Christmas in July 2026 Project #1: A Quilted Christmas Fun Fold

I have such a soft spot for Christmas, so I couldn't wait to kick off my Christmas in July 2026 series! For my first project, I created this fun fold card featuring the beautiful A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper, and it was love at first sight.

One of the reasons this paper immediately stole my heart is because it reminds me so much of quilting. Before I became a full-time Stampin' Up!® demonstrator, I worked at a quilt shop and spent many hours sewing quilts and other quilted projects. The stitched patterns and cozy Christmas colors in this paper brought back so many wonderful memories, making it the perfect choice for this card.

The fun fold starts with an Old Olive card base and matching belly band that keeps everything neatly together until it's opened. I used the A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper for the pieced Christmas tree focal image on the belly band, as well as the patterned panels that nest together along the left side of the card. The embossed Peaceful Pine cardstock adds rich texture, while the Real Red layers provide the perfect pop of holiday color.

I love how this design combines traditional Christmas colors with the warmth and charm of a handmade quilt. It's a fun fold that's sure to delight the recipient, and it reminds me that sometimes beautiful Designer Series Paper deserves to be the star of the show.

Paper sizes

Old Olive cardstock:

• 11" x 5 1/2", scored at 1 1/4", 5 1/2", and 9 1/4"

• 10" x 1" (belly band)

Peaceful Pine cardstock:

• 3 1/2" x 5 1/4"

• Second largest square from the Stylish Shapes Dies

Real Red cardstock:

• 2" x 2"

Basic White cardstock:

• 4" x 5 1/4"

A Stitched Season Designer Series Paper:

• Two pieces 1" x 5 1/4"

• 1 1/2" x 5 1/4"

• 1 7/8" x 1 7/8"

Watch me create this card here:

I hope this first Christmas in July project inspires you to start creating for the holidays a little early. Trust me—your December self will thank you! 🎄

Happy Christmas in July!

Amy