April 2026 Inspiration Challenge

Each month, a member of the Altenew Design Team (or guest designer) selects a photo that they have taken and then uses that as inspiration for a project. We want to share the fun, of course, and so we invite YOU to use your own creativity to make a project inspired by this month's photo. This month's host is Tina Smith. 

Hello friends! It’s Tina, and I’m thrilled to share my take on this month’s Altenew Inspiration Challenge. There’s something so refreshing about using a curated photo to spark a new color combo. Whether you are a seasoned card maker or just starting your paper crafting journey, these monthly prompts are the perfect way to break through a creative block.

My inspiration for this Inspiration Challenge comes from a cherished memory of walking through tropical foliage on vacation. I wanted to capture that stunning contrast: the 'glow' of coral flamingos against a backdrop of moody teal and layered green palms. It was a scene that felt both vibrant and incredibly calming, and I’ve tried to channel that exact feeling into my project today.

Whenever I sit down to create, I find that following my 5-Step Process keeps the creativity flowing without the overwhelm. For this month’s challenge, the focus is on blending those lush greens with unexpected pops of coral.

To truly capture the essence of this month's Inspiration Challenge, I focused on texture and layering. Here’s how this tropical card came together:

• Step 1: The Focal Point. I started with the largest foliage from the Zero Waste Leaf Pattern Die. To get that lush look, I blended Forest Glades and Pool inks before die-cutting it out.

• Step 2: The Home Panel. Every focal point needs a place to rest! I used the Regal Frame Die from the Mini Delight: Regal Frame Stamp & Die Set, ink-blended in Coral Bliss for a pop of color. I also cut a clean white arch to nestle inside.

• Step 3: The Sentiment. For a bit of 'wow' factor, I cut the Simply Hello Die out of Dazzling Diamond Glitter Cardstock.

• Step 4: The Background. I didn't let anything go to waste! I used the background piece from Step 1 and layered it over a light blue A2 panel.

• Step 5: The Finishing Touches. To mimic that shimmering Caribbean water, I added Stellar Sequins - Dazzling Diamond and a touch of clear glaze to the background dots for extra dimension.

I can’t get enough of this tropical palette! The coral pops against the shimmer just feels like a vacation on a card. It brings back all those fun holiday memories, and I hope it inspires you and gives you the boost you need for your own crafting session. 

Have a beautiful day!

-Tina

Ready to share your own masterpiece? We love seeing how different artists interpret the same photo. To make sure your entry is eligible for our prizes, please follow these simple guidelines:

• Altenew products should be the focus, but other companies' products can be used.
• Make sure to use our challenge image above in your blog post.
• When uploading your project, make sure you link your entry post, not your entire blog.
• If you don't have a blog, feel free to upload your entries to the Crafter's Gallery and get the link to your photo.
• You may enter the challenge as many times as you wish!
• The challenge ends on April 30th, 2026, at 11:55 pm EST.

We love rewarding our community! After the challenge ends, FOUR WINNERS will be selected. Each will receive a $30 gift certificate to spend at www.altenew.com. Winners will be announced on May 10th, 2026 on the Altenew Instagram account.

Feel free to use the badge above and let everyone know you are a participant in our Inspiration Challenge!

Now it’s your turn!

Whether you’re inspired by a color palette, a shape, or a feeling, I can’t wait to see how you interpret this month’s challenge theme. Will your take be bold and graphic, or soft and true to life? Either way, be sure to link up your project and share your creative journey with us!

Click the blue button below to link your entry (or entries!). Good luck and happy crafting!