September 2025 Inspiration Challenge

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the September 2025 Inspiration Challenge, and this month, we have the incredibly talented Therese Calvird as our Challenge Host! Get ready to dive into a world of vibrant creativity inspired by a stunning new color palette.

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. Let's hear it from Therese! 

Hello everyone, I am Therese Calvird, and I have a question for you. How do you choose how to add color to your card designs? 
Do you reach for ink pads, blend with brushes, or head straight into your alcohol markers like a crafty rebel?
Sometimes, I can’t choose... so I do a little bit of everything!
And that’s exactly what happened with today’s card, inspired by this gorgeous bunch of flowers.

I decided to test out five different ways to add these colors, all on one project (because why not go all out). Here’s how I added the color - and some ideas you can try too!

1. Stamping in Color

Instead of my usual go-to black ink, I reached for colored inks to stamp the background leaves from Eclectic Bouquet. It’s a simple switch, but it makes a big difference! The result? A softer, more blended look that adds instant color and depth to the bouquet - no extra steps needed.

2. White Die Cuts + Ink Blending

Die cutting from white cardstock and ink blending over the top is one of my favorite color tricks. You can create custom shades, build up soft or bold intensity, and it always feels like a little magic.

BONUS IDEA: I used multiple tones of the same color for these Magnificent Magnolias flowers, but this technique also looks amazing when you blend two completely different colors together.

3. Colored Cardstock + Ink Blending

Starting with colored cardstock and adding ink on top not only speeds up the coloring process - it also adds instant depth. I did this for these green leaves from the Gardenia Layering Die.  It’s like giving your die cuts a built-in shadow and highlight treatment, with way less effort (and no layering required)!

4. White Die Cuts + Alcohol Markers

When I want more precision - especially for small die cut pieces like the flower centres - or when a color just refuses to blend nicely with ink, I reach for my Artist Markers. They give a smooth, vibrant finish that adds contrast to the design.
And let’s be honest… you're only limited by how many markers you own (so technically, infinite options, right? 😉).

BONUS IDEA: You can also watercolor your cardstock before die cutting for a similar effect - with a softer, more organic vibe.

5. Stamped Images + Artist Markers

The classic combo! Stamping and coloring with Artist Markers is always a go-to when I want more control and detail. It’s also a great way to tie all the other colored elements together into one cohesive look.

For this card, I stamped and colored the butterfly from Meadow Reflections - and while it’s not the main focal point, it definitely adds a sweet highlight to the overall design (because sometimes it's the little things steal the show).

I hope this gave you some inspiration to experiment with different ways to add color to your cards - even if it’s just switching up your usual go-to techniques. It’s amazing how much variety you can get from one card just by changing how you add the color!

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!

Introducing our FREE Coloring Pages , a collection of printable coloring sheets that you can use for the Inspiration Challenge. Color them with your favorite medium or combine them with other designs in your stash—the creative possibilities are endless! Get more designs here .

Looking to expand your skills? The Altenew Academy offers a variety of online classes for every level. Consider applying a technique you've learned from one of the classes to your project for this challenge.

Find the perfect class to inspire your next creation at the Altenew Academy website.

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 October 10th, 2025. 

If you use  #AltenewChallenge  when you share your challenge entry on social media, you are instantly entered into a raffle to win a $15 gift certificate  to our online store.

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

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