Each year I create a gallery of my Paper Pumpkin alternates to share with everyone. I’m happy to announce that my 2025 Gallery is now live! Click here to go to it, or keep reading if you want to know what Paper Pumpkin and alternates are all about.
What is a Paper Pumpkin Alternate?
Paper Pumpkin is Stampin’ Up!’s monthly crafting subscription kit. Each all-inclusive kit comes with everything you need to create fun handcrafted projects; precut paper pieces, stamps, ink, embellishments, and step-by-by-step instructions. Usually, the projects consist of making more than one of the same thing. For example, a kit may contain supplies to make nine cards, three each of three different designs. A Paper Pumpkin Alternate is when you use the supplies to make something else instead. For instance, with the example kit, I might make only one each of the three designs, and then use the supplies for the other six cards to make my own creations, such as other card designs, gift tags, gift card holders, etc. Basically, whatever tickles my fancy.
Why Make an Alternate?
The simple answer is because it’s fun! But it can also be educational. What’s wonderful about Paper Pumpkin is that it’s designed for all skill levels, whether you’ve never made a card in your life or you’ve been making them for years. For novice makers, it’s a great way to develop your own personal style. You can start by making small changes. Maybe put the sentiment somewhere else on the card, or use a different sentiment altogether. You can mix elements using different ones on different cards. Or use an element from your own stash instead. As you become a more advanced crafter, you can try some really cool techniques like cutting up one of the designer envelopes and using it as an embellishment. (See my post Use Envelopes in Your Designs.) You can alter the embellishments with alcohol markers or embossing powder. You can change colors, elements, sizes… the possibilities are truly endless, and you are limited only by your own imagination.
Inspiration at your Fingertips
If you think you’re not skilled enough to make alternates, I say poppycock. Sorry for the harsh language. 🙂 There are numerous places to find inspiration. Of course there is my gallery of alternates that I update monthly. There are also several Facebook groups for subscribers which are dedicated to people posting their alternates. You will be inspired beyond your wildest dreams there. And if you’re someone who likes to inspire others, you’ll be able to post your own designs. You’ll never see such welcoming and supportive people as you will on these pages. They will make you feel like a Paper Pumpkin superstar.
Get in on the Fun!
If you’re wondering how you can get in on the fun (And really, who wouldn’t be by now?) it’s very simple. Go to my Paper Pumpkin page that tells you all about this month’s kit, when you need to order it by, and a link to sign up. And then get ready to have a blast creating and “alternating.”
So, what are you waiting for? Become a subscriber today and I’ll send you some tips and tricks to get the most out of Paper Pumpkin. I can’t wait to see everyone’s alternates. In the meantime, don’t forget to visit my 2025 Paper Pumpkin Gallery. Plus, you can still see my galleries for 2024 and 2023. Just click the year and you’ll be taken right to it.
Cheers, everyone! And Happy Paper Pumpkin-ing!
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