In Touch

Faux Mosaic Christmas Tree

The faux mosaic technique has been around for some time now, with the method I am sharing today inspired by the beautiful tile work that still comes to mind from my days as an interior designer. It was really fun to watch this project come to life as I tested out the combination of the glossy inked cardstock, cement embossing powder and Sookwang tape.

Before beginning my project I was curious to see if anyone had ever created a mosaic Christmas tree and so I googled it.  My search brought me to a site that shared the history of the Christmas tree and some absolutely beautiful glass trees including the following project.

(photo credit - Sirius Mosaics)

This piece inspired me to create the green marbleized "glass tile" cardstock I used in my project.

It is essential that you use glossy cardstock for this technique.

Place 3-5 drops of each color of Various Alcohol Ink on the felt pad of an ink blending tool. Make certain it is a felt pad that you are using and not foam! Add a little colorless blender fluid and dab the felt to the surface of the glossy cardstock.

Twist, swirl, tap - play with the motion of the ink blending tool as you create to see the various effects you can achieve. If you don't like the look you have, simply tap over the surface you have already created and a new one will appear.

Hold your cardstock vertically and add droplets of the Pearl Mixative, allowing it to flow down the cardstock. Add a few drops of blending solution to these areas to spread the mixative even further. Then go back over the entire surface with your felt covered ink blending tool and watch the magic happen as the colors all mix together.

Attach Be Creative Tape to a piece of Neenah cardstock being certain to keep the protective liner in place and die cut using the Christmas Tree Silhouette. Also cut the tree silhouette from the glass marble glossy cardstock created above.

Work from the top of the tree down. Begin by pulling back a portion of the tape liner leaving the bottom secured in place and the top adhesive exposed. This allows you to use the liner to press the mosaic tiles securely in to place without getting your fingertips on the adhesive surface. Snip a piece of "tile" from the marbleized cardstock and position using your fine-tipped tweezers. I find it essential to use the tweezers as it allows me to see exactly where I am positioning my cardstock.

As you can see in the photo above I then snipped a little "channel" before cutting my second section of tiles. This "channel" is where I will be placing my grout or cement embossing powder.

Snip a tile, place it and then snip a channel. If you work methodically it moves along quickly.

Simply put the liner back over the cardstock pieces that are in position and rub your hand over the liner surface to secure the tiles in place.

The beauty of this particular look is that precision is not key - in fact to have the gaps vary makes it look much more realistic.

Once you have all tiles in place remove the liner and pour cement embossing powder over the entire surface.

Remove the excess powder and brush away any remaining powder with a soft brush. The cement embossing powder will hold firmly to the exposed adhesive. Heat setting the embossing powder will melt it in place. It is fantastic that Be Creative/Sookwang tape can be heated with no side effects!

Color a crystal clear star with Copic Markers and add Hero Arts dots for bling. Stamp your greeting on the sweet Madeline bird and using 3D-Dots position everything atop an A6 sized linen textured cardfront (finished size - 4 1/2" x 6 1/4").

I can envision this technique being a fantastic way of creating a masculine card front using squares, rectangles, triangles and diamonds. Cut your pieces with precision using dies such as the Wplus9 Quilt set or a simple Lifestyle Crafts Pennant punch die and piece together and add your grout (embossing powder) --- or hand cut them into little pieces as I did in today's example. I hope that you enjoyed today's version of the faux mosaic and that this project triggers new ways to explore using your supplies!

InLinkz.com

Art Parts Pocket Watch Calendar

This month we are making another trip into the warehouse to explore "parts" unknown - Art Parts! Yet another FUN, FUN adventure I tell you! Art Parts make fabulous home decor and gift items!

I like to create art elements that can be purposeful and the idea to use the pocket watch as a calendar holder made me grin from ear to ear. So here we go with my explorations.

 

Wendy Vecchi's style is classic, earthy and oh so elegant. The books she has written step out each project in detail. Before beginning I did my best to study a couple of her books and projects to see the many different ways that this product can be utilized. All I can say is WOW - SO MUCH FUN!

I decided to try and create something in a shabby chic, and very feminine style, to showcase the versatility of the Art Parts.

When you open your Art Parts the very first thing you are going to want to do is take a paper towel or old, soft cloth and wipe down the edges of the Art Parts. Art Parts are a paper product that is lasercut and so a light dust is left behind. You will want to "clean" them up by quickly wiping the edges, so as to not dirty your project.

ART PARTS + DISTRESS STAIN

Picket Fence Distress Stain - white magic in a bottle - ha, ha! Due to the light, feminine look I wanted to create I decided to experiment with this new-to-me product. I could have painted or dabbered my Art Part, but wanted to play with the Picket Fence Distress Stain. One quick swipe of the hand and a quick dry with a Heat It tool and the Art Part was much lighter. 

Adding a second swipe made me a very happy girl. Distress Stain goes on oh so quickly and takes very little work. I also dabbed some on my non-stick craft sheet and used a paint brush to lighten the areas between the fingers.

At this point I could have easily added any color Distress Stain for a more pastel looking glove, but I wanted it to look lacy.

To complete the "lace-gloved" hand I inked the lacy textured background stamp with Vintage Photo Distress Ink and stamped directly on the dry surface. Then using the ink blending tool and Antique Linen I aged the edges of the glove.

ART PARTS + EMBOSSING POWDER

 

This is an idea that came charging into my brain after my project was completely finished and I just had to run back to my studio to try it. White satin gloves are synonymous with old elegance... the idea - pearl embossing powder = beautiful satin gloves!

I began with a Picket Fence stained Art Part and inked the surface with Distress Embossing ink. I then covered it with Pearl UTEE (we are hoping more is on it's way to our shop with today's shipping notification :-D)

Using the Heat It tool melt the first layer of UTEE. As you can see the image is still slightly pitted. When utilizing UTEE you can achieve different looks dependent upon how long you heat the powder. As you continue to heat the surface it becomes smoother. To achieve a nice thick layer you simply ink again with Distress Embossing ink apply more UTEE and heat again.

I wanted to keep experimenting to see if I could now turn my satin glove into an amazingly textured glove.

SO... I applied a third layer. It is now important to work quickly!  

 

Before heating and melting the UTEE for the third time ink your image with Distress Embossing ink. This helps to release the stamp once you press it into the hot UTEE. You could also utilize a colored ink if you want a higher contrast. Immediately upon shutting off your Heat It tool press the stamp image into the liquid surface and hold in place for several seconds until the UTEE cools slightly and sets.
 

Simply GORGEOUS! I was pleased to see that the Art Part held up nicely to all this heat. No curling, bending or discoloring = happy Ellen!

ART PARTS + PEARL DABBER + ALCOHOL INK

 

To create this metallic look I utilized a technique I learned at Ranger U. I can't live without my Pearl and Snow Cap paint dabbers since then - LOL! Dab the entire Pocket Watch surface with the Pearl paint dabber and allow to dry.

Apply some Blending Solution, one drop Gold Metallic Mixatif, 1 drop Y21 Various Ink Refill and 5 drops E34 Various Ink Refill to the felt piece on the Alcohol Ink applicator.

Dab this over the Pearlized surface for the most exquisite look! Yes, I am working on the back side of my finished project because I was so excited I forgot to take pictures to share with you along the way. I'm going to blame it on the fact that I had the most beautiful guest sitting with me gabbing during this process - LOL! (Luv ya Judy! ;-D)

This is where the fun continues! Not only can you alter the pearl finish with the alcohol ink, but you can alter the lovely metal pieces you may want to use on your project. The silver finish of the small ring binder and bead chain were screaming at me. I simply dabbed the ring binder surface with the alcohol ink and then removed the felt from the applicator and applied the alcohol to the beaded surface as well. Magic I tell you - aging these really helped soften the overall look. 

 

I know that I should be wrapping up this article, but I just couldn't "resist" sharing this last bit. Initially I intended to utilize some of Tim's Kraft resist paper, but I just couldn't help myself with this lovely image of Wendy's. I am SUCH a sucker for beautiful vintage fabric stamps - LOL!

Ink the image with Distress Embossing ink and then apply clear embossing powder. Heat set.

I am absolutely LOVING my Picket Fence Distress Stain! Swipe it across the surface of your paper. Allow to dry.

Then swipe a colored Distress Stain - I used Tumbled Glass here. You will end up with an absolutely lovely, chalky pastel piece of paper goodness!

 

Curiosity led me to heat the paper once again. Double click on the image above for it to pop open larger on your screen. It almost appears like little rain drops as the embossing powder pops back through the surface when you reheat the paper at this point.

Couldn't stop myself yet though. I spritzed water into the palm of my hand and then flicked it onto the paper surface and observed as beautiful white spots appeared through the shimmery blue puddles. Oh my!! -- so lovely and vintage!!

 

Being one who has a hard time "figuring out" how to get things to actually work I thought I would share with you how I rigged my project to put it together.

I set my ring binder atop the Pocket Watch and marked the spots where I would need to insert the brads. Then using a Crop-a-Dile I punched through the Art Parts surface just like it was butter. Attach the ring binder to the face using the brads provided.

I then used Matte Multi Medium to adhere my resist paper to the Pocket Watch Back and applied a generous amount of Matte Multi Medium to the Pocket Watch Face, especially around the inner edges. By pressing it together tightly and clipping it in place as shown, the excess Matte Multi Medium squeezed out and I placed the Bead Chain around the inner ring. This is an idea I saw in one of Wendy's projects and I absolutely adored it! Thank you Wendy!

Set aside and allow to dry.

 

One last tip for you using those clips I have always adored. To ensure that I have my holes punched in the same place on all calendar pages simply hold them together with a clip and use the Crop-a-Dile to punch through all the pages at once!

 

Lots of little details - a little "reminder" string tied around the finger (this is a calendar you know and a calendar is all about reminding us of special dates), Melissa Frances and Prima Resin pieces, a Tattered flower cut out of Romantique Paper, a Vintage Accoutrement button, Silhouette Push Pin, silk ribbon, Organza trim flowers and THE perfect sentiment for any calendar.

I already know it --- I didn't order nearly enough Art Parts!!! Yes, I have done the mad scramble to get more Art Parts into the store ASAP, so be certain to keep checking back if the item you want is currently showing out of stock --- more are on their way!

It's time ladies --- it is time to start creating those special gifts for the holiday season ahead and I know that a calendar is ALWAYS well received. Use the fabulous masculine pieces Wendy has created for the men in your life... it's a wonderful way to show them that you care. Most of all I once again urge you to jump outside your comfort zone and simply explore, create and have fun!!!
 

calendar - Ellen Hutson LLC 2012 Calendar - Digital Download (sized to fit Ring Binders)

stamps: Studio 490 Sentimental Art

ink: Distress Embossing Ink, Distress Ink Pads - Vintage Photo and Antique Linen, Distress Stains - Picket Fence and Tumbled Glass, Archival Jet Black, Copic Various Ink Refills - E34, Y21 and Blending Solution

paper: Prima Romantique 6x6 Paper Pad, Hero Arts Kraft Paper

accessories: Art Parts - Timely Pocket Watches and Mustaches, Men & More; Pearl Paint Dabber, Tim Holtz Small Ring Binder, Bead Chain, Accoutrements Button, Alcohol Ink Applicator, Gold Metallic Mixative, Tattered Floral Dies; Studio Line Matte Multi-Medium, Glue Dots - Pop Up and Micro; Melissa Frances Applique Scroll, Resin Window Frame, Webster's Pages Cameo Push Pins, Rose Silk Ribbon, Red Small Organza Roses

Shimmer Sheetz Magic - Techniques, Techniques and more Techniques!

What are Shimmer Sheetz? It is a question that has come up multiple times since Love is in the Air Tag #1 - Shimmer Sheetz Texture was posted. Shimmer Sheetz are new to me even though they have been around for a long time! The creator, Judi Kauffman, teamed up with Els to teach me some of the possibilities at Winter CHA. Believe me when I tell you that there are a ton of possibilities with this product - once again I think I am only limited by ability to think outside the box and my own creativity!

Today I will attempt to answer the question - "What are Shimmer Sheetz?" Shimmer Sheetz are mylar sheets that are highly alterable and are excellent for card making, scrapbooking, mixed media, collage, clothing and accessories, party decorations, outdoor decorations (they will stand up to the rain), flower arrangements and so much more.

 

There are two varieties of Shimmer Sheetz - iridescent and metallic mylar. With three (3) 5"x12" sheets per pack and 13 different colors available you can create a lot of different types of projects. They are about the weight of medium weight card stock, so most punches will punch through this medium quite easily.

 

These sheets are acid-free and are garment quality, which means they are both color fast and washable. Shimmer Sheetz are compatible with embossing folders, standard dies, low-profile dies, punches, and electronic cutting machines. You can use them together with peel-off stickers, Be Creative (Sookwang) tape, glitter, embossing powders, paints, markers and inks that work on non-porous surfaces (such as Alcohol Inks, Sakura Glaze Pens, Metallic pens and more.)

 

There are so many different ways to alter the surface of the Shimmer Sheetz and today I hope to share just a few examples. Following are four projects I created yesterday to share just a few of the possibilities. 

 

As you will see I have tried to share (probably) too many techniques in this one short post - LOL! I will do my best to revisit these ideas in the weeks and months to come so that I can answer any additional questions that might arise. Feel free to leave a question in the comments section and I will do my best to answer those questions.

 

Lately it feels like life has been a bit of a circus (can you sense I try to fit WAY too many things into a single day), so I decided that Le Cirque would be the collection that would fit my life perfectly - LOL!

 

My first experiment started with an Iridescent Yellow Shimmer Sheet. I began by stamping this Jacobean style Hero Arts stamp on the mylar using Noir Palette Ink. Once again I would like to share that Palette ink is by far my favorite ink for stamping on non-porous surfaces. Being the ever impatient stamper I used my Heat It tool to make certain the ink was set.

This turned into my first experiment. As you heat the Shimmer Sheet the surface changes - you will notice the sheen turn more satiny and the mylar will curl ever so slightly. I LOVE the way this looks and was thrilled to pull back some of the shine.

I then colored in my image. I did stay within the lines because the Copic marker can muddy with the Palette Ink if you are not careful, but I had no problem when I colored within the lines.

 

Using the gorgeous Jacobean style print in the Le Cirque collection as my color guide I selected my Copic colors. I then fussy cut out my flower.

The final step was to use Adirondack Butterscotch Embossing powder to add a sentiment. I must admit that I am totally in "like" with the Adirondack embossing powders - the colors are fabulous and I have had so much fun experimenting with them! It is funny to me how many of what I consider the "old" techniques are still some of my favorites!

To help define the sentiment I used my .03 Copic Multiliner on all the sentiment edges when they crossed over a butterscotch polka dot.

 

Next I returned to the example I shared in Tag #1, only this time I tried it with a twist. Please refer back to the instructions in Tag #1 for additional information on how to brayer the surfaces together. I knew this post would be lengthy and so I am trying not to repeat too many of the steps.

So here is the twist... When I completed the project for Tag #1 I used the Shimmer Sheet in it's original color. For this project I felt that the color of the Shimmer Sheet wasn't deep enough and so I began to alter it.

First I ran the sheet through my embossing folder, I then used my Alcohol Ink applicator to add Copic YR24 Various Ink to my sheet by dabbing it with my applicator. You can see the difference from the original sheet by comparing the top and the bottom in the photo above.

 

It still didn't "sing" enough for my liking and so I added R29 to my applicator and dabbed the entire surface achieving the finish above.

 
I then used my brayer to transfer the raised surface to my tape background (see Tag #1 post)

 

Add dark gold microfine glitter to the remaining sticky surface, brush off excess and burnish.

 

Absolutely DELICIOUS with the Le Cirque papers and the perfect accompaniement to the sweet tag!

 

This next tag was created from the opposite side of that same Shimmer Sheet! Yes, this product goes a LONG way if you consider all the different ways to use just one little piece. Keep using it until ever scrap is incorporated into your projects!

 

Once again I transferred my raised mylar to a sticky piece of cardstock using the brayer as shared in Tag #1. Do you remember when I shared in that post that tone-on-tone would have a fabulous look? Well since that time other ideas dawned on me --- if I could use glitter, why not try embossing powder, or flock, or?!?

 

So that is exactly what I did. Using the Butterscotch embossing powder, I poured it over the exposed sticky surface. As you can see it adhered beautifully. The fabulous thing about Be Creative (Sookwang) tape is that you can heat it without any problems whatsoever.
 

As you can see the embossing powder was heat set and the mixture of the textures is fabulous!

 

One last little step that I wanted to share is the altering of the gorgeous 7 Gypsies paper tape - it just felt too white and so I placed a strip on my non-stick craft sheet and swiped my alcohol ink filled applicator the length of the tape. Voila - it coordinates perfectly!

It is important to note that the metallic sheets will not transfer to sticky tape surfaces!

So what do you do with the metallic sheets?

I decided to try stamping an image and embossing it on the Metallic Gold.

 

You will notice in the completed project above that I have also shared how you can punch these mylar Shimmer Sheetz with your hand-held punches! To complete the look of this project I used a fairly complicated and deep Martha Stewart punch, just to be certain it would work. It took a little strength to punch it, but the results were perfect.

 

Using the Clear Design vintage bicycle from Hero Arts I stamped it on the metallic surface using Distress Embossing ink. Remember this surface is really "slick." I must admit that it took me three attempts before finally making certain I didn't move when I stamped it - too much coffee is what I'm going to blame it on - LOL! Each time I would diligently clean my surface before trying it again.

After applying my embossing powder I did use a brush to remove the excess powder that I had in a couple of spots. Heat until the powder melts and becomes glossy. Make certain you leave your mylar on your work surface as you heat it, because it becomes quite warm. Once again I loved how the mylar surface turned satiny and the edges curled ever so slightly as I heated it. Needless to say I punched out several flowers and began heating them and curling the petals with what could be gorgeous results. I didn't have the time to complete more projects and so you will either just have to try it or wait for me to get to doing another post :-D

I absolutely love the look and feel of this finished project! It is hard to create Masculine projects and I think this really fits the bill.

Just a couple more tips on how to use the metallic sheets. The sheet on the right is the gold metallic unaltered. The sheet on the left is one that has been embossed and then alcohol ink applied.

 

You can leave it unaltered or you can grab a Shrink Plastic sanding block and lightly sand the surface for a completely different look.

SO MANY options, so little time - LOL! I hope that I have been able to help you better understand what Shimmer Sheetz are and how you might be able to work with them! If you already own Be Creative Tape, microfine glitter and embossing powder I think that you will most definitely want to try adding this to your group of basic supplies!

We carry all 13 colors of Shimmer Sheetz in our store in our Alterable Items: Plastics category (just scroll down to the bottom of the page.) Remember Iridescent Sheets work wonderfully with the brayer and transfer techniques and the metallic ones look very much like metal foil, without being metal. 

Thank you for joining us once again as we try our best to stay "in touch" each month!
 

stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign Exotic Decor, ClearDesign Joy Ride, ClearDesign Made with Love

ink: Palette Noir, Distress Embossing Ink, Copic Various Ink Refills - YR24, R29

paper: Graphic 45 Le Cirque 8x8 Paper Pad and Tags, Memory Box Red Pepper and Squash, Hero Arts Azure

accessories: Shimmer Sheetz - Iridescent Yellow, Metallic Gold, Dark Gold Microfine Glitter Ritz, Butterscotch Embossing Powder, Detail Black Embossing Powder, Martha Stewart Happy Birthday Punch, Tim Holtz Alcohol Ink Applicator, Foliage, Washers,  Metal Corners, Mini Paper Clip, Sprocket Gears, Tiny Attacher; 7 Gypsies Sapphire Dangle, Antique Brass Reinforcer, Lille Paper Tape, Antique Gold Silk Ribbon, Black Twill, Basic Grey Glazed Brads

Valentine Alcohol Ink Agates

Alcohol ink --- what can you do with it? It was so much fun to once again experiment and do some "research" for today's project.

Copic and Ranger both have awesome alcohol inks! Many of you have asked why it is that I do not carry the Ranger Alcohol inks - my answer is quite simple - space and dollars. Oh to have a larger warehouse and more money - then I wouldn't have to make hard choices - LOL! 

Being a huge fan of the Copic markers it made the most sense to me that we carry the Various Ink refills for the markers. This allows you to get the best value for your dollar. You can use the refills for your markers, BUT also for numerous techniques! Please do not hesitate to use these same techniques with either ink. You can also read a comparison study that I did a few years back here. 

 

The technique that I am going to share with you today is one that resembles agates. Once again I must give Tim credit for teaching me to get inky and experiment. We did a technique at Ranger U that got me going with this experiment, but for some reason my sample looked nothing like this. So "cheers" to continued learning and experimentation!

 

Agate photo and information

I googled to find some pictures of agates to share with you. I was wowed by the beautiful colors I discovered with this search and I hope that they inspire you.

 

To begin I decided to create a monochromatic agate.

 

Begin  by placing dots of alcohol ink, together with one drop of metallic mixatif (in this case I used Pearl), on to a felt applicator tool pad as shown above. As you can see I utilized more of the lighter tone, with just a couple of drops of the darker version of the color.

Then blot the applicator, using a twisting motion, on glossy white paper. It is important that you use glossy cardstock for this technique. The coated surface of the glossy cardstock allows the alcohol to "move" before drying. Regular cardstock will absorb the alcohol in a completely different manner.

Next add more various ink blending solution to the felt pad and repeat, adding color to the glossy paper surface with a twisting motion.

 

Your surface can look so many different ways, but I wanted it to be fairly uniform for this project.
 

Next I placed some various ink blending solution into a refill container. The large bottles have a large opening and you can destroy your project if not careful. These empty refill bottles have an opening that allows you to disperse one drop at a time.

Drip the various ink blending fluid on to your prepared surface and allow it to dry.

As you can see the blending fluid pushes the colors of the inks you have used in an outwards motion. As it does so it forms the look of an agate.

 

I also wanted to shared a multi-colored version to give you the courage to experiment. Using Basic Grey's Hopscotch line as my inspiration I selected colors that coordinated with the paper. As you can see I placed more drops of the red because I wanted this to be my dominant color, then a few drops of the accent color - in this case yellow, and only one drop of the strongest ocean color.

Mixing colors can be tricky. If you end up selecting complimentary colors (colors on the opposite sides of the color wheel) you can end up with a nice "brown" project, but if you do not overwork the colors on your glossy cardstock you can end up with a beautiful result. I recommend that when you first begin that you select colors that are next to one another on the color wheel (analogous colors) for best results, but do not be afraid to use complimentary colors as you experiment and learn.

 

As you can see the colors ended up to be very intriguing. The look above was achieved with a slight "twisting" motion as I created the base color.

 

Once the color is mixed on the alcohol filled felt pad you can create unusual effects by simply stamping in a straight down motion. Once again experimentation is the key to having fun and to learning!!! By simply adding various ink blending solution to the felt pad you can rejuvenate the colors, push the colors towards the edge of the felt pad and so much more.

 

Not only can you drip various ink blending solution on to your surface, but you can also drip other alcohol ink colors as shown above. The first, light circles are created using BG11. Allow the ink to spread and dry. As you can see these complimentary colors begin to neutralize or dull the saturation of the other color. Then add the next darker color, BG13.

If you use your Heat It tool to dry the liquid more quickly you can control how far it spreads. I would love for you to just play and try different combinations as you experiment with these alcohol ink agates.

 

So now what? You have a pile of backgrounds. Well... try using a Hero Arts background as Tami Hartley did in this post she shared in the CLASSroom - Scrap Drawer Rescue OR give the following a try.

Make certain that the ink is dry. Next use an anti-static puff on the surface of the paper to eliminate the problem of embossing powder sticking to the project in spots you don't want it to.

Then stamp your image using Distress Embossing ink and applied embossing powder. 

 

In this instance I used Opaque White to create a lacey look. As you can see this Ribbon Heart is beautiful.
 

When I added it to my project I felt it needed just a little more color. It was easy to come back in with my coordinating Copic marker and add just a hint of color to the ribbon heart. I followed the natural pattern that was left when creating my background and then just amped up the ocean and yellow colors in a couple of areas, especially around the edges to make the white embossing pop. 

 

Next I used my first agate sample with the new Lockhart Lace Heart. LOVE the delicacy of this vintage lacey image!
 

The final sample was created using a small corner of the first agate sample and Espresso embossing powder. Little white flowers were added with the white Opaque pen.
 

To finish off this scrumptious Valentine ensemble I used the new Sizzix Cupcake Holders, my favorite rosette die, a few more punched out Alcohol Ink Agate Hearts and the oh so fun Hopscotch patterned papers.

Simply adhere your favorite decorative paper to Craft-a-Board using Be Creative tape sheets or the 4 1/2" width before cutting and you will have the sturdiest, cleanest looking finished project!

TIP: To vary the size of your rosettes, simply cut the finished rosette length shorter in both length and width. Make certain to cut the base between the dotted lines on solid paper so that your rosette stays together. :-D

It was so much fun creating this delicious Valentine treat using these agate backgrounds! As always my message once again is enjoy the creative process and don't be afraid to experiment :-D 
 
stamps: Lockhart Stamps: Lace Heart, Ribbon Heart, IB Chintz Heart, IB Candy Heart

ink: Distress Embossing Ink, Copic Various Ink Refills - R22, R24, Y11, BG13, Copic Various Ink Blending Solution, Pearl Metallic Mixative

paper: Glossy Cardstock, Craft-a-Board, Basic Grey Hopscotch 6x6, Hopscotch Paper Pack, Memory Box cardstock - Begonia, Peony and Bayou

accessories: Sizzix Cupcake Holder, Be Creative (Sookwang) 4 1/2" Tape, Rosette Die, Basic Grey Glazed Hopscotch Brads, Adirondack Espresso Embossing Powder, Judikins White Opaque Embossing Powder, Ranger White Opaque Pen, White Inchie+ Squares, Basic Grey Buttons, Alcohol Ink Felt Applicator

Copic Various Ink Refills by Sharon Harnist

Today I'll be covering a few new, different ways you can use your Copic Various Ink Refills on a variety of surfaces.  With 334 colors to choose from, I know you'll find the just the right color for your project, so let's get started!

 

 
{Tag Supplies}
Stamps: CHF Kim Hughes-Little Gal
Paper: #8 Manilla Tag
Ranger: Non-Stick Craft Sheet, Mini Misters-Individual or Mini Mister Set, Worn Lipstick Distress Ink Pad, Glossy Accents
Copic: Various Ink Refills-BG11, BG13, YR31, R85, R20 (lace)
Accessories: Advantus Tim Holtz Mask-Regal Mini, Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher; May Arts Wide Silk Ribbon-Ivory or White; Maya Road White Vintage Crochet Trim & Mini Alphabet Chipboard-Noah; Zva Clear Crystal Swirls, Zig 2-Way Glue, Martha Stewart Essential Colors Glitter Set-Feldspar

My first project uses Copic's Various Ink Refills in Ranger's Mini Misters, to spray the color onto a #8 Manilla Tag.  To begin, I used Tim Holtz's Regal Mini masks:

 

Before starting your project be sure to protect your work surface, so that accidental overspray won't ruin anything.  Here, I have paper towels covering my Non-Stick Craft Sheet (mostly just so the colors will show up brighter against the white towels).

I placed the self-adhesive backed masks (discolored from previous use!) onto my tag AFTER spritzing the tag with BG11 Copic Various Ink Refill in the spots that I wanted to remain that color:

 

Next, I spritzed the tag randomly with Copic YR31 Various Ink Refill (appears orangey in the Mini Mister):

 

And finally, R85 Various Ink Refill was randomly misted:

 

Next, I inked Kim Hughes-Little Gal stamps with Worn Lipstick Distress Ink and stamped them randomly on the tag ... see the pretty BG11 color now showing from underneath the crown and swirl, once the masks were removed?!

 

Copic BG13 marker was used to color the Maya Road Mini Alphabet Chipboard-Noah letter (you could also use the BG13 Various Ink Refill in a Mini Mister) and then Zig 2-Way Glue was used to adhere Martha Stewart's Essential Colors Glitter in Feldspar to the letter.  Glossy Accents was used to adhere the letter to the tag.

Across the bottom of the tag, I used Maya Road White Vintage Crochet Trim that was misted with Copic Various Ink Refills in R20 & R85, for a rosy variegated look:

 

The ribbon is held in place with Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher staples, and Zva Clear Crystal Swirls also accent the tag.  Here's a closer look at the bottom portion of the finished tag:

 

To finish the top of the tag, I custom dyed May Arts Wide White Silk Ribbon (or you could use Ivory) by placing random dots of BG13 Various Ink Refill directly onto the ribbon:

 

Working quickly, I misted the lighter BG11 Refill all over the ribbon so that it would bleed into the darker BG13 dots and combine all together, for a variegated look:

 

You could use the ribbon just like this, or to achieve the popular wrinkled look, I lightly misted the ribbon with water and wrinkled it up:

 

One bonus to using the Copic Various Ink Refills for this type of application, is that the color won't bleed all over your hands like dye ink might!  Just leave the bunched-up ribbon to dry and then tie around the tag hole:

 

I love the shabby/messy look and especially that the ribbon perfectlly matches all the other blue-green elements on the tag!

My next project uses Copic Various Ink Refills to custom color electrical plate covers to match your walls!  Since having our guest powder room and dining room custom painted 2-1/2 years ago, the still-white electrical plate covers had been an eyesore that I wanted to do something about!

 
{Electrical Plate Supplies}
Copic: Various Ink Refills-YR24, E57, E59; Colorless Blender Solution,
Ranger: Alcohol Ink Applicator, Pearl Metallic Mixative, Copper Metallic Mixative, Mini Misters-Individual or Mini Mister Set,
Other: Plastic electrical switch plates & screws

Now, why would you want to use Copic Refill Ink to do this job instead of the paint used for the walls?  #1 - the same type of paint used on walls generally will not adhere well to plastic and even if you do get it to dry on them, one little nick or scratch will have the paint peeling right off.  #2 - My painter used about 4 different colors to achieve the wall color and even if I had enough of the touch-up paint left, I probably couldn't duplicate the exact color combination she created with layers of glazes and ragging & stippling of the color!

To start, I selected some shades of Copic markers I thought would work well, by just dabbing my markers on the electrical plate until I found some colors I thought would work match my walls.  Then I pulled out those Various Ink Refills:

 

Remember, those test colors will clean off easily with Copic's Colorless Blender Solution:

 

Next, I put some Copic YR24 Various Ink Refill into a Mini Mister:

 

And randomly sprayed some of the color:

 

I repeated the process with theE57 and E59 Various Ink Refills.  The color ended up being just a little darker than I wanted, so I decided to try and tone down the color a little, by adding some Ranger Pearl Metallic Mixative -- I just put some drops onto Ranger's Alcohol Ink Applicator and dabbed it on:

 

The Pearl Mixative gave the piece the metallic look that matched my walls!  Still experimenting, I decided to also try this process ... placing drops of the two lightest same colors from above (YR24 & E57) onto my Alcohol Ink Applicator, along with one spot of Copper Metallic Mixative, since copper is a predominent color in my walls:

 

I just pounced around the color in a pleasing pattern and this is what I ended up with:

 

A perfect match to my walls!  Now, if you are like me and the center electrical parts being white still bother you, you can always just replace the outlet with a different colored one -- either tan or maybe black would work here.  Or, if you make sure the power is cut off to the outlet you want to color and do this SAFELY, you can also dabb color onto the rest of the electrical outlet:

I'm much happier now with these covers than those stark white ones on my walls!  I hope you'll try one of these methods I've covered today with your Copic Various Ink Refills and discover they can be used for more than just refilling your Copic markers!
   

Flower Soft by Susan Roberts

This month's In Touch featured product is Flower Soft.  I love this wonderfully fun and easy to use medium which instantly adds dimension and interest to your work.  I have created 3 cards with it, and I'm so excited to share them with you!

On my first card this darling Lockhart Itty Bitty Umbrella, which is Ellen's stamp of the month for March, was colored with Copic markers.

It was then cut out and adhered to an Inchie.

The Inchie was first covered with a piece of Graphic 45 Botanicabella "Secret Garden" designer paper.  The edges of the Inchie were colored with a Copic marker (YG03).  A small dot of "Sunshine Yellow" Flower Soft was added on the point of the umbrella.  (Well what better color of Flower Soft could make that "rain rain go away"!?!)  The Flower Soft was colored with a Copic marker (Y17) to match the umbrella.

The Flower Soft frame was made using double sided tape.

 

A small amount of Flower Soft goes a LONG way!!  It comes tightly compacted in its jar.  To use it, empty a small amount into a bowl or container and lightly fluff to loosen and separate it.  To apply simply press the tape side of the card stock onto the Flower Soft.  The Flower Soft on this frame is a mixture of  "Baby Blue" and "Spring".  The jar of Spring Flower Soft shown here is from the Flower Soft Box Set "Pretty Pots Starter Kit".

After the tape was covered, I trimmed the excess card stock from around the outside of the frame.

The sentiment was placed on a panel of Graphic 45 Fashionista "Perfumeries" designer paper which was adhered to the Flower Soft frame.

Art Flowers and a button were added to finish the card.

I was so happy to be able to take Ellen's idea for a feathery FLOWERy SOFT rooster and create this next card using the Lockhart Rooster.  Just look at the fancy Flower Soft tail he is strutting! 

To make the tail feathers, I took a couple of the Flower Soft Wires and cut them into four sections.  (These wires can be purchased in a separate package but are also included in the Flower Soft Box Set "Pretty Pots Starter Kit".)  I colored the wires with Copic markers to match the colors of Flower Soft I was planning on using.

Next the Flower Soft Glue (included in the "Pretty Pots Starter Kit" and also available for separate purchase) was applied liberally to the wires, and the Flower Soft was sprinkled on until the desired amount was achieved.  Flower Soft colors used were "Poppy Red", "Baby Pink" and "Sunshine Yellow".  The wires were then placed in a sponge (also included in the "Pretty Pots Starter Kit") to dry.  The glue dries clear and takes about 30 minutes.

 

Just as I had done with the dot of Flower Soft on the umbrella card above, I used a Copic marker (Y19) to color the yellow Flower Soft on the wire so it would more closely match the color on the rooster.

The wires were attached by poking them through the card stock at the base of the rooster tail and then bending them flat and securing them with tape on the back.

I dotted small amounts of glue at the base of the rooster tail and other areas.  Next I applied "Poppy Red" Flower Soft to hide the ends of the wires and gaps where the rooster image was showing behind the tail feathers.

Other products used on this card include Graphic 45 Botanicabella "Secret Garden" and Fashionista "Perfumeries" designer papers.  Art Flowers and an Accent Pearl were also used.  The sentiment "Springtime Greetings" is by Memory Box.  Copic markers were used to color the rooster and Flower Soft.

 

On my third card only a very small amount of Flower Soft is used, but I think it is so fun on these ladies as they model their vintage spring fashion.  Aren't they swell!?!

No stamps were used on this card.  Instead the Flower Soft Glue was applied directly to the Graphic 45 Fashionista "En Vogue" designer paper cut outs.

The ribbon is a 5/8" Twill.  The red striped paper is Graphic 45 Fashionista "Buttons A La Mode".  Even the sentiment is taken from the Fashionista Collection designer paper.  All 3 cards use Memory Box card stock.  Neenah Solar White card stock is also used on cards 1 and 2.  

Hope you decide to give Flower Soft a try!  Happy crafting!!

COPIC Various Ink Techniques and Comparisons to Ranger Alcohol Ink, by Ellen Hutson

What is COPIC Various Ink? Various Inks are the economic and environmentally friendly "filling station" for COPIC markers. There are numerous tutorials and information shared showing how easy it is to refill a COPIC marker. Copic Marker has a fantastic demonstration on their site here - How to Refill Markers.

The Various Inks can also be custom mixed to create an infinite color range. Intermix the colors or mix them together with Colorless Blender Solution for a diluted tone value. I shared a tutorial on my blog Simple Dreams showing how to create a custom color Copic Sketch Marker some time ago. Since that time I have learned to be more precise - first measuring the amount of Colorless Blending Solution that I am using and then counting the number of drops. Document it on the bottle or on a special chart so that I can recreate that same color again.

I am completely surprised by the fact that I have not seen much of any information showcasing the amazing range of artistic possibilities that the Various Ink holds and so I want to begin to explore these and share my findings with you.

Today I want to share some not so scientific studies I have done to compare the Copic Various Ink to the Ranger Alcohol Ink. Ranger and Tim Holtz have lead the industry sharing some absolutely wonderful techniques using alcohol inks. After having used the Ranger products for a number of years it was so incredibly exciting to now have this incredible medium in a marker format (which is SO much easier to control!) and then having so many different colors of coordinating inks to refill the markers as well as available to use to create fabulous "artsy" projects!

I am so excited to share my learning curve with you today because I think that we are just going to hit on the tip of the iceburg and the discoveries that are yet to be made are just awaiting our exploration. I hope that this once again gets you thinking outside the box. How else is it that I can use my Copic products? How can I combine them with other products I might already have? What is it that I can do with my Various Ink other than just fill my markers?

COMPARING COPIC PRODUCTS TO RANGER PRODUCTS

To begin I selected Ranger's Cranberry Alcohol Ink and Copic R59 Various Ink. The colors are quite similar and I thought that they would allow you to see how these products can be used together and how they compare. I also poured some of my Copic Colorless Blender Solution into an empty Various Ink bottle. I would like to recommend that you each purchase one of these smaller containers to help you control the amount of liquid that is poured. The nozzle on the larger solution bottle does not allow you to control the number of "drops that you drip," whereas the empty Various Ink bottle is much easier to control.

 

In the upper part of the chart below I used applicators and felt as shown above. It was not until the end of my "study" that I started becoming more precise and controlled in how I compared the products. I thought it might be interesting for you to see my learning curve and what it is that I did.

 

Included in the chart above is a little legend:

• AB - Adirondack Blending Solution
• AI - Adirondack Alcohol Ink
• CB - Copic Colorless Blending Solution
• CI - Copic Various Ink

I am including this legend here just in case it is too difficult to read when on the screen. I have indicated beside the different "puddles" what products I used to create each puddle.

Using a clear plastic sheet (this is the same product that I use when creating my clear cards - I am sorry that we are currently out of stock, but I plan on remedying that shortly.) I began at the bottom of this sheet and applied the different products directly to my test sheet. With each "experiment" I worked my way up the chart.

 

This photo shows the remaining "ring" that the Adirondack Blending Solution left on my project sheet. I apologize for the horrible photo, but it was the only way that I could capture that ring to share with you. Each one of the combinations that included this solution had that small ring remaining around the edge. This leads me to believe that perhaps there is another product in their blending solution, but being this is a not so scientific comparison I don't know what it is. The solution did feel a little "heavier" than the Copic solution and yet the Copic solution seemed to dissapate into the air more slowly than than the Adirondack product. So in other words it took a slightly longer time frame for the dots using the Copic blender solution to dry.

In the second line from the bottom I dripped blending solution on the plastic and then a drop of color was added to that solution. The Adirondack Blending Solution is on the left with the Copic Blending Solution on the right. This is one of the only photos that I saw a difference in the way that the products "flowed" on the plastic.

The third row from the bottom has an AB (stands for Adirondack Blender Solution) at the front of it. This is when I began using the applicator and the felt. I wanted to see what happened when movement was more controlled. I first dripped Adirondack Blender Solution on my felt and then added Adirondack Alcohol Ink. I repeated this then using Adirondack Blender Solution and Copic Various Ink (also alcohol based ink.) As you can see my first "experiment" was not well defined.

The fourth row from the bottom has a CB (standing for Copic Colorless Blending Solution) at the front of it. I now became much more controlled in my test. I dripped about a dime size amount of Colorless Blending Solution on to the felt and then followed with a drop of alcohol ink.

The fifth row just shows the comparison of the products side by side when using Adirondack products together and Copic products together.

In these top three rows I did not see much of any difference in the movement of the products. The only difference that remained was a slight "halo" around the samples that I had used the Adirondack Blending Solution. As well the samples with this solution seemed to dry a little more quickly.

After all that - I guess you could say that I did not find much of any difference between these two product lines and so I decided to now try putting the products to use. This study would not be complete without a cost comparison though. It's a good thing I was good at math - LOL! OH VEY - turning a product that is measured in CC's (which is equivalent to teaspooons) and then translating it back into ounces almost gave me a headache :) Following are the cost comparisons using today's prices (Copic Colorless Blending Solution - $10.85/bottle and Copic Various Inks ($5.79/bottle).

Cost Comparison:

• COPIC Colorless Blending Solution - $1.54/oz vs. Adirondack Blending Solution - $2.49/oz

• COPIC Various Ink - 6.47/oz vs. Adirondack Alcohol Ink - $6.66/oz

COMPARING SKETCH MARKERS TO VARIOUS INKS

 

The next question you might ask is "Why try and use the Various Inks when you have such wonderful control when using the markers?" The answer became clear to me as I played with the two products side by side - depth of color! When working on plastic or glass it is completely different then working on paper. When trying to layer the colors they would almost become "gummy" and would end up with wierd streaking. Whereas when I utilizied my cheap little paintbrush I achieved a beautiful, rich deep color on the first application. I have shared my results in the little picture above so that you could see for yourself the intensity change.

VARIOUS INK TECHNIQUE #1 - Painting on Glass

 

So how does one apply this. Being I am not the best at sketching and drawing I began with a stamped image. I decided to try and "pool" the color and after playing with it on a sample of glass I decided to stamp the cardinal and then emboss it to create little edges on my glass. The glass sample on the left was created by stamping the image using Brilliance ink and clear embossing powder. The sample on the right used Brilliance ink and fine detail black embossing powder. It is difficult to get all the little black specks off the glass, but using my wipeout tool (which we are also out of - I am SO sorry) I was able to get a nice dark image.

 

I once again wanted to share the difference between a marker color image to an image painted with the Various Ink. As you can see it truly does make a difference!

 

To clean my brush I put a little colorless blending solution into my palette and swirl my brush first in this before once again cleaning it in water. This lead me to test what would happen to the image if I applied colorless blender solution to it. Interesting effects can be achieved, but I wanted a full, rich color for my final project and so reverted to my deep colored cardinal. The wonderful thing about this application is that if you mess up you can simply use a little colorless blending solution on a paper towel, wipe your project clean and start painting all over again Ü For people like me - that's a good thing!

I added YR24 to the beak and feet and my painting process was now complete and dry! The dry time is almost instantaneous.

 

I then wanted to complete my ornament and so using my glue pad and Bold Curls stamp began the gold leafing process. For complete directions please see these posts - Gold Leafed Three Wisemen and Soldered 3-Layer Ornament.

 

As you can see in this photo - alcohol ink looks spectacular backed with gold leaf! I remember when I was a child attending Vacation Bible School making a piece of glass art which we backed with aluminum foil and it has me now guessing as to the product that we used to color the glass. I'm wondering if it was Sharpie markers??? Boy do I wish I could remember. I wonder if my Mom would know? I guess I'll just have to call her and ask, but not tonight - I must get this post completed and the newsletter put together!

 

I painted the beak with Lumiere to add glitz in that area only.

 

I then inked Kissable Trees with Adirondack Willow and "kissed it" with  Paisley inked with Adirondack Meadow and stamped it on the Green Tea paper in the MochaChica Paper Pack. After positioning my glass slide over the background I used my Fiskars knife to cut around the edges.

 

Simply slip your completed project into one of the Ranger Memory Frames and it is ready to hang on your tree or jazz up one of your Christmas packages!

VARIOUS INK TECHNIQUE #2 - Painting on Plastic or Acetate

 

Sorry for the poor quality of the picture. Why is it that cards using plastic are so beautiful and yet so difficult to photograph? Trying to get just the right angle when photographing is almost impossible. If anyone has any tips I would LOVE to hear them!

 

To begin I stamped the holly on to plastic using Palette Noir. This is by far my favorite ink to use on glass, plastic and metal. It dries quickly and seems to stay put! It is important to remember though that you can't color on the same side as you have stamped. Alohol ink will just smear these inks all over the place. I used three different color to complete this project - R29, YG63 and YG95. As I played with the painting process I was able to achieve different looks depending on how I applied the ink. Just take a piece of scrap plastic and start experimenting. Created dappled, whispy, and pooled looks. Experimenting is the key to success!

 

TIP: I think I need to write Cuttlebug and tell them that it might make more sense to place their images upside down in their embossing folders. So start spreading the word! I wonder which manufacturers will come out with their folders more useable now Ü? Who will heed our thoughtful ponderings? 

You can get around this though, but don't get mad at me if you loose one half of your folder! Be certain to keep them taped together at one end. I simply cut my folder apart along the top edge and inserted my card front in to the folder and embossed it with the image correct on the face of my card front. This also works well for a continuous series of embossing. If you are using the Swiss Dots and want a piece longer than the folder typically provides just continue to emboss, move it, and emboss it again.

VARIOUS INK TECHNIQUE #3 - Altering Cardstock, Craft-a-Board or Chipboard Colors

 

I cut a small tag from Craft-a-Board and then using my Alcohol Ink Applicator applied R59 Various Ink directly to the tag on both sides. I was amazed at how quickly and easily I was able to alter the color of this tag. In hindsight I should have probably used R29, but time was of the essence and so I carried on as quickly as possible.

 

I then applied a dime size amount of colorless blending solution to a clean felt pad and tapped gently all over the surface. What a cool effect! I can totally see using all sorts of different textured products together with the blending solution to create unique effects on our projects!

Once dry I inked the edges with Versamark Dazzle and dipped it in Egyptian Gold embossing powder. I then stamped "Noel" in Dazzle and embossed it as well.

 

TIP: To attach my tag to the project I use my tweezers to hold my main ribbon together and tie on my tag. I then finish my knot in my main ribbon. These tweezers are a wonderful tool for those who are all thumbs when tying knots.

VARIOUS INK TECHNIQUE #4 - Altering Metallic Painted Surfaces

 

I am guessing that many of you are following Tim's 12 Days of Tags series. I was completely taken with how Tim altered his new Distress Metallic Crackle Paint and so following his directions to the letter I decided to see if it would work to turn Craft-a-Board into ornaments. I began by cutting the Nested Birds out of Craft-a-Board. I then sent them back through my Big Shot with my Cuttlebug folder to emboss an image into them. Next I applied the Pewter Distress Metallic Crack Paint as shown above.

 

Once dry it is important to note that you need to cut the excess paint from around the image. To complete a two sided image with your embossed birds just make a second bird facing the opposite direction. You can then adhere these together to complete a two sided and thicker ornament. For this project I just simply painted the back side of the bird so that I would be able to see the comparison of the two sides.

 

Next I used another clean felt and place a small amount of R29 Various Ink on my applicator and stamped the entire dried metallic surface with the alcohol ink. At this point you could actually use a couple of different colors, but I really wanted to test what a single color looked like first.

 

Exquisite!

 

Absolutely EXQUISITE!!! Tim you are a genious! I absolutely love these simple little bird ornaments. What incredible possibilities!!!

Fabric is next on my list to try - Various Ink and Silk, Sticky Back Canvas - you name it let's try it!!! I highly recommend that you purchase your various inks sooner rather than later being prices are increasing in the new year. Thank you for sharing in our in-depth tutorial this month - I hope that it challenges you to try using your Various Inks in "Various" ways :D