10 tips for making CAS cards

10 points for consideration
1. Whitespace
2. Choose appropriately sized card base for image used.
3. Placement, thirds work well.
4. Follow a simple sketch or CAS layout
5. Limit the number of layers
6. Limit number of colours used.
7. Ensure sentiments complement the image for not just meaning, but for size, weight, colour etc.
8. Keep embellishments minimal.
9. Use any technique, but keep size appropriate to retain whitespace
10. Craftsmanship

[@susanferrando2828]

You are so kind and generous in sharing so many learned tips and techniques. Yes, I feel calmer every time I see one of your finished (CAS) cards - simply clean, simple - and always stunning!!! Thank you, Chrissie!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much! That’s wonderful!❤️

[@juliez1539]

It is very refreshing to watch your videos! Your cards and your videos are both CAS and very calm. Most card tutorials are mainly advertisements. I’m so tired of having to watch every page in a package of a scrapbook paper and the several stamp and dies sets used, and even catalog books full of new products. I often skip the first 5- 10 minutes of those videos because I just want to see the directions for the card and the folds used. By the time their cards are finished, they are full of layers, too many designs and colors, and embellishments. They are overdone and gaudy, but I am made to feel that my cards must be like that to be any good! You don’t try to sell us anything and you told us several times in this video to “limit” what we do - amazing! Thank you!!!!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much Julie. It is personal preference of course but I don't find overladen cards too attractive, elegant simplicity rings a chord with me as it obviously does with you! I'm truly delighted that you enjoy my style of cards and how I present them to you! Thank you!

[@donnacarraway9182]

Thank you! Christine! The “rules “ are so much like watercolor and art in general! So very helpful!!💕

[@Chrissieannie]

Glad it was helpful!💙❤️💛💚🤍

[@robinalcorn5140]

You verbalize the concepts so well, which gives me a specific way to think about them and apply them. Thank you!

[@Chrissieannie]

That’s kind Robin. Thank you ! 🥰

[@kathleenniles1705]

I learn so much more from you than I have with other card artists. There good but I have learned watching you. Thank you.

[@Chrissieannie]

That's so good to hear, thank you so much ♥️

[@joannelind6682]

❤ This information is gold, thank you. I struggle with wanting to add more, though I have successfully managed my very 1st CAS card that a friend commission following one of your tutorials! I appreciate how easy it is to follow your guidance without having to buy extra items! ❤

[@Chrissieannie]

Wonderful! That's just what i love to hear! Thanks so much❤️

[@pamfletcher3723]

Thank you so much,Christine, for tis video. You have covered everything that will help me to make much better and classic cards. I have always liked 'understatement ' more than 'overstatement' in design! This is perfect! I have been watching your video's for a few weeks now and have learned alot. I have subscribed as I do not want to miss a single video. Thanks again!

[@Chrissieannie]

I'm so glad!😊

[@peachpiano]

I have to say, that was very helpful. I was doing “well” with making a CAS card yesterday, but at the last moment couldn’t resist putting on a bow. I am determined to clean up my designs, starting today!

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome!😊😊😊

[@carolynmccall4429]

Not sure how I missed this video, but so happy it came up in the sidebar while I was watching today's. VERY helpful. As always, thank you for what you do.

[@Chrissieannie]

It's my pleasure! 😃😃😃

[@Cyrilmc222004]

Thank you so much Christine I really really enjoyed listening to you and watching how you interpret the clean and simple card. I found this extremely helpful and useful too. I really really love ❤️ watching the difference it makes using thirds and I really really get it. Please stay safe and well too xxx Mags

[@Chrissieannie]

❤️💛🥰❤️💛🥰❤️

[@debbieekes5718]

I was just trying to find out what CAS meant, and here you are. Thank you so much. I love your videos.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much ❤️

[@rochestermanagementservice6082]

Phenomenal suggestions, Chris. Took copious notes to refer to. Thanks ever so much! From Cheryl in AZ

[@Chrissieannie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lindaknors9136]

I am so happy I found you on KZbin. You are marvelous and so talente. Thank you for sharing your genius

[@Chrissieannie]

That's so kind thank you!

[@deechampion9686]

Thank you so very much! You are hands down the best teacher out there. I have been struggling with my card making but since I found your tutorials I am actually enjoying my craft again. Thank you again for explaining things so clearly.

[@Chrissieannie]

It delights me to read a comment such as this... Thank you so much❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Dotalina33]

I was just telling hubby about your CAS cards and how much I enjoyed your style. I sat down to make one and just stared. So this tutorial was perfect in timing for me to get moving. I make every kind snd style of card but have never developed my own niche. CAS cards are a challenge to not get caught up thinking it is not doing enough for a gift card so to speak. The Japanese decorate their homes this same way so your eye goes right to the beautiful object in the room not at all the stuff. Just a different style to try in the craft room too. Thanks for explaining this style so well.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much❤️

[@vikijerke621]

I had to come back and refresh the basics! Thank you Chris

[@Chrissieannie]

Wonderful❤️

[@marieusher4567]

Thank you! Now it all makes sense. I'm new to CAS cards. I think they are beautiful. Your art is gorgeous and you explain everything perfectly.

[@Chrissieannie]

I'm so pleased you found it helpful. Thank you so much

[@HeidiLilley]

I have always loved the look of clean and simple cards, but have never been able to make a nice looking one. This is vital information that you have given. Thank you for being such a good teacher.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much ♥️

[@NancyLynn]

Wow, Christine, this was extremely helpful for CAS cards....thanks, so much!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much

[@ursulalongworth9464]

Thank you Christine, most helpful, I just love the clean and simple cards, will be making more of them...xxx

[@Chrissieannie]

Have lots of fun!

[@TheImageaddict]

Thank you. I’ve learnt masses. All of which I thought I already knew!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much Hazel❤️❤️❤️

[@lisacutten5573]

Another great tutorial, thank you for your generosity!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you

[@michaellyne8773]

Thank you Christine, for your magnificent tutorial, your cards are absolutely beautiful, I love making cards from time to time, I will use your suggestions, my daughter recently got married I gave her away and also took her photographs. I will incorporate white on white border for a momento. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome!🥰

[@janepowell4739]

Thank you Christine I have learnt a lot. I love your videos all are very informative. Xx

[@Chrissieannie]

Many thanks

[@cherylmccann6641]

Thank you! This was very informative. My eye is drawn to the simplicity and calmness of CAS cards yet I don’t make them often. I believe it’s because I truly wasn’t aware of the various elements other than white space. Photography taught me the rule of thirds but your other tips were about things I didn’t purposefully consider. I liked how you explained them and how they promote balance and unity.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much for this insightful response. I hope that crafters can take something from my video to move forward in the field of CAS. I truly appreciate your comment. Thanks again.

[@helenwallace4870]

A concise manifesto of all things clean and simple in the card making world. It will assist newcomers and all of us to achieve the splendid look of C&S. Thank you.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks Helen 🥰

[@pammccarron]

Fantastic watched this yesterday and have had a go - really like these type of cards. Don't like 'busy' cards. Thanks for your very valuable video.

[@Chrissieannie]

Glad you like them! I Hope you have subscribed to my channel and give each video a thumbs up’😊😊😊

[@mpbailey18]

Great video packed with great information! I've been a card maker for years and a while ago got caught up in making involved cards. It became too much as I'm really not creative but love to make cards....and I stopped enjoying my hobby. THEN, I saw a stamper who makes very clean & simple cards and I loved them. It gave me "permission" to reboot my hobby and make these very CAS cards! Just made me so happy that I didn't "have to" use all those techniques and layers, etc. It might seem odd, but that really rejuvenated my stamping journey! And then I found you...and I'm thrilled to watch your videos and gain more inspiration! Thank you...

[@Chrissieannie]

It's so good to hear that you are enjoying your craft again! Thanks for your kind words! ♥️

[@mariabennett9573]

Perfect learning the basics video! Thank you

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks

[@blancaalves8250]

This was very helpful. Loved that you had so many samples to illustrate a particular concept. I am new to clean and simple cards. They are so beautiful and classy. Thank you for sharing your expertise!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you, I enjoy doing it! ♥️♥️♥️

[@Gidget3922]

Great advice for cas cards. Thanks Christine 🤗

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome!😊😊😊

[@mandyhall1674]

Awesome tips and yes very helpful Christine, thank you. Hugs x

[@Chrissieannie]

Glad it was helpful!❤️❤️❤️

[@reneeallen1118]

Great tutorial. You must have been that fly on my wall. I ve been struggling with embracing white space versus filling in with stuff. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@Chrissieannie]

I hope it helped! Happy crafting!

[@Honeybee1975..]

Great tutorial, thanks for all the great tips. Very informative.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you ❤️

[@Sylvia.Torres]

Wonderful tips! ❤ Thank you for sharing. 😊

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome!

[@JanetRibet]

Thanks for the tips … and putting them together for us.

[@Chrissieannie]

You are most welcome 🥰

[@susanpetty-bailer244]

I’m new to CAS and this video was SO helpful! Thank you.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much🥰

[@EveColdfeet]

Great tips, thanks for sharing your secrets ;-). You have a great eye for CAS Cards.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you ❤️❤️❤️

[@sandrasymons5559]

Thank you so much Chrissie, great video. You made it so interesting. Clean and simple is no longer a mystery. :) :)

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much for this feedback!🥰

[@1stcandy]

Thank you so much for this. You have shared so much information. I plan to practice your ideas.

[@Chrissieannie]

That’s great to hear thank you

[@karenskokan9399]

Thanks, Chris, for another very helpful video!

[@Chrissieannie]

That's kind thank you!🥰

[@deballen7031]

Hi. A great explanation of CAS cards, thank you. I do have a tendency to go a little overboard at times and can ruin a perfectly good card by not knowing when to stop!😊

[@Chrissieannie]

Everyone likes something a little different... What is too much for one person can be just right for another! 😀 Clean and Simple appeals to me! ❤️❤️❤️

[@kathysass9829]

How informative was this video. Love the clean and simple cards! Always an elegant look! Thank you❣️

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much

[@kathysass9829]

I just saw this video and learned a lot about balance, scale and placement. Thank you for that lesson! I’ve been giggling at the hexagon above the thanks that in my opinion looks like a one-eyed dog and I know it’s a bee! Just silly me❣️

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks, I'll have to take another look at the video to see what you saw! 😊😊😊

[@melodylebeau2190]

These CAS are beautiful!!

[@Chrissieannie]

Many thanks 😊

[@lanierharrison505]

Thank you, again, Chris. This was a great help!

[@Chrissieannie]

My pleasure!

[@suegreenwell3823]

Thanks Christine for the brilliant explanation of a CAS card, especially what white space means, as I didn’t realise this included coloured card as well. As always I enjoyed your video immensely and have learnt so much, which is going to help me heaps in creating future CAS cards. Saying thank you never seems enough so I’m sending you a BIG hug to show my sincere appreciation xx

[@Chrissieannie]

This is SO good to read. It makes me think that my goal in making the video was achieved. Thank you so much!

[@suegreenwell3823]

@@Chrissieannie Hi Christine. You’ve far exceeded your goal as you’ve given me so much new enthusiasm for my card making, which was beginning to wane a little lately, so thank you again xx

[@margaretcolvin760]

Very helpful video. Thank U, Christine. 🌺

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome!💙❤️💚

[@enelson3293]

A wonderful explanation of clean and simple cardmaking. Thank you!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you! 🥰

[@debraleblanc6122]

Thank you. I have never had any art or graphic design education, so I will keep this video in my library for, (I'm sure), frequent reference. :)

[@Chrissieannie]

I hope you have fun!

[@onedaysoon58]

Great explanation of what clean and simple is Chris. Thanks for sharing with us. Learnt a lot.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you

[@carlenejake]

Thank you for this video, you are a wonderful teacher and artist!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@jostulove]

Very useful video, thank you for taking the time to do this 👍 x

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you, it really is my pleasure! 🥰

[@kathyroberts9703]

Thanks Christine! Very helpful!

[@Chrissieannie]

My pleasure

[@byfihandcrafts_fiona_fernandez]

Thanks, very helpful! Love your cards ❤

[@Chrissieannie]

You are so welcome! Thanks so much ❤️❤️❤️

[@atanodocram]

Thank you for the tips. I obviously didn’t understand what’ white space’ meant after a few of my cards were rejected on FB. I know now 😀

[@Chrissieannie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@christinealexander4157]

I always struggle with CAS so some great tips for me ♥

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you, I hope it helped.

[@kathimassey312]

Great tips!! Thanks.

[@maggiebrinkley4760]

Thank you for a very informative video! I love your cards, they are so elegant. x

[@Chrissieannie]

That’s very kind thank you

[@janiefrifken1333]

Excellent tutorial. So many have asked "What is CAS". This video explains it clearly. Thank you for all your videos and lovely cards. You are truly an inspiration.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much 🥰🥰🥰

[@dianasanner3669]

Thanks so much! This was so informative for me. lovely cards

[@Chrissieannie]

That's really good to know! Thanks

[@robynmarshall2226]

Thank you Christine for sharing your expertise with us. I love clean and simple cards and will be using the information you shared when making my cards . I really enjoyed this video

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much 🥰🥰🥰

[@stellareeves3759]

A really great video Chris. So informative and at a perfect pace . I will watch again and note down the 10 points to keep by me. Thank you for your time.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@Grijsduif]

Thank you very much for the tips, I especially loved the use of white cardstock for layering. I am going to make more cascards for sure!

[@Chrissieannie]

That's so good to hear, thank you

[@veraellis26]

Thank you Christine for a very helpful and inspiring video.I love the clean lines and space on your cards,they are very elegant.

[@Chrissieannie]

Many thanks

[@juliakellet1127]

Thank you so much for your teaching, I have been used to creating fun-folds, interactive cards , pop ups etc etc for so long , they take hours to create and I'm never sure that they are appreciated.However I will certainly apply your three S's rules from now on, I feel empowered ! Just wonder what I'm going to do with all of my unused stash !!

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you so much! 🤍🤍🤍

[@valeriethorpe3399]

Thank you so much Chrissie... this was so helpful. I just love your cards

[@Chrissieannie]

Very many thanks

[@fionawalker8184]

Extremely helpful thank you

[@Chrissieannie]

I hope you'll enjoy more of my videos, thanks so much.

[@jenniferdrake1210]

Hi Christine, you again have made me think, because I do go overboard and decide I don’t like the card because I put too much on. Jenny

[@Chrissieannie]

Just enjoy what you do and feel pleased with the results, whatever your style! 😊

[@lindabunce5133]

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Excellent video.

[@Chrissieannie]

Many thanks

[@aussieannie2835]

FABULOUS LOVE THIS AND ADDED TO MY F/B GROUP ♥

[@Chrissieannie]

Y

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks so much!

[@bonnerdebbie]

Super helpful, thank you!

[@Chrissieannie]

So glad!💛💛

[@junewatkins2199]

Thank you for your tips. It was very informative.

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you

[@editaarmanis4024]

I love this THANK YOU ❤️👍🏻👍🏻😊😊😊😊

[@Chrissieannie]

♥️♥️♥️

[@susanwhite1218]

Such helpful tips Christine. Your cards are a great inspiration! I have only recently started using sketches and haven't tried any on the FB group site yet, but I'll have a go. Thank you x

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you, I think sketches are a great starting point and often suggest certain items in one’s stash to effect them!

[@candyclouston1412]

Definitions of CAS cards vary from group to group; they're less standardized than the dimensions of slimline cards. Some groups require single layers (so they'd accept an embossed line just inside the card edges, but not a second piece of card, which has a very similar effect, design-wise). Whether the card base is a color or even inked or painted can vary. I appreciate that you're offering one clear approach (and that you called it "tips" rather than "rules").

[@Chrissieannie]

You are right about variations in rules, CAS it's difficult to define in words, but is the look and feel of a project. I would sometimes use subtle embossing all over a card and it would still be CAS in my eyes, but those unused to the style sometimes used really bold 'in your face' embossing and wondered why it was deemed non-CAS. For the group I belong to it was easier to say no full page embossing, rather than allow some and not others. Hey ho!

[@LadyJP6969]

Excellent!!! Thanks a bunch for the lesson I desperately needed. I was embarrassed to admit I was having difficulty creating CAS cards, but now I know I’m not alone. I’m also so relieved to watch this very useful video & am so grateful for taking the time to put this together Ms. Chrissie!!! Have you ever thought of doing a live stream, because it would be wonderful if you ever decide to do so? Thanks again Ms. Chrissie.

[@Chrissieannie]

I’m thinking about it! 😊

[@LadyJP6969]

@@Chrissieannie Oh Please do Ms. Chrissie Pretty Please🙏⁉️ That would be so Wonderful!!! You’re going to have some kind of strategy, I’m sure you’re well aware of re: the various time zone amongst your subscribers. Thanks🥰

[@heidilaux9830]

super helpful thankyou so much !!!!

[@Chrissieannie]

You're so welcome!

[@margitsalchner9913]

love your cards and videos

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks Margit! 😘

[@carolmason8085]

Your are marking sense, Christine...ill have a go...

[@Chrissieannie]

Thanks

[@mariecamus2264]

Fabulous video. Perfect information to help us crafters to work it out ourselves using our own ‘eye’ when creating. The bear on the slimline as opposed to the smaller card changed the image completely. It was absolutely perfect . I do have some questions regarding the card you use if that’s allowed. Which card stock do you use. What weight is is it ? Is it really a pure crisp white ? Does it take oxides? Can I get it sent to France.? and also do you have a video on making envelopes. I once had a go but I didn’t have a piece of paper big enough for the card. You are so easy to listen to. I’m so pleased to have stumbled across you.👌😊

[@Chrissieannie]

I’m pleased you stumbled across me too! I do make some envelopes, and for those I tend to use my Silhouette cutting machine. I guess I could do a video for those, but not many people would have that machine I don’t think!

[@nicolesmith988]

Do you have a video on the sizes to cut the cards? And teh top cards? Excellent video

[@Chrissieannie]

I don't actually as card sizes vary from country to country!

[@lisastacey2168]

Do you die-cut your butterfies, leaves, etc., or where do you get them? Love this idea! First time I have watched a video on it.

[@Chrissieannie]

Yes I do die cut them. I have made lots of other videos, maybe you'd like to check out some more! youtube.com/@Chrissieannie

[@leeojascastro711]

Love that Romanesque horse, wherever did you find the die?

[@Chrissieannie]

Charlie& Paulchen

[@rebeccabrown3898]

Love your instruction and examples. Where did you get the red kimono and the Asian horse?

[@Chrissieannie]

The kimono is by Spellbinders the horses are by Charlie and Paulchen.

[@rebeccabrown3898]

@@Chrissieannie Thank you!

[@stephaniepaterson6340]

I love your cards. I think I recognise the butterfly from a previous video..Sissix?…..please May I ask where the ‘thanks’ die is from? Many thanks,

[@Chrissieannie]

Thank you, I believe that the large thanks die is by Stamplorations!

[@debbiegarrett3527]

WOW, did I learn a lot, many things I did not think about I love the fern die, by any chance is that a Simon Says Stamp die?

[@Chrissieannie]

I believe that the fern die is by Charlie & Paulchen

[@bhartipatel6696]

Hello, I leave in USA and I like this tiny dies, but where I can buy in USA? Would you please help me? Thank you. I love your cards and I watch all your videos. You do Amazing job. Thank you for sharing.

[@Chrissieannie]

You can order directly from Gummiapan.com in Sweden or from their UK agent Gummiapan.co.uk both ship worldwide.

[@sushanart]

Finally I got to know what CAS means! 😁 The picture of the horse, is that a die? Really liked the shape of it. Love the simplicity and clean lines of your cards. 😇💖🙏🙌

[@Chrissieannie]

Yes it's by Charlie & Paulchen!

[@sushanart]

Thank you! 💖 Just got my first order from them (the beautiful embossing folder and dies you used in a video) and they have so much pretty dies. 😇💖🙏🙌

[@Chrissieannie]

Super!

[@sushanart]

I have looked and searched their site but can't find the horse die. Do you remember what it's called?

[@Chrissieannie]

I looked for you just now, but I couldn't see it either, maybe it's been discontinued!

[@MaestraEva]

Is your house clean and simple, too? No stacks, no clutter, plenty of white space on the walls?

[@Chrissieannie]

Oh dear! 😕... Actually it's the complete antithesis of regular CAS it's Cluttered And Swamped!

[@sylviehadot6042]

Bonjour J'adore les cartes du groupe Clean and simple cards. J'ai tenté d'y publier 2 fois mais je ne comprend pas pourquoi j'ai été recalée 😢 Je suis déçue Je ne maîtrise pas beaucoup l'anglais. Merci pour tout

[@Chrissieannie]

Je ne suis plus modérateur de ce groupe. vous auriez dû recevoir des commentaires expliquant pourquoi votre carte a été refusée !

[@sylviehadot6042]

@@Chrissieannie . En effet j'avais eu des retours que je ne comprend pas. Merci en tout cas de m'avoir répondu.

[@Chrissieannie]

@@sylviehadot6042 aucun problème

[@barbarazwadyk2746]

So helpful!! Thank you!

[@Chrissieannie]

You are most welcome!