January 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 Agnieszka Malyszek. 

Hi everyone, Aga here. I’m very excited to be hosting the first Inspiration Challenge of 2026! Nature has always been my greatest source of inspiration in my paper crafting journey: the colors, the textures, and the small details that make each moment unique. 

For this challenge, I chose a picture taken in a nearby park, which is always full of beautiful flowers. In early spring, you can spot snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils, and hellebores, which are the focus of today’s photo. 

When it came to choosing the product I wanted to use for my project, I had no doubts that it had to be Build-A-Garden: Hellebore Haven Bundle.

I started by stamping the hellebore image using Obsidian Pigment Ink and then used the coordinating stencil set to color all the elements effortlessly. Once colored, I die-cut the cluster of hellebores and added dimension using the add-on 3D embossing folder, bringing the floral scene to life.

To add a final touch, I splattered the cluster with Titanium White gouache before adhering it to my card base.

My last step was to stamp a simple sentiment, completing the card.

Creating this card was such a joyful way to bring the beauty of early spring into paper crafting, and I hope it inspires you to explore your own ideas. I can’t wait to see what you create! 

Wishing you a New Year full of creativity, inspiration, and beautiful moments at your crafting table.

• 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 January 30th, 2026, at 11:55 pm EDT.

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 February 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!