Photo showing die cut 2 batches of sentiment strips along with two cards. The One Cardmaking Step That Saves Me the Most Time
cardmaking · Die cutting

The One Cardmaking Step That Saves Me the Most Time

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Two beautiful handmade floral cards with partial in lay die-cutting, perfect for Sympathy or Mother's Day.

One of the biggest time-savers in my craft room is keeping premade sentiment strips ready to go. I love being able to audition sentiments while I’m designing a card—sliding options around, trying different tones, and choosing the one that feels just right.

Today I’m sharing my favorite sentiment stamps for cardmakers, how I batch-make sentiment strips, and how I used them to create thoughtful sympathy cards using a partial inlay die-cutting technique.

Best Sentiment Stamps for Cardmakers (and Why I Premake Them)

Two serene floral die cuts cards using Hero Arts Daisy Cover Die and the inlay die cutting technique.

Having sentiment strips prepared in advance:

  • Speeds up cardmaking
  • Reduces decision fatigue
  • Helps you visualize the finished card sooner
  • Makes it easier to create sympathy and encouragement cards thoughtfully

For this batch, I created two classic, versatile options:

  • White heat embossing on gray cardstock
  • White heat embossing on black cardstock

These neutral combinations work beautifully across many card styles and occasions. These sentiment strips would also be beautiful stamped on white cardstock.

My Go-To Sentiment Stamp Sets

Finished white heat embossed sentiment strips on black and gray cardstock, die cut and ready to use for handmade cards and tags.

I used the Hero Arts Everyday Sentiment Strips 2 along with the Sentiment Strips Cutting Die.

What I love about these sets:

  • One large stamp with 44 sentiments
  • One large coordinating die—no guessing, no trimming
  • Available in Everyday 1, Everyday 2, and Christmas
  • Covers birthdays, sympathy, hello, get well, encouragement, and more

Because I stamped two panels, I now have 88 sentiment strips ready to go—such a huge time saver!

Two modern and elegant floral die cut cards with loads of lovely texture.

Sentiment Strip Prep Tips & How to Make Them

A few small steps made a big difference:

  • I gently conditioned the large stamp with a stamp conditioning eraser
    → This helped achieve crisp impressions with the smaller text
  • Prepped my cardstock with an anti-static powder
  • Stamped with Unicorn White Pigment Ink
  • Heat embossed with White Embossing Powder

The results were clean, bright, and incredibly readable.

Process photo of heat embossed sentiment strip panel in white embossing powder on gray cardstock with coordinating sentiment strip die taped in place, ready for die cutting.

I also have a process photo showing the heat-embossed panel with the coordinating die taped in place, ready to run through my Platinum 6 die-cutting machine—my favorite way to batch die cut sentiments quickly and accurately.

Using Sentiment Strips on Sympathy Cards

Clean and modern sympathy card featuring a partial inlay daisy cover die design in soft pink, white, and gray with a white heat embossed sentiment strip.

To put these sentiments to use, I created two sympathy cards using the Daisy Cover Die and a partial inlay die-cutting technique.

This technique is a bit like puzzling for cardmakers—methodical, satisfying, and surprisingly relaxing.

Because the cover die is large and detailed, I chose to emphasize just one row of daisies, allowing the rest of the panel’s texture to shine while keeping the design calm and respectful.

Partial Inlay Die Cutting: Step-by-Step

Handmade sympathy card using partial inlay die cutting with a single row of gray daisies and a pre-made sentiment strip for a thoughtful, understated finish.
  1. Die cut a white cardstock panel with the daisy cover die
  2. Punch out the white flowers and glue the panel to a white card base
  3. Die cut one strip of daisies from gray cardstock
  4. Flip the gray panel over and leave the die cuts in place so you know where each piece belongs
  5. Working one flower at a time:
    • Add glue to a few negative spaces
    • Punch, place, and smooth with a bone folder
    • Tip: A jewel picker is especially helpful for small centers
  6. Die cut the coordinating flower centers and repeat the process
  7. Weight with an acrylic block until fully dry
  8. Finish with one of your premade heat-embossed sentiment strips

That final sentiment strip adds a thoughtful, understated finishing touch—perfect for sympathy cards.

Two gorgeous cards using floral cover plate die + partial inlay diecutting technique.

Why This Design Works for Sympathy Cards

  • Clean and modern design
  • Subtle dimension without bulk
  • Soft color palette that conveys comfort and care

Color Choices:

  • Soft pink – tenderness, warmth, compassion
  • White – peace, sincerity, purity
  • Gray – quiet, sympathetic tone

Why I’ll Always Keep Sentiment Strips on Hand

Having premade sentiments allows me to focus on design and emotion, not last-minute stamping. Whether I’m making a sympathy card, a quick hello, or a batch of thank you cards, they’re always ready when I need them.

👉 You might also be interested in my popular blog post: 14 Best Cardmaking Supplies and Products for 2026.

Two mixed media art tags with ink smoosh background and die cut focal points. VIDEO: Easy & Addictive | Beginner Mixed Media Tag Tutorial
Mixed Media · Tutorial · Video

VIDEO: Easy & Addictive | Beginner Mixed Media Tag Tutorial

Karen Brown1 Comment
Easy & Addictive Mixed Media Tag Graphic with photo of two mixed media tags.

Mixed media doesn’t have to be intimidating; it’s simply the art of combining different materials to tell a story.

Today I’m sharing how to make easy mixed media tags using a stress-free, step-by-step process that’s perfect for absolute beginners. These tags come together quickly, use flexible techniques, and—fair warning—are a little bit addictive once you get started.

Video

👉 Or watch on YouTube HERE.

This post coordinates with my YouTube video where I walk through every step in real time. If you like seeing the process in action, be sure to watch the video alongside this tutorial.

👉 Use the supplies you have on hand, but I do have my supply list at the bottom of this post.

Mixed Media Tags for Absolute Beginners: 11 Easy Steps

Closeup of two completed vintage look mixed media tags

Step 1: Create a Simple Ink Smoosh Background

Add three shades of water-based reactive ink to your craft mat, spritz generously with water, and press the watercolor paper into the ink. Let sit in the puddle with an acrylic block on top for 1 – 5 minutes. The more water you use, the softer the panel. I used Key Lime Fizz, Pool Party and Blue Hawaii on my tags.

If you are interested in learning how to create an easywatercolor background, I have step-by-step directions in my tutorial how to make mixed media tags in 9 easy steps.

Step 2: Dry Your Panel

Let the panel air dry or speed things up with a heat tool. If it warps, flatten it under a book once dry.

Process photo of my two ink smoosh watercolor background panels.

Step 3: ViewFinder Trick

I like to use my tag die as a viewfinder to decide which part of my panel I want to feature.

Step 4: Die Cutting

Once I’m happy, I tape the tag die in place and run it through my Platinum 6 die cutting machine. It is one of the tools I rely on regularly—several of them are included in my list of the best cardmaking supplies for 2026.

Step 5: Stenciling

Now its time to start layering on top of our background. I add stenciling to about two thirds of each tag using the same reactive ink colors that I used in Step 1. You can use just about any stencil you have. I chose two very different designs and I love how they both turned out!

Close-up of my aqua blue mixed media tag with personalized die cut initials (KB) and Hero Arts rub-on Hero Transfers.

Step 6: Second-Generation Stamping

This is one of my favorite mixed media techniques.

Ink your stamp, stamp once on scrap paper, then immediately stamp onto your background.

The lighter impression adds depth and texture while keeping things loose and organic.

Use the same colors you used on your background in Step 1. This keeps everything cohesive and soft and adds subtle interest without overpowering the background.

Mixed media art tag created by layering 6 additional techniques on top of my ink smoosh watercolor background.

Step 7: Add Rub-On Transfers for Easy Texture

Hero Transfers are one of the easiest ways to add detail and interest—no drying time required. Today, I used the Grids and Icons Transfers.

Cut a small section, place it on your tag, and rub it on using a bone folder or craft stick. I like angling my transfers slightly for a more vintage, organic look.

Step 8: Add Some Grunge and Ink Blend the Edges

Ink blending around the edges of the tags adds instant definition and helps ground all those layers.

This is where everything starts to come together. I like using a darker neutral ink like Root Beer to “grunge up” the edges just a bit.

Colorful ledger style mixed media tag with die cut floral sunbursts and a cheerful orange heart.

Step 9: Add Splatters

Using a fan brush, splatter water (then blot with a cloth) and them the same inks used above. This step instantly adds movement and that “mixed media magic” feel.

Process photo showing water splatters and ink splatters on my in-process mixed media art tag.

Step 10: Add Focal Points

Now it’s time to bring in focal elements.

I used small die-cut images, lightly distressed the edges, and glued them directly to the tags. Keep the focal points simple—they should complement the background, not compete with it.

A good rule of thumb: if your background is busy, keep your focal point clean and contained.

Best mixed media art tag illustrating how to create one in 11 easy steps.

Step 11: Finish with Twine or Ribbon

Thread twine or ribbon through the top of each tag to finish them off.

This final step adds texture, softness, and makes the tags feel complete. You can also tuck tags into cards, journals, or gift packaging.

You might also enjoy another recent Mixed Media Tag Tutorial I posted last month. Or if you’d like to try a mixed media card instead, here is how I create one step-by-step, with loads of illustrative photos.

My Supply List

Hot Foiling Zodiac birthday cards VIDEO: Zodiac Birthday Cards Made Easy with Hot Foiling (Pisces & Aquarius)
Hot Foiling · Video

VIDEO: Zodiac Birthday Cards Made Easy with Hot Foiling (Pisces & Aquarius)

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Pisces and Aquarius zodiac hot foil cards shown side by side, featuring bold graphic designs and personalized color palettes.

Some card ideas grab your attention… and others stick with you. With my birthday coming up this month (hello, Pisces ♓), I found myself completely drawn to Spellbinders’ Block Print Zodiac Series—a coordinated collection of 12 BetterPress and Glimmer Hot Foil kits, one for each zodiac sign. These kits create bold, graphic, and deeply personalized cards that feel anything but generic, and they’re fast enough to make even when time (or motivation!) is limited.

To kick things off, I’m sharing my Pisces and Aquarius Zodiac cards, along with a quick 2-minute hot foiling video that shows exactly how I foiled my Pisces panel using the Glimmer Hot Foil System. If you’ve ever wanted a refresher on hot foiling—or you’re considering adding a Glimmer system to your craft room—this post is for you.

Watch the Hot Foiling Process (2 Minutes Flat!)

Or Watch on YouTube HERE.

I created a short, two-minute video that focuses only on the hot foiling process for my Pisces card. This isn’t a full card tutorial—sometimes you just want to see how the Glimmer system works, how the foil transfers, and that satisfying reveal moment.

In the video, you’ll see:

  • How I foil the Pisces plates using white foil
  • The reveal of the finished foiled panel
  • A peek at the completed card design

These Zodiac cards are very fast to assemble once the foiling is done, which makes them perfect for batching or last-minute cardmaking.

Why Zodiac Cards Are Such a Brilliant Cardmaking Idea

Handmade cards created with Spellbinders Block Print Zodiac BetterPress + Foil plates that are excellent masculine cards.

There are 12 Zodiac kits, each designed around a specific sign, and every kit includes:

  • A zodiac graphic plate (Pisces features two fish)
  • A two-line plate with the zodiac name and date range
  • A tagline plate (Pisces: Believes in Magic)
  • A placement guide so lining everything up is foolproof

If you owned all 12 kits, you could easily create a year’s worth of birthday cards—perfect for anyone and everyone. These cards are especially wonderful for masculine birthdays, which we all know can be a challenge. They’re bold, graphic, and customizable without being overly fussy.

Because the plates don’t say Happy Birthday, they’re also perfect for:

  • Birthday thank you notes
  • Just-because cards
  • Personalized notes acknowledging someone’s personality or “cosmic identity”

Nothing generic here.

Pisces Card: Birthstone Color + Polaroid Style Design

Handmade Pisces zodiac birthday card hot foiled in white on purple cardstock with a postage stamp edge frame and polaroid-style design.

For my Pisces card, I chose purple cardstock, inspired by my February birthstone, amethyst. I hot foiled the design in crisp white foil, which creates such a striking contrast against the rich purple background.

To finish the card:

  • I die cut the foiled panel using a postage stamp / polaroid-style frame from the January 2026 Spellbinders Large Die of the Month
  • The purple foiled panel becomes the “photo” portion of the polaroid
  • The white frame adds softness and a classic touch
  • I stamped a small scripty happy birthday sentiment along the bottom of the frame

The result feels clean, modern, and personal all at once.

Pisces is often described as creative, artistic, and imaginative—which made me smile. I frequently dream about cards or wake up with ideas I can’t wait to try, so this kit felt especially fitting.

Aquarius Card: Night Sky Drama with White Foil

Aquarius zodiac card hot foiled in white on black cardstock, framed with a rectangular die cut for a night sky inspired look. Masculine Birthday card.

For my Aquarius card, I leaned fully into the zodiac theme and created a night-sky inspired design. I hot foiled the plates in white foil on Pitch Black cardstock, which feels dramatic, graphic, and timeless.

The foiled panel was framed using dies from an older Spellbinders Die of the Month kit, keeping the focus on the bold foiling and strong contrast. This card is simple, striking, and would be perfect for:

  • A masculine birthday
  • A modern astrology lover
  • Anyone who appreciates clean design

Why I Love These Zodiac Kits (And Think You Will Too)

What really stands out to me is how customized and thoughtful these cards feel. You can:

  • Use a recipient’s favorite color
  • Choose cardstock based on birthstones
  • Keep designs bold and graphic or soften them with frames and layers
  • Mass produce cards efficiently without sacrificing style

They’re quick, versatile, and incredibly satisfying to make.

Supplies Used:

More Hot Foiling Inspiration

If you enjoy hot foiling techniques, here are a few related projects you might like:

  • Fast & Easy Glimmer Background Card – In my Christmas Elf card, I used white foil on pale blue cardstock to create a snowy, wintery background. This post includes a full video tutorial.
  • One Plate, Two Techniques: BetterPress vs Glimmer – One of my most popular posts from 2025, where I used the Scattered Shells plate to show how dramatically different results can be depending on the technique.

Both are great examples of how much versatility you can get from hot foil plates.

Final Thoughts

These Spellbinders Block Print Zodiac kits make it incredibly easy to create cards that feel meaningful, personal, and polished—without a lot of time or effort. Whether you’re making a birthday card, a thank you note, or stocking up on cards for the year, zodiac cards are a smart, evergreen addition to any cardmaker’s repertoire.

And if you’ve been curious about hot foiling, don’t forget to watch the 2-minute Pisces foiling video—sometimes all it takes is a quick refresher to spark new ideas.

Spring Easter Bunny Birthday Card for a child Card for Kids | Spellbinders February 2026 Large Die of the Month
cardmaking · Die cutting · papercrafting

Card for Kids | Spellbinders February 2026 Large Die of the Month

Karen Brown1 Comment
Spring bunny card for kids made with the Spellbinders February 2026 Large Die of the Month featuring a bunny with a flower crown, pink kerchief, and a yellow embossed background.

Cards for Kids

If you’re looking for a quick, high-impact spring card, you’re going to love the Spellbinders February 2026 Large Die of the Month, Spring Specs, paired with the Embossing Folder of the Month, Spring Stripes.

This die/folder combo made it incredibly easy to create an adorable bunny card that feels fresh, modern, and perfect for springtime sending. And, cards for kids are such fun to create!

👉 I’ll link all the helpful supplies below so you can easily recreate this project—or put your own spin on it.

You might also be interested in the 14 tools that I use most often in my craftroom.

Yellow card panel embossed with the Spellbinders Spring Stripes Embossing Folder February 2026 Club Kit adding subtle texture to a spring card.

👉 I created this card for a little girl, but you could easily customize the card for a boy as well by changing the color palette.

Although this is a large die (perfect for oversized cards), I chose to use it on an A2 card base and let the tops of the bunny’s ears peek above the card front. It’s such a simple design choice, but it adds instant charm and visual interest—plus, who doesn’t love a bunny that refuses to stay inside the lines?

For the background, I used a buttery yellow cardstock and embossed it with the Spring Stripes Embossing Folder of the Month. The subtle striped texture adds just the right amount of detail without competing with the bunny focal point. It’s one of those embossing folders you’ll reach for again and again.

To finish the card, I added an easy sentiment using a Bayfair Puffy Sticker that reads “it’s a wonderful day.” Quick, cute, and perfectly on theme.

This card came together fast, looks polished, and would be easy to mass-produce—always a win in my craft room.

Close-up of bunny die cut from Spellbinders Large Die of the Month Club Kit Spring Specs showing layered flowers, gray leaves, and peeking bunny ears.

Helpful Links:

Subscription Tip: Don’t Miss the New All-Clubs Crate

If you love Spellbinders clubs, the NEW All-Clubs Crate Subscription is absolutely worth checking out. Members receive:

  • ALL the Club Kits for $130.00
  • 15% off select Spellbinders products every day
  • 1 FREE shipping coupon every month
  • Glimmer & BetterPress combined into one Press & Foil Plate (plus a roll of foil or equivalent)
  • An exclusive Crate-only die or Press & Foil Plate (only available during the monthly club window)
  • 10 sheets of 8.5 x 11 ColorWheel Cardstock that coordinates perfectly with the kits

January’s kit sold out very quickly, so if this bunny has your heart hopping, don’t wait!

Two easy mixed media tags with an aquatic fish theme. How to Make Mixed Media Tags in 9 Easy Steps | Tutorial
Mixed Media · papercrafting · Tutorial

How to Make Mixed Media Tags in 9 Easy Steps | Tutorial

Karen Brown2 Comments
Two handmade mixed media tags featuring Hero Arts Partners in Brine stamps, watercolor gradients in blue, yellow, and pink, layered stamping, ink splatters, and foiled fish accents.

Creating stunning, multi-layered mixed media tags is easier than you think—here is an easy to follow 9-step tutorial.

The techniques I’m sharing today can be used with almost any stamp set or focal elements you already have.

If mixed media feels a little intimidating—don’t worry. This project is about building layers slowly, having fun with color, and letting the process guide you. Let’s walk through it step by step!

👉 I’ll link to the exact supplies at the bottom of this post.

Aquatic theme mixed media tag using Hero Arts Partners in Brine Stamp set and Glad We Are Tight BetterPress letterpress fish plates.

Step 1: Create a Watercolor Gradient Background

When I saw the Hero Arts Partners in Brine Stamp Set, I immediately pictured a colorful, summery mixed media background filled with texture, stamping, and playful details.

I began by taping a 6″ x 6″ panel of watercolor paper to a hardboard using washi tape. On my craft mat, I dabbed Hero Arts Reactive Ink, spritzed it with water, and used a brush to watercolor a smooth gradient.

I blended the colors so they flowed from blue into green, yellow, orange, and finally pink. Since this stamp set has an aquatic theme (which always feels like summer to me), I wanted bright, happy, sun-washed color.

Dry your panel naturally or speed things up with a heat gun. If your paper warps, simply flatten it later with a book.

Close-up of mixed media tag featuring layered stamping, script texture, inked edges, and a foiled fish accent on a colorful watercolor background.

Step 2: Stamp in Coordinating Colors

Once dry, I stamped images from the CM834 Partners in Brine stamp set using the same inks:

I especially loved the Packed with Love, waves, anchor, fish, and “packed in brine” images. Stamping in matching colors keeps the look layered but cohesive.

Step 3: Add Second-Generation Stamping

To deepen the texture, I used Black and Root Beer Reactive Ink and stamped a few images using second-generation stamping (inking the stamp, stamping once on scrap paper, then stamping again on the background).

Second Generation Stamping adds subtle depth without overpowering the colors.

Step 4: Add Ink Splatters

Next came one of my favorite steps—ink splatters! Using a fan brush, I flicked Splash, Lemon Drop, and Taffy onto the panel.

Ink Splatters add movement, texture, and that perfectly imperfect mixed media charm.

Watercolor background Mixed Media tag with script stenciling, second generation stamping and die cut fish.

Step 5: Die Cut the Tags

Before cutting, I used my Hero Arts Tag Infinity Die as a viewfinder to decide which parts of the background I wanted to showcase. Once I had the section I wanted to use, I taped my tag die to the watercolor panel and ran it through my Platinum 6 die cutting matchine.

I die cut two tags (4½” x 2⅜”), making sure one included the “Packed with Love” area as a focal point.

Step 6: Ink the Edges

To give the tags a vintage, worn look, I ink blended Root Beer Reactive Ink around all the edges. This step instantly adds depth and contrast,

👉 Root Beer Reactive Ink is my go-to shade for “grunging up” a project.

Mixed Media Tag tutorial showing how to create a tag in 9 easy steps.

Step 7: Add Script for Extra Texture

After studying my tags, I felt they needed a bit of visual “writing,” so I added:

  • CG830 Script Bold Print stamped in Granite Ink on the top right of one tag
  • SA225 Script Stencil (sadly sold out) stenciled in Granite on the top left of the Packed with Love tag
  • But, you can use any stamp or stencil with words that you have. Look through your supplies and see what calls to you.

Subtle script details enhance the mixed media feel without distracting from the main design.

Using distressed Glimmer Hot Foil elements on mixed media tags and cards.

Step 8: Add Foiled Die Cut Focal Points

For something completely new (and honestly, adorable), I added Glimmer hot foiled accents—something I’d never tried on a mixed media project before!

I foiled the two sweet fish from HP131 Glad We Are Tight using white and metallic blue foil with my Spellbinders Glimmer System. I then:

The mix of soft watercolor, stamping, and shiny foil adds beautiful contrast.

Step 9: Finish with Twine or Ribbon

To complete the tags, I simply added twine through the top. This final touch makes them perfect for gift wrapping, journaling, mini albums—or even framing as tiny art pieces.

two mixed media tags with a summery fish/aquatic theme.

You might also be interested in my other blog post where I create with the Packed With Love Collection: Tips and Tricks for Making Two Playful Die Cut Card Designs.

Products Used:

Final Thoughts

Mixed media doesn’t have to be complicated. By working in layers, repeating colors, and letting each step build naturally, you can create beautiful, dimensional projects that feel artistic without being overwhelming.

If you enjoyed this tutorial, I’ll link a couple of my other mixed media posts below for more inspiration. And remember—these techniques work with any stamps, any colors, and any theme. The process is what makes it magic.

Happy crafting!

Purple floral die cut Mother's Day Card. How to Design a Stunning Handmade Card | Process and Inspiration
Die cutting · papercrafting

How to Design a Stunning Handmade Card | Process and Inspiration

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Handmade floral card featuring purple Regal Blooms flowers in a vase in front of a nine-pane window, with a glimmer hot foil “hello” sentiment and a soft lavender background

Creating a beautiful handmade card doesn’t require a studio full of supplies, but rather a simple, creative process that turns paper into a work of art.

👉 I wanted to walk you through my inspiration and thought process.

This card features (Spellbinders Regal Blooms die set (S4-1465) and a vase of elegant purple blooms basking in sunlight in front of a nine-pane window, that feels equally perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or a thoughtful get-well card.

You might also be interested in the 14 tools that I use most often in my craftroom.

Design Inspiration: A Sunlit Floral Scene

Card background created with the Hero Arts Elegant Window Fancy Die layered over a Fairy Tale lavender cardstock panel for a soft, sunlit effect that showcases the die cut flower vase.

For this card, I wanted to create a moment—almost like looking through a window on a quiet afternoon and catching sight of a bouquet glowing in the light. The Regal Blooms dies make that easy. The flowers are graceful, detailed, and feminine, with just the right amount of structure to feel refined without being fussy.

👉 I chose a purple color palette for a soft, girly, and classic look. Using Spellbinders ColorWheel cardstock in Lavender, Lilac, and Fairy Tale, along with a few coordinating purple scraps, allowed me to build beautiful tonal variation throughout the card. Here is how I swatched my cardstock, which is a real time saver when I am planning my color palette.

👉 Mixing multiple shades of the same color family adds richness and depth while keeping the overall design calm and cohesive.

👉 To finish the card, I added a glimmer hot foil sentiment—a scripty “hello”—for a touch of elegance and shine. If you’ve been considering learning to foil, my video is a great introduction.

Thoughts on Creating the Window Backdrop

Die cut floral card process photo showing two die cut window options for the background.

As I mentioned above, I wanted my flower vase to be sitting in front of a sunny window.

👉 I love that a window instantly adds structure, light, and architectural interest to a card. I had two window dies in mind, but couldn’t decide which one to use:

👉 I am a visual person, so I die cut both and chose to go with Hero Arts Elegant Window.

👉 Behind the window panes, I layered a soft panel of Fairy Tale ColorWheel cardstock. This pale lavender shade helps the purple flowers stand out while reinforcing the gentle, airy mood of the scene. The window gives the card the feeling of an interior moment—flowers sitting quietly in the sunlight.

Handmade floral card using the Spellbinders Regal Blooms die set (S4-1465), featuring elegant purple flowers in a vase set against a sunlit window backdrop.

Adding Dimension: Two-Tone Vase Technique

One of my favorite details on this card is the vase. I wanted it to have subtle dimension without overwhelming the florals.

👉 To achieve this:

  • I pierced the vase die cut using a pokey tool.
  • Then I placed a darker purple shadow layer behind the pierced openings.
Process photo showing a pierced die-cut vase that will be used on a floral homemade card.

This simple technique creates a two-tone effect that adds depth and interest while keeping the design clean and elegant. I’ve included a process photo above so you can see exactly how this detail comes together.

Why I Love the Regal Blooms Die Set

The Spellbinders Regal Blooms (S4-1465) die set is incredibly versatile. With just a change in color palette or background style, this design could shift from:

  • Soft and romantic (perfect for Mother’s Day),
  • to fresh and cheerful (great for birthdays),
  • to gentle and comforting (ideal for a get-well card).

This card may be purple and feminine, but the structure of the design makes it easy to adapt for many styles and recipients.

Final Thoughts

This floral window card feels cheerful, classic, and heartfelt—the kind of design that never goes out of style. Between the layered purples, the glowing window backdrop, and the elegant foiled sentiment, it’s a project that looks intricate while still being approachable.

Whether you’re creating for a sister, a friend, or someone who simply loves flowers, the Regal Blooms die set is one you’ll reach for again and again.

two colorful die cut cards from Hero Arts Packed with Love collection Tips and Tricks for Making Two Playful Die Cut Card Designs | Packed with Love
cardmaking · Die cutting · Stamping

Tips and Tricks for Making Two Playful Die Cut Card Designs | Packed with Love

Karen Brown1 Comment

Hello friends! Karen Brown here today sharing two cheerful cards created with products from the Hero Arts Packed with Love Collection. I love when a release offers versatility, and this collection made it easy to explore different looks while keeping the designs clean, playful, and approachable.

Key Products Used:

Both cards highlight simple layouts, bold color choices, and easy-to-repeat techniques—perfect whether you’re making one special card or crafting a small batch. One card leans bright and aquatic with colorful die cut fish, while the other explores a graphic, modern style with bold shapes and happy color transitions. Together, they show just how flexible this collection can be.

Let’s take a closer look at each card!

🐟 Card Details: A Happy School of Fish

Colorful die cut fish card featuring nine fish in assorted cardstock colors swimming across a Cosmic Sky background with a simple “greetings” sentiment.

For my card, I used DF274: Big Mouth Sardine Tin Dies, but instead of building the tin, I focused solely on the fish dies. I die cut nine fish in assorted sizes and colors, then arranged them swimming horizontally across the card for a playful, modern look.

The background is Cosmic Sky ColorWheel Cardstock, trimmed with my favorite Rounded Rectangle Infinity Dies and mounted onto a crisp white A2 card base. A small, simple sentiment that reads “greetings” keeps the design clean and versatile—perfect for hello cards, encouragement, or just-because mail.

This card feels colorful, cheerful, and a little bit whimsical…like a happy school of fish swimming together. 🐠🐠🐠

🎨 ColorWheel Cardstock Colors Used

  • White
  • Fog
  • Sicily
  • Coral
  • Seaside
  • Saffron
  • Cosmic Sky (background)

To give each fish more presence and durability, I die cut every fish twice and glued the layers together. This subtle dimension makes a big difference, especially on clean and graphic designs.

If you enjoyed this, you might be interested in learning to make mixed media tags.

✂️ Die Cutting Tip

I used my Spellbinders Scout desktop cutter to cut all of the fish. When I’m working with lots of small or medium-sized dies, the Scout is my go-to—it’s fast, efficient, and perfect for batch die cutting. You might also be interested in the 14 tools that I use most often in my craftroom.

🧠 Layout Tip: Arranging Die Cuts with Ease

If you’ve ever struggled with spacing repeated die cuts, here’s the method I used—and it works every time:

  1. Start at the top of the panel (I placed the gray fish first).
  2. Move to the bottom with the smallest fish (aqua and saffron).
  3. Fill in the middle next.
  4. Work up and down from the center, adjusting spacing as you go.

This approach helps keep everything visually balanced and evenly spaced without overthinking it. I’ve included a process photo (above) of the die-cut fish and dies on my craft mat.

🧷 Assembly

I used a combination of craft foam and foam squares to attach the fish and background, adding just enough dimension to create interest while keeping the card mail-friendly.

Rainbow Watercolor Wide Stripes

I stamped the Wide Stripe Background Stamp onto watercolor paper using Unicorn White Pigment Ink, then heat embossed it with white embossing powder. I knew I wanted to watercolor in between the embossed stripes, so I taped my panel to a hardboard to help minimize warping—always a helpful step when working with lots of water.

Working in rainbow order, I watercolored each stripe band by band. The raised white heat embossing created beautiful texture and helped keep each color neatly contained. I have a process photo showing this panel alongside my watercolor palette, and at this point… that was as far as the original plan went!

Sometimes the best ideas happen mid-project. I started thinking about repeating geometric shapes and how fun it would be to combine that idea with the striped watercolor background I had already created.

Using my Nesting Hearts Infinity Dies and Nesting Circle Infinity Dies, I die cut three 1-inch hearts and three 1-inch circles—perfect timing since we’re getting close to Valentine’s Day. Each die cut features the white heat embossed stripe running through the center, with one rainbow color above and the next color below.

I worked across the panel so that the bottom color of one shape becomes the top color of the next:

  • Pink over orange
  • Orange over yellow
  • Yellow over green …and so on.

I alternated the shapes—heart, circle, heart—creating a playful rhythm across the design.

To ground all that color, I mounted the six die cuts (two rows of three) onto a 4″ x 3″ gray mat die cut with the Nesting Postage Stamp Infinity Dies. Yes—this card uses three different Infinity Die sets, and they all worked together beautifully. The card base is a crisp white A2, keeping the focus on the cheerful pops of color.

👉 Best Die Cutting Staple: Infinity Dies

Finishing Touches & Sentiment Tips

My sentiment is small and simple: “With Love”, white heat embossed on black cardstock. This card could easily work as a Valentine, a friendship card, or a just-because note.

TIP: I love keeping pre-made heat embossed sentiment strips on hand. Using large sentiment strip stamps that coordinate with the matching Sentiment Strip die makes it easy to stamp and die cut everything at once.

For this card, I used a leftover Christmas Sentiment Strip, but I also reach for Everyday Sentiment Strips constantly—definitely worth checking out if you haven’t already. The photo above shows how many sentiments you can make at one time.

Why I Love This Collection

These two cards show how products from one collection can go in completely different directions:

  • One soft, artistic, watercolor-focused design
  • One clean, graphic, and modern card with bold shapes

This is a great reminder to let yourself play and see where your ideas lead.

Three cards featuring Spellbinders Classic Winnie the Pooh Birthday Collection Handmade Winnie the Pooh Cards with Spellbinders Classic Pooh Baby Collection
BetterPress · cardmaking · Die cutting

Handmade Winnie the Pooh Cards with Spellbinders Classic Pooh Baby Collection

Karen BrownLeave a comment
3 Winnie the Pooh theme handmade cards for baby showers and birthdays.

There’s just something timeless about Winnie the Pooh. The gentle illustrations, the sweet stories, and the nostalgia make Pooh-themed projects extra special—and the newly released Spellbinders Classic Pooh Baby Collection captures that magic beautifully.

For today’s post, I created three handmade cards using this collection. Two are perfect for spring baby girl showers, and the third is a rustic birthday card with a mixed media twist. Even though the themes are different—Baby, Maps, and Pooh—they all celebrate the charm of the Hundred Acre Wood.

Card One: A Sweet Baby Shower Card from the Hundred Acre Wood

Handmade baby shower card featuring the Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress map from the Classic Pooh Birthday Collection, softly watercolored and accented with a die-cut high chair and pink card base.

This first card absolutely stole my heart. I started with the Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress Plate, which features a detailed map of Pooh Corner—home to Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Kanga, and friends.

I pressed the plate using my BetterPress LetterPress System and black ink onto a Bisque BetterPress A2 panel, then added soft color using Zig Watercolor Markers and a damp brush. This simple watercolor technique adds just enough storybook charm without overwhelming the delicate map details.

To give the card a baby theme, I added a die-cut high chair from the Baby Accessories Die Kit, layering it on a soft vellum die cut. The sentiment, “How do you spell LOVE?”, comes from the new Sweet Sentiments BetterPress Sentiment Set and feels just right for a baby shower.

I finished the card by mounting everything onto a pink watercolor card base, creating a soft, dreamy look that’s perfect for welcoming a baby girl.

Side-by-side photo of two handmade baby shower cards using the Classic Pooh Birthday Collection Baby Accessories dies, one featuring a BetterPress map and high chair, the other a pink stroller design.

Card Two: A Traditional Pooh Baby Shower Card with a Stroller

Pink baby shower card with a die-cut stroller, postage-style background created with the Spellbinders January 2026 Large Die of the Month, and vintage-inspired embellishments.

For my second baby card, I leaned into a more classic baby shower style, again using the Classic Pooh Baby Accessories Die Kit This one features a pink die-cut stroller (pram) accented with sweet sticker embellishments from Simple Stories Vintage Flower Shoppe.

The background is one of my favorite elements—it was created using this month’s Spellbinders Large Die of the Month Kit. The postage/polaroid-style frame makes such a versatile card base and is a true cardmaking staple. If you don’t already subscribe to this kit, it’s a fantastic one to try—I’ll link to my Hummingbird Delight post where I used the full kit.

This card feels timeless, gentle, and perfect for a traditional baby shower. I also have a photo showing both baby cards together (above), highlighting how different they can feel while still using the same Pooh collection.

Same Map, Two Completely Different Looks

Side-by-side comparison of two BP343 Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress map cards—one soft and pink for a baby shower, the other rustic and masculine with mixed media details.

One of my favorite things about this project is seeing how versatile the Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress Plate really is. In one card, it’s soft, pink, and perfect for a baby shower. In another, it’s rustic, layered, and mixed media inspired.

Card Three: A Rustic Pooh Birthday Card with Mixed Media

Handmade Winnie the Pooh 100 Acre Wood birthday card with an aged mixed media map background created using ink smooshing, brown splatters, and a navy “Let’s Celebrate” sentiment.

My third card takes the Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress Plate in a completely different direction. This one has a more rustic, slightly masculine vibe, making it ideal for birthdays beyond baby cards. This is one of my favorite crafting machines and here are my 9 tips, tricks and insights to the BetterPress process.

I created the background using an ink-smooshing technique with three shades of brown ink. After spritzing with water, I dipped a Bisque BetterPress panel into the ink and let it soak for about a minute (see two photos below) . Once dry (or heat set), I flattened the panel under a weight. I then used my BetterPress LetterPress System to press the map into my smooshed background.

Cardmaking process photo showing ink smooshing and the completed rustic background.

To add even more depth, I:

  • Ink blended darker browns around the edges
  • Added splatters using brown acrylic ink and a fan brush
BP343 Spellbinders The Hundred Acre Wood BetterPress rustic map birthday card

The result is a beautifully aged, mixed media map background. I mounted the panel onto a navy card base and added a bold navy “Let’s Celebrate” sentiment using the Hero Arts Hooray Birthday Cover Plate.

This card is heading to a friend who loves Winnie the Pooh, but it would also work wonderfully as a masculine birthday card.

I’ve included a photo (above) showing both map cards side by side, and I love how different they feel—even though they started with the exact same plate.

Key Products Used:

You might also be interested in the 14 tools that I use most often in my craftroom.

Why I Love Creating with Classic Pooh

👉 My past Winnie the Pooh Die Cut Card and BetterPress Winnie the Pooh Card have always been reader favorites, and it’s easy to see why. Pooh designs feel personal, nostalgic, and meaningful—whether you’re creating for a baby, a birthday, or someone who simply loves these classic characters.

👉 I’ll be linking to my Pooh & Piglet die-cut card from last year, which is still one of my most-loved projects. If you missed it, be sure to check it out for even more Pooh inspiration.

Best Cardmaking supplies 14 Best Cardmaking Products & Supplies for 2026 (Must-Have Craft Room Staples)
Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting

14 Best Cardmaking Products & Supplies for 2026 (Must-Have Craft Room Staples)

Karen Brown4 Comments
Best Cardmaking Supplies for 2026 Quad Graphic showing cardstock, swatching, tool organizer, Inks and die cutting machine

There’s something extra special about the first blog post of a new year — a fresh start, new ideas, and (let’s be honest) a little craft room daydreaming.

Today I’m sharing 14 of my most-used, most-loved cardmaking supplies for 2026. These aren’t just trendy products — they’re the tools I reach for again and again. If you’re stocking your craft room, refining your supplies, or just love seeing what other cardmakers actually use, this list is for you.

1. Favorite Card Kit Subscription: Spellbinders Large Die of the Month

Cute die cut card with hummingbirds hovering over a daisy floral garden.

If I had to choose one subscription kit to keep, this would be it. The Spellbinders Large Die of the Month never disappoints, and January’s kit — Hummingbird Delight — truly lives up to its name.

This kit features a beautiful floral postage / polaroid-style frame paired with the cutest hummingbirds. We get loads of hummingbirds in my garden every summer, so this theme instantly stole my heart. The floral border alone makes the card feel finished and elegant with very little effort.

✨ Runner-Up Favorite Subscription:
The very first kit I ever ordered — Hero Arts My Monthly Hero, now available in two versions for 2026:

Spellbinders January 2026 Embossing Folder of the Month Club Kit Card: Cloud Nine

2. Best Die Cutting Machine: Spellbinders Platinum 6

Best Die Cutting Machine: Spellbinders Platinum 6

I use my Platinum 6 die cutting machine almost every single day. I’ve tried other machines over the years, but this one is reliable, smooth, and powerful. The others? They’re collecting dust.

3. Best Cardstock: Spellbinders ColorWheel Cardstock

Best Cardstock: Spellbinders ColorWheel cardstock shown in several assortment packs.

With 48 gorgeous colors, ColorWheel cardstock makes color selection easy and stress-free. I use it almost exclusively.

I recently placed a big order and am sharing a photo of my shipment, including:

4. Best Planning Tool: Swatching Dies

Best Cardmaking Planning Tool: Spellbinders Swatching Dies.

I use my swatching dies on nearly every project. Being able to flip through physical cardstock swatches saves time and helps me confidently choose colors that work together.

👉 Find all the details in my original swatching post

Key Swatching Products:

You’ll see these swatches featured throughout this post.

5. Best Inspiration Tool: Color Cubes

Best Papercrafting Inspirational Tool: Color Cubes.

Color planning is always my starting point, and Color Cubes are essential to my process. I own two volumes (1&2), a birthday gift from several years ago, and they’re well loved.

Best Color Inspiration: Color Cubes

I like to start with the Color Catalogue where I can search by Color, Key Word or Collection and then I grab a few cards for inspiration.

Paired with my cardstock swatches, they make choosing beautiful color palettes effortless.

👉 Find all the details and dies used in this Be Beautiful Blooms post

6. Best Inks: Hero Arts Reactive & Core Inks

Best Inks: Hero Arts Reactive and Core Inks.

I have a large tub of Hero Arts inks — and honestly, I rarely reach for anything else. The colors are vibrant, blend beautifully, and are incredibly reliable.

Some favorites:

7. Best Blending Brushes: Waffle Flower

Best Blending Brushes: Waffle Flower with the color coded handles.

I love that Waffle Flower blending brushes have color-coded handles, so I instantly know which brush goes with which ink family. Small detail, huge time saver.

8. Best Die-Cutting Staple: Hero Arts Infinity Dies

Best Die Cutting Staple: Hero Arts Infinity Dies.

Nesting infinity dies are true craft room staples, and I use mine constantly. I’ll be linking to 8 of my most-used sets in this post with my most used at the top. I’ll also link to a card using each die.

If you’re building a die collection, start here.

9. Best Embellishment: Enamel Dots

Best Papercrafting Embellishment: Spellbinders and Hero Arts Enamel Dots.

Hands down my favorite finishing touch. I use Spellbinders and Hero Arts enamel dots the most — clean, modern, and endlessly versatile.

10. Best Way to Add Texture: Embossing Folders

Best Way to Add Texture to Your Papercrafting Projects: Spellbinders Embossing Folder of the Month Club Kit.

Embossing folders are one of the easiest ways to add interest to a card. I subscribe to the Spellbinders Embossing Folder of the Month, and my collection has grown quickly.

I used January’s folder, Cloud Nine, on my Hummingbird card. It’s a stylized sky with clouds — perfect for so many scene cards.

11. Best Desk Organizer: Hero Tools Handy Holder

Best Crafting Desk Organizer: Hero Tools Handy Holder perfect for holding scissors, bone folders, pokey tools, jewel pickers and brushes.

This Handy Holder organizer keeps my scissors, tweezers, bone folder, palette knife, and brushes within arm’s reach. I love it so much… I own two!

They sit front and center on my desk.

12. Best Work Surface Organizer: Craft Stax

Best Craft Organizer: Stash Stax. large clear bin with lid to store crafting supplies.

One tool I reach for constantly while creating is Craft Stax. There are several sizes and they’re perfect for organizing, protecting, and corralling all of my crafting components as I work.

The photo above with my Fergus Felt components is the Stash Stax. I also love this size for storing cardstock.

I use Craft Stax to hold die-cut pieces, partially assembled cards, sentiments, and embellishments so nothing gets lost or damaged mid-project. They’re especially helpful when I’m working on detailed die-cut cards or stepping away and coming back later — everything stays exactly where I left it.

Best Papercrafting container for protecting components mid-project as you create.

The photo above is the Medium Craft Stax. 4.8″ x 6″

Craft Stax also make it easy to stack multiple projects on my desk without creating chaos (always a win!). Simple, smart, and incredibly useful — this is one of those tools you don’t realize you need until you have it… and then you can’t imagine crafting without it.

13. Best Die Organizer: Hero Arts Magnetic Sheets & Envelopes

Best product for storing and organizing dies: Hero Arts Magnetic Sheets and Envelopes.

These are absolute must-haves for staying organized:

  • Magnetic sheets keep dies secure
  • Labeled envelopes make everything easy to find

Two Sizes:

If organization is your goal in 2026, start here.

14. Best Tool for Stenciling & Stamping: Waffle Flower Sticky Mat

Best Tool for stenciling and Stamping: Waffle Flower Sticky Grip Mats.

I never stencil without a Waffle Flower Sticky Mat. I even wrote a full blog post about them — which turned out to be my most popular post of 2024!

👉 Find all the details in my original post

Sticky Grip Mats are perfect for stenciling and stamping. And they work great in your  Misti and Mini Misti Stamp Positioners…no need for magnets anymore!

Grip Mat Options:

Final Thoughts

These 14 products form the backbone of my cardmaking in 2026. They help me craft more efficiently, choose colors with confidence, and enjoy the creative process even more.

If you’re building or refreshing your craft room this year, I hope this list gives you a helpful starting point — and maybe a little inspiration too. 💛

I

4 Best Spellbinders projects in 2025 Best of 2025: The Spellbinders Projects You Loved Most This Year
Best Of · Die cutting

Best of 2025: The Spellbinders Projects You Loved Most This Year

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Square graphic showing the four best Spellbinders projects from 2025: a winter sled scene card made with the October Large Die of the Month, personalized Queen and King of Hearts cards, a Winnie the Pooh and Piglet die-cut scene card, and a lemon-themed felt gnome named Fergus.

As the year wraps up, I did something both fun and fascinating — I dove into my 2025 blog posts and Instagram stats to see which projects truly stole your hearts. Likes, saves, comments… I crunched the numbers, and four projects clearly rose to the top.

And wow — the #1 project didn’t just win… it more than doubled the engagement of my #2 card!
Not surprisingly, it also happens to be one of my personal favorites.

Below are my four most popular Spellbinders projects of 2025. I’ve linked each one back to its original blog post so you can find all the details, tips, and full supply lists in one place.

🏆 #1 — October Large Die of the Month: A Heartfelt Holiday Scene

Cute die cut winter scene of a child pulling a sled loaded with gifts through the snow - Christmas Card.

This card was the runaway favorite of 2025 — with more than twice the likes and saves of any other project I shared this year.

👉 Full details and supplies linked in the original post.

Created with the October Large Die of the Month Kit (still available!), this charming scene features a child pulling a sled piled high with gifts through softly falling snow. I made this card especially for my daughter and son-in-law, who are expecting their very first child, and they’ll receive it on Christmas Day. I’ve had the Large Die of the Month Subscription. for several years, and each month it is still a favorite.

I think the combination of storytelling, nostalgia, and cozy winter magic really resonated — it certainly did with me.

🥈 #2 — Jack of All Trades: Queen & King of Hearts

Two die cut playing card theme cards that are customized and personalized to look like my daughter and son-in-law.

Coming in at #2 is a deeply personal project using the Jack of All Trades Collection. I created and customized the Queen of Hearts to resemble my daughter and the King of Hearts for my son-in-law.

👉 See the full customization process in the original blog post.

These regal die-cut cards are such a joy to personalize, and judging by your response, you loved seeing how adaptable this collection can be for meaningful, one-of-a-kind cards.

Key Products Used:

🥉 #3 — A Sweet Stroll with Winnie the Pooh & Piglet

Very cute Winnie the Pooh (and Piglet too!) die cut birthday card.

This card may not have topped the charts numerically, but it earned the most heartfelt comments of any project I shared in 2025.

👉 Find all the details and dies used in the original post.

The scene shows Winnie the Pooh and Piglet walking together, balloon in hand — simple, sweet, and full of emotion. Sometimes a card doesn’t need to be complicated to be powerful, and your responses confirmed that completely.

Key Products Used:

✨ #4 — Fergus the Felt Gnome (Lemon Edition!)

Photo of the front and back of my Fergus the Felt Gnome customized character.

Rounding out the list is Fergus the Felt Gnome, my most popular blog post of the year! Designed by the incredibly talented Sandi MacIver, Fergus is a customizable 3D felt character — and I couldn’t resist turning mine into a cheerful lemon gnome.

👉 Full tutorial and lessons learned are linked in the original post.

Using Citrus Spritz Lemon Dies from the La Dolce Vita Collection, I customized his hat and coat to prove a favorite tip of mine:

👉 You don’t need “felt-specific” dies to personalize felt projects.

Key Tip I learned the hard way: use Merino Wool Felt for best results — it makes all the difference.

Key Products Used:

Why I Love Looking Back

Seeing which projects connected most reminds me why I love sharing cardmaking and creative ideas — it’s about storytelling, emotion, and making something meaningful with our hands.

If you missed any of these projects the first time around, I hope you’ll click through and revisit them. And if you’ve already seen them — thank you for being part of my creative journey in 2025.