1 Die Set, 2 Moods: Coffee Shop Chalkboards & a Lemonade Easel Card

March 10, 2026March 9, 2026 Karen BrownLeave a comment

Create Dimensional Keepsake Cards That Will Wow Your Recipient

4 versions of chalkboard easel die-cut cards from Spellbinders Pink Lemonade Stand Collection

Some die sets are fun. Others quietly become craftroom staples—the kind you reach for again and again because they work for everything.

The new Spellbinders Pink Lemonade Stand Collection is firmly in the second category. With its stand-up easel chalkboard design, customizable accessories, and endless styling options, this die set can go modern or playful, graphic or cozy, bold or soft.

Today I’m sharing two dimensional easel card designs using the same kit:
• a bright, cheerful stand-up strawberry-lemonade easel card that practically begs to be displayed

• a trio of bold, graphic coffee shop thank-you cards featuring dramatic black cardstock and heat embossing

Along the way, I’m also sharing a reliable heat embossing tutorial, tips for building sturdy easel cards, and ideas to help you get the most mileage possible out of this die set.

Angled side view of pink lemonade stand easel card standing upright for display

⭐ Product Spotlight: Pink Lemonade Stand Die Set

The chalkboard easel card featured today is built with the delightful Pink Lemonade Stand Die Set from Spellbinders.

What makes this set so versatile is the dimensional stand design and the mix-and-match accessories that allow you to style it for everything from summer lemonade stands to cozy coffee shop scenes.

Why I love it:

• Creates dimensional easel cards that display beautifully
• Includes fun accessory pieces for customizing your stand
• Works with many different themes and occasions

👉 See the die set here.

Lemonade Stand Easel Card (Bright, Happy, Display-Worthy)

For my first card, I used the Lemonade Stand die set traditionally—and it’s a show-stopper.

Design Details

Black chalkboard center
Tan “wood” frame top and bottom
Die-cut pitcher of pink lemonade, glasses, lemons, and a strawberry
Included hello sentiment
Pink and yellow banner across the top

Color palette: pink, yellow, and pale blue—bright, happy, and eye-catching without being busy.

Lemonade stand easel card with pink lemonade pitcher, lemons, banner, and black chalkboard background. Spellbinders S6-269 — Dimensional stand-up easel cards beg to be displayed.

I cut many of my elements from lightly inked scraps, which keeps everything from looking flat. I also added a touch of ink blending to the lemons for dimension.

If lemons are your thing too, you might enjoy this favorite from last year → Lovely Lemons: Die Cutting, Ink Blending & a Touch of Gold.

I am sharing a diecutting process photo and I talk more about why I love my Platinum 6 in my must-have cardmaking list.

process photo of die-cutting — Die cutting lemonade embellishments creates fun interest on chalkboard easel display cards.

Up-Right Easel Assembly Tip

Die cut a second chalkboard backer from tan cardstock
Score just below the top wood header on the front and back panel
Glue only the top headers together to create a sturdy stand

These display-worthy cards are the kind recipients keep out long after the occasion.

Trio of Coffee Shop Thank-You Cards (Black Cardstock = Instant Drama)

For my trio of cards, I leaned fully into a coffee shop chalkboard vibe—modern, graphic, and cozy all at once.

Design Details

Lemonade Stand Easel base: Pitch Black cardstock (my favorite black—rich, crisp, and perfect for embossing)
Chalkboard sentiment: heat-embossed coffee cup + “thanks a latte” from the Hero Arts Coffee or Tea Stamp Set
Embellishments: small hearts and flowers from the Pink Lemonade Stand Tag accessory dies
Color accents: hot pink, turquoise, and bright yellow
Mounted on: white A2 card bases for maximum contrast

I trimmed the coffee cup image slightly, which instantly made the design feel more like a real café chalkboard. The glossy white embossing against deep black cardstock is one of those combinations that never fails.

If you love coffee-themed cards too, you might enjoy my bold espresso-inspired project here → What’s Brewing? A Bold & Graphic Coffee Card.

Individual coffee shop chalkboard easel card in turquoise, black, and white. Spellbinders Pink Lemonade Stand die kits: S6-269 & S4-1532

Color Breakdown (why it works)

Each card is mostly black (about 70%), with:

one strong accent color (~15%)
crisp white embossing
one tiny pop of contrast (flower center or heart)

That balance is what keeps these dramatic but still cheerful.

➡️ Which color combo is your favorite—pink, turquoise, or yellow?

Heat Embossing on Black Cardstock

Because these cards rely on bold embossing, I wanted to include a go-to heat embossing method you can reference again and again.

Individual coffee shop chalkboard easel card in hot pink, black, and white. Coffee theme "thanks a latte".

How I Get Clean, Professional Heat Embossing Every Time

Prep stamps with a stamp conditioning eraser (today I used the Hero Arts Coffee or Tea stamp set)
Prep cardstock with an anti-static powder tool
Use a 1″ flat brush to apply powder horizontally, then vertically
Stamp with Unicorn White Pigment Ink
Use white embossing powder (double white = best results)
Preheat heat tool for at least 1 minute
Use the easel die as a viewfinder to place images
Stamp twice with a stamp positioner using light, even pressure
Pour embossing powder generously, tilt panel in all directions, tap gently
Heat emboss while constantly moving the heat tool
Let cool, then polish lightly with a microfiber cloth

💡 Tip I’ve used for years: catch excess embossing powder in a coffee filter—easy pour-back, no mess.

I’m sharing:

a candid workspace photo showing all three layouts “percolating” overnight

Process photo showing chalkboard card layouts, dies, cardstock, and die cutting machine — Heat embossing white pigment ink and embossing powder on black cardstock creates that bold chalkboard look I love for coffee themed cards.

a mid-assembly shot with one chalkboard drying under an acrylic block

Heat embossing a coffee cup stamp with white embossing powder on black cardstock for chalkboard style thank you card. — Bright pops of color contrast nicely with blackcardstock.

If you love scene-building, you’ll definitely want to check out my Sneaker Bouquet scene card tutorial.

Craft Supplies Featured on This Card:

Die Cutting:

Stamps and Cardstock:

Ink:

Hero Arts Unicorn White Pigment Ink

How to Create Die Cut Scene Cards: Easy Design Tips That Work Every Time

March 1, 2026March 1, 2026 Karen Brown4 Comments

Masculine die cut scene card featuring a gray high top sneaker filled with grilling tools and a hot dog on an embossed brick background perfect for Father's Day or Birthdays.

Die cut scene cards are one of the most eye-catching styles in cardmaking, and with a few simple design principles, they’re surprisingly easy to create. Today I’m sharing tips for building a cohesive, masculine die cut scene card using the Spellbinders March 2026 Large Die of the Month: Classic Kicks.

This kit made me smile instantly—a gray high-top sneaker stuffed with backyard cookout favorites like a spatula, grilling fork, hot dog, and bottled drink. It feels nostalgic, playful, and perfect for celebrating the men in our lives.

Why Scene Cards Are Always a Hit

Scene cards are:

Recipient favorites
Great for storytelling
Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, and “just because”

This particular scene instantly evokes backyard cookouts, summer evenings, and casual gatherings—paper crafting at its best.

Die cutting is especially great for other masculine designs, like this Speedometer card I shared.

Spellbinders March 2026 Large Die of the Month Club Kit called Classic Kicks

Choosing a Limited Color Palette

Because this kit has a bold, graphic style, I kept my color palette intentionally tight:

Gray
Green
A pop of bright red

I was inspired by Color Cubes Palette #23, and as a general rule, I try to stick to 2–5 colors per card. This keeps the design cohesive and prevents a busy look—especially important for scene cards with lots of elements.

I talk more about using color in my video and blog post about stenciling and color theory.

The Key Parts of a Die Cut Scene Card

1. Background: Setting the Scene

The background sets the mood. You can use:

Stenciling
Stamping
Embossing
Die cutting
Texture paste

For this card, I used a 3D brick embossing folder, pressing Fog Ink directly onto the folder before running it through my Platinum 6. After embossing, I lightly ink blended more Fog ink over the panel to add subtle distressing and depth.

Before committing, I auditioned several premade backgrounds from my stash (you can see this in a process photo below). I love making two backgrounds at once—one for the project and one for later.

Premade embossed background panels auditioned behind die cut elements for scene card design, two brick backgrounds and one tan stripe.

If you’d like an idea for an additional background to add to your stash, this video demonstrates a versatile but easy glimmer hot foil background. I store my extra background panels in rainbow order, which saves so much time and makes design decisions easier.

2. Foreground: Grounding the Scene

Foreground elements help anchor your focal point so it doesn’t feel like it’s floating.

I tested several green die-cut options and ultimately chose a simple grassy horizon cut from dark green cardstock. This small step made a huge difference visually. You could easily cut a foreground freehand if you don’t have a die.

Green die cut foreground options used to ground a die cut scene card....choosing which foreground to use.

I adhered the foreground directly to the embossed background.

3. Focal Point: The Star of the Card

The die-cut sneaker bouquet is the star here. I even used silver cardstock for the grilling utensils, which adds a realistic metallic look.

I attached the sneaker with foam squares to give it dimension and help it stand out from the scene.

My Platinum 6 Die Cutting Machine is one of the tools I rely on regularly and is included in my list of the best cardmaking supplies for 2026.

4. Charming Details: Where the Fun Happens

This kit includes:

Flowers
Backyard cookout elements

These little details are my favorite part of scene card building. I always arrange everything loosely before gluing—it’s like solving a fun paper puzzle.

5. Sentiment: Keep It Simple

I finished the card with a small white heat-embossed “celebrate” sentiment on gray cardstock, using Everyday Sentiment Strips 2 and the coordinating die.

Two batches of heat embossed sentiment strip strips. White on gray and black cardstock.

These sentiment strips are a huge time saver, which I demonstrate in this recent post.

Handmade card for men and foodies featuring a gray high top sneaker stuffed with grilling utensils. Backyard cookout scene card.

Design Tip: Use the Rule of Thirds

To guide placement, I followed the rule of thirds, positioning the taller elements (spatula, fork, bottle) along the left vertical third of the card—about 1 1/3” from the edge of an A2 card. This adds balance and visual interest without overthinking the layout.

Final Thoughts

Scene cards may look complex, but when you break them into backgrounds, foregrounds, focal points, and details, they become incredibly approachable—and so fun to create.

If you enjoyed this, you might be interested in this popular Winnie the Pooh post.

Mixed Media · Tutorial

Mixed Media Made Simple: My 3-Step Recipe for Fun & Easy Tags

February 27, 2026March 6, 2026 Karen Brown2 Comments

Mixed media doesn’t have to mean messy chaos and 47 random products scattered across your desk.

I finally realized that what I needed wasn’t more supplies… I needed a formula.

First of all, I absolutely LOVE the look of mixed media. Secondly? It is the most fun you can have in a craft room. There are no rules. No mistakes. Just happy little outcomes (and sometimes a few gloriously imperfect ones).

But when I first started, I had no idea where to begin. I admired so many artists’ projects… but how did they know what to add next?

After years of playing, experimenting, and making a delightful mess of watercolor paper, I developed my own simple 3-part recipe.

And today I’m sharing it with you.

Karen’s 3-Step Mixed Media Recipe

Step 1: Create an Interesting Background
Step 2: Add 4+ Layers
Step 3: Add a Strong Focal Point

That’s it.

This is Blog Post #1 in a new mixed media series where I’ll walk through each part in detail — visually and step-by-step. If this kind of creative play excites you, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the tutorials ahead.

If you try this recipe, I would love to see it.
Use #karensmixedmediarecipe so we can follow along with each other’s projects.

Now let’s walk through today’s tag together.

Stenciled, ink blended tag with rub on transfers with 7 layers.

Step 1: Create an Interesting Background

For today’s tag, I started with a watercolor wash.

I scribbled a brown watercolor marker onto my craft mat, spritzed it with water, and brushed the color onto heavy watercolor paper. If you want deeper color, simply let it dry and repeat the process.

Once dry, I die cut the panel using a 3” x 5” tag die. I love this size because it gives me plenty of creative real estate.

Tan is one of my favorite neutral starting points — it plays beautifully with layered color and keeps everything cohesive.

Process photo of mixed media tan watercolor wash tag background.

Step 2: Add 4+ Layers (Today I Added 7!)

Layers are where the magic happens.

On most of my mixed media projects, I use at least four layers — but often more. The key is variety, contrast, and a little bravery.

Here’s what I added today:

1. Ink Blending

Using water reactive inks (Berry Smoothie and Blue Hawaii) and a blending brush, I blended color onto the lower left portion of the tag — about two-thirds of the surface.

Don’t overthink this step. I started mid-left with Berry Smoothie and worked inward, then added Blue Hawaii to the bottom corner.

There is no “right” placement. Pick a spot. Add color. Assess. Adjust. Keep going.

2. Stenciling

I used the Floral Trove stencil — it’s wonderful for tags because of its 9 different rectangular designs.

Using the same two ink colors as in step 1 keeps everything soft and cohesive. Now my neutral tan base has subtle pattern and depth layered over it.

3. Hero Transfers

I trimmed a 3” x 2” grid element from the Grids and Icons Mixed Media Hero Transfers set and applied it at an angle using a bone folder.

Those black grid lines instantly add structure and contrast.

4. Stamping

This is where personality comes in.

I stamped:

A circle coffee stain
An ink blot
Numbers
A postmark
Script text

Using Root Beer Brown, Blue Hawaii, and Berry Smoothie keeps everything coordinated.

The goal isn’t to make one stamp stand out — it’s to build subtle interest. Look for shapes, textures, numbers, partial images… don’t stress about perfection.

Process photo of ink blending on tan mixed media watercolor tag with detail of Hero Arts grid rub-on transfer and stamping.

5. Add Words

I die cut a small scrap with printed words (leftover from a previous project — yes, I save almost everything!).

You could also use dictionary scraps, stamped text, or stencil writing. I softened the edges with brown ink.

6. Ink the Edges

Root Beer reactive ink around the edges, finished with a touch of Licorice black, frames the tag and grounds the design.

7. Splatters

I almost always finish with splatters. Today I used blue and black. I removed the top nozzle from a bottle of ink spray and gently flicked the droplets onto the tag.

They unify the layers and add that final touch of “imperfect by design.”

Step 3: Add a Strong Focal Point

For today’s focal point, I used the Love Note Birds die cut.

It’s simple, not overly detailed, and perfectly sized for a tag.

The pink panel was die cut from a leftover watercolor gradient (because scraps are creative gold). I lightly shaded it with leftover black ink on my blending brush to soften it and prevent it from feeling too bright.

I positioned the bird slightly off-center toward the lower left and adhered it directly to the tag.

Off-center placement keeps things interesting.

Finished mixed media tag with 7 layers + a die cut bird focal point.

If you’d like more beginner-friendly inspiration…

My Mixed Media “Cheat Sheets”

Over time, I realized I had dozens of techniques swirling in my head. So I created three sample boards:

Background Ideas
Layering Ideas
Focal Point Ideas

In process photo of mixed media tag background + my backgrounds sample board.

I’m a very visual person, and these boards act like my creative reference system when I sit down to craft. The middle circle on the right was the panel I used for today’s tag.

In upcoming posts, I’ll reveal them in detail — but here’s a small peek. (Just enough to inspire… not overwhelm 😉)

Mixed Media Is Imperfect by Design

Mixed media can feel intimidating.

But here’s what I’ve learned:

It’s imperfect by design.

Little missteps? They add charm. Unexpected marks? They add character.

Watching a simple piece of watercolor paper transform layer by layer is one of the most satisfying creative journeys.

And the best part? There are no mistakes — just more layers.

Coming Next in This Series

Over the next few posts, I’ll be diving deeper into:

How to build beautiful mixed media backgrounds
My favorite layering combinations
How to create strong focal interest
The best supplies for beginners

In my next post, Ink Smooshing 101, we’ll take a deeper dive into Step 1 of my Mixed Media Recipe and explore five ways to create beautiful watercolor-style backgrounds using simple water-based inks.

You might also want to check out my Sneaker Bouquet scene card.

Stay tuned — this is going to be fun.

cardmaking · Die cutting

The One Cardmaking Step That Saves Me the Most Time

February 23, 2026February 16, 2026 Karen Brown3 Comments

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.

Die cut a white cardstock panel with the daisy cover die
Punch out the white flowers and glue the panel to a white card base
- Weight with a large acrylic block to keep everything flat
Die cut one strip of daisies from gray cardstock
Flip the gray panel over and leave the die cuts in place so you know where each piece belongs
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
Die cut the coordinating flower centers and repeat the process
Weight with an acrylic block until fully dry
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.

Mixed Media · Tutorial · Video

VIDEO: Easy & Addictive | Beginner Mixed Media Tag Tutorial

February 18, 2026March 8, 2026 Karen Brown2 Comments

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.

When creating mixed media projects, I use my 3 Step Mixed Media Recipe.

👉 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.

Mixed Media Toolbox

These are the supplies that I personally use:

Hot Foiling · Video

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

February 10, 2026March 1, 2026 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

If you love scene-building, you’ll definitely want to check out my Sneaker Bouquet scene card tutorial.

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.

cardmaking · Die cutting · papercrafting

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

February 1, 2026March 1, 2026 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 and my best timesaving tip for cardmaking.

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.

Would you like to see my Sneaker Bouquet scene card?

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:

Spellbinders Large Die of the Month Club Kit
Spellbinders Embossing Folder of the Month Club Kit
Spellbinders ALL CRATE Club – All the Kits at a Great Value $130
ColorWheel Cardstock
Club Overview and Club Options
Past Club Kits
Platinum 6 Die Cutting System
Sarah Renae Clark’s Color Cubes
Color Swatching Die
Color Swatching Stamps
Crystal Ninja Pick-up Tool

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!

Mixed Media · papercrafting · Tutorial

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

January 27, 2026March 4, 2026 Karen Brown3 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.

When creating mixed media projects, I use my 3-Step Recipe.

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.

Bottom: Splash (blue)
Middle: Lemon Drop (yellow)
Top: Taffy (pink)

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:

Splash on blue areas
Lemon Drop on yellow areas
Taffy on pink areas

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.

My preference is to use color-coded blending brushes for ink blending. I find my brushes last longer since I only use one ink colorfamily on each brush.

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:

Die cut them using the smallest Rounded Rectangle Infinity Die
Lightly distressed the edges with Root Beer ink
Glued them directly onto the tags

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!

Die cutting · papercrafting

How to Design a Stunning Handmade Card | Process and Inspiration

January 17, 2026February 23, 2026 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 and The One Cardmaking Step That Saves Me The Most Time.

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:

Hero Arts Elegant Window Fancy Die (die I used on this card)
Spellbinders Vista View Window (window on the right)

👉 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.

cardmaking · Die cutting · Stamping

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

January 15, 2026February 2, 2026 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:

Start at the top of the panel (I placed the gray fish first).
Move to the bottom with the smallest fish (aqua and saffron).
Fill in the middle next.
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.