Cardmaking Kit

Spellbinders | Stitching Die of the Month | April 2024

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Spellbinders April 2024 Stitching Die of the Month handmade card.

It’s that time of the month again….time for Spellbinders April Club Kit releases. Today, I am sharing my floral stitched card. I know I always say this, but the April Stitching kit is a real beauty.

One of the things I like about stitching is that the project is transportable. I stitched my flowers in a doctor’s waiting room and I completed the leaves in my backyard on a beautiful Spring day (see photo below).

The Deluxe Caboodle

I also wanted to mention what a wonderful deal the Deluxe Caboodle Kit is. You save 60% off all TEN kits for the month + you get a bonus gift. So, if you are thinking about multiple kits, consider the Caboodle. The current cost is $160 but the kit value is $315.

Spellbinders Stitched Wall Hanging Kit

Spellbinders Hand Stitched Card using Die of the Month Stitching Club Kit.

My Stitching Process:

  • The kit has 18 dies and I started by cutting all my pieces with my Platinum 6 die cutting machine.
  • Spellbinders has a nice selection of stitching accessories in their shop that you can find HERE. I used DMC Gold Thread, #818 Soft Pink, #772 Light Yellow Green and #922 Light Copper for this project.
  • When I started stitching, I took two strands of floss, separated them one at a time, brought them together and then stroked and lengthened them until they seemed tame and ready to use.
  • I usually stitch with size 22 Tapestry needles.
  • I like to use 1/8th inch double sided liner tape to attach my floss to the die cut.
  • Remember to keep your floss taught as you stitch.
  • When I move from one area to the next, I run the floss through the just finished stitched area to keep the thread secure. This gives a nice look on the finished project.
  • Don’t stitch with threads that are too long or they are likely to knot. 
  • When I was done, I added a bit of Bearly Glue to the ends so that they would stay in place.
  • To finish my project I embossed white cardstock with the my longtime favorite embossing folder: Intertwined Lattice.
  • I used the Press and Seal method to keep my elements together after I arranged them. Place Press and Seal over arrangement, flip them over, apply glue, flip back over and adhere to card.

Other Supplies and Products Used:

Isn’t this a great place to stitch?

Handmade stitching card showing you can work on your stitching card anywhere including vacation or your backyard.

A Few Notes About Spellbinders Club Kits

  • Clubs Preview on the 1st of each month.
  • Club members can cancel, upgrade or change clubs from the 1st-5th of each month. Popular Clubs frequently sell out during this period so club members get first dibs on everything.
  • NEW for 2024: Club Members get EARLY access to new releases on the 6th!
  • On the 6th, Clubs become available to non-members.
  • On the 27th, Club registration closes for the current month.
  • If a club did not sell out, you can buy under “Shop Past Clubs”. Past kits are available on the 10th of the FOLLOWING month.

Helpful Links:

Thanks for stopping by!

Karen

Cardmaking Kit · Give Away

Altenew 10th Anniversary Blog Hop Day 2 + Giveaway (over $3,500 in Total Prizes)

Karen Brown141 Comments
A Polaroid-look beach scene card using Altenew's Summer Wishes stamp, die and coloring stencil bundle.

Ahoy, crafty mates! It’s time to set sail on a creative adventure as we embark on Altenew’s 10th Anniversary Blog Hop! There is wonderful inspiration AND $3,500 in prizes!!!

“Summer Wishes” Beach Scene Card Kit:

Altenew’s Summer Wishes cardmaking bundle is all about bringing the beauty and tranquility of the beach to your crafting table and this is the favorite kit that I chose for this Hop. Inspired by the sun-kissed shores and crystal-clear waters of paradise, this bundle is filled with the stamps, dies and coloring stencils you need to create stunning beach scene cards that will transport your recipients to a coastal oasis. In keeping with the vacation theme, I created a “Polaroid-look” frame to set my scene.

Products used:

Create a beach scene card with Altenew's Summer Wishes stamp, die and coloring stencil kit.

Giveaway Prizes

Over $3,500 in total prizes! We are giving away a $50 Altenew gift certificate to 10 winners, a $20 ArtistrybyAltenew gift certificate to 5 winners, and an online papercrafting class ($39.99 value) from Altenew Academy Online Class to 14 winners. There are also 28 awesome companies/crafty friends who are celebrating with us, and they are offering the following prizes:

Be sure to leave comments by 04/16/2024 for a chance to win one of 68 prizes! To make the hop more exciting, start your comment with “Hi from (city or country where you’re from)!” 68 winners will be chosen at random from the comments left on any of the blogs listed below and will be announced on the Altenew Card Blog on 04/19/2024.

Join Altenew’s 10th Anniversary Blog Hop

Ready to dive in and get crafting? Join Altenew’s 10th Anniversary Card Hop and be inspired by a wave of creativity from fellow crafters! I am Karen, and I am #7 on today’s hop. You likely came from Jennifer Johnston’s great blog and the fabulous Penny Pynnonen is next!

Click the blue bar below to enter:

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter
https://fresh.inlinkz.com/js/widget/load.js?id=c0efdbe6b4add43dd7ef

Anniversary Special Offers

Ready to Dive In?

Grab your sunscreen, a refreshing drink, and your crafting supplies – it’s time to set sail and hop with us! Whether you’re a seasoned cardmaker or just dipping your toes into the world of papercrafting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this anniversary adventure.

So come on board, and let’s make some waves and I’ll see you on the sandy shores of creativity!

Happy crafting!

Karen

Cardmaking Kit

Hero Arts | My Monthly Hero Blog Hop & Giveaway

Karen Brown23 Comments
3 charming Folk Art stamped and die cut scene cards featuring Hero Arts April 2024 My Monthly Hero Kit.

Greetings, fellow crafting enthusiasts! I am thrilled to unveil Hero Arts latest My Monthly Hero offering to the world of cardmaking: a delightful new kit that celebrates the timeless beauty of folk art and is sure to captivate your heart and ignite your creativity.

Today, I am sharing two cards created with the Premium kit + an additional card featuring the Add-On Folk Animals Bundle.

Embracing Tradition with a Modern Twist

Folk art has long been cherished for its warmth, simplicity, and universal appeal. Rooted in heritage and passed down through generations, folk art motifs are infused with meaning, symbolism, and a deep sense of community. With the April kit, we pay homage to this cherished tradition while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist.

2 floral bird scene cards framed with infinity die cut frames in a pink, blue and white color scheme.

What’s Inside the Kit?

Curious to know what treasures await you in this cardmaking kit? Let’s take a peek inside the Premium Kit:

Premium Kit

Charming Folk Art stamp and die cut scene with soaring bird and pink floral elements with a vellum insert.

Celebrate the whimsical charm and timeless tradition of folk art with our April My Monthly Hero kit. This kit features three Color Layering Stencils with butterflies and flowers that are perfect for Spring cardmaking. Also included are sixteen coordinating dies and a Cover Plate die that partially cuts the design to allow for elements to pop up. A clear message stamp set with nine everyday messages and three beautiful Reactive Ink Cubes complete this enchanting kit. The Premium kit also includes a 4″ x 6″ Bird and Flower Clear Stamp set in a lovely hand-drawn style that comes with thirteen coordinating dies. Also included are sixteen colorful washi stickers that are perfect for quick cardmaking or using in planners.

• 3 Color Layering Floral Butterfly Stencils, 5.25”x 6.5“
• Birds & Flowers Clear Stamp Set, 4”x 6”
• Coordinating Cover Plate Die
• 16 Coordinating Frame Cuts
• 13 Coordinating Dies
• Clear Stamp Message Set, 4”x 6”
• 3 Reactive Ink Cubes (Blue Hawaii, Splash, and Taffy)
• 16 Washi Stickers

KIT VALUES
Classic Kit: $74 Value for $36.99
Premium Kit: $109 Value for $49.99 (The Premium Elements are in Bold text above)

Get Your Hands on the Kit Today: Subscription Options

Pink folk art scene card with a unique rounded Jewel frame created with Hero Arts April 2024 Premium kit.

Products Used on Premium Kit Cards:

Folk Animals Stamp and Die Bundle

Handmade card created with Hero Arts Folk Animals stamp and die bundle.

I love this darling little Folk Art Animal scene! My white background is 4 1/2 x 4 1/2″ and the Peony card base is 5″ x 5″.

Products Used on My Folk Arts Animal Card:

April Add-On Products

If you love all the fabulous Add-On products, you can Get Them All in a bundle at a discounted price, while supplies last. 

A note to My Monthly Hero subscribers: You have the opportunity to shop and add items this month without any additional shipping charges. Simply log in to your account and place your order by 11:59am PT on April 4th, in order to take advantage of this offer. Your kit may ship in a separate box than any other extras and add-ons, but no additional shipping costs will apply. 

Blog Hop and Giveaway:

Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Sunday, April 7th at 11:59pm Pacific, and the winner will be announced on the Hero Arts blog the following week.

Hero Arts

Hero Arts Creative Team:

Channin Pelletier

Heather Ruwe


Ilina Crouse

Jennifer Kotas

Karen Brown

Mindy Eggen

Pocono Pam

Rosie Lopez

Seeka

Special Guests:

Jennifer McGuire

Nichol Spohr
Emily Midgett
Essie


Bringing Folk Art to Life

With our Folk Art cardmaking kit, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re crafting a heartfelt birthday card for a loved one, sending warm wishes for a special occasion, or simply brightening someone’s day just because, our kit allows you to infuse your creations with the timeless charm of folk art.

Join us as we celebrate tradition, community, and the joy of handmade with our “Folk Art” My Monthly Hero cardmaking kit. Happy crafting!

Cardmaking Kit

Hero Arts | My Monthly Hero | Countdown to Creativity | April 2024

Karen Brown28 Comments
My Monthly Hero April 2024 Premium Folk Art Kit handmade card

Hello and welcome to the April 2024 My Monthly Hero Countdown! I must say, this kit is full of wonderful products that I know you will love. The kit goes live on Monday, April 1st, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, sit back and enjoy some inspiration, sneak peeks and giveaways.

For today’s “peek”, I created a pink, white and aqua folk art scene card that I can’t wait to send!

WIN A KIT BEFORE YOU CAN BUY IT: Just leave a comment on this (and every) Countdown to Creativity post. Hero Arts will randomly draw one lucky winner from comments left across all countdown posts on the Hero Arts blog. The winner will be announced first thing Monday morning, April 1st, before the kit launches at 10am Pacific. The more you comment, the more chances you have to win!

Stop by the other designers blogs for more chances to win:

Products Used:

Folk Art stamped and die cut floral scene card with a soaring bird in pink, aqua and white.
cardmaking · papercrafting · Tutorial

Spellbinders + Paper Rose | Using Printed Paper in Cardmaking

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Paper Rose Rainbow Wood printed paper pack is colorful and vibrant and makes a great background for cardmaking and scrapbooking.

Hello, fellow crafting enthusiasts! Let’s explore one of the most versatile and exciting elements of the craft: printed paper. Whether you’re a seasoned cardmaker or just starting out on your creative journey, printed paper can add depth, texture, and personality to your handmade cards.

Today, I am using two beautiful Paper Collections from Paper Rose that Spellbinders recently started offering on their website. The Rainbow Wood pack is colorful and vibrant and the Blueprints collection is funky, interesting and adds an edgy vibe. I used similar die cut focal points for each card but changed the background to illustrate how easy it is to alter the tone of your card.

Products Used:

Unleash Your Creativity: The Art of Using Printed Paper in Cardmaking

Paper Rose Blueprints printed paper collection is funky, interesting and adds an edgy vibe to your papercrafting, cardmaking and scrapbooking projects.

Printed paper, also known as patterned paper or designer paper, comes in a vast array of colors, patterns, and themes. From elegant florals to whimsical polka dots, there’s a printed paper to suit every style and occasion. But why incorporate printed paper into your cardmaking projects?

  1. Instant Visual Appeal: Printed paper instantly adds visual interest to your cards, making them stand out and catch the eye.
  2. Time-Saving: Using printed paper as a background or focal point can save you time compared to stamping or hand-coloring intricate designs.
  3. Endless Variety: With so many designs to choose from, you can easily find printed paper to match any theme or mood, whether it’s a birthday, wedding, holiday, or just because.
  4. Versatility: Printed paper can be used in a variety of ways, from backgrounds and borders to die-cut shapes and embellishments, giving you endless creative possibilities.
How to use printed, patterned and designer papers and cardstocks in cardmaking and scrapbooking.

Now that we’ve covered why printed paper is a must-have in your cardmaking stash, let’s explore some fun and creative ways to incorporate it into your projects.

How to Use Pattern Paper

1. Background Bliss

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to use printed paper in cardmaking is as a background element. Choose a pattern that complements your card design, trim it to size, and adhere it to your card base for an instant burst of color and pattern. Whether you opt for bold stripes, delicate florals, or playful geometrics, a patterned background adds depth and dimension to your cards without overwhelming the overall design.

2. Focal Point Fun

Additionally, you can die-cut or fussy-cut designs from your favorite patterned paper and use them as the centerpiece of your card. Whether it’s a stunning floral cluster, a charming critter, or a bold sentiment, a printed paper focal point adds visual interest and personality to your handmade creations.

3. Layering Love

Layering printed paper is a great way to add depth and dimension to your cards. Mix and match coordinating patterns and colors to create eye-catching backgrounds, borders, or mats for your focal elements. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect balance of prints and solids to make your designs pop.

4. Embellishment Extravaganza

Printed paper isn’t just for backgrounds and layers—it also makes fabulous embellishments! Use punches, dies, or scissors to cut out shapes, borders, or accents from your favorite patterned paper and use them to embellish your cards. From flowers and leaves to banners and borders, printed paper embellishments add charm and whimsy to your handmade creations.

5. Theme Time

Take your cardmaking to the next level by choosing printed paper that fits a specific theme or occasion. Whether it’s a holiday, a season, or a special event, themed patterned paper sets the tone for your cards and ties your design together beautifully. From spooky Halloween motifs to festive Christmas patterns, themed printed paper adds instant flair and personality to your handmade creations.

Easy printed paper card and scrapbooking backgrounds from Paper Rose's Blueprints collection

In conclusion, printed paper is a cardmaker’s best friend, offering endless possibilities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re looking to add color, pattern, or texture to your cards, printed paper is sure to inspire and delight. So next time you sit down to create, don’t forget to reach for your favorite patterned paper and let your creativity soar!

Happy cardmaking!

Karen

cardmaking · Die cutting · Stamping

Altenew | Layered Stamping with the Bird of the Woods Set

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Creating with Altenew's Bird of the Woods Stamp and Die Bundle using blue and yellow inks.

Today, I’m thrilled to share with you some delightful inspiration featuring Altenew’s enchanting Bird of the Woods Layering Stamp set and coordinating dies. This bundle is so fun and versatile and the color possibilities are endless!

Altenew is hosting an Instagram Hop with loads of prizes and this is the card I made for the Hop. Click HERE if you’d like to join us! The hop ends April 1st.

Altenew’s StampWheel is just perfect for this project because you can easily stamp your outline and then do your layer stamping. The sticky mat holds everything perfectly in place. I put my layered stamps all around the top so that once I had everything positioned, I could set up an assembly line and rotate for multiple cards.

My background is another old favorite called Burlap Texture die.

Cardmaking with Altenew Bird of the Woods stamp and die bundle.

Products Used:

So grab your favorite cardstock, ink pads, and embellishments, and let’s get crafting! Join me as we explore the endless creative possibilities of Altenew’s Bird of the Woods stamp and die kit. Happy crafting!

Karen

Cardmaking Video · Rainbow Colors

Hero Arts Video | Coloring With Stencils 4 Ways

Karen BrownLeave a comment
3 Bright Colorful cards using Hero Arts Mandala Flower Pattern Stamp and coordinating color layering stencils,

Welcome friends, Karen Brown here to share some bright fun cards using coloring stencils. Today, I used Hero Arts beautiful Mandala Flower Pattern stamp and the coordinating color layering stencils.

For a Step-By-Step Visual Tutorial, you can watch my video below:

If you are having trouble viewing this video, please click HERE to watch on YouTube.

I was so inspired by this mandala that I created 4 different cards. I love the versatility and endless possibilities!

Monochromatic Coloring

Monochromatic stamped and ink blended Mandala in blues, greens and aquas.

With a small blending brush, I started by coloring a monochromatic panel in blues, greens and aquas. I used Splash, Blue Raspberry, Blue Hawaii and Aegean inks for this card. I then die cut my panel and a Peacock mat using Pointed Arches Infinity Dies. I added a rub-on sentiment from the Birthday Party Hero Transfer set. I really LOVE Hero Transfers!

I used a StampWheel for both my stamping and stenciling.

Stenciling with Rainbow Colors

Next, I decided to add rainbow colors to my mandala. I did this two ways….first using the outline stamp and the second using only the stencil. I love both cards but I think the “stencil only” card is a bit more casual.

Hero Arts Color Pattern Flower Mandala: 2 Ways. With and without the outline stamp.

For both cards, I used Splash, Taffy, Pool Party and Creamsicle inks. For the card on the left, I used one of my favorite die-cut sentiments: Smile Friend Stamp and Cut XL.

For the “stencil only” card I also trimmed my Mandala with a Rounded Rectangle Infinity Die and used a sentiment included with the stamp set.

Stenciling with Glitter Paste

For my 4th card, I stenciled a layer of Hero Glitter Paste on my mandala and I love the result.

I recently purchased a GlassBoard Studio craft mat that was the worksurface in my video. I am very pleased with it and I have a 20% coupon code – KENNY20 – for anyone interested in upgrading their craft mat.

Hero Arts Flower Pattern Mandala Stamp and Coloring Stencils 4 Ways.

Supplies Used on my 4 Cards:

Thanks for stopping by….it was so nice to see you!

BetterPress · cardmaking · papercrafting

Hero Arts | Letterpress Birthday Card

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Using regular paper and inks for a masculine Hero Arts letter press birthday card.

I make a LOT of cards, but I never seem to have enough masculine cards, so…..here is a wonderful one suitable for anyone! I love the classic look of letter press and was pleased to see Hero Arts new Letter Press/Foil Plates. For this card I used their new Happy Birthday plate.

I did not use special paper or inks but I still think I got a good result on my card. Next, I want to try the birthday plates with my foiling machine.

BetterPress · cardmaking · papercrafting

Hero Arts | Antique Bee Letter Press Card Trio

Karen BrownLeave a comment
3 Square BetterPress letter press Sympathy Cards featuring Hero Arts Antique Bee and Wreath.

I fell in love with Hero Arts Antique Bee LetterPress set. I find the plates to be both elegant and whimsical and thought they would make lovely sympathy cards. I used the gorgeous camel watercolor paper that came in my January MMH Classic kit but Hero Arts Handmade Watercolor Paper would be beautiful too. I stamped on my Message Strips Sentiment in coordinating ink. I trimmed my panel down with the pretty Square Scallop Infinity Die and popped onto a card base made from Cup O’ Joe cardstock.

Elegant LetterPress Sympathy Card

Square Thinking of You Card with Hero Arts Antique Bee and Wreath letter press plates.

I think letter press gives such a high-end result. On my first card I used Moss ink for my wreath.

Using handmade watercolor paper for BetterPress letter press printing.

For card #2, I used Bermuda Ink.

Square BetterPress letter press Thinking of You Sympathy Card.

For card #3 I used Amethyst Ink for the Bee and Pine for the wreath.

Products Used in This Post:

I adore the beauty and texture of letter press cards. I hope you enjoyed this post….thanks for stopping by!

Special Offer

Hero Arts: 15% Off My Monthly Hero Subscription | Limited Time Offer

Karen BrownLeave a comment

Hero Arts has NEVER offered a discount on their My Monthly Hero Subscriptions, but for a limited time, the Creative Team is able to pass on a Coupon Code to our dedicated followers.

Have you thought about subscribing? If so:

  • Click this LINK
  • After your subscription is in the cart, click “Checkout” without entering your discount code.
  • On the NEXT page, enter the discount code: KarenBrownSubscribe2024. So to recap, enter the discount code on the second check out page.
  • Note: this discount code is not valid with any other offers.

Hero Art My Monthly Hero Kits are just wonderful and now is the perfect time to give them a try. Subscribe for one month…or longer…you still get 15% off.

Have a great weekend!