Happy Friday, stampers! The calendar has turned to October, which means it’s time to announce a brand new challenge here on the blog. It’s never too early to start planning for the holidays, so this month we’re challenging you to create holiday cards and photo cards!

First round holiday creations are due into the Hero Arts Flickr Group by Thursday, October 14. As always, you can visit the monthly contest page for the complete scoop on dates, prizes, and more. Be sure to also check out Shari’s new technique article and video for some fabulous photo card inspiration — it involves stamped acetate and is simply stunning!

Now we’re excited to share a new twist on “Idea Friday” — it’s Design Idea Friday!

Here’s CEO Aaron Leventhal with more…

We greatly value all of your suggestions, feedback and insights and would love to hear your feedback and input as we go into development for our 2011 Catalog. If you’re game, we want to share a development set with you and hear what you think! We plan to feature a different set that is under development on the Hero Arts blog every Friday this month.

Here is a first look at a 4×6″ clear set currently in development:

What do you think? Just tell us YES or NO on whether you like it and then add any other comments you may have. Is this a set you would use? How could it be improved? The more honest feedback the better! The design team is greatly appreciative of any feedback you would like to offer. Thanks TONS and TONS in advance! — Aaron

Before we go, we have one more special announcement — the winner of our October Wish List Shopping Spree! We randomly picked one comment left on the blog during the past month to win a $100 shopping spree to the Hero Arts Online Store. Congratulations to Anne Bubash! Hope you have fun shopping, Anne! Many thanks to all of you who leave such nice comments here — we sure appreciate it!

Be sure to check back tomorrow for a special World Cardmaking Day weekend challenge and giveaways. Can’t wait!