I’m so excited to be part of CASE Me A Christmas Card 2025! My talented crafty friend @michelle_lupton invited me to join this year’s creative lineup, and I was thrilled to say yes. This fun annual event features ten creative hops throughout October—two on YouTube and eight on Instagram—where cardmakers CASE (Copy And Selectively Edit) cards from one another.
To join the fun, create your own Christmas card inspired by one from the hop and upload it via Inlinkz on Michelle’s blog. You can also win prizes from amazing sponsors just by participating or leaving comments on the hop posts!
I’m part of Hop #9 and am CASEing the wonderful @expressivepaper – Kathy Pisupati. Kathy created an absolutely adorable Halloween card that I just had to reimagine as a Christmas design!
Kathy’s Halloween Card:
My Card Details
I was inspired by Kathy’s use of postage stamp dies (always a favorite of mine) and her clever background. Instead of stenciling, I used one of my other go-to products—Hero Transfers—to create my own twist.
I stamped an adorable raccoon reaching for a hug, paired with the perfect sentiment: “Does Somebody Need a Hug?” My color palette is limited to Christmas red, white, and small dabs of aqua and tan, which gives the card a striking and dramatic look while keeping it silly, fun, and a little bit heartwarming. I also think it’s a great option for masculine cards this holiday season!
Hello, crafty friends! Karen Brown here today with a card that is extra cozy, extra cute, and full of September Hero Studio goodness. This month’s release is all about comfort and charm, and I couldn’t resist creating a sweet little bedtime scene featuring some of the most adorable die-cut critters ever.
I really LOVE this die set and I created another card that you might like to see HERE.
Card Details
For my design, I started with the September Fancy Die of the Month: Cozy Critters. At the center of the card is a fox, tucked snugly into a brass bed, clutching its “lovey”—a tiny stuffed bunny. To set the scene, I crafted a Celestial Blue quilt with lovely etched stitching details and paired it with two crisp Snow White pillows.
At the foot of the bed, a striped orange tabby cat curls up contentedly, holding its own little stuffed animal. This cutie comes from the Whole Studio Kit Bonus: Cozy Kitty, which coordinated perfectly to complete my charming bedtime vignette.
To finish, I added a clean and simple sentiment, “hello there”, from the Message Strips stamp and cut set. It felt like the perfect greeting for this dreamy scene.
I had so much fun creating this bedtime scene with the September 2025 Hero Studio Release. Between the fox, the kitty, and those snuggly quilts, I think this one might be my coziest card yet! I can already picture more cards made with this die set— seasonal quilts, or even personalized critter bedrooms.
Thanks so much for stopping by today, and sweet dreams of your next crafty adventure!
Hello friends! It’s time for the Hero Arts September Club Kit Release, and this month’s theme is Fall into Fall. 🍁 Autumn crafting is one of my very favorite seasons, and this release is packed with stamps, dies, and sentiments perfect for cozy, colorful cardmaking. I have two very different projects to share with you today—one-layer stamping and coloring, and a layered die cut scene—that both capture the warmth of fall.
Card 1: One-Layer Stamped + Colored Fall Scene
The September Card Kit includes gorgeous fall imagery: pumpkins, acorns, mushrooms, leaves, and more. I wanted to let the stamps take center stage, so I designed a one-layer background that doubles as the focal point.
I stamped a scattering of pumpkins, mushrooms, and leaves across a white card panel, then brought them to life with alcohol marker coloring in classic fall hues:
Oranges and yellows for pumpkins
Warm tans and browns for acorns
Fresh greens, yellows and oranges for leaves
The finishing touch is the sentiment, “Fall is My Favorite Color,” stamped boldly in black. A few enamel dots (also included in the kit!) add just the right amount of shine.
This card is simple, flat, and easy to mail—but still rich in detail and warmth.
What’s Included in the September Card Kit?
Fall is my Favorite 6×8 Stamp Set
Fall is my Favorite Coordinating Dies
Treehouse Die Set
Sunset Enamel Dots
Brown Twine, 1 yard
10 Sheets of Cardstock- 1 of each color, 5.5″ x 8.5″ (Truffle, Merlot, Cinnamon, Terra Cotta, Carrot, Coral, Bellini, Beeswax, Saffron, Tuscan)
Receive a FREE adorable Cozy Kitty Die Set when you purchase The Whole Studio!
Hero Arts has many different Monthly Kits that you can subscribe to including:
The WHOLE Studio – All 5 Kits (a 40% savings: $130 subscription + Free Shipping)
Next, I dove into the September Fancy Dies: Cozy Critters. This set has my heart! I created a cozy little bedtime scene featuring a brown bear and an orange fox tucked into a brass bed with a green quilt.
The bear is snuggling with a little stuffed duck.
The fox is holding the sweetest bunny.
The scene is playful, heartwarming, and perfect for fall—but I think it would also make an adorable Valentine’s Day card!
The sentiment, “Wishing You a Cozy Fall,” comes from the September Clear Stamp & Cut Setand fits perfectly with the theme. For the background, I added a touch of subtle pattern using the Retro Rainbow Stencil with Contour Ink. The soft “wallpaper” design adds depth without competing with the cozy critters in bed.
Love this die set? I have another adorable creation that you can see HERE.
Blog Hop
Hero Arts is celebrating this release with a Blog Hop full of inspiration from the creative team. Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Friday, September 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!
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”
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.
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!
Card 2 – Stitching Die of the Month: Peppermint Diamonds
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.
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.
Card 3 – Die of the Month: Penguin Mug
Next up is the absolutely adorable Spellbinders Small Die of the Month Kitpenguin 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!
Card 4 – Bonus Caboodle: Gingerbread Man Postage Card
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.
He’s layered on a Teal Topaz nesting postage stampdie cut background, mounted on a clean white A2 base. The sentiment “Falalalala” adds just the right festive flair to finish off this cheerful design.
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.
Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments—and don’t forget to grab your kits before they melt away!
Get ready to fall in love with theSpellbinders February 2025 Club Kits! This month’s releases are packed with charm and creativity, and I’m thrilled to share two whimsical scene cards that will have you reaching for your die-cutting machine in no time.
Easy Stitched Die Cut Bunny Card Full of Charm
This first card features the Stitching Die of the Monthpaired with the Large Die of the Month, creating a darling stitched frame. Inside the frame, a sweet die-cut bunny dressed in a spring green dress steals the spotlight. She’s holding a delicate flower, making this design ideal for Easter, baby showers, or even get-well cards. The soft blues, vivid greens, and warm yellows lend a fresh spring vibe, while the stitched frame adds texture and an elegant touch.
The second card takes a playful turn with a pair of olive green shoes, complete with stylish blue and olive anklet socks. The SmallDie of the Month works its magic, letting you create a unique scene where die-cut flowers are tucked into the patterned socks. You’ll spot the calves of a lady walking confidently into spring, and the sentiment “Hello” ties everything together. Perfect for birthdays, get-well wishes, or just saying hi, this design showcases the versatility of these dies.
Quick Notes About This Card:
I started by looking through my patterned paper for some fun “sock material”. I chose this eye-catching circular pattern, but a small floral or plaid would also work great!
Once I had my socks, I pulled together other colors that would work well for my scene. I frequently use my Color Cubes when selecting my color palette.
Both cards highlight the magic of die-cutting, with intricate details and stitching that bring each scene to life. Whether it’s the textured frame around the bunny or the whimsical floral shoes, these designs are sure to inspire intermediate and advanced crafters alike.
Sometimes, a handmade card can transport us to a place of pure nostalgia and joy. That’s exactly what this Winnie the Pooh-inspired birthday card does! With die cuts, soft ink blending, and a cheerful color palette, this whimsical creation captures a moment straight out of the Hundred Acre Wood.
This card brings to life a heartwarming scene of Winnie the Pooh and Piglet holding hands, walking side by side. The duo is accompanied by a playful orange balloon on a string, gently floating above. A honey pot rests on the ground, completing the sweet and simple vignette. The background features softly ink-blended green grass, framed by a charming postage stamp-style border in periwinkle blue, adding just the right touch of whimsy.
Techniques for Dimension and Charm
The die cuts are the stars of this card, and a touch of light ink blending adds depth and dimension to each element. Winnie the Pooh’s honey-colored body gets a subtle gradient to make him pop, while Piglet’s pink details are gently shaded for softness. The balloon shines bright in orange, with its string creating a delightful sense of movement.
The grass is ink blended in gentle greens, giving the scene a soft, storybook feel. Meanwhile, the periwinkle frame ties everything together with its postage stamp shape, reminiscent of a cherished letter from the Hundred Acre Wood.
Why This Card is a Classic
This Pooh-themed birthday card is more than just a greeting; it’s a tiny piece of nostalgia wrapped in creativity. Perfect for anyone who loves the timeless tales of Winnie the Pooh, this card is sure to bring a smile to their face and a touch of magic to their special day.
Today’s card is for a friend’s birthday, but I think it would also be great as a Get Well Card.
As the year comes to a close, I’m taking a moment to reflect on all the creative projects I’ve shared across my Blog, YouTube channel, and Instagram. The journey has been filled with color, craftiness, and, most importantly, connecting with all of you!
Many of these items featured on my “Fan Favorites” list are currently on sale too!
I created this video for HeroArts Blog and YouTube channel but I also posted on my YouTube Channel for my followers as well.
Top Blog Postin 2024
This year on my blog, I focused on techniques that ranged from beginner-friendly to advanced, and your feedback has been the cherry on top! My most read blog post this year was:
I received a BetterPress LetterPress system for Christmas in 2023, and I had lots of fun learning and experimenting with my new crafty toy. You can read my original blog post by clicking on the link above.
Instagram Reels: Quick Crafting, Big Inspiration
This year, Instagram Reels became a go-to for sharing bite-sized creativity. These short videos were packed with techniques, tips, and a splash of fun. Here is my most popular 2024 Reel.
I’m so grateful to share this journey with all of you. Your comments, likes, and creations inspire me every day. Here’s to an even brighter, more colorful 2025 filled with new techniques, bold designs, and, of course, plenty of fun! Let me know in the comments—what were your favorite projects this year? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Imagine receiving a cheerful Yeti card to brighten your day—whether it’s a simple “hello” or a get-well wish, this handmade card will surely bring a smile. This die set is called Rocky the Dancin’ Yeti, buy I’ve renamed my set “Roxy” since I created a sweet furry little girl. Rocky is a new Spellbinders Paper Arts release.
Yetis are mythical Himalayan Abominal Snowmen, but this cutie from the Monster Friends Collection is not frightening at all! Using die-cutting techniques, you can easily bring this charming character to life. This die set is great for playing card-making dress up. The kit includes lots of extra accessories like scarves, ear muffs, knit caps etc.
Creating This Card:
I started by die cutting my Yeti components using my compact Scout Machine. I love small sets that work well with table die-cutters. I used Persimmon, Peridot and Sunshine from the Happy Day Cardstock Pack. I used Amythest for my base, and I really like the contrast. The other colors came from my scrap drawer.
Adorable animals…..yes please! Stamping a cute puppy, reindeer or fox onto a “Holiday”, “Get Well Soon” or “Happy Birthday” card is a wonderful way to share encouragement and celebrate someone special. And it’s not just for the holidays, Hero Arts November Card Kit is going to be a year round favorite in my craft room as my family loves cute critter cards.
And, there are LOTS of changes going on at Hero Arts. I’ve included some Hero Studio changes later in this post, so keep scrolling!
Hero Studio November 2024 Card Kit of the Month
I obviously LOVE this kit! Today I am sharing three cards made with the November Kit and I can’t decide which is my favorite. The kit includes loads of greatness and I used 3 of the 8 charming animal stamps and dies, the two stencils and Merry Christmas sentiment.
Curious about this month’s kit? Let’s take a peek inside the November Card Kit:
KIT INCLUDES: • Peeking Animals Clear Stamp Set, 6” x 8” • 17 Coordinating Dies • 6 Fancy Dies • 2 Sheets Each of Pine & Cherry Cardstock, 5.5″ x 8.5″ • 2 Stencils in Argyle & Cable Knit Patterns, 4.75″ x 6″ • 28 White Die Cut Tags, 4 different styles • White Hero Pearls, 0.6 oz. • Berry Hero Wax, 1 oz.
Kit Cost:
$46 with Subscription + FREE SHIPPING!
$49.99 One Time Purchase (while supplies last)
5 Wonderful Kit Options:
For this blog post, I created with the November kit and two Extraordinary Extras, but there there are 5 kits plus 6 Extras available. You can also buy the Whole Studio, which includes all 5 kits at a wonderful savings.
I wanted to show you two more kit cards that I created. I used to have a sweet blond lab named Shelby, so I created this card with Shelby in mind. Isn’t she darling? My Shelby was with us for 12 1/2 wonderful years.
Sometimes I just like to color, and this Winter Foliage Pattern Stamp Setis perfect coloring fun! The stamps are already perfectly positioned on one large 4×6″ clear stamp, which makes stamping a breeze! I didn’t use it today, but there is also a coordinating Winter Foliage Pattern Cover Die.
Creation Details:
I stamped and Copic colored my foliage elements. Copic colors used: N1, R22, R24, R27, R39, YG03, YG25, YG17, BG11, BG23, Black.
Pro Tip: I added ink splatters by flicking the brush end of my Black Copic Marker along the inside of the cap towards the colored panel. This gives nice small ink splatters. Another easy way to add ink splatters is by putting some Licorice Reactive Ink on an Acrylic Block and then flicking the ink onto the panel with a fine brush or fan brush. Great results either way.
The sentiment is from the Holiday Messages Stamp and Die Bundle and I added a Vellum shadow.
Big Changes at Hero Arts:
Faster Orders: New subscribers will no longer have to wait until the following month to receive their first kit. Now receive the the same monthly design when you subscribe! The sign-up window will be open the 1st – 27th each month. Also, starting in December the Monthly Add-Ons will be available for purchase on the 1st of each month as well.
• Charge Edit Window: Subscription charge day is moving to the 3rd of each month. Beginning in December, we will revealing kits on the 1st, which means you can make subscription changes prior to the charge date following the reveal.
• Subscribers Come First: Non-subscribers will no longer be able to purchase the a la carte products that are live within the Hero Studio month. Those designs will ONLY be available to active subscribers the first month. If there are any leftovers, they will be available for a la carte purchase to non-subscribers the following month.
• Fulfillment Changes: We are also making some fulfillment changes to help us get the orders out quicker and more efficiently. One of the main changes will be the Hero Studio Add-Ons will ship separately from the recurring Hero Studio orders. Subscribers will still receive free shipping on the add-ons for the first week.
Want to learn more about all the changes coming to Hero Studio? Check out the FAQ section of the website.
BLOG HOP:
Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Sunday, November 10 at 11:59pm Pacific, and the winner will be announced on the Hero Arts blog the following week.
kennyscards.com 