There’s something magical about revisiting childhood icons, especially when you get to reinvent them with your own creative twist. Today I’m sharing a card that has my whole heart, a sweet, honey-loving bear brought to life using the Stitched Classic Pooh Etched Die from Spellbinders. Although this adorable die set is designed for felt and stitching projects, I decided to take a different route and transform it into a full-paper card design with a little bit of stitching lines drawn with paint pen. My arthritis has made stitching harder lately, so this no-stitch style worked beautifully for me. And honestly? I’m obsessed with the result.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Die
The Stitched Classic Pooh die set is full of charm, with details meant to showcase embroidery and soft textures. Instead of reaching for felt, I cut each piece from Spellbinders cardstock, letting the vibrant colors and smooth finish do the storytelling.
The layered cardstock gave Pooh a warm, dimensional look, still soft and nostalgic, but with clean lines and that crisp die-cut finish we all love. His iconic honey pot was cut from coordinating blues and yellows, and I added a tiny butterfly on top for a whimsical touch. The added dash lines around gave it a stitched look without the real stitching and off course a lot less time and effort.
A Mixed Media Background for More Character
To make Pooh truly stand out, I paired him with a handmade mixed media background. I used inks, splatters, and loose textures to create a playful, earthy backdrop, almost like a little forest floor behind him. The organic swirls and splashes frame the bear perfectly and give the whole card a lively, artistic feel.
Because the background is bold, keeping Pooh in smooth cardstock was the perfect balance: simple character + energetic backdrop = magic.
Finishing With a Heartfelt Touch
I wanted this card to feel personal, so I added the printed sentiment “For My Sweetest Girl” right on the honey pot. It’s going to my daughter, who is as sweet as honey herself, and this tiny sentiment strip felt like the perfect way to tie everything together.
Why I Loved This Make
This project reminded me how fun it is to push dies beyond their intended use. A stitching die can absolutely shine on a traditional card, you just have to let your imagination wander a bit. The combination of die-cutting, mixed media, and a classic childhood character made this card a joy to create.
If you give this die a try with cardstock instead of felt, let me know, I’d love to see your take on it!
Hugs,
Jyoti
Stitched Classic Pooh Etched Die Shop at: SB | SC | AM | SSS |
