Two cute aquatic fish theme die cut cards Spellbinders August 2025 Club Kits: Under the Sea Magic!
Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting · stitching

Spellbinders August 2025 Club Kits: Under the Sea Magic!

Karen Brown1 Comment
2 colorful aquatic theme die cut scene cards featuring bright bold colors, a graphic look and LOTS of fish.

This month’s Spellbinders Club Kits dive deep into all things aquatic—and let me tell you, these kits are fin-tastic! 🐠💦 From vibrant fish to stitched sailboats, the August kits are perfect for summer crafting or anytime you want to send a smile that makes a splash. I created three nautical-themed cards using the Die of the Month, Large Die of the Month, Stitching Die of the Month, and my Caboodle Bonus Gift.

🐟 Card 1: Colorful Coral Reef Scene (Die of the Month + Caboodle Bonus Gift)

Die cut coral reef scene with colorful fish on Oceanside blue background. Made with Spellbinders August 2025 Die of the Month and Caboodle Bonus.

This card is bright, whimsical, and just so much fun to put together! I started with a rich Oceanside cardstock panel for the background “water.” Then I built a vibrant underwater world using the Die of the Month and my Caboodle Bonus Gift for even more fishy flair. I skipped the scuba diver die cuts and instead filled the scene with colorful fish in pink, coral, orange, purple, yellow, white, and aqua, all cut from my scrap bin. 🌈

TIP: Many of the elements are quite small—my Bearly Art glue with the fine-tip nozzle was essential for precise placement. I love that this card feels playful and full of life without being fussy!

Die cut card with lots of cute colorful fish swimming around a coral reef.

🐡 Card 2: Make a Splash with the Large Die of the Month

Pink fish in a plastic bag on blue background with “Make a Splash” sentiment. Made with Spellbinders August 2025 Large Die of the Month.

This Large Die of the Month card features the cutest little pink fish swimming home in a plastic bag! It’s such a clever, nostalgic design. I layered the fish-in-bag die cut over another Oceanside background and added a pink string “tie” at the top of the bag. The sentiment “Make a Splash” is included in the kit and absolutely perfect. It’s a great all-occasion card—birthday, congratulations, or just because.

If you like the graphic look of these first two cards, you might be interested in reading my post: What’s Brewing.

Darling "fish in a plastic bag" die cut card card in pinks and blues.

🚢 Card 3: Stitched Sailboat on the Sea (Stitching Die of the Month)

Stitched and die cut brown sailboat with red and yellow flags on blue sea and “Born to Shine Year After Year” sentiment. Made with Spellbinder's August 2025 Stitching Die of the Month.

My final card gives major paper boat vibes, thanks to the Stitching Die of the Month. I die cut the boat from brown cardstock and stitched the details with marine blue embroidery floss. The little red and yellow pennants waving from the mast make it feel festive and fun. 🌊 I added a blue die cut sea, a white die cut cloud, and hot foiled the uplifting La Dolce Vita sentiment:
“Born to shine year after year.” ✨

Stitching Tip: I die cut the boat twice and layered the pieces together before stitching for extra sturdiness. I used two threads of floss for the perfect amount of detail.

Masculine die cut and hands-stitched boat card perfect for birthdays.

These cards came together so easily and would be adorable for summer birthdays, kids’ celebrations, or just brightening someone’s day. Don’t forget—this is all part of the August 2025 Club Kit Release, and if you’re a Deluxe Caboodle subscriber, you get everything plus the bonus die, and save a whopping 58%!

Helpful Links:

Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting · Stenciling

Hero Arts August 2025 | Light-Up Tags + Crystal Ball

Karen Brown20 Comments
Handmade Halloween tag with layered colorful tags, white heat embossed spider web on black cardstock, lit up with a hidden light, and “Boo to You” sentiment.

The Hero Arts August 2025 Release is here, and it’s packed with creative possibilities—from interactive Halloween tags to dreamy stenciled scenes and mystical vibes. I had so much fun with these kits and created two very different but equally inspiring projects.

>>>> Hero Arts Club Kits Overview <<<<

🕷️ Project 1: Light-Up Spider Web Halloween Tag – August Card Kit

Let’s start with a spooky showstopper! This interactive Halloween tag uses elements from the August Hero Arts Card Kit, including the spider web stamp and Press One Light that lights up the tag.

Here’s how it came together:

  • I white heat embossed the spider web on black cardstock, die cut it, and positioned one of the included Press One Lights behind the center.
  • When you press the hidden button—the web lights up! 🕸️✨
  • I layered two tags using the Nesting Tag Dies:
    • The top tag is watercolor paper with Yellow and Orange Liquid Watercolors—so vibrant and bold!
    • The bottom tag is purple cardstock with a Hero Transfer from Collage Backgrounds 2—the script texture gives a haunting Halloween vibe.

I finished it off with a heat-embossed “Boo to You” sentiment from the kit and a touch of black hemp cord. This tag is spooky, clever, and totally kid-approved.

Hero Studio light up Halloween spider web tag created with the August 2025 Card Kit, including the Pear Blossom Press One Light.

What’s Included in the August Card Kit?

  • Abraham and Katrina 6×8 Stamp Set (used on tag)
  • Abraham and Katrina Coordinating Die (used on tag)
  • Stamping Guide for stamp set
  • Victorian Frame Die Set (used on card 2)
  • Pear Blosson Press-One Light 2 Pack (used on tag)
  • 10 Sheets of Cardstock- 1 of each color, 5.5″ x 8.5″ (Cinnamon, Terra Cotta, Carrot, Coral, Bellini, Tuscan, Mint, Waterfall, Blue Spruce, Raven)
  • Holographic Rainbow Film, 1 sheet – 5.5″ x 8.5″
  • Acetate, 1 sheet – 5.5″ x 8.5″ (used on card 3)

Receive a FREE Magic Mist Stencil when you purchase The Whole Studio!

Hero Arts has many different Monthly Kits that you can subscribe to including:

Project 2: Crystal Ball Magic – August Stamp & Cut: You Are Magic

Card featuring a die cut crystal ball made from ink smooshed background and acetate layer, with the sentiment “You Are Magic” over a tone-on-tone mini rainbow background stenciled in teal and aqua shades.

This second card leans into the magical vibes with the new You Are Magic Stamp & Cut. The crystal ball die is the star here!

  • I used a leftover ink smoosh background scrap in soft blues and aquas to simulate swirling crystal magic. You can read my Ink Smoosh Tutorial HERE.
  • I die cut a circle of acetate (included in my August Card Kit of the Month) and layered it on top for a glassy, dimensional effect.
  • The sentiment “You Are Magic” is stamped and layered over the crystal ball.

For the background, I used Oceanside ColorWheel Cardstock and the Retro Rainbow Stencil from last month’s Retro Kitchen Release. I went for a tone-on-tone look using:

Mounted on an aqua card base with a few black enamel dots, this card feels subtle, sparkly, and just a little bit mystical and mysterious.

Hero Studio Blog Hop

Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Leave a comment on all stops for more chances to win!


Hero Arts
Nichol Spohr
Seeka
Rosie Lopez
Rachel Kleinman
Natasha Polite
Mindy Eggen
Michelle Short
Michelle Lupton
Lisa Tilson
Karen Brown
Jennifer Kotas
Jeannie Lieu
Charlene Madrid
Channin Pelletier
Anna Mahtani

Handmade card created from the Hero Studio August 2025 Stamp and Cut "You Are Magic" kit.

From light-up tags to dreamy stenciling and crystal energy, the August kits are perfect for stretching your creativity into fall. Which kit are you reaching for first?

Die cutting · Stamping · Stenciling

Christmas in July | Candy Canes, Color and Confections

Karen BrownLeave a comment

It may be mid-summer, but it’s never too early to get a head start on your holiday cardmaking! I’m kicking off Christmas in July with two cheerful and candy-colored designs using the brand new Candy Cane Season Collection from Hero Arts.

This sweet collection is full of playful holiday charm—peppermints, bows, and bold candy cane graphics that are perfect for building quick but eye-catching holiday cards.

Card 1: Peppermint Skies & Holiday Vibes

My first card is all about peppermint joy! I started by creating a playful red and white background using the Candy Cane Toss Up Stencils and two Hero Arts inks:

  • Peony
  • Cherry

This creates the scattered look of candy canes tossed in the air—fun, festive, and full of movement. The sentiment, “Peppermint Skies and Holiday Vibes,” is stamped in black for a bold pop, centered over the background.

To bring in contrast and dimension, I added green candy canes from the Candy Cane Swag set. I stamped them in Pine ink on Mint ColorWheel Cardstock and die cut them multiple times—then did a little crafty engineering to extend the candy canes behind the sentiment strip. By layering extra pieces below the visible canes, they peek out above and below the sentiment, adding height and whimsy to the design.

This card’s theme is peppermint playfulness—and it’s a sweet way to start your stash of holiday greetings!

Card 2: Sweet but Twisted

For my second card, I kept the focus on a clean graphic layout featuring crossed candy canes as the main design element.

I used the Candy Cane Swag stamps again, stamping two canes in Pine ink on Mint ColorWheel Cardstock, then crossing them in an “X” shape at the center of the card. I added a red and white bow (stamped in Cotton Candy ink and die cut) to the center, tying the two canes together like a festive wreath.

Behind the candy canes, I layered three coordinating ColorWheel cardstock panels, trimmed using my Rounded Rectangle Infinity Dies:

  • Base Layer: Fern
  • Middle Layer: Mint
  • Top Layer: Bellini

These colors echo the classic red-and-green palette but with a soft, contemporary twist—perfect for a fun and modern holiday card.

The sentiment “Sweet but Twisted” is from the A Little Merri-Mint Stamp & Die Set, and I think it pairs perfectly with this cheeky little cane design!

Both cards feature cardstock from the ColorWheel Collection, which makes it so easy to mix and match hues while keeping your palette coordinated. And while they use some of the same elements, each card has its own unique personality—one playful and layered, the other bold and graphic.

It’s never too early to dive into the holiday spirit, especially with sweet designs like these. Whether you love traditional candy cane colors or like to mix things up, Candy Cane Season has something merry for everyone!

Two shell theme BetterPress and Hot Foil Glimmer cards. One Plate, Two Techniques: BetterPress & Glimmer Cards
BetterPress · Die cutting · Hot Foiling

One Plate, Two Techniques: BetterPress & Glimmer Cards

Karen Brown2 Comments

This month’s Hero Arts July Release is full of that easy, breezy summer energy—think sandy toes, sunshine, and salty air. I had so much fun creating with the Summer by the Sea collection, and I’m sharing five cards that show off the versatility of these beautiful new products.

One Plate, Two Looks

Handmade card with gold foiled shell background pattern on aqua cardstock, featuring layered “hello” die cut sentiment in gold and teal. Hero Arts Scattered Shells LetterPress + Foil Plate

Card One: Hot Foiled Glimmer Glow

The first two cards are part of a Hero Arts Instagram Hop that you can find HERE.


I hot foiled the Scattered Shells LetterPress + Foil Plate in matte gold using my Spellbinders Glimmer System, over a gorgeous aqua cardstock. The result is luxe and luminous—it truly glows in person!


I added a layered sentiment using the scripty “hello” from the July Hero Studio Die of the Month Kit—die cut from matte gold cardstock with a slightly offset teal shadow for contrast. Everything is mounted on teal cardstock for a rich, beachy vibe.

You might also be interested in a recent Glimmer Hot Foil Butterfly Post.

Card Two: LetterPress Charm

Handmade card with hydrangea blue letterpress shell background pattern and sentiment “Better Than A Text” using Hero Arts Scattered Shells LetterPress + Foil Plate

For a softer feel, I used the same plate with Hydrangea ink in my BetterPress system. The result is crisp and coastal.
I paired it with a cheeky sentiment—“Better Than A Text”—from the new Banner Days Stamp & Cut set. It’s a fun reminder that handmade is always more heartfelt!

These two cards came together quickly and really showcase the range you can get from one plate—hot foil elegance or classic letterpress charm.

You might also enjoy my popular post: 9 Tips, Tricks and Insights for Spellbinders BetterPress Machine.

Beach Summer seashell themed BetterPress LetterPress card in Hydrangea Blue ink.

🐚 Beach Shell Wreath Card

Square handmade card with pastel beach shell wreath die cuts in mint, coral, blush, kraft, white and aqua.

Next up is a square card that centers around a gorgeous die cut Summer Shell Wreath using the Sophisticated Shells Dies. I used ColorWheel Cardstock in:

  • Mint, Waterfall, Blush, Tuscan, Carrot, Coral, White, and Kraft.

I added just a touch of ink blending to the die cuts to give some depth and dimension, then finished it off with a sweet sentiment from Banner Days and a few clear dot embellishments to mimic bubbles or sea glass. The soft coastal tones and wreath shape feel fresh and modern.

Cheerful Beach Wreath die cut square card using Hero Arts Sophisticated Shell Dies.

🗣️ Sentiment-Focused Cards

Two beach summer themed cards featuring Hero Arts Banner Days stamped and die cut sentiments.

Finally, I created two additional cards using the Banner Days Stamp & Cut set. These sentiments are fun, cheeky, and so versatile—they really bring the “message” to the forefront of your design.

Stamped sentiment focused beach theme card with die cut seashells embellisments.

You’ll find phrases like:

  • “Better Than a Text”
  • “You’re a Treasure”
  • “Some Friendships are Timeless ”

…perfect for summer hello cards, pen pal notes, or lighthearted designs.

Handmade Card with multiple stamped summer and beach theme sentiments + die cut shell embellishments.

And our final card features 5 die cut sentiments that could be “messages in a bottle”.

Message in a bottle theme sentiment focused handmade card

This collection has such a relaxed, summery vibe—whether you’re foiling, pressing, or layering die cuts, there’s something here for every cardmaker. Stay tuned to Instagram for even more ideas from the Hop!

Thanks for stopping by!

Layering Stencil handmade card and video. Video: Easy Fun Card Idea
Cardmaking Video · Stenciling

Video: Easy Fun Card Idea

Karen Brown1 Comment

Watch above OR click HERE to watch video on YouTube.

Looking for an easy, beginner-friendly card idea that makes a big impact? Today I’m sharing a project using the Hero Studio July 2025 “Just Keep Going” Layering Stencils—a bold, three-layered sentiment that I paired with a coordinating ink smooshed background for a clean, summery design.

Handmade card with bold “Just Keep Going” encouraging sentiment in green, teal, and blue ink, layered over a watercolor-style ink smooshed background.

Supplies & Theme

The “Just Keep Going” stenciled sentiment is built up with three perfectly aligned stencil layers. For the sentiment and the coordinating background, I used the following Reactive Inks:

These bright, analogous colors are side-by-side on the color wheel and blend beautifully together for a unified, harmonious look.

July 2025 Layering Stencil of the Month "Just Keep Going" kit card in analgous green, aqua and blue inks.

The Background: Ink Smooshing

To complement the stenciled panel, I created an ink smooshed background using the exact same three ink colors. Ink smooshing is one of my favorite techniques—just dab ink onto a 6 x 6″ acrylic block, spritz with water, and press your watercolor paper onto the color. I flip my block and weight down with a book for 5 minutes. If there is a puddle, I dab it with a paper towel. The result? A gorgeous, watercolor-style background that’s one of a kind.

This technique is fantastic for beginners and gives your cards a fun, organic texture. It’s also a great way to bring all the color elements of your project together.

Creating an "ink smoosh" background that coordinates with your stenciled focal point

Finishing Touches

I die cut my stenciled sentiment panel using a nesting postage stamp die for extra polish. As a playful embellishment, I added a pair of sunglasses from the Hero Studio July 2025 Card Kit. The frames are cut from leftover inked cardstock, and the lenses from another panel inked with Blue Hawaii—just another way to tie everything together!

Custom coordinated ink smoosh background and bold stenciled sentiment card.

Why It Works

This card’s cohesive look comes from intentionally choosing analogous colors and using them across both the background and focal elements. Whether you’re just starting out or want a quick, cheerful design, this is a project anyone can enjoy!

How to choose color in cardmaking. How to Choose Colors for Handmade Cards
cardmaking · Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting

How to Choose Colors for Handmade Cards

Karen Brown2 Comments
Card featuring a layered five-point barn star die in rich purple and lavender with orange and lavender greenery embellishments, placed on a script BetterPress background in soft purple ink and mounted on a purple card base. Gold glimmer sentiment reads 'Enjoy Today to the Fullest.

Choosing the right colors for your handmade cards can feel like a creative puzzle—fun but sometimes a little overwhelming. Whether you lean toward classic Christmas colors or love a bold non-traditional palette, color selection sets the tone for your entire project.

Today, I’m sharing two recent cards using the Spellbinders July 2025 holiday releases, and both were inspired by two different color systems: the Color Cubes and the Spellbinders Color Deck System. Each approach helped me craft a distinctive look—from rustic purple barn stars to pastel hot cocoa mugs. Let’s dive into the color magic!

Card 1: Barn Star Wreath – Bold & Non-Traditional

Die cut 5 point Barn Star Wreath card in non-traditional Christmas colors of purple, orange and soft blue.

For this card, I used the Barn Star Wreath Die from Annie Williams’ Country Christmas Collection—but with a non-traditional twist! I selected Color Cube #255 (from Sarah Renae Clark’s Color Cubes) as my palette guide, which includes rich purples, vibrant orange, and soft blue tones.

Color Cube Bundle: Volumes 1 and 2

The Barn Star is a beautiful layered die cut—mine has a deep purple top layer with delicate flourish cutouts over a lavender base. I added die cut lavender greenery and an orange accent for contrast. The background features a BetterPress Script Text Plate pressed in Thistle Reactive Ink on white watercolor paper (yes—it worked beautifully even without BetterPress ink!).

I layered everything on a purple A2 card base, then added a gold Glimmer sentiment—“Enjoy Today to the Fullest”—from the La Dolce Vita BetterPress Sentiments set.

This card includes a little of everything:
✔ Die cutting
✔ Bold Colors
✔ BetterPress background
✔ Glimmer Hot Foiled sentiment

With Color Cubes, you can search by Color, Keyword or Collections. For this card I looked at cards that had the color orange and used the keyword “fruit”. Card #255 was just the non-traditional look I was going for!

Color tip: Don’t be afraid to break the “holiday rules” with color. Purple and orange may not scream Christmas—but together they create a rustic, modern, and cozy vibe.

Cocoa Cups – Inspired by the Spellbinders Color Deck

Winter card with repeating die cut hot cocoa mugs in pastel shades including pink, yellow, lavender, and blue, each topped with a glittery snowflake. Mounted on a white background and created using the Spellbinders Color Deck Holiday Expansion palette.

My second card showcases Spellbinders’ beautiful Color Deck System and Color Deck Bundle, specifically the Holiday Expansion Pack. These 5″ x 4.5″ cards are packed with inspiring palettes—each one practically begging to be turned into a card!

I paired this with Spellbinders’ Color Swatch Petal Stack, which helped me identify and swatch my main colors. The cardstock came from the Color Wheel Sampler:
🌸 Chiffon
🎀 Tutu
🌞 Beeswax
💧 Cascade
🌿 Lavender
🌸 Orchid
🍂 Fawn
💜 Mulberry
🌌 Cosmic Sky

My layout features a pattern of repeating die cut cocoa mugs (from the July 2025 Large Die of the Month Kit) in these pastel shades, each topped with a sparkly glitter snowflake. It’s a playful winter card that also works perfectly for a cozy coffee theme year-round!

Color tip: Using a pre-designed color system (like Spellbinders’ Color Deck or a sampler set) takes the guesswork out of color combos. It’s especially helpful when mixing a lot of hues on one card.

Hot cocoa coffee theme die cut card with a pattern Rainbow hued mugs using Spellbinders July 2025 Large Die of the Month kit.

🧠 Other Color Selection Tips:

🎨 Google Image Search
Search terms like “Christmas color palettes” or “winter pastel colors”, then switch to the “Images” tab. Seeing real-life examples can help spark ideas.

🎨 Color Wheel Strategies

  • Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other (e.g., blue, teal, green) for a harmonious look.
  • Complementary Colors: Opposites on the wheel (e.g., purple + yellow) for bold contrast.

🎨 Neutrals
When in doubt, mix brights with soft neutrals like kraft, white, cream, or gray for balance.

Whether you’re swatching, color-scheming, or just winging it, choosing colors can be one of the most satisfying parts of cardmaking. Try something unexpected—you might just love the results!

Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting · stitching

Spellbinders Club Kits – July 2025

Karen BrownLeave a comment

It’s Christmas in July, and the Spellbinders July 2025 Club Kits are brimming with cozy, colorful holiday cheer! This month’s kits are full of winter charm—perfect for kicking off your holiday cardmaking early. I had such a blast creating with these kits, and I’m excited to share four festive cards with you today.

Card 1 – Large Die of the Month: “Warm Cocoa Wishes”

An assortment of brightly colored cocoa mugs with glittery snowflake toppers, some mugs trimmed at the edge for a dynamic layout. The sentiment reads 'Warm Cocoa Wishes

Spellbinders Large Die of the Month Kit had me smiling from the start. I created a festive card featuring a rainbow of die cut cocoa mugs, each one topped with glittery snowflakes and arranged in a playful display across the card front. The mugs have adorable little handles—some hanging over the edges for a casual, cozy feel.

Warm Cocoa Wishes die cut winter card with rainbow colored mugs of cocoa with glitter snowflakes created with the Spellbinders July 2025 Large Die of the Month Kit.

Each mug is a different bright color, bringing a fun and modern twist to the wintery theme. The sentiment “Warm Cocoa Wishes” ties everything together. This card feels like a cheerful hug in mug form!

Cocoa and Coffee themed die cut winter card with fun rainbow colored cups.

Card 2 – Stitching Die of the Month: Peppermint Diamonds

A hand-stitched card with geometric diamond pattern on frosty blue paper over teal background. White floss stitching and peppermint candy embellishments decorate the design. Gold glimmer sentiment reads 'Sending warm thoughts your way.

The Stitching Club this month features a lovely geometric diamond design that reminded me of snowflakes and vintage quilting. I stitched the design on a frosty blue overlay using two strands of white floss. Underneath, a teal base peeks through, adding subtle contrast.

Striking hand-stitched card created with Spellbinders July 2025 Stitching Die of the Month Kit.

For embellishments, I added peppermint candies for a sweet holiday touch. A foiled gold glimmer sentiment—“Sending Warm Thoughts Your Way”—adds shine and warmth. This card would be perfect tucked in with a winter care package.

Winter snowflake theme stitched handmade card in frosty blues, teals with pops of red and white.

Card 3 – Die of the Month: Penguin Mug

A bold, graphic card featuring a die cut penguin mug with whipped cream on a vibrant Teal Topaz background, accented with hot pink and yellow. 'Merry Christmas' sentiment adds festive cheer

Next up is the absolutely adorable Spellbinders Small Die of the Month Kit penguin mug die. I went bold with my color palette to create a graphic, eye-catching card. The black and white penguin sits against a rich Teal Topaz background, with accents of Wild Berry (hot pink) and Saffron (yellow) for a fun pop.

The whipped cream topper adds texture and playfulness, and a bold “Merry Christmas” sentiment finishes it off. This little guy is equal parts charming and striking—a new favorite!

Vibrant Die Cut Penguin Mug Christmas Card created using the July 2025 Small Die of the Month Kit from Spellbinders.

Card 4 – Bonus Caboodle: Gingerbread Man Postage Card

A die cut gingerbread man with white icing and peppermint cheeks/buttons, layered over a teal nesting postage stamp background and mounted on a white card base. Sentiment reads 'Falalalala.'

And finally, I couldn’t resist using the Caboodle Bonus Gift—a gingerbread man die that’s almost too cute to handle. I gave him white piped icing details, and the peppermint cheeks and buttons add whimsy and color.

Spellbinders Deluxe Caboodle Kit – Get All 10 Kits, $315 value for just $130!

He’s layered on a Teal Topaz nesting postage stamp die cut background, mounted on a clean white A2 base. The sentiment “Falalalala” adds just the right festive flair to finish off this cheerful design.

July 2025 Spellbinders "Caboodle" bonus card featuring a darling gingerbread man.

Helpful Links:

Each of these kits brought something fresh and delightful to my crafting table this month. Whether you’re a cocoa-lover, penguin fan, or peppermint enthusiast, there’s something in July’s kits to spark your holiday creativity.

4 unique handmade cards created from Spellbinders July 2025 Club Kits.

Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments—and don’t forget to grab your kits before they melt away!

Cardmaking Kit · Die cutting

Hit the Road with Hero Arts! July 2025 Club Kits Blog Hop

Karen Brown20 Comments
3 fun summery cards for Hero Studio July 2025 in aqua blue, orange and white color palettes.

Pack your crafty bags, because this month Hero Arts is taking us on a road trip! I’m thrilled to be part of the July 2025 Club Kit Blog Hop where we celebrate this month’s travel-inspired theme. The kits are full of scenic surprises, clever sentiments, and summery fun—and I’m here to show you four creative ways to use them.

>>>> Hero Arts Club Kits Overview <<<<

You might also be interested in my VIDEO using the July Layering Stencil Kit.

Card 1: Desert Dreams Heroscape

Road trip Heroscape card with a winding desert road, blue sky, and “just keep going” sentiment.

I started with the Card Kit of the Month, which features a stunning “On the Road” Heroscape. Imagine a desert road winding into the distance with low-slung mountains and a bright blue sky. These Heroscapes are layered stamps that create dimension and realism with every step.

I kept the palette natural and sun-drenched, and chose the sentiment “just keep going” — a perfect message for road trips and life journeys alike. Heroscapes are always crowd-pleasers and this one is no exception!

Layer stamp Heroscape of a winding road through the desert mountains from the July 2025 Hero Studio Card Kit of the Month.

What’s Inside the July 2025 Hero Studio Card Kit?

  • On the Road HeroScape Coordinating Dies
  • On the Road HeroScape 6×8 Stamp Set
  • Let’s Go Die Set
  • Pine Core Ink Cube
  • 10 Sheets of Cardstock (1 of each color), 5.5″ x 8.5″ (Sicily, Coral, Bellini, Waterfall, Teal Topaz, Blue Spruce, Peridot, Beeswax, Saffron, Carrot) These are some of my absolute favorite cardstock colors and I used Carrot and Teal Topaz on two cards below.
  • Mirror Paper, 1 sheet – 5.5″ x 8.5″

The Whole Studio  includes ALL 5 of the monthly subscriptions in one discounted bundle. Cling of the Month, Stamp & Cut of the Month (new name for the subscription!), Layering Stencil of the Month, Fancy Dies of the Month, and the Card Kit of the Month.

Receive a FREE Everything’s Pine stamp & die set when you purchase The Whole Studio!

Hero Arts has many different Monthly Kits that you can subscribe to including:

Cards 2 & 3: Cobblestone Courtyard Two-Fer

2-Fer cards using Hero Arts Cobblestone Courtyard Cling Background Stamp in aqua blue with white heat embossing, die cut hearts and scripty hello sentiment.

Next up is what may be my favorite Cling of the Month EVER: Cobblestone Courtyard. This rubber background stamp is a pattern of concentric circles that looks like a cozy plaza or mosaic.

Aqua blue and white heat embossed and ink-blended Cobblestone Courtyard background card with die cut heart window and a scripty orange “hello” sentiment..

For my first card, I stamped it in Unicorn White Pigment Ink and heat embossed with White Embossing Powder on Bristol Smooth cardstock. Then I ink blended over the top using Blue Raspberry ink to create a vibrant turquoise and white background. I polished the embossing with a microfiber cloth, and the crisp, clean results had me swooning.

I couldn’t resist making a “two-fer”: I die cut a heart (from the Heart Infinity Die set) from the center of the panel and inset a scripty “hello” from the Fancy Die Kit: Mix Tape using Carrot cardstock.

Bright summery hello card with layered die cut hearts, scripty hello sentiment, and turquoise, white and orange color palette.

For the second card, I used the leftover heart die cut and layered it over a Teal Topaz heart, then a smaller white heart, and finally topped it with the turquoise Cobblestone heart. Another “hello” sentiment (this time in Woodland cardstock) finishes the look. The swooping tails of the sentiment are so charming! Two cards with a fresh, summery vibe!

📼 Card 4: Mix Tape Magic

Summery aqua ink smoosh card background with a die cut retro cassette tape and scripty hello background.

For my final card, I had fun with the Fancy Die of the Month: Mix Tape. This playful set includes a cassette tape die with the word “hello” cleverly shaped from the tape itself. I used this hello sentiment on three of my cards today.

I placed the cassette on a handmade ink-smooshed background using Blue Raspberry, Splash, and Pool Party inks. I wanted my background to look like a shimmery swimming pool. Want to try ink smooshing? Here’s how:

Ink Smooshing Quick Steps Tutorial:

  • I liberally inked a 6×6″ acrylic block with Blue Raspberry, Pool Party and Splash inks. This is the panel I used for my background.
  • I spritzed the ink with water and “smooshed” the block onto a piece of watercolor paper
  • I weighted the inked block with a book for 5 minutes
  • I uncovered my panel.  If the ink pooled, I dabbed with a paper towel.
  • I made a “second generation” panel for a future project by taking a piece of Bristol Cardstock and soaking up the excess ink on my work space. So this is another Two-Fer!
Retro cassette tape card with ink-smooshed blue background and whimsical “hello” shaped like audio tape.

The retro vibe of the tape plus the dreamy summer colors made this card a total blast to create.

You might be interested in another popular Ink Smooshing post I wrote.

GIVEAWAY 

Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Saturday, July 5th at 11:59pm PT, and the winner will be announced on the Hero Arts blog the following week. Leave a comment on all stops for more chances to win!
  

BLOG HOP ORDER

Hero Arts
Hero Arts Creative Team:
Anna Mahtani
Channin Pelletier
Charlene Madrid
Jeannie Lieu
Jennifer Kotas
Karen Brown <<<You Are Here
Lisa Tilson
Michelle Lupton
Michelle Short
Mindy Eggen
Natasha Polite
Rachel Kleinman
Rosie Lopez
Seeka
Special Guests:
Nichol Spohr
Lea Lawson
Sheri Gilson

🚗 Final Thoughts

Whether you love to layer, emboss, smoosh or die cut, the July 2025 Hero Arts Club Kits have something inspiring for every type of cardmaker. Don’t forget to follow along the Blog Hop to see even more road trip-ready inspiration. Thanks for stopping by—and remember: Just keep going!

Coffee Latte theme die cut card. What’s Brewing? A Bold & Graphic Espresso-Themed Card with Hero Arts
cardmaking · Die cutting

What’s Brewing? A Bold & Graphic Espresso-Themed Card with Hero Arts

Karen Brown3 Comments
Bold graphic thank you card with white die-cut espresso maker, red and yellow cups, on a vivid blue background.

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh espresso…unless it’s crafting with Hero Arts’ new What’s Brewing Collection! This month’s release is a caffeine-lover’s dream and I was thrilled to join the Instagram Hop celebrating this clever and super-popular theme in the cardmaking world.

Coffee Theme Card

Latte Coffee theme die cut "thanks a latte" card with a Moka style red and white espresso maker and two red and yellow cups and saucers complete with hearts.

For my card, I embraced the bold graphic aesthetic of classic kitchen coffeeware with a clean, eye-catching design. I started with the Stove Top die set, which I cut in bright white with Poppy Red accents and a gray handle. This instantly brought to mind the timeless Moka pots that live on so many stovetops around the world.

To match, I added two sweet little espresso cups and saucers—one in Beeswax Yellow, the other in Poppy Red—inspired by the cheerful espresso set in my own kitchen. I set the whole scene against a rich Oceanside Blue background, which really makes the elements pop.

Red and yellow espresso cup.

The sentiment? A classic pun that never fails: “Thanks a Latte” from the Coffee or Espresso Stamp & Cut set. It’s the perfect blend of gratitude and caffeine-love!

This card also has a bit of a personal touch—I make myself a latte every single afternoon. It’s a daily ritual I truly look forward to. In the summer, it’s all about iced lattes. In the winter? A warm, frothy cup is just the thing.

If you like the graphic look of this card you might be interested in reading my post: Under Sea Magic.

Key Products Used:

This collection has so much heart (and a good jolt of creative energy), and I absolutely loved crafting with it. Don’t miss the Hero Arts Instagram Hop celebrating this release—you’ll find tons of inspiration, fresh ideas, and even giveaways! And look me up on Instagram: Karens_mini

BetterPress Modern Botanicals handmade card. Spellbinders | BetterPress Modern Botanicals
BetterPress · cardmaking

Spellbinders | BetterPress Modern Botanicals

Karen BrownLeave a comment
Trio of Spellbinders Modern Botanicals BetterPress cards in blues, tans, yellows and oranges.

Today I’m sharing a beautiful trio of cards I created using the new “Flourishing” BetterPress Plate Set from the Modern Botanicals Collection by Dina Wakley. This versatile 6-piece set features flowy greenery, abstract dots, three simple circles, and a funky half-arch — all perfect for building modern, artsy compositions with minimal effort. I trimmed each card down with Hero Arts Postage Stamp Nesting Dies.

Set of three modern handmade cards using Spellbinders Flourishing BetterPress plates with unique color combos and layouts.

While this set includes a layout template, I had fun going off-script and creating my own designs. I loved mixing up the colors, rotating the elements, and trying out different sentiments. These cards were fast, satisfying, and perfect for mass producing — ideal for gifting, sending, or just building your stash.

If you’d like to see a side by side comparison of Better Press and Glimmer Hot Foil, click HERE.

I was out of BetterPress paper (gasp!), so I reached for a nice creamy watercolor paper from my stash — and it worked wonderfully!

Key Products Used:

Card 1: Modern Thank You

A fun modern BetterPress thank you card in Azalea, Hyrdrangea blue, tan, and brown.

Inks: Hydrangea, Azalea, Tawny Brown, Saffron
Sentiment: Stylish Script – Thank You Glimmer Plate

Yes, Glimmer plates play beautifully with the BetterPress system, and vice versa! I used the Stylish Script Glimmer Plate for a touch of shiny elegance.

Modern look BetterPress letterpress thank you card with hand drawn shapes and leaves.

Card 2: Coastal Tones

Spellbdiners Modern Botanicals "Flourishing" BetterPress thank you card in muted blues, tans, yellow and orange.

Inks: Coastal, Tawny Brown, Saffron, Azalea

This one has more muted blue tones, but still feels fresh and uplifting — a great example of how changing the color palette shifts the mood.

BetterPress letterpress thank you card with a leaf, 3 circles, cluster of dots and a half circle lined arch.

Card 3: Warm Hello

Modern BetterPress letterpress card with greenery, circles, lined arch and Hello Hello sentiment.

Inks: Clay, Black, Coastal, Saffron
Sentiment: BetterPress Plate BP104 – A Friend Like You

I love how the black adds a strong graphic contrast to the natural shapes, while the warm tones bring energy and warmth.

Bold graphic Spellbinders Modern Botanicals card with Clay, Black, Coastal, and Saffron BetterPress inks and a 'Hello' sentiment

I’ll link to my popular BetterPress tutorial for tips on how to get clean, crisp impressions every time.

If you’re looking to make beautiful modern cards quickly, Flourishing is a winner. Whether you follow the included layout template or experiment like I did, you’ll end up with satisfying results and minimal mess. Modern, minimal, and totally mailable — what more could you want?

A trio of BetterPress letterpress Modern Botanical cards.