10 Quick Autumn Cards with 1 Stencil Set

When autumn rolls in, many of us feel inspired by the crisp air, warm drinks, and colorful leaves, but sometimes the crafting inspiration doesn’t arrive as quickly as the cooler weather. If you’re looking for fresh, doable ideas for your autumn cards this season, you’re in the right place.

The Stencil Art: Aspen Sky Layering Stencil Set is one of those tools that will quietly become a favorite in your stash. With just this one 6-in-1 layering stencil, you can create autumn cards that feel like a walk through golden aspen groves—and you don’t need fancy techniques to make them shine. Whether you’re short on time or just want something relaxing to create, these 10 autumnal craft ideas will help you get started.

And the best part?These ideas aren’t limited to handmade cards. Feel free to adapt them to your journals, bookmarks, scrapbook layouts, DIY tags, wall art, or even framed seasonal decor.

1. Tri-Fold Card: A Mini Autumn Display

A tri-fold card gives you three panels to play with—perfect for this stencil set. One panel could feature the sky, the next the trunks, and the last the leafy canopy. It’s a lovely way to create a full scene, and the card stands beautifully on its own.

2. Stenciled Window Scene

Use a white cardstock frame to mimic a window and stencil the aspen design behind it. It feels like you’re looking outside at the changing leaves. This idea also works well as framed stencil art or a piece of seasonal home decor.

3. Clean and Simple Stenciled Card

Some days, you just want to keep things easy. Use one or two layers of the stencil to create a soft background, then add a stamped sentiment. It’s quick, calming, and perfect for making multiples if you're preparing Thanksgiving or autumn cards in bulk.

4. Add a Cute Critter to Autumn Cards

Bring a touch of whimsy by pairing this stencil with a small critter image. A squirrel, hedgehog, or even a tiny bird can add personality to your project. If you have a favorite small animal die or stamp in your stash, this is a great place to use it.

5. Try Non-Traditional Colors

Autumn doesn’t always have to be browns and oranges. Consider using shades like teal, magenta, or even deep navy. Let the stencil art do the storytelling while you play with unique palettes. A simple sentiment like “grateful for you” ties it back to the season.

6. Add Texture with Shimmer Paste

Once you’ve inked the first five layers of the stencil, apply a shimmer relief paste to the final layer. It adds dimension and a soft shine that catches the light—perfect for adding that little extra something without overdoing it. You can also go bold with textures by using shimmer relief paste on every layer of the stencil!

7. Sentiment-First Design

Sometimes the message is what matters most. Start with a meaningful sentiment and build your stenciled background around it. The Autumn Whispers Stamp Set has some lovely phrases that work well with this type of layout. Let your stencil frame the words like a gentle breeze through the trees.

FIND MORE AUTUMN GREETINGS AND THANKSGIVING CARD MESSAGES

8. Build a Cozy Scene

Pair your stenciled trees with other autumn elements—like die-cut logs, leaves, or cozy cabins. If you have dies like the Fireside Escape or Crispy Leaves, you can easily create a welcoming autumn scene on your card or journal page.

9. DIY Bookmarks or Gift Tags

Got an extra card panel? Cut your stenciled designs into narrow strips and turn them into DIY bookmarks or tags. They’re simple, thoughtful, and ideal for gifting—especially if you know someone who enjoys curling up with a book as the seasons change. This is also a great way to use up leftover inked backgrounds.

10. Partial Stenciling with Die-Cuts

Stencil a small section of the design and then die cut it using any shape— circle, rectangle, or tag. Mount it onto a plain white or softly blended background for a clean, modern look. This is an easy trick that makes your stencil art feel fresh every time.

One of the best things about the Aspen Sky Layering Stencil Set is its flexibility. It’s designed for paper, but works wonderfully with other mediums too—try it with watercolors, acrylics, or even gel mediums. You can easily use these designs on:

• Cards for any fall occasion
• Art journal pages
• Scrapbook layouts
• Handmade gift tags
• Thanksgiving place cards
• Framed decor or canvas pieces

It’s a great way to bring that autumn craft inspiration back when you're feeling stuck or short on time.

If you’ve been staring at your craft supplies lately, unsure where to start, consider pulling out a stencil and just blending one layer. That small creative spark is often all it takes to get the ideas flowing again.

You don’t need an entire afternoon or a dozen supplies to make something beautiful. Sometimes, all you need is one good stencil, a few cozy ink colors, and a reminder that your creativity is always there—waiting to be tapped into.

Find more inspiration for autumn cards and designs In the Craft Room! See you there!