Hello Crafty Friends! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of scene cards by creating a cozy little card featuring a house, a tree, and a swing. Spellbinders just released a new Storytelling Collection and I used Home Sweet Home for this card.
This project is perfect for those moments when you want to escape into a serene, idyllic scene—no matter what’s going on outside your window. So, grab your crafting supplies, and let’s swing into some creative fun!
Why a Scene Card?
Scene cards are like mini stories captured in paper. They allow you to create a complete world on a small canvas, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of whimsy to whoever receives it. Plus, you can evoke that peaceful, happy feeling of home, making this card perfect for any occasion.
I love creating scene cards, so I combined some of my favorite die sets on this card.
Creating scene cards is such a rewarding way to let your imagination run wild. This card, with its quaint house, sturdy tree, and gently swinging swing, is like a little escape to a peaceful place every time you look at it. So, grab your crafting supplies and start creating your own mini world on a card!
Happy crafting, and may your creative journey be as joyful as a swing on a sunny day! 🌞🌳
What better way to celebrate the summer season than by creating charming die cut scene cards? These delightful creations bring a touch of whimsy and cheer, perfect for sending a bit of sunshine to friends and loved ones. Today, I used Vicky Papaioannou’s lovely new Spellbinder’s collection called Tunnel Scapes.
Let’s dive into crafting our two designs: one featuring a kite soaring amid fluffy clouds, and another with two birds perched on blooming branches.
Tunnel Clouds Die Kit
I always love a good scene card, so I was so excited to create with the Perched Birds die set. To really add interest and dimension, I set the stage with Vicky’s delightful Tunnel Clouds background dies which include three unique stacking backgrounds dies + the adorable sun and other celestial elements. This entire collection is so fun and creative! And, the die cuts have so much lovely detail. I used a bunch of my favorite cardstock colors for these two companion cards.
2-Fer Backgrounds
Another wonderful benefit of the Tunnel Clouds die set is that you get “2-Fer backgrounds” each time you die cut! I created my second scene with The Fly Away kite die set. They work great with the Tunnel Clouds dies or you can use them by themself. The die set also includes a plane that would be perfect for a masculine card. I thought the “oh happy day” chipboard sentiment was perfect for this card.
As a passionate crafter, I’m always on the lookout for tools that make the creative process smoother and more enjoyable. Recently, I had the pleasure of testing out an updated re-released product that gently holds cardstock and stencils in place for stamping and ink blending— Waffle Flowers new and improved Grip Mats.
This innovative mat has been specifically designed to keep your cardstock firmly in place, eliminating the need for pesky adhesives or awkward hand placements that can often lead to smudges or uneven ink application. After putting the sticky Grip Mat through its paces, I’m excited to share my experience and why I believe it’s a must-have for any serious crafter.
Previously, I purchased a Grip Mat for both my Misti and Mini Misti and I found them invaluable. Waffle Flowers recently asked it they could send me two NEW mats, no strings attached. I was happy to test and play with two sizes of the new mats.
👉 TIP:With Grip Mats, there is no need to use magnets anymore when using my Misti Stamp Positioners!
To truly test the Sticky Grip Mat’s capabilities, I decided to embark on an colorful project: ink blending six small rainbow-colored panels, which I would then assemble into a vibrant card. Here’s a step-by-step look at how the mat performed throughout the process:
Securing the Cardstock: The Sticky Grip Mat held each piece of cardstock firmly in place, preventing any slipping or movement. This was a game-changer for achieving precise, even ink blending. Small panels and die cuts are difficult to work with so I die cut 6 small windows with Waffle Flower Window Scene Diefor my testing purpose. I have a process photo below. I tested both the 7.5″ x 11″ mat (easily holds half letter size paper) and 4″ x 4″ mat for ink blending. The 4″ x 4″ mat was also very handy for holding my ink pads in place.
Ink Blending: As I blended various rainbow hues onto the panels, I noticed how smoothly the ink applied. I used Hammermill’s smooth cardstock, which worked extremely well. I selected my favorite Hero Arts ink colors for my project. The stability provided by the mat allowed me to focus entirely on the blending process without worrying about the cardstock shifting. This resulted in beautifully blended panels with seamless color transitions.
Stamping: Stamping on the secured cardstock was equally impressive. The mat kept the cardstock in place, ensuring crisp, clear impressions every time. I didn’t have to reposition or realign the cardstock, which saved me a significant amount of time and frustration. I stamped longtime favorite Warm Wishes using my Mini Misti Grip Mat.
Assembly: After completing the six panels, assembling them into a card was a breeze. I used Waffle Flowers Window Scene Die to finish my card. The consistent, high-quality ink blending and stamping made the final product look professional and polished.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent Grip: The mat’s adhesive surface effectively holds cardstock in place, allowing for precise and effortless ink blending and stamping.
Reusable and Durable: After several uses, the mat maintained its tackiness and showed no signs of wear, making it a long-term investment for any crafter.
Easy to Clean: Any residual ink or debris wiped off easily with a damp lint free cloth, restoring the mat to its original condition.
Cons:
Initial Tackiness: The mat is extremely tacky when first used, which might cause lighter weight cardstock to tear upon removal. None of my panels tore during my testing process.
Notes:
To minimize cardstock warping, peel the mat off the cardstock. I didn’t touch the cardstock but gently bent the ends of the grip mat and slowly pulled away from my inked panel.
The mats each come with two guides that you can add above or below the mat. To prevent the print from transfering to your mat, apply the guide to the mat with the reverse side facing away from the grip mat.
The new mats are a bit cloudier than the 1st generation.
Air bubbles are expected and fine.
If the mat starts to lose it’s cling, clean with water or photopolymer safe cleaner.
Store your Grip Mats on the transparent sheets.
Do not stack heavy items on top of your grip mats.
I have another blog post and video coming this month that demonstrate using two sizes of Grip Mats in action for ink blending with layering stencils.
Calling all crafters and cardmaking enthusiasts! Welcome to the June release, where we are bringing the boldness of urban textures in the signature Hero Arts style and quality! Get ready to ignite your creativity and elevate your crafting experience with the brand new lineup of Hero Studio cardmaking kits. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your crafting journey, these 5 new kits offer something for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Studio Card Kit of the Month
I started by creating with the new Hero Studio Card Kit, which is full of wonderfulness! This month’s theme is Urban Skyline.
For my first card, I used the HeroScape layering cloud stamps to create a dramatic sunrise. I laid down and blended LOTS of ink for a really saturated look. I love color and thought the cloud layering stamps would make a stunning, almost abstract background.
What’s Inside the Kit?
Curious to know what treasuries await you in this cardmaking kit? Let’s take a peek inside The Hero Studio Card Kit:
KIT INCLUDES: Urban Sky HeroScape Clear Stamp Set, 6” x 8” Neighborhood Message Clear Stamp Set, 4″ x 6″ Coordinating Dies City Stencil, 6×6 (with 3 Fall-Out City Skylines) 5 Ink Cubes (Peony, Pitch Black, Dusty Blue, Stonewash, Amethyst) 2 Sheets each of Silver Foil, Silver Glitter, Silver Cube & Pitch Black Cardstock, 5.5″ x 8.5″ 2 Sheets City Textures Hero Transfers
Kit Cost and Value:
$46 with Subscription, $95 Value (Cancel Anytime) $49.99 One-Time Purchase (While Supplies Last)
My first step was to lightly blend bands ink on my background (Deluxe Smooth Cardstock) so that the cloud highlights would be slightly tinted. For my base, before I used my layering stamps, I used Lemon Drop, Taffy, Thistle and Cornflower inks.
I then used the following colors for Stamp 1: Cornflower, Thistle, Taffy and Creamsicle, overlapping each color a bit. I also used a blending brush on the stamp to soften the color changes. I put down a lot of ink for a vibrant effect and I used my Misti stamp positioner so I could restamp my layers. I found a photograph of a beautiful sunrise and used it as my color inspiration.
The kit has LOTS of sentiments and I stamped and die cut my thank you.
Colorful Sunset Cityscape Tags
I also created two tags with the Hero Studio Card Kit stencils. These tags were featured in Hero Arts Countdown Hop and you can read more about my process HERE.
Hero Studio Fancy Dies
I love die cutting, so I had tons of fun creating my window scene card with the new Hero Studio Fancy Dies. This month’s background die is called Urban Window and I think there are endless design options. I love creating scenes, so I know I will be using this die again!
My base is a leftover piece of background from a project you can read about HERE.
I die cut my window frame from Peacock cardstock and trimmed off the greenery. I die cut the window frame a second time from Meadow cardstock and layered it behind the Peacock frame, so that my branches would be green. The sky is Arctic.
I added two birds, a potted plant and a die cut sentiment to finish my scene.
Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Sunday, June 9th at 11:59pm Pacific, and the winner will be announced on the Hero Arts blog the following week.
Ahoy, crafty mates! It’s time to set sail on a creative adventure as we embark on Altenew’s 10th Anniversary Blog Hop! There is wonderful inspiration AND $3,500 in prizes!!!
“Summer Wishes” Beach Scene Card Kit:
Altenew’s Summer Wishes cardmaking bundleis all about bringing the beauty and tranquility of the beach to your crafting table and this is the favorite kit that I chose for this Hop. Inspired by the sun-kissed shores and crystal-clear waters of paradise, this bundle is filled with the stamps, dies and coloring stencils you need to create stunning beach scene cards that will transport your recipients to a coastal oasis. In keeping with the vacation theme, I created a “Polaroid-look” frame to set my scene.
Over $3,500 in total prizes! We are giving away a $50 Altenew gift certificate to 10 winners, a $20 ArtistrybyAltenew gift certificate to 5 winners, and an online papercrafting class ($39.99 value) from Altenew Academy Online Class to 14 winners. There are also 28 awesome companies/crafty friends who are celebrating with us, and they are offering the following prizes:
Be sure to leave comments by 04/16/2024 for a chance to win one of 68 prizes! To make the hop more exciting, start your comment with “Hi from (city or country where you’re from)!” 68 winners will be chosen at random from the comments left on any of the blogs listed below and will be announced on the Altenew Card Blog on 04/19/2024.
Plus, get FREE U.S. shipping on orders over $29 (no code needed) or $10 OFF international shipping on orders over $129 with code HAPPY10TH at checkout until 04/05/2024 at 11:59 pm EDT. Not valid on prior purchases. Shop here → https://altenew.com/
Ready to Dive In?
Grab your sunscreen, a refreshing drink, and your crafting supplies – it’s time to set sail and hop with us! Whether you’re a seasoned cardmaker or just dipping your toes into the world of papercrafting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this anniversary adventure.
So come on board, and let’s make some waves and I’ll see you on the sandy shores of creativity!
Greetings, fellow crafting enthusiasts! I am thrilled to unveil Hero Arts latest My Monthly Hero offering to the world of cardmaking: a delightful new kit that celebrates the timeless beauty of folk art and is sure to captivate your heart and ignite your creativity.
Folk art has long been cherished for its warmth, simplicity, and universal appeal. Rooted in heritage and passed down through generations, folk art motifs are infused with meaning, symbolism, and a deep sense of community. With the April kit, we pay homage to this cherished tradition while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist.
What’s Inside the Kit?
Curious to know what treasures await you in this cardmaking kit? Let’s take a peek inside the Premium Kit:
Premium Kit
Celebrate the whimsical charm and timeless tradition of folk art with our April My Monthly Hero kit. This kit features three Color Layering Stencils with butterflies and flowers that are perfect for Spring cardmaking. Also included are sixteen coordinating dies and a Cover Plate die that partially cuts the design to allow for elements to pop up. A clear message stamp set with nine everyday messages and three beautiful Reactive Ink Cubes complete this enchanting kit. The Premium kit also includes a 4″ x 6″ Bird and Flower Clear Stamp set in a lovely hand-drawn style that comes with thirteen coordinating dies. Also included are sixteen colorful washi stickers that are perfect for quick cardmaking or using in planners.
If you love all the fabulous Add-On products, you can Get Them All in a bundle at a discounted price, while supplies last.
A note to My Monthly Hero subscribers: You have the opportunity to shop and add items this month without any additional shipping charges. Simply log in to your account and place your order by 11:59am PT on April 4th, in order to take advantage of this offer. Your kit may ship in a separate box than any other extras and add-ons, but no additional shipping costs will apply.
Blog Hop and Giveaway:
Hero Arts will give away a $50 gift card, drawn from the comments left across the hop. Enter by Sunday, April 7th at 11:59pm Pacific, and the winner will be announced on the Hero Arts blog the following week.
With our Folk Art cardmaking kit, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re crafting a heartfelt birthday card for a loved one, sending warm wishes for a special occasion, or simply brightening someone’s day just because, our kit allows you to infuse your creations with the timeless charm of folk art.
Join us as we celebrate tradition, community, and the joy of handmade with our “Folk Art” My Monthly Hero cardmaking kit. Happy crafting!
Hello and welcome to the April 2024 My Monthly Hero Countdown! I must say, this kit is full of wonderful products that I know you will love. The kit goes live on Monday, April 1st, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, sit back and enjoy some inspiration, sneak peeks and giveaways.
For today’s “peek”, I created a pink, white and aqua folk art scene card that I can’t wait to send!
WIN A KIT BEFORE YOU CAN BUY IT: Just leave a comment on this (and every) Countdown to Creativity post. Hero Arts will randomly draw one lucky winner from comments left across all countdown posts on the Hero Arts blog. The winner will be announced first thing Monday morning, April 1st, before the kit launches at 10am Pacific. The more you comment, the more chances you have to win!
Stop by the other designers blogs for more chances to win:
I love a good scene card and when I saw Tina Smith’s Windows With A View Collection, I was immediately smitten! I needed a baby shower card and I knew the tire swing in this kit would be perfect.
Special Scene Card for a Baby Shower
Spellbinder’s Backyard Haven View has 16 adorable dies that include the tree, tire swing, squirrel, owl, bird house, fence, bird bath + some other adorable details. So many possibilities that allow you to design a card for most any occasion….baby shower, new home, friendship, birthday etc.
I made a second friendship card and used a “Friend” chipboard sentiment from Autumn Chipboard Stickers that I thought went well with my scene. I love this chipboard set with its beautiful substantial elements.
Can you have too many dog stamps? I think not! I am loving Spellbinders + Simon Hurley’s new Big Hugs stamp and die bundle. These cute critters – Pug dog, Panda bear and Zebra – are sure to be favorites in my family. I love this set so much I went a little crazy making cards!
Pug Dog Masculine Birthday Cards
My first card is for my husband and I wanted to make a quick little scene. I stamped and Copic colored my Pug (complete with a festive party hat), embossed a brick wall, ink blended a background and heat embossed a cute sentiment.
I like to keep Get Well cards on hand and this card is sure to make the recipient smile. This card came together very quickly. I stamped and Copic colored my Pug and added a blue mat for interest. Just two Copic markers!
Hello friend! I am excited to show you some of Altenew’s new products in their wonderful July release. To kick off the release, Altenew is hosting a fun Blog Hop and we hope you will visit each stop.
I’d like to start with the Summer Wishes Bundle which is oh, so fun! For my first card, I created a cozy little beach scene comprised of an adirondack chair, umbrella, radio and flip flops.
I started by ink blending my background with Altenew’s Large Blending Tool + Ocean Waves Crisp Dye Ink. Next, I stamped the elements with black pigment ink and let them dry. I colored the images with the coordinating stencil. I really like the effect of ink blending through stencils and it is so easy to do! To set the stage, I cut a frame using the Rounded Rectangles Die Set. I then die cut each element and assembled my card with foam tape.
Beach Themed Card with Adirondack Chair and Umbrella
I love the modern look of these loose sketchy outline flower stamps and I know this set will become a favorite that I use over and over again. It is very versatile and would work great on clean and simple projects but I also plan to use it on some mixed media cards.
I started again by ink blending my background. I used the three lightest colors in Altenew’s Glacier Cave Mini Cube Set. I masked off a frame with washi tape and then started in the bottom right with Arctic and then moved darker toward the top left corner. I stamped the flowers and leaves with black pigment ink. Once the outlines were dry, I stamped the flower centers with Caribbean Sky Crisp Dye Ink. I die cut the blooms, assembled with foam tape and then added Glacier Caves Enamel Dots to finish the project.
I LOVE citrus, so I couldn’t wait to get this set! I have three Meyer Lemon Trees that are like little babies to me and they were the inspiration for this project.
I wanted a bright happy card so I went with rainbow colors. I started by cutting cardstock into identically sized pieces so I could set up an assembly line for stamping the citrus elements. I stamped the segmented portion on the left side of my Misti and then I moved the panel to the right side and added the rind. With this assembly line, I had all the colors stamped very quickly. All I needed to do was wipe off the ink in between colors. My Mini Blossom Die Cutter made die-cutting a snap. I find it so handy to use on my desk for die cutting smaller elements. I attached the die-cuts (spaced 2″ apart) to a 6 1/4″ x 3 3/4″ panel and added my sentiment.
Get a FREE brand new Summer Sunshine Mini Inspiration Guide with every order from 07/01/2022 through 07/03/2022. Shop HERE!
Get a FREE brand new Summer Sunshine Stamp & Die Release Inspiration Guide Ebook (worth $5.99) with every order of high-value Sweet Moments Bundles. Shop HERE! *Exclusions apply.
Get a FREE brand new Online Cardmaking Class with every order from the new Summer Sunshine Stamp & Die Release Collection from 07/01/2022 through 07/07/2022. Shop HERE!
Giveaway Prizes
$300 in total prizes! To celebrate this release, Altenew is giving away a $50 gift certificate to 2 lucky winners and a $25 gift certificate to 8 winners! Please leave a comment on the Altenew Card Blog and/or each designer’s blog post on the blog hop list below by 07/17/2022 for a chance to win.
Altenew will draw 10 random winners from the comments left on each stop of this blog hop and announce the winners on the Altenew Winners Page on 07/19/2022.