If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by crafty trends or stuck in a rut with your creativity, this episode is your fresh start. We're joined by the incredibly talented Erum Tasneem, Altenew Design Team member and AECP coordinator, to explore the importance of building foundational crafting skills and staying true to what inspires you. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned crafter, this conversation is packed with insight on choosing joy over trends, overcoming burnout, and building your own “crafty toolbox.” You’ll walk away with inspiration, practical advice, and a clearer path for your creative growth.

You Will Learn:

• What are the two foundational skills every crafter must develop before tackling advanced techniques?
• How can you avoid burnout while still staying inspired and evolving creatively?
• What role does personal joy play in skill selection—and how can ignoring trends actually help you grow faster?
• How can color combinations and composition dramatically change the look of your cardmaking?

If today’s episode sparked your curiosity or gave you a new perspective, we’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite takeaway on social and tag us @altenewllc. And if you're ready to level up your skills, check out the Altenew Educator Certification Program (AECP) and explore our ever-growing library of creative classes at Altenew Academy.

00:00 – Welcome back to the Fabulous Altenew Podcast!
01:45 – Meet Erum Tasneem: Designer, AECP Coordinator, and creative powerhouse
04:10 – Why skill-building matters more than chasing trends
06:30 – How joy and personal interest lead to better crafting outcomes
10:20 – Avoiding crafty burnout in a world full of trends
20:00 – The transformational power of the AECP journey
26:00 – Top two skills every crafter should master first: color theory + composition
29:10 – Erum’s current go-to color combo and why she swaps certain shades
31:10 – The freedom of evolving creatively and why it’s okay to explore
34:30 – Tips on color use and working in monotones
37:35 – What to do when your project feels incomplete
38:50 – Using stencils and experimenting with layering
40:15 – The role of mood in crafting: why emotions affect your output
41:40 – Organization tips that improve creativity and reduce stress
43:05 – How photo editing contributes to your crafting presentation
44:30 – Overcoming the fear of trying new products or techniques
46:00 – Advice for crafters who feel they haven't found their “style” yet

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