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Vintaj Patinas: Use to Create a Custom Bookmark and Necklace

Today I would like to share some information about the new Vintaj Patinas by Ranger. Julie and I were so lucky to be able to attend the class at CHA this past January and I have eagerly been awaiting the arrival of these gorgeous colored products. The thing I am most intrigued by, is the ability to color over any metal with these specialty inks and to have that coloring remain permanent without any additional products to cover them!

To begin I wanted to share some basic information about the Vintaj/Ranger Patinas and Glaze products.

• First these inks are opaque, which allows you to paint them atop any metal covering the color beneath. Leave them as is, or use a sanding block to reveal some of the color and texture beneath.
• There are 15 beautiful, blendable colors and a little of the color goes a long way!
• They dry VERY quickly to a lustrous satin finish, so when working with them less is more - work in small areas at a time. Use about a pea size droplet to avoid the patina drying on your non-stick craft sheet. AND yes, work on a non-stick craft sheet to keep clean-up simple!
• The Patinas are acid free and UV safe.
• They differ from alcohol inks in that they do not need a coating atop them to make them permanent.
• Clean your brushes immediately using water to avoid damaging your brush.
• Do NOT mix the Patinas with water to thin, rather use the Vintaj Glaze. By mixing your Patina colorants with Glaze you will extend the Patinas creating a more glaze-like, semi-transparent effect atop paints and inks.
• The Vintaj Glaze acts as a clear top coat that dries to a satiny finish.
• The Glaze is non-yellowing and non-cracking.
• It is fast drying and permanent once dry.
• It is also acid free.

To begin I wanted to share a project that is so simple you can complete it in less than 15 minutes! Who doesn't love a personalized gift you can create in such a small amount of time!! 

I had great intentions of getting an order together for myself when the product first arrived, but guess what... that didn't happen and by the time I went to check out my cart the colors I love and always use were gone!!! Oh dear, what to do? I'm not really a "purple" girl --- I should be being my birthstone is an Amythest, but... Well, as luck would have it those were my available colors and so I decided to just give them a go.

Using the Basic Grey Plumeria collection as my color inspiration I just went with the purple, put all my cards on the table so-to-speak, and let it ride. Oh my, but I was so mistaken - what an absolutely LOVELY combination! I hope these projects inspire you.

It is tough to create both a video and photo instructional post. Please excuse the quality of the pictures as I needed to take them out of the video as I was working this project completely on my own. For a complete step-by-step visual in high-speed (and yes, my hands will be moving at the speed of light - LOL) please watch the video here on our You-Tube channel or below.

 

Begin by vigorously shaking your Patina bottles until you feel satisfied that the pigment and liquid is thoroughly mixed. Each bottle has a B.B. in it to aid in mixing.

Place a pea-size amount directly on your non-stick craft sheet. I love using Claudine's Studio Brush shown above to apply the patina.

It is easiest to dab the Patina to the surface of your metal blank as it will get the color down into the dimension of these fabulous charms. While the Patinas are still wet you can easily mix the colors.

While the Patina is still wet you can also alter it's appearance by blotting with a paper towel or wiping away the excess. In this case I wiped away the excess Patina on the top surface of the metal blank leaving the colorant that is recessed in its' depths.

Apply colors - mix, dab, wipe, and blend. To reduce the intensity of the brighter colors I opted to apply the more neutral toned Agate over the brighter tone colors to mute them down and then wiped away the excess once again.

Once you have achieved the coloration you desire, use the Black Side (this is the coarsest grain of sandpaper on the block) of the Vintaj Sanding Tool to remove the excess Patina from the surface.

I was thrilled that I could also use the Patina to colorize the Filigree beads!

TIP: Create a holder for your bead using a fine-gauge wire. You can then use this same "threader" to insert and draw your ribbon through the bead.

Use Distress Stain to color your Essentials Ribbon or seam binding to coordinate. To create a mottled appearance do not apply the stain evenly.

Once again use your threader, created from fine-gauge wire, to draw your ribbon through those hard to reach holes.

Knot the ribbon on either side of the bead to hold it in place.

Attach your gorgeous colored metal charm to the opposite end. So quick and simple!!

This next project is definitely more in-depth, but I can assure you that it took far less time to create this beautiful necklace than it took to edit the video! The theme of course is birds, because just like in Portlandia, I like to put a bird on it - ha, ha!

I am by no means a jewelry designer, but this craft intrigues me and I so love creating projects using these beautiful products! You could easily incorporate any of these elements on to a card-front or tag as well, so I hope that those who are card makers will still enjoy this post and be able to use some of the information that follows in your projects.

Vintaj has also partnered with Sizzix to create these fab embossing and etching folders! It is fantastic having a couple of different methods of altering the metal blank surfaces as it affords two completely different looks! To begin I used a DecoEmboss Folder.

Simply position your metal blank over the design in the folder that appeals to you. Your Big Shot or Vagabond sandwich is simple - just use the platform and two clear acrylic cutting pads. Place your DecoEmboss folder between the cutting pads and send through your machine.

If you want to use the metal blank in the middle of a chain length, use the small size on the Tim Holtz drill press to create another hole directly opposite the original hole.

TIP: Mark the location where you would like to drill using a Copic Marker. Align the drill press and turn the crank. Release the metal piece by turning the crank back the opposite direction.

The second type of die Sizzix/Vintaj has created is the DecoEtch die. This die creates more of a line drawing or etched look. It is easy to see the difference in the completed project below.

Once again simply place your metal blank atop the area of the design that appeals to you. Sandwich between the two clear cutting pads and send through your Big Shot, Vagabond or Cuttlebug. (For those with a Cuttlebug use your B plate with this die.)

Dab the Patina directly atop your DecoEmbossed piece. While the colors are still wet you can easily mix the colors to create your own custom palette.

For the etched piece I used only one color of Patina.

While the Patina was still wet on the etched piece I used a paper towel to wipe away the excess that was on the surface of the die. The Patina that is embedded in the etched design will make it really stand out and is a gorgeous effect.

To pronounce this effect even further use the Black side of your Vintaj Sanding Tool to draw out the detail and expose your shiny metal surface.

My DecoEmbossed design was set aside to dry, but I used a Heat It tool to ensure that it was completely dry to make the Patina permanent before sanding.

Always remember to sand both sides of your project! You never know when your necklace might get turned around ;-D

Once again use the Black side of the sanding tool to remove the Patina from the raised, embossed surfaces.

Over time this surface may darken again as the metal is exposed to the air. You can apply the Vintaj Glaze to create a barrier from the air, but I love the look of the exposed metal in it's original state and so would rather take a sanding block to it from time to time to refresh the beautiful satin-like quality of the metal.

In this photo is is simple to see the extreme difference between the etched and embossed details. The etched blank is on the left and the embossed on the right. Combining the two on a single piece of jewelry or project creates a coordinated, yet diverse look.

Create your own little "fancy" embellishments from the fabulous wire we carry. I love to use some of the specialty Jewelry Making Tools we carry to create these little pieces. Specialty pliers make forming these rounded pieces so much easier, but you could also use a paintbrush handle, pencil or marker as your base to help you form your shapes.

The lower the number or gauge of the wire, the thicker the wire. I like to use the 18-gauge wire for the focal components of the embellishments with a lighter weight, 26-gauge wire used to wrap the details.

Place a steel block atop a rubber block before doing any of the pounding on your work surface to avoide damaging your table-top. As well the rubber block helps absorb some of the noise (definitely not all - LOL!) The flat-top hammer we carry is designed specifically for flattening wire. I LOVE the look of flattened wire! You can see how I used it here on one of my Feminine Tags as well.

Do not flatten the entire piece, but only portions. In this piece I flattened the top of the "horseshoe" as well as the little curliques, leaving an area round. This creates a lot of interest in a piece.

If you do not have a jump ring that is the correct size for your project make your own. Wrap the wire tightly around a pencil or brush handle that is the size you need. Be certain to push the wire tightly against itself with no space between the "rings." Snip using a wire cutter making certain that you only snip through two strands at a time. This will assure that your jump ring closes correctly - you always want your jump ring to be a complete circle before beginning.

The last component I created was the charming little bird's nest. I had no idea how to create this little gem and so I googled "wire-wrapped bird's nest" and up came a plethora of information. I read through multiple tutorials and then just went for it. This is my first bird's nest! So if I can do it, so can you!

To begin I used three little beige colored wood beads I had in my stash. They are itty-bitty! I didn't like the color and so decided to see how the patina worked on these little wooden beads. I dabbed Marine Patina on them and allowed them to dry before beginning.

Using a length of 26-gauge wire that was between 3-4 feet in length I began by stringing the three little beads onto the wire. Leave about a 3 inch length on one end and then wrap the remaining wire around a pencil to curl it as shown.

Stretch the wire long again leaving some kinks in place.

Continue by wrapping wire around the "eggs" ten times. Secure these strands in place by threading the end of the long wire up between the eggs, wrapping around all ten wires 2-3 times before moving forward and wrapping around the next egg. Once these wires are secured as shown above, move on.

 

Add additional layers of wire to the bottom side of the nest. I wrapped about 5 times and then would thread the wire back and forth through these layers, securing them to the top layer of the nest. I love this messy looking little bird's nest and hope to make more!

 

As you can see as I worked with the wooden beads the Patina did not adhere fully, so once my nest was completed I went back in with a tiny paint brush and dabbed on a little more Marine Blue to make the eggs look more like Robin's eggs.

Using two lengths of chain, a few more beads, an amethyst colored stone and this lariet-style necklace was complete. I feel giddy with excitement that it turned out so beautiful and look forward to presenting it to a wonderful lady in my life some day soon!

Vintaj Jewelry Pieces: Vintaj Arte Metal Etruscan Antiquity Charm, Altered Blank Circle - Large and Small, Oval Filigree Bead, Round Filigree Bead, Vintaj Bronze Wire - 18 gauge, 20 gauge, 26 gauge, Vintaj Ornate Chain (2 were needed to create this lariet-style necklace.), Vintaj 4.75mm Jump Rings, Vintaj 1.5" Eye Pin

Vintaj/Ranger Patinas: Victorian Gable and Retro Highway Patina Kits

Vintaj/Sizzix Dies: Woodland Birds and Botancial Flourish

Jewelry Making Tools: Drill Press, Concave Round Nose Pliers, Bail Making Pliers, Rubber Block, Steel Bench Block, Chasing Hammer, Vintaj Metal Reliefing Block

The Many Ways to Use a Crafter's Workshop Template

I love finding products that can be used with my existing supplies! Crafter's Workshop templates are definitely one of those items. There are SO many products that can be used with just one template (and they are easy to store - a huge bonus!) Today I am going to share five different ways to use a single template.

Chevron is a VERY trendy look - you will find it in fashion, home decor and now big time in the paper crafting world. It is so very easy to incorporate some of these fun trends into your projects and today I thought I would share all my samples using just this one template and a limited color scheme to show you how diverse one item can be. 

When working with a template I find it easiest to attach my cardstock to the back of the template using tissue tape. Tissue tape is easy to remove without damaging the cardstock and keeps the template in one position when working, for a crisp, clean end result.

DISTRESS INKS and CRAFTER'S WORKSHOP TEMPLATES

Fredward bear is oh so cute and when creating the various backgrounds the chevron appeared to be a group of forest trees. Adding a paper pieced scarf, a sweet Hero Arts sentiment, a little Copic shading, white glittery snowbanks and a little bling --- who wouldn't love receiving this sweet little thought in the mail?!?

By looking at your stencils, moving them around on your project and/or masking them, the variety of looks is endless! As you can see I placed a piece of scratch paper along the upper edge and taped my stencil into position, allowing the top of the stencil to become the treeline.

Simply swirl your ink blending tool over the top of the stencil and overlap the two colors ever so slightly to create this particular look.

By starting with the Tumbled Glass on each end and then adding in the Shabby Shutters, allowing the color to almost completely disappear by the center, I was able to create a fabulous gradated sample --- an ombre look.

Or mix it up even further and use a larger variety of colors.

These cute little snowmen are the Limited Edition release from Karen Lockhart this Christmas Season. I love how each year Karen creates a new snow globe centered around what is new in Nicholas' life. Yes, this year Nicholas LOVES to sing :-D Each stamp is signed and number, as well as colored, which makes it a wonderful reference tool!

These are the colors I used to create my sample image and on this is the image I used for this month's Thank You notes.

Using a Styled Labels diecut, trimmed to make it appear as though it is a mantle, I was able to create a fabulous and unusual colored Christmas card. The sentiment "Christmas brings us together" is so appropriate for this card!

COPIC MARKERS and CRAFTER'S WORKSHOP TEMPLATES
If you have had the opportunity to view the Copic Airbrushing DVD you will see how I love to use masks (stencils, templates) to control my airbrush and create wonderful effects. The Crafter's Workshop templates are fabulous for this use!

One product I forgot to include in this image of the supplies is Eclipse Tape. I have been shouting the beauty of Eclipse tape since I first began blogging in 2006. It is still my go to, absolute favorite, masking product.

Trace through the stencil with a pencil and then cut out the eclipse tape as shown in the image above. Even though the eclipse tape has a sticky surface it can curl away from the edges during use, so I have found that it is best to hold the eclipse in place using magnets and our Essentials Craft Assistant.This keeps the edges crisp.

Creating a mask will allow you to use the templates in a whole new way.

As you can see I developed a repetitive pattern by working my way down the template with my masks, covering an airbrushed area and exposing that fresh white cardstock until I had moved all the way down my cardfront.

Crisp, clean and bright!

Exact same supplies but just using the airbrush in a freeform manner, combining colors and creating a more graffiti like look! Super quick and EASY!

STUDIO PAINTS and CRAFTER'S WORKSHOP TEMPLATES

With the addition of the new Studio Paint Kits this project would be simplied even further! Squeezing small amounts directly on to the ink blending tool and then pouncing on your non-stick craft sheet to spread it evenly over the foam would be super easy!

For this project I simply placed a dab of Studio paint on a non-stick craft sheet using a different craft stick for each color. Dab an ink blending tool into the paint and apply to stencil.

As you can see a little paint goes a long way.

You could mask for a clean line between colors or do as I did and overlap the colors ever so slightly. Paint will work on cardstock, sticky back canvas and so much more!

Each product lends a unique look and texture to the finished sample.

FABER CASTELL AQUARELLES AND CRAFTER'S WORKSHOP TEMPLATES

When you want a precise look an easy product to use to achieve this would be the Faber Castell Aquarelles.

Color each chevron quickly with an Aquarelle pencil or combine a couple of colors for added variation. Do not worry about coloring in an even manner because it will actually have greater depth if you scribble color.

Then use a waterbrush or paint brush to blend the colors. Stay in the lines if you want a crisp clean look, or let it bleed outside the lines for a completely random look.

Creating unique and custom patterns is ideal with this medium.

ADIRONDACK DABBERS and CRAFTER'S WORKSHOP TEMPLATES

This background has a lovely textured look --- sort of like the surface on a piece of knitwear or even socks :-D Life is definitely too short to match socks, it is far more fun to stamp and experiment - LOL!

This cute image from Unity Stamps was watercolored with Distress Ink pads. Simply rub the surface of the ink pad on your non-stick craft sheet and then use the waterbrush to paint in your image.

Applying some of the fun stamping techniques I learned at Ranger U to these templates is going to be a blast! This particular technique is simply a modification of one of the techniques I especially love the look of.

Dab the entire surface with Snow Cap White.

Remove the stencil and allow to dry.

Then add color in a circular motion using an ink blending tool. Absolutely shabbilicious! You could also use different colors of dabbers to create a completely different look.

I haven't even touched on sprays, Distress Stains, watercolor paper, shrink plastic, layering... oh my, oh my, oh my! Let the experimentation begin with the Crafter's Workshop Templates!!!

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

Creating a Collage Using Creative Layers and Dylusions Stamps

Creating art for art's sake is so rewarding! Today I am sharing my journey as I tried my hand at creating a collage using Claudine Hellmuth's Studio Line paints and Creative Layers stamps; pairing them with the whimsical, new Dylusions stamps. This quirky, fun style of art is most definitely outside my comfort zone, but I must tell you that when I do step outside my norm I have SO much fun as I get lost in the process. I would like to encourage you to take "risks" once in a while and explore; creating just for the sake of creating.

 

I am most definitely NOT an expert in collage - for me it is an experimental process at this point. So what I share here today is just my learning process. When I began this piece I had no idea what I was going to create. It was a rainy day again here in Seattle and I have to admit I am REALLY tired of the rain, but decided that this was my opportunity to turn my nemisis into something fun and so I grabbed Dylusion's Ruby Rainbow stamp set to inspire me. I then found a quote that would bring a smile, and set to work. I am pleased to report that we now have sunshine - woohoo - perhaps positive thinking does make a difference! LOL!

Referring back to the projects we created under Claudine's and Dyan's direction at Winter CHA, in which we focused on the different uses of Studio Paints and Perfect Pearls, I began to create my canvas, layering the pearls with the Studio Paints.

 

The background was created by painting directly on the canvas. I also mixed some of the teal, sky blue and white on my non-stick craft sheet to create color blends, which added softness to the canvas background. LOVE the look of the "swooshy" background which is meant to resemble sky and land.

Once dry I added some of the black details, once again stamping these with paint. I like to "ink" my rubbber and clear stamps using an ink blending tool as shown below.

Using the flying crows to resemble Sea Gulls and adding a border were the first elements.

 

Foam stamps work GREAT on canvas. To add paint to these stamps I place a dollop of paint on the non-stick craft sheet and then pounce the stamp in the paint until it is completely covered.

 

I was curious - would reverse stamping work? Using a clean red rubber stamp I placed it to the surface of the foam stamp. I love how it removed some of the paint to add texture! When I am working quickly I don't bother to add Extra Time to my paint, but if you are afraid of the paint drying out before you can stamp, simply mix in a little Extra Time to give you just that... extra time.

 

Highlighting some of the edges and dots with additional white made the details pop. I also dry brushed over the birds using white to reduce the contrast that the pure black brought to the birds. These were not meant to be my focal point and I felt less intensity would be better.

 

To add paint to clear and red rubber stamps is easy. Simply place a small dollop of paint on your non-stick craft sheet and pounce the ink blending tool in the paint until it is spread evenly over your sponge surface.

 

Then pounce this on the surface of your stamps as shown above and stamp. Once again I work quickly, if you want more time add a little Extra Time to your paint. Always clean your stamps immediately after use to avoid long clean-up times.

Curious as to whether it would be easy to "doodle" on my canvas I pulled out one of my PITT Artist Pens and added a polka-dot hill. So FUN! I also used this same pen to add a little more definition to the house details as they did not stamp as dark as I had initially wanted. I should have used paint rather than ink - LOL! These pens work great to fix those little "oops" items.

Add highlights to some of the images using Sour Apple Perfect Pearls --- these really brighten the canvas.

 

Once again I added additional white to "pop" the details.

 

Stamp the pieces that you want to paint or "watercolor" with Perfect Pearls using Archival ink. This is the perfect ink for any wet projects - it is waterproof and will not smudge when you get it wet. I used Neenah cardstock for my project. It is not the ideal watercolor paper, but I always have it at hand and so it makes my life so very simple. I am totally pleased with the result - it stood up to the "wet factor" just fine.

Spritz water on the surface of your non-stick craft sheet and scoop out just a little Perfect Pearl using your paintbrush. Mix and paint.

 

I love being able to create my palette right on my non-stick craft sheet. Mixing colors is so easy. To create the flesh tone I mixed Biscotti together with just a hint of Pink Gumball and Mandarin.

 

Leave the excess on your sheet until you are completely finished your project.

 

It does not matter if it dries as you can easily reconstitute it with a droplet or two of water as shown above.

 

To add charm to the words I added an outline using a PITT artist brush around each of the printed words.

 

To see if it was all coming together I then laid it out the cut pieces on my canvas. I realized the author's name was too large and reprinted it smaller. Seeing it all come together is magical I tell ya!

To adhere the pieces to the canvas I used Matte Multi-Medium. LOVE this adhesive when I need it to REALLY stick! Simply paint it on the back side of your cut outs and press in place holding for a couple of seconds. Allow your project to sit and dry for about 30 minutes for great results.

 

To add additional brightness to some of the Perfect Pearl painted areas I simply colored with my PITT Big Brush markers and used my wet paintbrush to blend the color out. I love how you can mix different tools!!! I can easily see airbrushing, spritzing with sprays and SO MUCH MORE! Oh for more time to play :-D

So in a nutshell following is what I learned from this experiment as I created my "collage":

• layering is good,
• selecting a color scheme will give you confidence as you add layers (I used a split-complimentary color scheme - blue, green and orange),
• PITT brushes can be layered over Perfect Pearls to add additional color dimension,
• Perfect Pearls can be painted over top of Studio Paints to add sheen and a fun contrast,
• Perfect Pearls are easily reconstituted after drying,
• don't be afraid to experiment!
  
   

Now rather than plodding through the puddles I am going to think happy thoughts and envision cute little Ruby Rainbow (or perhaps my friend Heather who adores rain) hopping over the puddles looking so cute in her happy colors! I would like to invite you to join me and try something a little different by creating a collage using your rubber stamps or try watercoloring with your Perfect Pearls! Try something new - it is creatively invigorating!

 
stamps: Dylusions Ruby Rainbow and Around the Edge, Claudine Hellmuth Creative Layers Clear and Foam Dwellings, Doodles Clear Stamps; Studio 490 Be Happy Make Art; Memory Box Distressed Crows

ink: Jet Black Archival Ink Pad

paper: Neenah Solar White Classic Crest

accessories: Studio Line - Blank Canvas, Charcoal Black, Classic Teal, Sky Blue, Studio Artist Brushes, Matte Multi-Medium, Sticky Back Canvas;  Perfect Pearls - Sour Apple, Blue Raspberry, Mandarin, Pink Gumball, Biscotti; Faber-Castell PITT Big Brush & Artist Pens - #146 skyblue, #171 light green, #113 orange glaze, #118 scarlet red, #199 black

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

Painting with Embossing Powders by Ellen Hutson

Ranger U was such a rewarding experience - it allowed me the opportunity to learn and play for three days as Tim, Claudine and Suze instructed us in a WIDE range of techniques. I cannot tell you how wonderful it is to have a collection of tags to refer to when deciding what to teach next.

The technique I would like to share with you today was one that I absolutely loved. Perhaps it is the way that these colors just pop off the black cardstock, or maybe it is just the fact that this is a technique that I don't seem to have complete control over the outcome and this fascinates me, but I LOVED "painting" with embossing powders.

I am sharing two cards with you today to show you first how to "paint with embossing powder." The second card then shares how you can use the excess powders and the results you will achieve. (I can't throw anything away - LOL!)

Selection of the image is probably THE most important aspect of this technique. Silhouette images are by far the best illustration for this type of project. Following are a few examples I selected from our store:

As you can see I have showcased a wide variety of images, but the one commonality is that they all have black lines that are not too delicate.

To begin I determined my color scheme by selecting patterned papers from the Jovial collection by Basic Grey. Lettuce, Stream and Red Pepper were the three colors I felt would pop the Christmas Tree image I was using.

Rub an embossing buddy over the surface of the black cardstock to reduce static. This helps to avoid excess sprinkles of embossing powder sticking to the cardstock in undesirable locations.

Stamp the image using Distress Embossing ink. (This is one ink pad that I absolutely love to use --- it smells like cinnamon :-D)

Begin with the color that you would like to be dominant - I used Lettuce first. Sprinkle in desired locations, following up with Stream and Red Pepper as shown in the photo above.

Remove excess powder by dumping it on to an extra sheet of paper. Don't be a tapper or you will lose too much of your powder. Gently heat with your Heat It tool. Keep moving to a new unmelted area with your heat tool as it begins to melt to avoid the special effect noted below.

Interesting Tidbit: Adirondack embossing powders have a white core. If you continue heating this embossing powder after it first melts you will have little white marks appear in the midst of your bright colors.

Pull out those brads you have had sitting in your drawers and embellish - I love how these look on this little tree!

TIP: What you will find is that Basic Grey's colors coordinate over the years. I used some old Urban Prairie brads on this tree. Of course Jovial brads would be the first pick, but rather than opening a new package I really would like to suggest looking at your old ones as well. Upon opening my brads I put them in a little ziplock bag (like the one our thank you note comes in), label with a Sharpie marker and put in a drawer with my brad collection. This makes it super easy for me to determine whether I need more brads :-D

Complete the card with a very simple use of decorative papers to pull these fun colors together.

Now to work with the excess powder from your mix. Don't waste this powder - either collect it in it's own little bottle or continue to use it on a series of projects and make a collection of cards for the holiday season ahead.

As you can see it really is a fun look - because I simply poured the powder off and then back on to next project. Each tree will have a unique and beautiful look.

Once again heat set the powder. I then added some bling to this one for variety.

Change up the layout just a little. As you can see by changing it up ever so slightly you will continue to create one of a kind cards that do not take a great deal of time to make because you are using similar "ingredients."

stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign Tree-mendous and Joy to All

ink: Distress Embossing Ink, Memento Tuxedo Black

paper: Black Cardstock, Basic Grey Jovial 6x6 Paper Pad, Memory Box Parsley and Bayou

accessories: Adirondack Embossing Powder - Lettuce, Stream, Red Pepper; Embossing Buddy, Heat It Tool, Tim Holtz On the Edge Bracket Die, Memory Box Christmas Gemstones, Cosmo Cricket Red Tiny Type

PAINTING WITH EMBOSSING POWDERS CHALLENGE

I would like to challenge you to give this techinque a try. Link up your projects using the Inlinkz insert below - this will give others an opportunity to see what you have created and learn from you as well! You will have one week, until November 22nd - watch the countdown on the link information below) to participate by creating two cards using the "Painting with Embossing Powders" technique demonstrated above - use fresh powders and then show the mix. We will randomly select one participant to receive three embossing powders (colors of their choice) along with one Memory Box stamp of their choice. We look forwards to seeing what you create!