Tag: Stenciling

comparison of 2 mixed media cards: one beginner level and a similar one that is intermediate level with additional layers. 3 Mixed Media Layers to Try (Beyond the Basics Techniques That Actually Work)
cardmaking · Mixed Media · Tutorial

3 Mixed Media Layers to Try (Beyond the Basics Techniques That Actually Work)

Karen Brown1 Comment

Simple layering techniques to add depth, texture, and interest to your mixed media cards—without the overwhelm.

Mixed media card with layered watercolor background, texture paste, stamping, embossing and vintage suitcase focal point

If you love mixed media but feel like your projects need a little more depth, this post is for you.

In today’s tutorial, I’m sharing three easy mixed media layering techniques that go beyond the basics—simple additions that create texture, interest, and that “something extra” that makes a card feel finished.

These layers are beginner-friendly, easy to repeat, and surprisingly impactful.

This post is part of my ongoing mixed media series where I create a card or tag using my easy to follow recipe.

After years of experimenting (and plenty of trial and error), I developed a simple 3-step recipe that works on almost every project.

And today, I’m sharing it with you.

✂️ In This Post, You’ll Learn:

• My 3-Step Mixed Media Recipe
• How to create an easy watercolor background
• How to layer like a pro
• How to create an interesting focal point

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

Simple. Repeatable. And it works on almost every project.

📌 Save this for later so you can come back when you’re ready to try this technique.

8 mixed media cards and tags from my continuing series: Mixed Media Made Simple.

If you’re new to this series, start here:
👉 Mixed Media Made Simple: My 3-Step Recipe for Fun & Easy Tags

And if you missed my foundational layering post, you’ll definitely want to read this first:
👉 Mixed Media Layering Made Simple: The 4 Layers I Use on Almost Every Project

Because today…

We’re Building On That Foundation

This post is your next step.

We’re taking the “Fab 4” layers and adding three more techniques to create a richer, more dimensional, slightly more advanced mixed media look—without losing that relaxed, beginner-friendly feel.

And the best part?

We’re using a very similar design (same colors, same focal point, same vibe) so you can clearly see how your work can evolve.

If you try this technique, tag your project with:
👉 #karensmixedmediarecipe — I would truly love to see what you create!

If you are interested in adding a new supply or two to your toolbox, you can check out my Favorite Supplies page.

Vintage look mixed media card with watercolor background that features Spellbinders Retro Suitcase die SDS-221

Step 1: Create a Background

Let’s keep this part simple and approachable.

For this card, I created:

  • A two-color watercolor background using a loose, abstract “Y” shape in soft blue
  • Filled the remaining space with warm yellow
  • A second yellow wash panel for the suitcase focal point
  • A third panel using direct-to-paper brown ink + water for a leather-like texture

💡 Tip: Don’t overthink placement—this is about movement, not perfection.

creating watercolor panels is the best first step for creating mixed medai card backgrounds and components.
Here are the 3 watercolors panels we will be using on today’s mixed media card.

Step 2: Layering — The Fab 4 + 3 More

We’re starting with the Fab 4 (your go-to layers), then building upward.

Think of this as:
👉 easy, relaxed complexity

The Fab 4 (Your Foundation Layers)

1. Stenciling (Pattern)

Add soft script in 1–2 areas using brown ink.

✔ Adds structure
✔ Keeps things grounded
✔ Works on every project

brown ink + script stencil is the best first layer for mixed media projects.
Adding soft script stenciling creates subtle pattern and movement

2. Stamping (Personality + Vintage Charm)

Use second-generation stamping (stamp once on scrap, then your panel).

I used:

  • Blue + brown inks
  • Imperfect shapes, lines, and marks

✔ Keeps everything cohesive
✔ Adds that “collected over time” look

second generation stamping with brown ink gives vintage vibe to mixed media card projects.
Second-generation stamping softens the look and blends beautifully

Now Let’s Level Up…

Here are the 3 additional layers that take your project from beginner to beautifully complex:

3. Texture Paste (3D Dimension)

Using a cobblestone stencil, I applied:

  • Blue-tinted paste
  • Brown-tinted paste
Applying tinted texture paste to mixed media backgrounds eleveates cards from beginner level to intermediate.
Texture paste adds loads of dimension to cardmaking projects.

The result? A soft, two-tone textured layer.

✔ Adds tactile interest
✔ Creates visual depth
✔ Feels artistic and elevated

I tinted texture paste and applied with a stencil on layer 3 and you can see other layering options on my Go-To Cardmaking Supplies page.

4. Heat Embossing (Controlled Drama)

I partially stamped a Bubble Celebration background stamp using pigment ink, then heat embossed.

✔ Adds texture and contrast
✔ Keeps things imperfect and organic
✔ Creates a subtle focal texture

Partial heat embossing bubble circles on a mixed media card background adds texture and interest.
Imperfect embossing adds texture without overpowering the design.

5. Distress Crayons (Soft Aging Effect)

Add scribbles… then activate with water.

✔ Blends into previous layers
✔ Adds softness and movement
✔ Creates that “aged over time” feel

Distress crayons can add interest to mixed media card backgrounds.
A few scribbles before brushing with a wet brush.

Finish the Fab 4

6. Distress the Edges

Frame your design with brown ink.

✔ Instantly adds depth
✔ Gives a vintage finish

Intermediate level mixed media cardbackground with 6 layers, including distressing the edges with brown ink.
Distressing the edges really adds to the vintage charm of mixed media projects.

7. Splatters (Movement + Cohesion)

  • Water splatters (blotted)
  • Blue + brown splatters

✔ Pull everything together
✔ Add energy and life

Adding splatters to mixed media intermediate level watercolor card background that has 7 different layering techniques.
Don’t skip adding splatters, they really unify your projects.

How Do You Know When to Stop?

  • Let it sit for an hour (or overnight)
  • Take a photo
  • Ask: Does this feel balanced—or busy?

Today’s card: 7 layers total

✨ Why These Layers Work

  • Easy to repeat
  • Build depth without clutter
  • Work with supplies you already have
  • Add a polished, finished look

Step 3: Add a Strong Focal Point

Mixed media needs a visual anchor.

Today, I used the Retro Suitcase Die—one of my favorites.

But here’s where we elevate it:

✨ I used a BetterPress map background on the suitcase panel
✨ Lightly distressed the edges
✨ Assembled using layered die cuts

Step-by-step mixed media layering process showing stencil, stamping, and texture paste techniques for cardmakers + die cut focal point.
Vintage look die cut focal points really add to the retro beauty of mixed media background panels.

Then added:

  • Ephemera tickets (tucked behind)
  • A sentiment strip: “Friends and laughter help lighten the load”

✔ Storytelling
✔ Depth
✔ Vintage travel charm

Let’s Talk Color (Why This Works)

We kept it simple:

  • Soft blue
  • Warm yellow
  • Neutral brown

✔ Blue = calm
✔ Yellow = energy
✔ Brown = grounding

And together?

👉 A cohesive, vintage-inspired palette that feels intentional—not chaotic.

Beginner vs. Intermediate — Side-by-Side

Beginner to intermediate mixed media card comparison with blue, yellow and brown color palette and vintage travel theme.

This is where the magic happens.

Fab 4 Card (Top Card) from The 4-Layers I Use on Everything post

  • Brighter
  • Simpler
  • Clean layering

Fab 4 + 3 Card (Bottom Card):

  • More texture
  • Slightly moodier
  • Richer detail

👉 Same foundation… just built up.

Other Posts in This Series

Craft Toolbox

These are the core tools I use when building layered mixed media backgrounds

You might also be interested in my 14 Best Cardmaking Supplies for 2026 post.

Focal Point:
Retro Suitcase Die + BetterPress Map

Inks:

Tools & Layers:

Basics:

Final Thoughts

This is where mixed media really starts to feel magical.

Not because it’s complicated…
But because you’re learning how to layer with intention.

Start with the Fab 4.
Add one or two new techniques.
And let your style evolve naturally.

📌 Save this for later so you can come back when you’re ready to try this recipe.

💬 Which layer was your favorite? I’d love to hear in the comments!

🏆 Proud to be ranked among the Top Cardmaking Blogs by Feedspot

Mixed medai card with retro die cut suitcase and ink blend background. Mixed Media Layering Made Simple: The 4 Layers I Use on Almost Every Project
cardmaking · Mixed Media

Mixed Media Layering Made Simple: The 4 Layers I Use on Almost Every Project

Karen Brown4 Comments

A beginner-friendly guide to building beautiful, cohesive mixed media cards—without the overwhelm

Mixed media card featuring layered ink blended background with stenciling, stamping, splatters, and a vintage suitcase focal point in aqua, yellow, and brown tones.

Have you ever looked at a mixed media project and thought:

“That’s beautiful… but where do I even start?”

I’ve been there.

When I first started exploring mixed media, everything felt overwhelming. There were so many techniques, products, and styles—but very few beginner-friendly guides that actually simplified the process.

So after years of experimenting (and yes… making a glorious mess or two), I created something I wish I had from the beginning:

Karen’s Mixed Media Recipe

A simple, repeatable framework that works on almost every project.

And today I am sharing it with you.

✂️ In This Post, You’ll Learn:

• My simple 3-step mixed media framework
• How to create a quick, cohesive background
• The 4 “must-have” layers I use on almost every project
• Why limiting your color palette makes everything look better

🧁 Karen’s Mixed Media Recipe (Quick Recap)

This is the exact process I follow again and again:

Step 1: Create an interesting background
Step 2: Add 4+ layers
Step 3: Add a strong focal point

That’s it. No overwhelm. No guessing.

📌 Save this for later so you can come back when you’re ready to create.

And today? We’re diving into the part where the magic really happens…

👉 Layering

How to create vintage look mixed media cards that are simpe and beginner friendly.

If you missed earlier posts in this series:

• Mixed Media Made Simple: My 3-Step Recipe for Fun & Easy Tags
• Ink Smooshing 101 — My Favorite Mixed Media Background Starter

And if you try this recipe, I would LOVE to see it—tag your project with
👉 #karensmixedmediarecipe

Browse my Favorite and Most Used Cardmaking Supplies.

🎨 Step 1: Create a Background

For today’s project, I created a soft ink-blended background on watercolor paper.

I chose colors that sit near each other on the color wheel:

• Aqua
• Yellow

When these blend, they create a soft, beautiful green—no harsh transitions, no muddiness.

✨ Beginner Tip:
Avoid opposite colors (like purple + yellow or red + green) unless you want brown.

I used reactive inks, which means they respond to water—this becomes important in our 4th layering step (hello, splatters!).

I also created a second panel in yellow for my focal point.

2 color ink blend background for mixed media card before adding layers.
Soft ink-blended panels before layering—this is our clean starting point before the “grunge magic” begins.

✨ Step 2: The Fab 4 Layers (My Go-To Every Time)

If mixed media had a “starter pack,” this would be it.

These are the four layers I use on almost every project—they are reliable, forgiving, and incredibly effective.

I call them…

💛 The Fab 4

1. Stenciling (Adds Pattern)

This is where your background starts to come alive.

I used a diamond stencil to add soft pattern using the same aqua tones.

✔ No perfect placement
✔ No covering the whole background
✔ Just touches of pattern

Think: “strategic randomness”

I’ve listed my favorite mixed media stencils in My Go-To Cardmaking Supplies page.

Stenciling, Sparkle Weave, added to a mixed media background.
The Sparkle Weave stencil works beautifully on mixed media cards.

2. Stamping (Adds Personality & Vintage Charm)

Now we add character.

I used imperfect, sketch-style stamps—dots, lines, circles—for that slightly vintage feel.

✨ Beginner Trick:
Try second-generation stamping (stamp once on scrap, then on your panel) for softer impressions.

I introduced a third color here:

• A neutral brown

This grounds the entire design and keeps things from feeling too “floaty.”

Stamping layers on a mixed media card background.
After stamping layers—notice how the background is starting to feel more textured and dimensional.

3. Distress the Edges (Adds Depth)

Time to gently “grunge it up.”

I blended brown and a touch of blue around the edges.

This simple step:

• frames your design
• adds age and depth
• makes everything feel more finished

distressing the edges of a background with Root Beer brown ink and a blending brush.
Edges distressed for depth and contrast really start to pull the background together.

4. Splatters (Adds Movement & Magic)

This is where everything comes together.

First: water splatters (reactive inks = magic ✨)
Then: light splatters of all three colors

Turn your panel as you go—this keeps things natural and balanced.

Adding water splatters and ink splatters to a mixed media card background.
Finished background after The Fab 4—layers, texture, and movement working together.

🎯 When to Stop?

After the Fab 4, pause and look.

Ask yourself:

👉 Do I love it?
👉 Does it feel balanced?

If yes—STOP. 🎉
If not—add one more layer and reassess.

Remember: we’re going for “imperfect by design.”

🧳 Step 3: Add a Focal Point

I chose a vintage-style die cut suitcase (because… how cute is that?!).

To keep the look cohesive, I created custom panels instead of using cardstock:

• Yellow panel for the suitcase body
• Brown “leather” panel using direct-to-paper + water

This gives it that worn, travel-ready feel.

Die cutting a focal point for a layered mixed media background.
Finished layered background using four mixed media techniques

✨ Pro Tip: Instant Layering Shortcut

Even experienced mixed media artists use this:

👉 Pre-printed ephemera

I tucked in:

• tickets
• a sentiment (such an easy option)
• small embellishments

These add detail without extra effort.

I placed the suitcase slightly off-center—like it’s ready to hop on a train and go on an adventure.

📌 Save this for later on Pinterest.

🎨 Let’s Talk Color (The Secret Sauce)

I kept everything to just three colors:

• Aqua (calm)
• Yellow (energy)
• Brown (grounding)

Using the same colors in:

✔ background
✔ layers
✔ focal point

…creates instant cohesion.

More colors ≠ better
Fewer colors = harmony

✨ Why These Layers Work

  • Easy to learn and effective everytime
  • Build depth without clutter
  • All 4 layers work well together
  • Add a polished, finished look

🧰 Supplies Used From My Toolbox

You might also be interested in my 14 Best Cardmaking Supplies for 2026 post.

Focal Point:
Retro Suitcase Die from the We Have Baggage Collection

Inks:
Reactive Inks (aqua, yellow, brown tones)

Tools & Layers:
Blending Brushes
Background Stamps: Background Builder and Vintage Maps and Ledgers
Stencils – Sparkle Weave
Ephemera – chipboard, tickets/sentiments

Basics:
Watercolor paper (140 lb.)
Die cutting machine
Adhesives

💭 Final Thoughts

If you’re new to mixed media, start here.

The Fab 4 layers will take you from:

👉 “flat and plain”
to
👉 “textured and full of life”

…without overwhelm.

Layering isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things in the right order.

And now you have that order. 💛

📌 Save this for later so you can come back when you’re ready to try this technique

📌 If you try this, tag your project with #karensmixedmediarecipe
I would truly love to see what you create.

✨ Coming Next…

If you enjoyed these foundational layers, you’ll love the next step—Beyond the Basics: 3 Mixed Media Layers to Try, where I build on the Fab 4 to create richer, more dimensional designs.

Easy masculine stenciled card 2 Easy Stenciled Masculine Cards | Beginner-Friendly Jean Jacket Design
cardmaking · Stenciling

2 Easy Stenciled Masculine Cards | Beginner-Friendly Jean Jacket Design

Karen Brown3 Comments

Create Easy Masculine Cards with Layered Stencils and Three Shades of Blue Ink

Popping by today with two quick, fun and easy stenciled masculine cards — and I have to say, these might be some of my favorites lately.

There is just something about a classic blue jean jacket that feels timeless… relaxed… relatable… and perfect for so many occasions.

✂️ In This Post, You’ll Learn:

• How to make a high-impact masculine card
• Tips for layer stenciling
• The power of monochromatic cards
• Which blending brushes work best for stenciling

These cards were absolutely created with my husband in mind (who I LOVE in blue shirts 💙). But honestly? These designs work beautifully for:

  • Birthdays
  • Father’s Day
  • Graduation
  • Get Well
  • Just Because
  • Teens
  • Kids
  • Even encouragement cards

Just swap the sentiment and you’re done!

And if you are new to cardmaking? This is such a great beginner stencil project.

Pin This Tutorial For Later.

Stenciling monochromatic blue Jean Jacket Shirt for easy eye-catching masculine card
Monochromatic stenciling creates bold dramatic handmade cards

Easy Masculine Card Ideas That Feel Classic (Not Complicated)

One-layer masculine card featuring a stenciled blue jean jacket front using layered blue inks on white cardstock with a clean background and stamped love sentiment.

This Jean Jacket Stencil is the star of this card.

Masculine cards can sometimes feel tricky.

But designs like this work because:

  • The imagery is relatable.
  • The colors are classic.
  • The layout is simple.
  • The contrast is strong.

If you’ve ever struggled with masculine designs, you might also enjoy my Masculine Speedometer Card — another clean, high-contrast design that keeps things bold without feeling busy.

And if you want a bigger supply overview, my post on 14 Best Cardmaking Products and Supplies for 2026 shares the exact basics I reach for again and again when creating cards like these.

Simple supplies. Strong contrast. Clean backgrounds. That formula works.

Why These Stencils Are So Easy to Use

Hero Arts SA325 Jean Jacket easy masculine card stenciled in 3 shades of blue,

Hero Arts created a set that feels both classic and eye-catching at the same time.

Jean Jacket Options:

The layers are clearly etched and numbered in the bottom left corner — which makes lining them up incredibly simple.

✨ Tip: Always check the etched layer number before you start blending. It ensures your stencil is facing the correct direction.

If you’re new to layered stenciling, you might enjoy my Coloring with Stencils 4 Ways VIDEO where I walk through blending multiple stencil layers step-by-step.

And for a floral take on layered blending, my Floral Stenciling 3 Ways video shows how changing color combinations creates completely different moods — just like we’re doing here with blue tones.

Once you understand layering, the possibilities open up quickly.

No guessing. No frustration. Just blend and go.

Card 1: The Bold “Front” One-Layer Card

Two masculine stenciled cards, one of the front of the Jean Jacket and the second of the back of the shirt.

For my first card, I created a clean one-layer masculine card featuring the front of the jacket.

I own many brands of ink, but the ones I find myself reaching for the most are Hero Arts. They blend well everytime. Today, I used three shades of blue ink:

Blended onto Express It Blending Cardstock (Smooth White) for that crisp, even finish.

I kept the background completely clean and added a simple stamped blue sentiment that says “love.”

That’s it.

The contrast between the bold blues and the pristine white background gives this card so much impact without any extra embellishment.

It feels:

  • Strong
  • Graphic
  • Modern
  • Dynamic

And it was incredibly easy.

(You’ll see in my process photo how simple the setup is — stencils laid out, inks nearby, no chaos on the desk!)

Easy one layer masculine stenciled card of a denim jean jacket

Card 2: The Softer “Back” Layered Card

Layered die cut jean jacket card stenciled in soft blue tones, stacked for dimension and adhered to a white A2 card base.

For the second card, I used the “back” of the jacket stencil.

This time my ink trio was:

Just changing one ink color in the layering sequence completely softened the look.

After stenciling, I used the coordinating die to cut the jacket out.
Then I die cut two additional jackets from blue cardstock.

I glued all three together — stenciled one on top — to create dimension.

Then I adhered the stacked jacket to a white A2 card base.

Clean background. Strong focal point. Subtle dimension.

This version feels:

  • Slightly more muted
  • A little more relaxed
  • Still masculine
  • A bit softer overall

It’s fascinating how swapping just one shade can change the entire mood of a card.

Which One Do You Prefer?

I’d love to know — are you drawn to:

👉 The bold, dynamic “front” card
or
👉 The softer, dimensional “back” card

Tell me in the comments!

Two easy beginner blue denim Jean Jacket stenciled cards

Organization Win: Color-Coded Blending Brushes

I recently started using the color-coded blending brushes from Waffle Flower — and I have to say… I’m loving them. If you’re new to blending detailed layers, I recommend starting with these.

Keeping my brushes designated by color family makes blending:

  • Cleaner
  • Faster
  • More consistent

And let’s be honest… organized craft supplies just make everything more enjoyable.

If you’re building your stencil stash, this system is worth considering.

Build Your Stenciling Toolkit

These are the essentials that I personally used today.:

More In-Depth Thoughts on Cardmaking Supplies

If you’re just starting out with cardmaking — or if you want a fast design that looks impressive — this jean jacket stencil set is a wonderful place to start.

Sometimes simple really is powerful.

💙

Book reading theme handmade card. How to Use Analogous and Complementary Colors in Cardmaking | Tutorial
cardmaking · Stenciling

How to Use Analogous and Complementary Colors in Cardmaking | Tutorial

Karen Brown1 Comment
A book/reading theme handmade card created with Hero Arts Hero Studio November 2025 Kits: On the Shelf Layering Stencils and Book Bag Die Kit.

Hello, Karen here, back with another card inspired by the November 2025 Hero Studio “One More Chapter” release! I’ve been absolutely loving this book and reading-themed collection — so much so that I couldn’t resist making one more card. (Here’s a link to my previous post where I shared two other projects from this release!)

This time, I reached for the “On the Shelf” 4-Layer Stencil Kit to build my own bold bookshelf background. I wanted a crisp, postage-themed layout, so I began by masking off a 3″ x 4⅜” rectangle on a piece of Deluxe Smooth White Cardstock — giving me a clean white frame around my stenciling.

🎨 Inky Layers

I chose four analogous ink colors (adjacent on the color wheel) that flow beautifully together for a cohesive look:

Once the inky layers were dry, I die cut the panel with the 2nd largest Nesting Postage Stamp Die to give my bookish scene a framed, mail-art feel.

Bright handmade card featuring a layered blue and green stenciled bookshelf background, orange bookworm, and scripty “Hello” sentiment framed in a white postage border

🧡 Complementary Pops of Color

For contrast, I reached for my ColorWheel Cardstock and added Carrot and Cosmic Sky accents. The playful bookworm with glasses and the scripty “Hello” sentiment (from the Book Bag Die Kit) are both cut from Carrot, with a Cosmic Sky shadow layer that really makes the greeting pop. Orange and blue are complementary colors (opposite on the color wheel), which makes the whole design lively and eye-catching.

Everything is layered with a bit of craft foam for dimension, then mounted onto a Cosmic Sky A2 card base.

Cute card featuring a stenciled book shelf background and a smiling book worm die cut accent.

The end result? A bright, cheeky, and happy card that would be perfect for a reader of any age — man, woman, or child.

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

layering stencil handmade Christmas card fo a Christmas Tree with ornaments. Ink Blending with Hero Arts The Tree Layering Stencil | October 2025 Release
cardmaking · Stenciling

Ink Blending with Hero Arts The Tree Layering Stencil | October 2025 Release

Karen Brown1 Comment
Handmade Christmas card created with Hero Arts “The Tree” Layering Stencil in greens, aquas, and blues. A circular Indigo sentiment reading “So Very Very Merry” is layered over the partial tree design.

I couldn’t resist creating one more card with the October 2025 Release—this time featuring the Layering Stencil: The Tree. This gorgeous four-layer stencil creates a close-up view of a Christmas tree filled with ornaments, and it was such a joy to blend.

You can see my other October Club Kits Cards HERE.

Hero Arts October 2025 Release: The Tree Layering Stencil. This card features gorgeous ink blending in analogous shades of green, aqua, and blue, topped with a circular “So Very Very Merry” sentiment. A simple and beautiful stencil design that’s perfect for holiday cardmaking inspiration.

I chose analogous colors (neighbors on the color wheel) for a soft, harmonious look in shades of greens, aquas, and blues:

Using Deluxe Smooth White Cardstock made the ink blending go on like butter, and as always with Hero Arts stencils, the layers lined up perfectly.

For the sentiment, I used the “So Very Very Merry” circular stamp and coordinating die from the October Card Kit, stamped in Indigo ink. The deep blue ties the whole design together beautifully.

This card has already gone into my holiday stash, ready to be mailed in December!

Die cut critter card of snuggly animals in bed. Cozy Die Cut Scene Card
cardmaking · Die cutting

Cozy Die Cut Scene Card

Karen Brown1 Comment

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.

Key Products: Hero Studio Fancy Die of the Month and Whole Studio Bonus Gift

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.

Background & Sentiment

Every good bedroom needs wallpaper, so I created a subtle patterned background. I stenciled soft stars over ColorWheel Chiffon cardstock using the Scattered Stars Stencil (from the Hocus Pocus Collection) with Peony and Contour inks. The result reminded me of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star—a sweet lullaby touch for a bedtime card.

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!

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!

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!

Handmade mixed media card using everyday supplies + a map. Mixed Media Card Tutorial: A Step-By-Step Guide
cardmaking · Mixed Media · Tutorial

Mixed Media Card Tutorial: A Step-By-Step Guide

Karen Brown2 Comments
How to tutorial for a tattered and torn mixed media travel theme card with a die cut bike, upcycled road atlas background and stenciled Hero Wax accent.

Today, I want to show you how to repurpose and upcycle paper to create a mixed media card.    I started with a map from an old Atlas and a brown paper shopping bag.  I used the bike stamp and die from Hero Arts June card kit as my focal point which I stamped on a panel cut from the shopping bag.

How to Create Mixed Media Cards Step-By-Step:

Above, you can see the repurposed papers that I used on my card. Here was my process:

  • I attached a piece of watercolor cardstock to the back of the Atlas page so that I would have a more substantial panel to work on.  I used Matte Medium to adhere the two pages together.  Dry.
  • To make sure there was no shine and to have the right surface texture for my mixed media project, I applied a layer of Gesso Acrylic Paint to the map. Dry.
Process photo showing how to apply Gesso to prep a mixed media project.
process photo showing stamping on a mixed media card background
  • I stenciled a few spots with the Leaves and Abstract Shapes Stencil with Root Beer ink.
  • I die cut the panel with a Nesting Postage Stamps Infinity Die and then ink blended Fawn and Root Beer along the corners and edges.  I wanted a grungy vintage look.
  • I added watered down blots of Periwinkle and Root Beer. Dab some ink on acetate, spritz with a bit of water and dab on the panel.  Tilt a bit to make it run.  Blot up if you have more ink than you want.
  • Add ink splatters with a fan brush with the same inks used above, which adds color and depth.
  • I did second generation stamping (ink stamp, lightly stamp on scratch paper and then stamp background) with Root Beer ink.  You can see I keep adding layers. 
process photo showing a mixed media background with stamping, stenciling and ink blending.
  • I stenciled Olive Hero Wax over the bottom of my map panel with the Cobblestone Stencil to simulate a road.
  • Tear the bottom left corner off the panel for a really old and tattered look.  Ink blend along the tear line.
  • After looking at my panel I decided I wanted to darken the edges even more, so I added additional ink blending around the edges and corners.
process photo showing olive Hero Wax applied through a Cobblestone stencil.

Bicycle Focal Point:

  • On a panel from the brown paper shopping bag, I stamped the bike from the Hero Studio June card kit.  I left it in the stamp positioner and colored with InkTense colored pencils. Then I restamped the bike for a crisp black look.
  • Die cut bike
  • Ink edges with root beer ink.
A process photo showing a stamped bicycle on an upcycled repurposed panel cut from a brown paper bag and colored with Inktense colored pencils. The panel will be turned into a mixed media card.

Tattered and Worn Base Mat:

  • Cut a second panel from the brown paper bag to act as a base mat.
  • Using the Rough Dot Bold Prints Stamp, stamp with Root Beer ink and Fawn Ink on the second panel (which is slightly larger than the map panel).  Dab a bit here and there, heavier in some places, lighter in others for a vintage look. 
  • In the bottom left corner add some text stamping for interest. This is where the torn edge will be positioned, so this area of the base will be more visible. I Used Vintage Postmarks and Tickets and Vintage Maps and Ledgers again and randomly added numbers etc around the perimeter of the card base.  
  • Ink the edges and corners to darken them.
Process photo showing a vintage look background card mat. The mat was cut from a repurposed upcycled brown paper shopping bag.

I love the inky grungy look of this card!

A mixed media card featuring the June 2025 Hero Studio card kit bike and hat stamps.

Use What You Have! Old maps, shopping bags, sewing patterns, dictionary pages, music books—they all bring unique texture and charm to your cards. Mixed media is about building interest through layers, so don’t be afraid to play!

cardmaking · Cardmaking Kit · stitching

Spellbinders | June 2025 Club Kit Cards

Karen Brown1 Comment
4 Spellbinders June 2025 Club Kit Cards in a fun nautical theme featuring a walrus wearing a rain slicker, die cut seaside village, cheery little sailboat and a stitched Captains Wheel with Captain Seagull.

The June 2025 Spellbinders Club Kits are making waves—and honestly, the buzz is real. This release might just be the best in a long time. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to dive into the Deluxe Caboodle (all the kits plus the bonus item and a hefty 58% savings!), now’s the time to anchor your subscription!

Set Sail with the Spellbinders June Club Kits!

This month’s kits are delightfully nautical and full of personality. I had so much fun creating four playful and unique cards that capture everything from charming seaside scenes to silly sea life.

Card 1 – Graphic Nautical with the Die of the Month

Bold inky blue background with a die cut walrus in a yellow raincoat and red hat next to a seagull holding a flag. "Ahoy!" sentiment. Spellbinders June 2025 Die of the Month Kit card in a bold graphic style.

Minimal color, maximum charm.
I created a bold and graphic card using the Die of the Month kit. The dark Oceanside cardstock background makes the characters pop—a seriously adorable walrus in a bright Beeswax yellow rain slicker and Poppy red beanie, alongside a flag-waving seagull in matching nautical flair. The clean white “Ahoy!” sentiment lets this duo shine.

The walrus was die cut from Fog and Anchor cardstocks and softly ink blended on the muzzle for extra dimension. All the cardstock is from the Color Wheel Sampler Pack.

Who knew a walrus could steal the show?

A fun die cut card featuring a Walrus wearing a yellow raincoat and red beanie with a seagull perched on his head: Spellbinders Die of the Month Club Kit for June 2025.

⛵ Card 2 – Cheery Sailboat with the Caboodle Bonus

Small mint green notecard with a red, white, and yellow sailboat on blue waves and the sentiment "sending a wave." Spellbinders June 2025 Deluxe Caboodle bonus gift.

This month’s Deluxe Caboodle Bonus Gift is a sweet little die cut sailboat, and I couldn’t wait to take it for a spin!

I crafted a bright red, white, and yellow boat cruising on gently layered waves of blue-green and white cardstock. Becuase the mast is somewhat delicate, I die cut the boat twice and glued together for a sturdier focal point. The wave dies are part of the Large Die of the Month Kit. The background is a soft mint green, die cut with my go-to Postage Stamp Infinity Dies. The sentiment, “sending a wave,” perfectly matches the cheerful tone. The card is slightly smaller at 4½ x 5″—perfect for a quick note.

Adorable die cut sailboat note card with a "sending a wave" sentiment using the June 2025 Spellbinder bonus gift from the Deluxe Caboodle.

🏠 Card 3 – Rainbow Coastal Village with the Large Die of the Month

A die cut seaside village scene card with rainbow sherbet-colored houses, blue waves, and a “just for you” sentiment. Spellbinders June 2025 Large Die of the Month kit.

Next up: a charming seaside scene built with the Large Die of the Month kit. I assembled four tiny houses in sunny rainbow sherbet hues nestled beside rolling waves. It’s a joyful and relaxing little coastal village, with a “Just for You” die cut sentiment on top.

Once again, the background is mint green, die cut with my postage stamp die for that crisp framed finish.

Spellbinders June 2025 Large Die of the Month card featuring a tiny village of rainbow colored cottages with rolling waves.

⚓ Card 4 – Stitched Captain’s Wheel with a Playful Seagull

Card with a Stitched captain's wheel on an aqua stenciled background with a seagull in a red and white striped shirt and “ahoy” sentiment. Spellbinders June 2025 Stitching Die of the Month Kit.

Stitch lovers, you’re going to adore this one! I used the Stitching Die of the Month to create a weathered captain’s wheel, stitched with DMC 437 (tan) using two strands of floss. I doubled up the die cuts for stability before stitching.

The background is stenciled using Hero Arts Pebbles and Stones Stencil with Splash ink, giving the look of water or bubbling seafoam. A goofy seagull in a red and white shirt and cap is perched just off center on the wheel for a fun focal point. The included “ahoy” sentiment completes the look.

Spellbinders June 2025 Stitched Die of the Month with Captain Seagull perched on a stitched Captain's Wheel with an aqua and white stenciled background.

Helpful Links:

Whether you’re here for the critters, the stitching, the sea breeze vibes—or all of the above—the June 2025 Club Kits deliver something truly special. ⚓💙