Dishin' Out Retro Charm

Mindy Eggen

If you love a good throwback, this card is for you! Hey everyone, it's Mindy and today I’m dishin’ out the retro charm with a playful design featuring Classic Casserole Dishes and the cheeky sentiment, “You’re not old, you’re retro.” It’s the perfect mix of vintage flair and lighthearted humor—ideal for celebrating someone with timeless taste. Let’s take a closer look at how this nostalgic card came together!

I started by die cutting the casserole dishes from White and Celestial  cardstock, then layered them together for a clean, dimensional look. The color combo and shape instantly took me back to my childhood—these dishes remind me so much of the ones my mom used when I was growing up. To frame the stacked dishes and add a cozy, kitchen-inspired feel, I tucked in a few potted plants on each side using elements from the Classic Cabinet die set using Palm and Acorn cardstock. 

To bring even more personality to the scene, I created a kitchen counter by trimming strips of Fawn cardstock and offsetting them to mimic the look of a paneled surface. It adds a warm, grounded feeling that helps anchor the stacked dishes. For a playful twist, I turned the cupboard doors from the Classic Cabinet die set into a window with shutters, placing it behind the dishes to create the look of a sunny kitchen view. Sure, shutters usually go outside—but this little creative detour adds charm and unexpected interest that makes the card feel even more nostalgic and homey!

To finish off the card, I stamped the sentiment “You’re not old, you’re retro” in Intensified Black Ink using the On the Shelf stamp set. Then, I stacked the casserole dishes with foam squares to give them extra dimension and make them pop against the background. It’s the perfect playful touch to wrap up this retro-inspired scene—bringing together all the nostalgic elements with just the right amount of humor and heart.

This retro kitchen scene was such a joy to create, combining nostalgic elements with a bit of playful humor. From the layered casserole dishes and cozy plants to the creative countertop and window shutters, every detail adds charm and character. If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate someone special with a nod to the past, this card is sure to bring a smile. Don’t be afraid to mix and match elements in unexpected ways—sometimes the best designs come from thinking outside the cupboard!