn’t have a date on when it would be available.
Glassboard Magnetic Craft Mat – select your favorite pattern Use code SILHOUETTESECRETS to save 20% from November 21-December 1, 2026 or 15% any other time – Shop HERE
I just ordered the Oceanside Pattern because it makes me happy to look at and I told myself if it was every available again, I would get it for myself just because. The little voice in my head won and it’s on it’s way to live in my studio. They have brought back a few of the Special Edition patterns for a limited time only. Their patterns are beautiful and some don’t last long.
I love these and turn to them when I get stuck or need color inspiration. I’ve used them for several projects from cardstock matching, designing in Silhouette, or beading projects.
Check out more on how I’ve used these for inspiration HERE.
And she just released an updated version – Volume 3 & 4. I wonder how much Santa can carry for me this year.
More details on the Silhouette cloChé HERE Watch for an unboxing and additional information coming soon too! I have been testing with several projects and just need to get all my thoughts compiled into written words.
I have had this heat press for 5-7 years. I’ve lost track of time and I love that it has the slide out drawer. This is my go to when pressing shirts and other larger projects.
I’ve had this one for a couple years now and I use it for smaller projects or when I’m recording videos. It’s smaller size makes it easier to move around and fit in the video frame too.
Follow more information on Siser Juliet & Romeo HERE Follow along on the Swift Creek Customs channels to see more about these machines too!
Now you may be thinking, how many cutting machines does one person need? I know it may seem crazy! But, I love learning new things and I love sharing that with others. And here we are… If you are interested in expanding your cutting machine knowledge or system of machine, let me know if you have questions.
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I also have an Amazon Storefront where I add craft & project supplies when I make a new project, blog post, or video tutorial. Check out that list HERE.
I could not possibly include everything I have in my craft studio. Remember I said I’ve been collecting for many years. But, I do get asked often about my supplies & tools, which is why I have a header at the top of the website for EllyMae’s Craft Supplies – find that HERE.
I hope those ideas have sparked some creative thinking about what you might find useful to either receive as a gift or give someone else.
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Looking for a unique and elegant gift idea? This custom glass etched decanter set is the perfect project to showcase both creativity and craftsmanship! Using Silhouette Studio to design the stencil and cutting it from Oracal 651 adhesive vinyl with the Silhouette Cameo 5, I created crisp, intricate, and detailed stencils that made the etching process a breeze. With a little help from Etchall etching creme, each piece transformed into a beautifully personalized set — perfect for gifting or adding a touch of class to your own home bar. Keep reading for a full supply list, a look at the step-by-step process, and plenty of inspiration photos of the finished project!
Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
The best part about this project is that it came together for less than $20! I found the perfect glassware and decanter set during a quick trip to Goodwill, and I couldn’t pass it up. It was a very successful shopping trip to Goodwill for glassware.
After a good cleaning, the glass pieces were like new and ready for a makeover. My husband had the idea to create our own custom etched decanter set, and it turned out even better than we imagined. It just goes to show — with a little creativity (and a great thrift store find!), you can create something beautiful, personal, and completely unique without spending a fortune.
Ready to make your own custom etched decanter set? Here’s a look at the supplies and tools I used to bring this project to life — from the thrifted glassware to the vinyl stencil and etching cream that made the magic happen!
Now that you’ve got your supplies ready, let’s take a look at how this custom etched decanter set came together! I snapped a few photos along the way to show each step — from creating the stencil in Silhouette Studio to applying the Etchall etching creme and revealing the final design.
I started by using a file I purchased on Etsy and then did some clean up on the file to make it more suitable for the glass etching project. I did not need all of the fine, intricate details of the original design at the size I was creating with. On the left is the original design I purchased, and on the right is the file I used for my stencil.
Creating a clean cutting stencil can take some test cut attempts just to make sure that the details you want will remain and you won’t have any cutting issues. I started with one stencil, adjusted my design a bit after seeing how it cut, and then cut the rest of the stencils I needed.
I used scraps of Oracal 651 adhesive vinyl for this project. Or if you have a color in your stash that isn’t your favorite, this is the perfect project for it!
I applied the stencils using AT65 Transfer Tape and then I highly recommend adding painters tape around the edges of your stencil design, especially on a curved object. Etching cream is awesome and can work super quick, especially if it gets onto a spot of the glassware that you do not want to be etched. It seems like those mistakes always seem to etch the fastest.
The next step I took is optional, but since I knew my stencils were detailed, I thought it was worth the extra step to apply a bit of heat to the adhesive vinyl and make sure it had a really good adhesion. I grabbed my Heat It Gun by Ranger and applied it for a few seconds all around. Be careful as hot glass looks like cold glass. I let it cool completely so the adhesive vinyl would be well stuck.
I really like this Heat Gun by Ranger as it has more of a direct heat towards your project and doesn’t blow the hot air out around as much. I know that sounds odd, but it’s one of those things that you don’t really “get” until you have used the tool. I used it in a class at Creativation 2025 and came home and bought myself one even though I have several embossing guns already in my tool box.
Here is a close up look at the etching cream as it sneaked off my stencil and why I highly recommend using the painters tape. With curved objects, it’s not always easy to simply make the stencil bigger. That can be more difficult to get a smooth application on the glass object, so the painters tape is a great way to help add an additional barrier.
I leave the etching cream on for 20 minutes and then this is IMPORTANT! Scrape off any excess etching cream and put it back in the bottle!!! It can be reused over and over again. I’ve had bottles of Etchall Etching Creme for many years, and it is still good to use, no matter what color it turns into.
Then I take a paper towel and wipe off any excess etching cream before rinsing it thoroughly in the sink.
They turned out FANTASTIC! And I was doing a happy dance. I do believe that taking the extra time to heat the adhesive vinyl and let it cool before applying the etching cream helped to seal the edges of the stencil to prevent any seepage of the etching cream and give it crisp, smooth lines.
The next step – put them to the test & enjoy our new custom decanter set.
For our project, we thought that Buffalo Trace fit it perfectly and filled the decanter well. (*not sponsored or a promotion for Buffalo Trace – please enjoy responsibly)
Whether you’re creating a special gift or adding a custom touch to your own space, glass etching is a simple way to make something truly unforgettable. With your cutting machine, Oracal 651 vinyl, and a little Etchall etching creme, you can personalize glassware, mirrors, and so much more! I hope this project inspires you to give etching a try and see just how easy it is to get professional-looking results at home. Check out more information for even more creative ideas and tips to take your crafting to the next level HERE!
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Enjoy !
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.
Silhouette Classes
Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click the link to buy a coffee. Every little bit helps in the cost of running the site.
