It’s time for another 52 Christmas Card Throwdown challenge, and this week’s theme is “Christmas Without Snow”. As much as we associate Christmas with snowy scenes here in the UK, that’s certainly not the case everywhere in the world. Millions of people celebrate Christmas under warm blue skies, surrounded by sunshine instead of snow, so this theme really made me think outside the box.
After looking through my digital images, I couldn’t resist this adorable festive llama. Complete with a cosy Christmas blanket and plenty of festive character, he was the perfect choice for a Christmas card that doesn’t feature a single snowflake! Here’s how I made my Design Team card.
Materials Used
- Card Base: old olive cardstock
- Centre panel: white cardstock
- Spellbinders Holly Flourish 3D Embossing Folder
- Llama Christmas Digi Image
- Stampin’ Write Markers
- Tim Holtz Deckle Edge Trimmer
- Liquid Glue
Step 1: Create the Card Base
I began with an A6 green card base, a lovely rich colour that immediately gives the card a festive feel.
To add texture without distracting from the focal image, I embossed the entire card front using the Spellbinders Holly Flourish Embossing Folder. The beautifully detailed holly leaves create an elegant background while keeping with the Christmas theme.
Embossing directly onto the card base is a simple way to add lots of interest without introducing extra layers.
Step 2: Colour the Llama
For the focal point, I printed the sweet llama digi image onto white cardstock.
Using Stampin’ Write Markers, I coloured the image in traditional reds and greens with a little pink for the cheek and ears, plus grey for the feet, bringing the little llama to life while keeping the overall colour palette festive and cheerful.
I love how playful this image is. It proves that Christmas cards don’t always have to feature robins, trees or snowmen to capture the spirit of the season!
Step 3: Add the Focal Panel
Once the colouring was complete, I trimmed the image using the Tim Holtz Deckle Edge Trimmer.
The softly torn-looking edges give the panel a lovely handmade feel and contrast beautifully with the crisp embossed background.
The finished panel was then adhered to the centre of the embossed card front using liquid glue, allowing the texture around the edges to remain visible and frame the image naturally.
Final Thoughts
This was such a fun challenge to work on and a lovely reminder that Christmas looks different all around the world. While many of us picture snowy landscapes and frosty mornings, festive celebrations can be just as magical in warmer climates.
I also enjoyed creating a card with a slightly more whimsical feel. The adorable llama brings a smile to my face every time I look at him, and the rich green embossed background provides just the right amount of festive texture without competing with the focal image.
So, if you’re joining us this week, why not think beyond snowy scenes? Whether it’s tropical flowers, festive animals, sunny skies or Christmas on the beach, we’d love to see your interpretation of “Christmas Without Snow.”
Be sure to pop over to 52 Christmas Card Throwdown to see all the wonderful inspiration from the Design Team, then share your own creation with us. I can’t wait to see what you make!
Enjoy your weekend.
Lily-by-Gilly 