Cozy Up Your Cards: Altenew’s Crispy Leaves Die Set & Textured Tiles Embossing Folder

Hello, crafty friends!

Today, I’m excited to share a beautiful autumn-inspired card featuring some gorgeous goodies from Altenew’s releases — including the Crispy Leaves Die Set from the August release and a sneak peek of the upcoming Textured Tiles Embossing Folder and One-Go: Solid Sentiment Strips 3 Press Plate from the September release.

Fall is one of my favorite seasons, and this card really captures that cozy, warm feeling with rich colors and textured layers. 

Step 1: Embossed Background with a Shimmering Touch

I began with a 4" x 5¼" panel of Vineyard Berry Cardstock and ran it through my embossing machine with the brand-new Textured Tiles Embossing Folder (such a stunning design!). To really make the pattern pop, I gently rubbed some Altenew Enchanted Gold Pigment Ink over the raised edges, adding a soft glow that catches the light beautifully.

Step 2: Layering with Luxe Metallics

Next, I cut a slightly larger panel (4⅛" x 5⅜") of Brushed Gold Metallic Cardstock and glued my embossed panel on top. This gold base adds an elegant shine and gives the card a rich layered look.

Step 3: Die-Cut Leaves in Fall Hues

The star of the card is definitely the Crispy Leaves Die Set. I die cut leaves in beautiful fall shades — deep greens, burnt oranges, and gold metallic — then arranged them in a small cluster on the card front. To add dimension and interest, I popped the leaves up on foam tape.

Step 4: Sentiment That Stands Out

For my sentiment, I used the upcoming One-Go: Solid Sentiment Strips 3 Press Plate. I stamped it with black ink using Altenew’s BetterPress System, trimmed it to size, and added it to the card front with foam tape for a bit of height.

Step 5: The Final Touch

To finish it all off, I adhered the layered panel onto a classic A2 black card base. The dark background really makes all the rich colors and textures stand out and gives the card a polished, professional look. Of course, I added a few Gold Satin Sequins for some sparkle!

This card is a perfect way to celebrate the changing season with layers, textures, and warm, cozy colors. I hope it inspires you to create your own autumn-themed projects!

Don’t forget — you can find all these products from Altenew’s August and September releases available now (or coming soon!). And if you want to see more close-ups and tips, head over to my blog for all the details!

Thanks so much for stopping by and happy crafting!

Products featured:

Crispy Leaves Die Set

Textured Tiles Embossing Folder (September release)

One-Go: Solid Sentiment Strips Press Plate (September release)

Crafty Necessities: Vineyard Berry Cardstock

Brushed Gold Metallic Cardstock

Enchanted Gold Pigment Ink

Sequins - Satin Gold

Several affiliate links are used in my posts. This means that, if you click on one of my links and make a purchase from that company, I will receive a small percentage of the sale without any additional charge. I appreciate your support greatly.

Just One Color Instagram Hop - August

Welcome to our Just One Color August hop! We challenge ourselves to create cards that only use one color. You may see neutral colors in addition because we feel those are necessary. If you'd like to play along, message @craftyengineer on Instagram or @sharonjamesorama to join! To see all the creations, check out #justonecolorIGhop2025

The color for this month is TURQUOISE. We also have an extra credit challenge: to incorporate buildings in our designs.

I began this card by creating a dreamy turquoise sky. Using a panel of white cardstock, I blended several shades of turquoise ink to achieve a soft gradient background that mimics the look of a bright, breezy day. To add a little shimmer and texture, I lightly spritzed Distress Mica Stain, giving the sky a subtle sparkle that catches the light beautifully.

Next, I reached for a scalloped rectangle die from Photoplay and cut a frame from a deeper shade of turquoise cardstock. I layered it behind my blended sky panel for contrast and a polished finish. Before adhering everything down, I added a swiped the same turquoise ink cube along the edges of the white card base to tie it all together.

To build the cityscape, I used the Skyscrapers Die from La-La Land Crafts and cut the buildings from white cardstock. I blended more turquoise ink over the die cuts to give them dimension and help them stand out while keeping the monochromatic feel. The skyscrapers were then popped up along the bottom of the panel with foam tape to add depth and create a fun layered scene.

To finish it off, I stamped a clean, simple sentiment from the Flying High Stamp Set by Hellobluebird. It was just the right touch to complete this urban sky scene with a positive vibe.

Thanks so much for stopping by — I hope this card lifted your spirits as high as those skyscrapers! 

Until next time, keep creating and stay crafty!

CHALLENGES:

Word Art Wednesday - #712-713

Allsorts - #830 *Buildings

Penny's Paper - #603

New from The Rabbit Hole Designs: A Ducked-Out Mixed Media Card

Need a little more duck-tastic inspiration? I’m back with another project using the adorable NEW Prost! Bundle and the super fun Oh Duck! Stencil from The Rabbit Hole Designs and let’s just say, this one’s ready to quack open a cold one!

For this card, I wanted to go with a bold, artsy background, so I created a fun mixed media effect using the ink smooshing technique. I dabbed a few shades of red ink onto my work surface, spritzed with water, and gently pressed a piece of watercolor cardstock into it to transfer all that juicy color.

I then placed the Oh Duck! Stencil over the panel and began blending some red ink through the stencil, creating a fun layer of ducky texture and playful pattern that adds both movement and personality to the background.

Once it dried, I used the You've Been Framed Layering Dies, cutting the background panel with the middle-sized frame, and then layered it over a red panel cut with the largest frame in the set. I adhered the layers together with liquid glue and mounted everything onto a clean white card base.

I stamped one of the ducks from the Prost! Bundle, colored it up with alcohol markers, and popped it up with foam tape for some cheerful dimension.

To finish it off, I stamped one of the sentiments in red ink and used a tag die to cut it out for a simple but stylish touch.

This card was a blast to make and a great reminder that sometimes a little mess (and a little duck) goes a long way in bringing a smile to your face.

Grab the Prost! Bundle and Oh Duck! Stencil over at The Rabbit Hole Designs — and don’t forget to use my code CRAFTICARRi at checkout to receive a FREE gift!

Thanks for stopping by — now go make something that’ll quack you up!

Several affiliate links are used in my posts. This means that, if you click on one of my links and make a purchase from that company, I will receive a small percentage of the sale without any additional charge. I appreciate your support greatly.

Quacktastic Fun with The Rabbit Hole Designs' New Release - Prost! Bundle

It’s time to raise your mugs because The Rabbit Hole Designs has a brand-new release that’s guaranteed to quack you up!

We’re celebrating with the oh-so-charming Prost! Bundle, featuring two festive Oktoberfest ducks that are all dressed up and ready to party. Lederhosen? Check. Beer steins? Double check. Sass and attitude? You know it. These little guys are perfect for fun fall cards, party invitations, or just bringing a smile to someone’s face.

I created a fun and simple card that’s sure to quack you up!

I started by stamping these adorable little Oktoberfest ducks, then colored them up with alcohol markers for some festive flair. After die cutting them with the coordinating dies, I created a watery background by blending blue ink.

To add a little extra splash, I heat embossed the small waves stamp in white embossing powder — perfect for giving that water some personality! I popped up the ducks with foam tape for dimension and finished it off by stamping the sentiment right on top.

These ducks are ready to waddle into Oktoberfest in style!

Shop this adorable release now and use code CRAFTICARRi at checkout to receive a FREE gift!

Thank you so much for floating by — have a lovely, crafty day!

Several affiliate links are used in my posts. This means that, if you click on one of my links and make a purchase from that company, I will receive a small percentage of the sale without any additional charge. I appreciate your support greatly.

La-La Land Crafts August Kit of the Month

☕ August Kit of the Month – A Brew-tiful Blend of Stamps and Dies! ☕

Calling all coffee lovers and crafty creatives – our August Kit of the Month is officially here, and it's steeped in cozy vibes and caffeinated cuteness!

This month’s kit is a must-have for anyone who loves crafting with personality, charm, and a little bit of foam on top. Whether you're team hot latte, iced coffee, or a big fan of Boba, this kit is sure to perk you up!

Here’s what’s brewing in the August kit:

✨ Marci with Coffee Rubber Stamp – Marci is serving up serious style with her favorite drink in hand. She’s cozy, cute, and ready to brighten up any card or project!

✨ Chinchillan' Clear Stamp Set – These relaxed little chinchillas are living their best life – lounging with their drinks and bringing all the chill vibes to your crafting.

✨ Coffee Cup Die – Create your own custom drinks with this detailed die set! It includes a cup, sleeve, multiple lid options, a straw, ice cubes, and even adorable Boba pearls so you can craft everything from an iced latte to a Boba tea masterpiece.

Additional Products:

Life Documented Paper Pack

Additional Products:

Paint Splatters Stencil Set

Double Stitched Stars Die

Scalloped Sentiment Labels Die

Note to Self Paper Pack

Whether you're making cards for your coffee-obsessed friends, creating journal pages, or just having fun with die cuts and stamps, this kit is the perfect way to stir in some creativity this month.

☕ Don’t wait too long – this kit is only available through September 4th!

Grab your kit, pour yourself something delicious, and let’s make something brew-tiful together!

SHOP this release at https://www.lalalandcrafts.com/Kit-of-the-Month_c_127.html 

Happy crafting and happy shopping!

Stencil Fun Instagram Hop - August

Hello! Welcome to the first Stencil Fun IG Hop. 

We are a group of crafty friends who have stencils that need to be used! We will be hopping on the 12th of each month to make sure our stencils don't get neglected. If you'd like to join us please message Jane, @purplejetjt 

We're kicking off this month with the optional theme of using favourite stencils. Can't wait to see what everyone has chosen. 

Now, I don’t have just one favorite (I truly love them all!), but I took this as the perfect excuse to finally play with the @altenew Stencil Art: Nature Splashes Layering Stencil Set — and I’m so glad I did!

I blended some bright, happy summer colors through the stencil and added vellum leaves using the Just Leaves Die Set for a soft, airy feel. To bring in even more interest, I dry embossed the panel using the Mod Squares Embossing Folder for subtle texture.

Next up in the hop is @jgpapercrafts

And here's the full hop list: 

@purplejetjt 

@mels.hobby.corner 

@kanddmurnain 

@happie97 

@craftyengineer 

@carsan_cards21 

@chantiartcreations 

@createwithkas 

@crafticarri ←←You are here

@jgpapercrafts 

@stampwithlisak 

@kelleymakescards 

@jerralynrose 

@shacks_papercrafts 

@lorena_wakefield 

@atlglodav

#stencilfunaugust2025 #stencilfun ##beinspired #lovestencils #lovetocraft #altenewstencilart #cardsofinstagram #cardmakersofinstagram #cardmakingfun #cardmaker #papercrafter #papercrafting #handmadecard 

Sentimentally Spooky with The Rabbit Hole Designs

Hey crafty friends! Today I’m sharing a fun and colorful Halloween card featuring the Sentimentally Speaking Holiday Bundle from The Rabbit Hole Designs — and let me tell you, this bundle is packed with seasonal sass and versatility!

For this card, I wanted to go bold and playful, so I paired the holiday sentiments with the Cat Eye 6x6 Stencil to create a bright, eye-catching background (pun totally intended). I blended a mix of vibrant inks through the stencil to give it that quirky Halloween vibe — a little spooky, a lot of fun!

The sentiment is from the Sentimentally Speaking Holiday Bundle and fits purr-fectly with the playful tone. I heat embossed it in white on purple cardstock to really make it pop against all that color.

To finish it off, I added a few sparkly sequins and mounted it all on a purple card base. Simple, fun, and totally Halloween-ready!

If you haven’t checked out the Sentimentally Speaking Holiday Bundle, it’s a must-have for quick, clever sentiments across fall, Halloween, and beyond. And that Cat Eye stencil? You may find it in the clearance section - Go check it out!

Want to grab these goodies for yourself?
Shop The Rabbit Hole Designs and save with code CRAFTICARRI at checkout!

Thanks for stopping by — and happy haunting, crafty friends!

CHALLENGES:

Double D Challenges - Bee Happy Challenge 

Allsorts - AG

Two Old Bats Halloween Challenge - AG

Several affiliate links are used in my posts. This means that, if you click on one of my links and make a purchase from that company, I will receive a small percentage of the sale without any additional charge. I appreciate your support greatly.

The Paper Funday August Challenge - DT Card

It’s time for a new Paper Funday Challenge and this one is going to be paws-itively fun!

This month we’re proudly sponsored by two amazing companies - Not Too Shabby and Angie Blom Digital Designs. And this month's creative twist is Four-Legged Friends! 

For this challenge, I created a clean and simple card using the adorable Koality Hugs stamp set from Pawsome Stamps. This sweet little koala was perfect for our Four-Legged Friends twist! I kept the design minimal to let the image and sentiment shine — because with a critter this cute, you don’t need much else.

I began by stamping the adorable koala image from the Koality Hugs set and coloring it with Copic Markers.

Next, I took a panel of Neenah Solar White 80lb cardstock and blended a soft yellow ink in the bottom right corner to add a subtle pop of color and brightness.

I stamped the sentiment in black ink to the left of the inked area, keeping things clean and balanced. Then I popped up the koala image with foam tape for a bit of dimension and adhered the finished panel to a white card base.

Simple, sweet, and full of koala-fied hugs!

Head to The Paper Funday Challenges to check out the rest of the Design Team inspiration and link up your own project. You don’t have to use the twist to enter, but it’s always fun when you do!

Ready to play along?

Join the challenge by linking up your project on the blog. You don’t need to follow the twist to participate, but if you do, we’d love to see how you interpreted it!

Let’s celebrate our four-legged friends with some crafty fun — and maybe win a prize while you're at it! 🐾

CHALLEGES:
SSS Monday Challenge - Happy Birthday

SSS Wednesday Challenge - Quite Quirky 

Word Art Wednesday - #710-711

Park Hopping My Happy Place - Dreamworld Wildlife Encounters

Allsorts - #829 Animals *Koala Bear

Passion for Markers - #800 AG

Carts, Tags and Crafty Swag with La-La Land Crafts July Kit of the Month

Hey crafty friends!

I'm excited to share a project featuring the La-La Land Crafts July Kit of the Month — and this one is bringing all the shopping fun!

The Retail Therapy theme is perfect for some playful, fashion-forward crafting. My card features two fabulous ostriches from the Time to Shop clear stamp set, paired with the Shopping Cart and Tote Bag dies — all included in this month’s kit!

I colored the ostriches with Copic markers to give them a fun and sassy vibe. I adhered them with foam tape to add dimension, placing them on top of a fun city scene from the In the City Paper Pack.

The shopping cart and tote bag dies helped bring the scene to life for these stylish shoppers who are clearly ready to hit the town!

Whether you're crafting for birthdays, girlfriends, or just because — this kit delivers endless creative possibilities!

The July Kit of the Month is available through August 5th, so don’t miss your chance to grab this exclusive bundle. Once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Visit La-La Land Crafts for subscription details, more inspiration, and a closer look at what’s inside the kit!

Additional Products used:

In the City Paper Pack

Scalloped Rectangles Die

Scalloped Sentiment Labels Die

Colorful Options Challenge - August 2025 DT Card

Hello crafty friends, and welcome to a brand-new month of creative fun!

This month’s Colorful Options theme is all about those rich Back to School tones — and nothing says a fresh start like the earthy, grounding hues of brown and teal. If you're not quite feeling the seasonal shift, remember — you can always use the rainbow option instead and bring your own bold twist to the challenge. 

I chose to lean into a cozy fall palette with a mixed media panel full of texture, shimmer, and layered autumn vibes.

I began by creating my background on a piece of watercolored cardstock using the ink smooshing technique with Distress Oxide Inks in Walnut Stain, Vintage Photo, and Salty Ocean. These colors melted into each other beautifully, offering that perfect mix of warmth and cool contrast that feels just right for this transitional time of year. 

To add more depth and visual interest, I brought in some geometric stamps from a few different sets and layered them over the panel in coordinating ink colors, plus a few pops of crisp black for extra definition.

Next, I added shimmer and texture by applying Shimmer Relief Paste Brown Moonstone through A Little Sketchy Stencil from Papertrey Ink and blended Vintage Photo through Altenew Playful Stripes Stencil. It created a soft, iridescent layer that gives just the right amount of light-catching detail without overpowering the earthy background. 

For a seasonal touch, I die cut a few leaves and blended them with the same oxide inks. I then arranged them into an organic cluster along the left-center of the panel, giving the design a natural focal point.

To finish the look, I stamped a few sentiments from Altenew Label Love Stamp Set in black ink, trimmed them into strips, and adhered them near the leaf cluster. I used scissors to carefully distress the edges of the panel, adding a soft worn-in look that complements the back-to-school theme. The panel was then mounted onto a card base, which I had lightly swiped with Walnut Stain ink around the edges for a warm, cohesive finish.

This piece came together with that perfect balance of texture, tone, and seasonal inspiration. I hope it sparks some ideas for your own back-to-school or fall-inspired projects — or inspires you to grab your rainbow palette and make something bold and bright!

CHALLENGES:

SSS Wednesday Challenge - AG

Word Art Wednesday - #710-711

Penny's Paper - #602

Snowman Smiles with Lili of the Valley’s Latest Release

Hello crafty friends! Today I’m sharing a sweet and whimsical Christmas card featuring the new Snowman Photo Strip from Lili of the Valley’s latest release. This set is full of personality and charm — it includes a strip of four adorable snowman headshots, each with their own cute expression.

Instead of using the strip as one piece, I decided to cut the snowmen apart and create a square-format design where each snowman has its own little spotlight. I arranged them in a grid — two on top and two on the bottom — and mounted each one onto a pink stitched square panel for a soft, playful touch. The pink really helped bring out their quirky personalities!

For a bit of added detail and dimension, I matted the pink panel onto a white cardstock panel that I die cut using the Nested Postage Labels & Tag Etched Dies from Spellbinders, giving the look of a festive piece of mail. That layer was then mounted onto a blue stitched square and finally adhered to a clean white square card base.

To give the card a fresh and modern twist, I went with a non-traditional Christmas color palette of pink and blue when coloring the snowmen. I love how fun and unexpected it feels — it’s still festive, but with a playful spin.

For the sentiment, I kept it simple and clean by cutting it into a white sentiment panel and adhering it right in the center of the card — nestled between the two rows of snowmen to balance the layout and keep the focus on their cheerful little faces.

This card came together quickly but has so much charm, and I love how the square format gives it a modern feel. These snowmen are full of personality and can easily be customized for different moods or color schemes. I can already see more in the works!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope this inspires you to play with layout and color for your next round of holiday cardmaking!

CHALLENGES:

SSS Wednesday Challenge - AG

Word Art Wednesday - #710-711

Penny's Paper - #602

Crafty Gals Corner - #269 *Christmas in July