Paper Crafting Inspiration and Ideas!

Old Techniques, Fresh Looks: Inking It Up With Mindy
Sometimes the simplest techniques are also the most timeless. In this post, I’m revisiting some of my favorite classic paper-crafting methods—like distressing with ripped edges, ink blending, and direct-to-paper techniques—and giving them a fresh, modern spin. These tried-and-true methods are...
One Embossing Folder, Two Easy Ideas : Wanderlust Travel Inspired Cards.
There’s just something magical about embossing folders — they’re one of the most affordable tools in a card maker’s stash, yet they can deliver such a wide range of effects! With just one design, you can create clean, elegant backgrounds...
Stunning Wanderlust Texture for Travel-Themed Cards
Are you ready to set on an amazing adventure? Today, it's time to play around with travel-themed supplies like die-cut planes, compasses, and more from Altenew's latest release! Hello from Scotland! This is Bibi Cameron, and today I’m sharing a...
The Secret to Standout Cards: Textured Flowers | Perfect Pairings with Jaycee
Have you ever wanted to add a tactile, velvety feel to your stenciled floral cards? I've got a fun technique for you today using embossing paste and a watercolor brush to give your projects beautiful, touchable dimension. Hi there Altenew...
5 Masculine Card Ideas for the Outdoorsy People In Your Life
Ever feel like you’re stuck when it comes to making masculine cards? You’re not alone, and it’s not your fault. The truth is, most cardmaking inspiration leans heavily toward florals and soft, delicate designs, leaving little room for rugged, gender-neutral...
How to Finish a Card When You're Feeling Uninspired
Ever stared at a half-finished card and felt like your creativity simply vanished? We’ve all been there! Creative slumps happen if you’re a seasoned crafter or dabbling in cardmaking. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for inspiration to strike. Instead,...
It’s Christmas in July! Let’s Explore 6 Ways to Add Shimmer and Sparkle to Your Projects
Altenew has an AMAZING array of bling and shimmer products, like Gem Sparkles and Pearl Dots, metallic card stock, hot foil, sequins, and metallic watercolors. So much to choose from! It's like a candy shop for crafters! Hi Altenew fans...
Elegant Bows, Endless Possibilities | Embossing + Stenciling + Die-Cutting Fun!
Elegant Bows is a versatile trio of an embossing folder, coordinating coloring stencils, and a zero-waste die set. This trio is perfect for making everything from bold backgrounds to dimensional focal points, and it’s ideal for all kinds of papercraft...
Inking on Dark Cardstock: A Creative Twist for Embossed Panels | Video Tutorial
Looking for a creative way to use your embossing folders—especially on dark cardstock? In today’s blog post and video tutorial, I’m sharing three vibrant card panels made with one embossing folder and a few clever inking tricks. If you love...
Make the Coziest Winter Landscape with This Layered Creation!
Hey there, crafty friends! Lydia here — and I’m thrilled to be kicking off our Video Hop celebrating an absolutely magical new release! I’ve whipped up a dreamy card to share with you today, and let me tell you... it's...
Two Bold Thank You Cards with One Stencil | Playful Stripes
Create two bold thank you cards using one stencil and different techniques! Watch as Erum shares step-by-step instructions featuring Altenew’s Playful Stripes Stencil, Fresh Dye Inks, and floral die-cuts. Perfect for those who love inky backgrounds and versatile stencils!
Pitcher Perfect: 3D Embossing Techniques with a Twist!
Have you looked at your crafting supplies, unsure how to make your ideas come to life? Or maybe you’ve been searching for a way to add more depth and intention to your handmade cards, without spending hours or needing dozens...
Make Your Messages Memorable with These Sentiments for Cardmaking
Have you ever received a card with a message that made your heart swell with joy? A few simple words can turn an ordinary handmade card into a treasured keepsake; one that gets tucked away in a memory box, pulled...
How Altenew’s Shimmer Relief Pastes Came to Life
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of product development at Altenew?  Altenew has always been at the forefront of innovative crafting supplies, and our latest product, Shimmer Relief Pastes, is no exception. Designed to add stunning...
How to Find Your Unique Style in Crafting
"Creativity takes courage." This simple quote by Henri Matisse beautifully captures the heart of crafting.   Whether you're creating with your favorite crafting tools or experimenting with new techniques, crafting isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about expressing who you are....
10 Creative Projects to Use Extra Backgrounds
As crafters, we all have that one drawer, box, or pile filled with pre-made backgrounds we’ve lovingly created but never quite found the right project for. Maybe it was a fun experiment with a new technique, a leftover scrap from...
Say Hello to 2025 With These Stunning New Year-Themed Handmade Cards!
2024 is coming to an end, and in case you’re all done making cards for the holidays, why not get ahead on your crafty projects for New Year’s? Happy Holidays Stamp Set We’ve compiled some beautiful and simple card ideas...
Busting the Myth: "I don't have the patience for card making."
When people hear about card making, many say, "I could never do that; I just don't have the patience." This myth keeps countless individuals from discovering a hobby that is not only creative but also deeply rewarding.  Card making doesn't...
October 2024 Inspiration Challenge with April Leithner | 2 Cards with LOTS of Dimension
Hello crafty friends! April Leithner is on the blog to introduce the October 2024 Inspiration Challenge and share a pair of handmade cards that have a ton of dimension! October 2024 Inspiration Challenge Each month, a member of the Altenew...
5 Fun Techniques with Embossing Paste
If you’re looking to add some serious flair to your cardmaking projects, you’re in for a treat. Embossing paste is one of those magical mediums that can transform your creations from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a beginner or an...
2 Quick But Gorgeous Cards with Basic Supplies YOU Already Have! | August 2024 Inspiration Challenge with Claire Apostoloff
Hello crafty friends, Claire Apostoloff is on the blog to introduce the August 2024 Inspiration Challenge and share 2 quick but gorgeous cards with basic supplies you probably already have in your craft room! August 2024 Inspiration Challenge Each month,...
22 Handmade Card Ideas with 3D Embossing Folders
If the struggle to create a visually striking, high-impact handmade card is all too real, then this post is exactly what you need. Between finding the right balance of design elements, experimenting with different techniques, and trying to achieve that...
1 Versatile Kit, So Many Card Ideas!
Are you ready to add a touch of nature and rustic charm to your crafting projects? Do you need a versatile and easy-to-use all-in-one kit to help you create multiple card designs at once? The Rustic Charm Cardmaking Project Kit is perfect...
The Top 10 Craft-Your-Life Project Kits We Love
Crafting is not just a hobby; it's a way to express creativity and bring beauty into our lives. Altenew's Craft-Your-Life Project Kits have taken the crafting world by storm, offering an array of stunning kits that allow crafters to create...