Looking for a tutorial for adorable 4-bar rainbow cards? Carissa has a great video to share today and this adorable 3x4 rainbow stamp set called Over It, can be yours FREE! Head over to our new blog to see more!
June 15, 2018
Mini Rainbow Cards
|
|
May 13, 2018
Tips For Using Clean Color Real Brush Markers - In Touch Newsletter May 2018
Hi everyone! I’m so glad you’ve stopped by today. In this month’s Newsletter, I wanted to take a look at one of my favorite coloring methods....coloring with Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers. I'll also be using the new Mondo Sakura from the fabulous Essentials By Ellen May Release. So much good stuff!
The Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers are water based pigment markers with a genuine brush tip. They’re a great way to quickly color an image or create quick watercolor effects. The real brush tip also makes them great for brush lettering techniques. I think the best part of the markers themselves is their ease of use.
I’ve done a thorough in depth comparison on these markers versus the Zig Art And Graphic Twin Markers. To check out that post, click HERE. I think you’ll get some great information.
While they are easy to use and give great results, there are a few things to remember to get the best results.
- Paper matters. While I love my Neenah Solar White for Copic coloring, it is not my card stock of choice for coloring with most water-based markers. I prefer either the Smooth Bristol or a watercolor card stock for coloring with these types of markers. These card stocks allow the marker to sit on top of the paper and blend easier.
- Blend it beautiful. While another marker of a lighter shade or water are the most obvious choices for blending out these markers....they’re not the ONLY choice. Try other things that you might have in your stash to give different looks. My favorites are shimmer pens and the Art and Graphic Twin Blender Pen. You could even use a paint brush dipped in pearlized water to blend these out and give a fun pearlescent effect to your coloring.
- Think about ink. A permanent ink is important for images that are going to be exposed to a wet medium like water based markers. Choose a black ink that won’t bleed when exposed to water. My favorites include the VersaFine Clair Pigment ink, the Catherine Pooler Midnight Ink and Hero Arts Intense Black Ink. All of these are permanent when dry. I like to hit them all with a heat tool for a few seconds if I’ll be coloring the images right away so I know that they’re set and I won’t have a bleeding image when I color.
- Mixology means more. You may not have the perfect shade....but that's okay! You can create custom shades by mixing colors. Mix them on an acrylic block and pick them up with a paint brush, or blend them together right on your project. This means you can get the perfect shade every time!
For today's card, I colored the Mondo Sakura from the May Essentials By Ellen release on Bristol card stock using the Zig Real Brush Markers. If you haven't checked out the amazing new products released this month, you can click HERE to see all of them! You don't want to miss these!
To add a special touch, I used a fine tip glue pen to add some glue to the end parts of the stamen of the flowers. I allowed this glue to dry and then pressed some champagne foil over the top of the adhesive to add a touch of gold to this card project. I love the way the foil shines and catches the light.
Be sure to check out today's video tutorial. I'll be walking you through the creation of this card...and give you some tips and tricks along the way.
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you've enjoyed this project and some tips for using the Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers. And I hope you leave here inspired to create something beautiful of your own! Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day.
XOXO
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there so you don't miss any of our video tutorials.
Supplies
|
|
April 15, 2018
Playing Peek-A-Boo! 5 Ways To Incorporate Windows On Your Card Projects
Hi everyone! Welcome back! I hope you're having a fabulous April!
In this month's edition of the Ellen Hutson In Touch Newsletter, we're talking windows. I'll be sharing a few window card ideas in today's video tutorial and give you a few tips for creating window cards of your own.
These projects feature the newest Leading Ladies from the Essentials By Ellen line, Hot Mess Lady and Everyday Hero Lady. They are so much fun. I'll also be using the Be Strong stamp set, which coordinates perfectly with these new ladies. I've done all of my coloring with Copic Markers.
Window cards are a fun change-up to a basic card project. They're not difficult to create by any means and they are an easy way to step up a card design.
Windows come in lots of shapes and sizes. You can use almost any die to create a window on your card project. Think outside the box and experiment with the dies you may already own. Today, I'm using the Silver Linings Die Set to create a rectangle window, I'm using the Brushstroke Love die to create a word window and finally a basic heart shaped die to create a fun heart shaped window.
In addition to different shapes and sizes, there are a lot of ways to use windows on your cards. Here are a few of my favorite.
- Frame it up. A framing window is used when your focal point is actually on the inside of your card. The window creates a frame around the focal image and allows the recipient to have a peek of the focal image. Once the card is opened, the entire image is revealed. In the card featuring my lovely super hero, I've used a rectangle to frame up my lady. Once the card is opened, the Everyday Hero Lady, in all her caped glory, is revealed. This window is rather large and gives a big sneak peek, but it would also be fun to create this with a smaller window, and allow the cape to be a big surprise when opened.
- Suspend it. I love to use frames on my card as a means to suspend elements. In the heart window card, I've used the window as an opportunity to suspend my die cut greeting, making it appear as if it's floating. I added acetate to the back of the window so I could adhere the greeting in the center. If your suspended element is big enough, you can skip the acetate and allow it to stretch over the entire window and attach it on either side. This is a fun way to add something unexpected to your card project. You'll also notice that I've suspended some vellum clouds in the first window card. I love this effect.
- Pattern play. In the final card project, I've used a word die to create a window. This peek-a-boo window allows the recipient to see the patterned paper showing through the window. At first glance, you may think it's just a little bit of patterned paper backing. When the card it opened, a whole new element (a die cut heart) is revealed. Allowing the pattern to peek-a-boo through the window adds color and pattern to the front of the card, as well as the inside of the card.
- Shake shake shake, shake your card. I didn't create a shaker card today, but it is definitely another fun spin on a window card.
- Go all the way. Try adding a window that goes through all the panels of the card, card front and card base....all the way through the back portion of the card base. This is always such a fun way to add another variation to your window cards. It's like a see through card!
As your experimenting with window cards, try something you've never tried before. Try an unexpected shape or use a sentiment die to create your window. Add patterned paper, dry embossing or some stamping on the inside of the card and allow it to peek through the window. Look beyond your normal and find some fun new ways to incorporate windows in to your next card project.
Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you've enjoyed this look at window cards and that you've been inspired in some new way! What's your favorite way to use windows? Let me know in the comments below! Maybe we can inspire each other!
Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day!
XOXO
Copic Colors Used R 20, 22, 00, 11, 32 E 00, 21 YR 24, 27, 29 Y 19, 35 YG 01, 03 T 1 BG 11, 32, 13
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there!
Supplies
|
|
March 15, 2018
Inking About Color: A Look At The Newest Inks Available At Ellen Hutson
Ink comparisons can help make your decisions easier! Learn the similarities and differences between Distress Oxide, Versafine Clair, Catherine Pooler and Brutus Monroe inks. Dye ink, pigment ink... learn with us today!
It's Carissa here with you today. I'm inking about color today! And I'm excited to share a look at the newest inks available at EllenHutson.com.
In the video below, I'm going to walk you through a look at the newest Distress Oxide colors released early this year. Distress Oxides in themselves are not new to the Ellen Hutson store, but I wanted to share a look at the newest colors. This ink has been very popular since its release early last year....and continues to be very popular with many crafters (myself included).
Once we have a look at the newest Distress Oxide colors, we'll also look at the newest ink lines, including Versafine Clair Pigment Ink Pads, Catherine Pooler Dye Inks and Brutus Monroe Surface Inks. All of these inks have unique properties, making them more conducive to certain types of stamping or techniques. I'll walk you through all of this information in the video, so be sure to check it out. I'll also give you a look at several (not all) of the colors available in each line.
Once we talk about the inks a bit in the video, we'll explore what happens to the various types of ink when exposed to water once dry. Water reactive properties can either be exactly what you're looking for or not, depending on the type of crafting you are doing! I'll also take a look at how each of these inks stacks up when for watercoloring.
I'll also show you a look at the Catherine Pooler Midnight Archival Ink and the Versafine Nocturne ink, two great options for black ink. I'll show you what happens when you use these inks with Copic Markers too!
Since there's a lot of information in this video, I didn't actually end up making a project. I did stamp swatches of all of these inks using the Abstract Paint Strokes stamp set from the Essentials By Ellen Line. I think this little ink swoosh is perfect for creating ink swatches. I love that there is a lot of solid area, as well as some fine details near the end of the paint stroke, allowing you to see exactly how this stamps solid and finer details all at once.
I used an ink swatch grid to create my swatches today. You can print this out and use it at home. Or if you prefer, you can create your own swatches on a size that suits you. I find that a 2x2 inch square is the perfect size for swatching and labeling and they fit nicely in the coin pocket holders.
Now I know you may be asking, why does one person need so many different types of ink? Well, I don't know if need is the right word....but as I mentioned before, each of these inks has unique properties, which make it great for particular types of stamping. Is that to say you can't use one ink for everything? Not always. And since various lines also come in various tones and shades, I think it's important that you know the properties of the ink prior to investing in an ink that may not be right for you. I hope by sharing this information today, you'll get a good feel for each of these inks and that this information will be helpful for you to make the best decision for the types of ink(s) to add to your own collection.
Let's talk about just a couple of basics before I jump in to information on each ink.
Dye vs. Pigment Ink
A lot of people often ask "what's the difference between a dye and pigment ink and which one is better?". Here's a quick explanation.
A dye based ink uses dyes to soak in to the fibers of the paper...thereby dying the paper. It is often very transparent when touched to your finger or placed on acetate. These inks are quick drying (preventing smudging). Often times, as dye inks dry and settle, they "dry back" and the color changes slightly when completely dry. For the most part, this is the ink I recommend you starting with if you have to choose between one or the other.
Pigment inks on the other hand are a slow drying (sometimes they require heat setting) pigment rich ink. The ink sits on top of the paper and tends to be more opaque when applied to your finger or acetate. It reminds me of a thin acrylic paint. The longer dry time, makes them perfect for embossing. And because these inks sit on top of the paper, they tend to stay true to the color that they are when they're first stamped.
There are other types of inks available....but these are the two main types of inks offered by most manufacturers.
How Do I Choose?
When you're first starting out, I recommend starting with a good dye based ink. Then just choose colors that speak to you and that you can envision yourself using based on the types of images you stamp. You don't have to buy all from one line. It's okay to use various manufacturers. Choose colors that work for you.
So now that we've covered the very basics, let's talk about some specifics from each line I'll be showcasing today.
Distress Oxide Inks
This ink is a dye/pigment hybrid. It has water reactive properties often found in dye based inks. But is slow drying and very opaque like a pigment ink. The slow drying nature of this ink makes them great for embossing. That slow drying nature also makes them great for ink blending, even on regular white card stock. These inks are unique in that they dry with a chalky like finish. When they are exposed to water, they have an oxidation effect (I'll show you that). They are water reactive and you can achieve all sort of fun looks and use them for various techniques. Distress Oxide Inks are available in 36 colors that coordinate with the original Distress Ink line.
Versafine Clair Inks
These inks are an ink that is pretty new in the stamping world. The Versafine Onyx Black Pigment Ink has long been a favorite of mine for its rich, dark black color and crisp lines. The Versafine Clair Inks are also a pigment based ink. They are rather quick drying for a pigment ink. Even with their quick dry nature, they still remain wet long enough to achieve fabulous embossed images. They are waterproof when dry (perfect for stamping and watercoloring over). They also leave you with solid coverage and fine details, just like the original Versafine Onyx Black. These inks are available in a beautiful range of 24 colors.
Catherine Pooler Dye Inks
Catherine Pooler inks are a dye based ink that feature a foam inking surface. Other brands (including all that I am talking about today), use a felt inking surface. The foam surface, unique to the Catherine Pooler ink pads, make transfer from the pad to the stamp easy, leaving you with full, even coverage after just a few light taps on the surface of the ink pad. These non-permanent dye ink pads are water reactive....making them great for various types of techniques, including watercolor. These inks are also slow drying, making it possible to emboss images stamped with this ink. The slow drying nature also makes blending with these inks a breeze. These inks are available in 39 beautiful colors.
Brutus Monroe Surface Inks
Brutus Monroe Surface Inks are a permanent, dye based ink pad. These inks were designed to allow you to watercolor from a palate. However, once these inks are dry, they are permanent and no longer move or react when exposed to water. The Brutus Monroe Surface Inks are only available in mini ink cube size, which are easy to store. The permanent nature of these inks make them perfect for stamping on wood, glass and other slick surfaces. Brutus Monroe Surface Inks are available in 29 colors.
So now that we've gone through all of that, let's summarize, shall we?
Distress Oxide
- Dye/Pigment hybrid ink
- Water reactive
- Blendable
- Embossable
- Chalky finish/oxidation effects
Versafine Clair
- Permanent pigment ink
- Quick drying
- Waterproof
- Embossable
- Fine details, solid, vivid coverage
Catherine Pooler
- Non-permanent dye ink
- Water reactive
- Slow drying
- Embossable
- Foam inking surface for solid ink coverage
Brutus Monroe
- Permanent dye ink
- Quick drying
- Water resistant/waterproof
I know that's a lot of information! But I really do hope you have a better understanding of each of these types of ink, what makes them different from each other and finally, which ink is best for YOU! Remember, when choosing your inks, you can't go wrong with colors you love!
Thanks for stopping by today! If you have questions, please leave them in the comments below. I'll do my best to get you an answer. Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day!
XOXO
Carissa
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there so you don't miss any of our paper crafting video tutorials.
Just click on the buttons below to see each collection of ink!
|
|
February 15, 2018
How To Make Alcohol Ink Backgrounds With Ranger Alcohol Inks And Copic Marker Refills
Hello everyone! I'm glad you've stopped by today because I have some fun projects to share with you featuring alcohol inks. I'll be using both traditional alcohol inks and Copic Various Ink Refills to create my backgrounds today.
I'm using this month's color trend color palette for today's projects...and I've lovingly dubbed these the unicorn projects. They just have all of those colors that remind me of a wild unicorn. And I just love that! The whole team has been creating projects featuring this color palette this week over on The CLASSroom blog...so be sure to check those out.
In the video tutorial below, I'll walk you through some techniques for using alcohol inks to create backgrounds. As I mentioned before, I'll be using Ranger Alcohol Inks and Copic Refills. I've found that they're pretty much interchangeable for the techniques I'm doing today. I was able to achieve very similar results with both types of alcohol inks.
I will be using specialty papers for these techniques. Because the ink needs to sit on top of the paper in order to create cool textures and blending, your traditional white card stocks won't work for these. We will also be adding quite a bit of ink and blending solution on top of the paper....a traditional card stock just won't due for this. I'll be using the Yupo paper, a synthetic (almost plastic feeling) paper and the Ranger Alcohol Ink Card Stock (a glossy coated white card stock). I also did a little experimenting on clear plastic sheets as well.
I'll walk you through all of this in the video tutorial below, so be sure to check that out.
Here's a few tips to keep in mind when working with alcohol inks.
- Protection is key. Protect your work surface, your clothes and most of all, your manicure. This stuff will stain. It's easier to clean it off of non-porous surfaces like glass. It can easily be wiped off of non-porous surfaces with rubbing alcohol. But if you just had your nails done...you might want to wear some gloves.
- I like to move it move it. Your alcohol ink will move, even after it's dry, if you add more blending solution. If at any point you don't like your results, you can lift color or move color using your blending solutions.
- Metal mixatives for the win. We all know how I like a little sparkle, a little shimmer and a little shine....on EVERYTHING...so adding a little of the metal mixatives gives me the shimmer and shine I crave.
- Paper is everything. As I mentioned before, these alcohol inks should be used with a specialty paper to achieve the results you want. If you use regular card stock, it will just absorb in to the paper and it won't move like it does on the synthetic and coated card stocks I'm using today.
- Bold or soft...the choice is yours. Just like watercolors, you can either achieve bold or softer results depending on how much blending solution you use. More blending solution and less ink will give you a softer look. Less blending solution and more ink will give you a bold look. You choose.
- If you ink it....there are a lot of mediums that are hard to ink because of their non-porous nature (things like metal, sequins, glass, pearls and plastic). The beauty of alcohol inks is that they will bind to and dry on these types of non-porous surfaces! So ink away baby! You can customize those hard to ink items to make them your very own.
Once I created several backgrounds, I knew I wanted to keep the rest of my cards simple. I added some simple die cut greetings, and an embossed sub-sentiment to finish off my cards. These bold backgrounds don't need much else.
As you can see from the photos, I was able to get a variety of different looks depending on how I applied the ink. Which one is your favorite?
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you enjoyed this look at alcohol inks. If you make something, be sure to tag EllenHutsonLLC on social so we can check it out! We love seeing what you've made.
Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day.
XOXO
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe and share while you're there!
Supplies
|
|
January 15, 2018
Supplies and Techniques for adding Snow & Ice Effects
(Click on the pics to enbiggan)
Hey, y'all! Julie here, sharing a few products and techniques from the Frozen Product Bundle for adding snow and ice effects to your winter projects! I adore snow but we really don't get much, if any at all, on Whidbey Island, so I have to make my own winter wonderland on paper, LOL!
All three of these cards feature the Arctic Pals Stamp and Die set, along with the Strands Die.
Below the photos (scroll way down), I have a video that walks you through how to achieve each of these effects--all are easy and fun!
(sentiment borrowed from Totally Random Sayings)
TIPS FOR GLIMMER PASTE:
- Make your own "disposable" stencil using a die--80# card stock is a great weight for this type of stencil and reduces clean up!
- Zig Two Way Glue makes a great repositionable/removable adhesive--just allow it to dry thoroughly, until it is tacky to the touch.
- #100/#110 weight card stock tends to perform better with pastes (less buckling from thicker wet type mediums such as pastes)
- Moonstone Glimmer Paste is a clear color; ink colors beneath will show through, which can make for some wonderful effects!
- Remove the stencil (carefully) while the paste is still wet so it does not become permanently glued down to your project.
- Clean up palette knives/tools immediately or paste becomes extremely difficult to remove when dry.
- Depending upon how thickly applied, paste can take 10-20 min to dry.
TIPS FOR MICRO BEADS:
- Micro beads can also be applied to double sided sticky tape to make beaded borders.
- Try covering a stamped image with the wider double-sided sticky tapes and then applying the micro beads for beautifully unique effect!
- Made of glass, as opposed to plastic, these beads can also be used with Sticky Embossing Powder.
TIPS FOR PUFF EMBOSSING POWDER:
- The grind of this embossing powder is a little more coarse; use a well-inked embossing pad.
- It also has a textured, matte finish that cures to a hard finish; takes a little longer to heat emboss than regular grind powder. Take your time and make sure all areas get properly heated/embossed.
- Best suited for bolder images, as opposed to finely detailed.
TIPS FOR LIQUID APPLIQUE:
- May appear off-white, but whitens as it is heated
- Wet, freshly applied Liquid Appliqué will puff up very fluffy and irregular when heat is applied; if left to dry completely overnight, it will puff up very smoothly when heat is applied. Experiment to see which result you like best for your project.
- Whether wet or dried overnight, begin to heat with embossing gun about 6" away and gradually move in closer to the point where the Liquid Appliqué begins to puff up. Take care not to get so close you scorch it or the paper surface.
- If (wet) Liquid Appliqué "deflates" after heating, that means the outside surface is cured but it's still wet inside and needs to be heated for more time until it is fully dried.
- Glitter can be sprinkled into wet Liquid Appliqué for a puffy glittered effect.
- If the card is going to be mailed, cured Liquid Appliqué can often become flattened or crushed; to avoid this, you can apply clear embossing powder over the top of it while it is still wet and then heat emboss. The clear embossing powder will act as a hard, protective "shell".
WATCH THE VIDEO
Watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Thank you for giving it a thumbs' up and for subscribing!
SUPPLIES:
|
|
December 15, 2017
How To Make Cards That Move and Shake - Featuring The Party Bundle & Bottles of Bubbly
Hello everyone! I hope you are having a fabulous December. There is so much to love about this season, and I'm drinking it all in. Everything just seems a tad lighter and the party atmosphere is in the air! And if there's anything I love, it's a party...as long as I can be home and in my jammies by 9:30 pm. When I saw the Party Bundle available at Ellen Hutson this month, I knew my cards were going to stay true to that party spirit I feel everywhere.
I decided that a party isn't complete without some confetti, glitter and a little bubbly (sparkling cider or champagne). So the cards I created today are all about moving, shaking, confetti, glitter and bubbly. I'm going to walk you through the creation of two simple cards that move and shake. They're perfect for ANY celebration!
There are lots of ways to make cards that have interactive elements, but I really wanted to make these cards simple and manageable. I've created a shaker card and an Action Wobbler card to give the cards movement, without spending a ton of time creating them. These simple additions can really be the wow factor you're looking for! And I know the recipient always loves these types of cards.
Both of my cards feature products from the Party Bundle and the Bottles of Bubbly die set. I'll also be using the Cue the Confetti stamp set in my second card today. The Party Bundle pairs fabulously with all of the products from the Essentials By Ellen December release. I love bundles like this that act as a kit of sorts. Just pull out the bundle and a couple of stamps and dies and you'll be cranking out the cards in no time. I find it helps keep me focused on using the products in front of me and narrows down my focus, which makes the creating process much easier.
I'll walk you through the creation of these cards in the video tutorial below. Be sure to check it out. We're going to have some fun. I've also linked the products used in these projects below.
What newsletter would be complete without a few other ideas for interactive cards? Here are some of my favorites.
- Make it shimmy. Action Wobbles might be the easiest way to add a little movement to your cards, and they come in multiple sizes now! Check out THIS hilarious booty shakin' card by Sandy....it really moooooooooves. ;)
- Make it shake. Shakers are always a favorite of mine. Let's face it, anything with sparkly things that move around are sure to grab my eye. Click HERE to see a fabulous collection of shakers created by some of my favorite people.
- Make it slide. Slider cards are lots of fun and come in many forms. I love THIS ONE by Julie and THIS ONE by Carly. Here's another type of slider by Julie.
- Make it fling. Seriously, what could be more fun than a confetti flinging card? The new Confetti Flinger die set from Essentials By Ellen is sure to give anyone a surprise they won't forget. Want to see it in action? Here's a card by Julie featuring this fun new interactive die. I've also shared one on my personal blog. Click HERE to check it out along with a video tutorial!
- Make it pop. A three dimensional element on the inside of the card is sure to thrill anyone. I love Carolyn's pop up card! You can find it HERE.
- Make it shine. Real lights? On a card? Yes, please. Click HERE to see a holiday card I created with Chibitronics LED lights. Looking for non-holiday inspiration? Check out projects from Julie, Carly, Carolyn and Karolyn.
There are so many ideas for interactive cards, these are just a few of my favorites. Want to see more? Just head to The CLASSroom blog and type "interactive card" in to the search bar. That'll keep you busy for a while. So much inspiration there!
What's your favorite type of interactive card? I'd love to know. Leave it in the comments below. Is there one I didn't mention that you absolutely LOVE making?
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you've enjoyed this look at some cards that move featuring the Party Bundle...and a whole lot of other interactive cards as well.
Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day.
Watch The Video
Watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there!
Supplies
|
|
November 15, 2017
How To Create Rainbows That Sparkle And Shine!
Hi everyone! Thanks for joining me today! It's Carissa here with you today and I can't wait to share today's projects with you! I'll be featuring some of my favorite embellishments, Nuvo Crystal Drops and Pretty Pink Posh sequins, and creating rainbows that sparkle and shine!
I'll also be showing you the new Pretty Pink Posh Sparkle Dot Pattern Stamp Set. This stamp set is unlike any you've seen before and is so very versatile! This stamp set creates small dots on your project, which can then be filled with your favorite embellishments, inks or even stitching. There are a variety of shapes included in the set, along with a few stamps that allow you to create your own patterns, or customize the ones that are included. I especially love the idea of the solid dot stamp that can be used to stamp color in to the dot patterns. There are a lot of ways this stamp set can be used, and I'm just showing you a couple today.
I love Nuvo Drops and sequins for embellishing cards. These two items are fairly inexpensive and last a long, long time. I've chosen these embellishments to add the sparkle and shine to today's projects. But keep in mind, things like pearls, gems, and enamel dots are other great options for embellishing your cards.
Once my guides are stamped on my vellum card fronts, all I have to do is add the embellishments to make these cards sparkle and shine. Here are a few tips for embellishing with ease.
- Take the time to prime. I always prime my Nuvo drops before taking them to my projects. This will prevent air bubbles and splats on my final project. To prime your bottle, simply use a scratch piece of paper to get the product moving down the nozzle. Trust me, you won't regret this step.
- Keep it straight up! To create more uniform dots, make sure you are releasing the pressure on the bottle just a tad and pull straight up. This will keep those drops from falling to the side. They self level, so if you're applying them straight up and down, they should dry very uniform.
- Jewel picking. I used the Marvy Uchida Jewel Picker to help me place my sequins on to my dot patterns. This was a life saver with these small 4mm sequins. There's a bit of a learning curve, I'll admit, but once you get the hang of it, it really makes your job quite easy. I used the smaller end since I'm using smaller sequins, but there is also a larger end for larger embellishments. Place your sequin on your adhesive and give a gently roll or twist and you lift away. (I'll show you this in the video tutorial below, so be sure to check it out.
In addition to embellishing with Nuvo Drops and sequins, I also created some die cuts to finish off the card scene. The clouds from the Essentials By Ellen Silver Linings die set and a gold glitter sunshine word were the perfect additions to this card. I used a mixture of vellum and white card stock for the clouds, creating various textures and layers. And who doesn't love a good gold glitter die cut? I think silver glitter card stock would be a great option as well.
Be sure to check out the video tutorial below. I'll walk you through the creation of these cards and give you some tips and tricks along the way.
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you enjoyed these card projects featuring embellishments that really make your cards sparkle and shine! Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day!
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on the Ellen Hutson YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there!
Supplies
|
|
October 15, 2017
Ranger Distress Oxide Ink Stamping - Featuring Snailed It!
Hi everyone! I’m so glad you’ve joined me today. Today I’ll be sharing a card featuring Distress Oxide Inks and the new Essentials By Ellen Snailed It stamp set.
I’ve done a previous In Touch Newsletter featuring Distress Oxide Inks. In that edition, I went over some Distress Oxide blending. Today, I’ll be featuring some of the beautiful Distress Oxide autumn tones and I’ll be using them to stamp my images today.
These inks are fabulous for stamping. The pigment dye ink properties leave you with a nice solid image, much like a pigment ink, that is fast drying, like your favorite dye inks. Now these inks will stay wet a little bit longer than a dye ink, but not nearly as long as a pigment ink. That extended wet time will allow you to add embossing powder over the top to achieve a colored embossed image with these inks.
These inks leave you with a finish unlike any other ink. These ink dry with a velvety or chalky appearance. It’s such a beautiful look.
Now keep in mind, these inks are water reactive. That means that if you expose them to moisture they will bleed out a bit. This is a great feature. But if you’re not looking for that more loose, watercolor look, you want to avoid over saturating these with mists or water. When you do add some water droplets, these inks will oxidize, leaving you with another completely different look that you cannot achieve with other types of ink. I’ll show you this feature in the video tutorial below.
The pigment property also allows you to stamp on dark colors of cardstock and maintain the color.
For today’s card, I used Distress Oxide inks in Frayed Burlap, Antique Linen, Fossilized Amber, Peacock Feathers, Spiced Marmalade, Peeled Paint, Twisted Citron, and Vintage Photo. These colors work beautifully for fall. The Antique Linen color really surprised me. I love the color…kind of a taupe-ish cream color. I’ll be using this one a lot more in the future.
To embellish my card just a bit, I’m using some Tonic Nuvo Drops. I used it to create the enamel dots on the front of my card and the slug’s eyes. The Nuvo Drops are a perfect accent for your cards. And DIY’ing your own enamel dots means you’ll always have plenty of the color and size that you need for your card projects.
Be sure to check out the video tutorial below. I’ll walk you through the creation of this card and show you some great tips and tricks along the way.
Also, be sure to check out the entire Essentials By Ellen October release. There are some fabulous products that I know you are going to love.
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you enjoyed this project. Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day.
Watch The Video
You can watch this video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there.
Supplies
|
|
September 15, 2017
Score Big This Crafty Season! - Projects Featuring The Scor-Buddy Scoring Tool
Hey everyone! Thanks for stopping by today! I have some fun projects ideas to share with you featuring the Scor-Buddy scoring tool. This is an essential tool for any paper crafter. It’s not just for scoring card bases. There are so many other possibilities. Today, I’ll be showing you the basics of the Scor-Buddy and then creating three projects that are anything but basic.
The Scor-Buddy features commonly used measurements that are clearly marked, which makes it easy to use.
- To score a standard A2 size card, start with a piece of cardstock cut to 8 ½ x 5 ½ iches and score along the groove marked with an *
- To create a quick gate fold card, score along the grooves marked with a
- Need a brochure fold? Score any 11 inch piece of card stock at the grove marked with a Ñ.
- Want to create a Z fold card? That’s easy too! Start with a piece of 8 ½ x 5 ½ inch card stock. Score at the * and the first . Boom. Done.
Quick and easy, right? Since I also use the 5 ½ groove a lot, I marked that with a permanent marker, so it’s quick and easy to find.
The Scor-Buddy also has a magnetized area at the top to hold on to your brads, paper clips or a die in a pinch. It comes with its own scoring tool as well which securely locks in to place at the top of the tool.
The scoring tool included with the Scor-Buddy will work just fine, but I honestly prefer a Teflon bone folder. Teflon bone folders are known for their quality and they don’t leave a shiny mark on your card when used to reinforce your fold lines. In my book, it’s another must have tool.
I’m going to walk you through the basic folds in the video tutorial below. Then I’ll show you how to make a quick and easy box and a quick and easy bag. We’ll also talk about how you can customize the size of your box or bag to fit your needs.
To decorate all of the projects, I’m using some new stamps and dies from the Essentials By Ellen line. I’m a sucker for anything holiday, and since it’s never too early to get a move on those holiday projects, I decided to create some projects to have on hand. I love that these products work so well together, which has allowed me to mix and match these products for different looks.
Let’s quickly talk about the measurements I used for the gift card box I created today.
Start with two pieces of card stock measuring 4 ¾ inches x 3 ¼ inches. Then score at ½ inch on all four sides. Do this to both pieces of card stock. You’ll have to use your scissors to make four small cuts. These cuts create the tabs that you’ll use for adhesive…and I’ll show you this in the video tutorial below.
For the gift bag I created, I started with two pieces of card stock cut to 6x6. I scored at ½ inch and then at 2 ½ inches. If you want your bag to have gussets, score at 1 ½ inches (right in the middle of the two score lines that you’ve already created), but don’t score all the way down. I find this step easier to do once I’ve created the score line along the bottom of the bag. I turned the paper 90 degrees and then scored at 1 inch. Repeat these steps on your second piece of card stock. Once again, you’ll have to use your scissors to make a couple of cuts…but this is the base of your bag. I’ll show you how to put it together in the video tutorial below.
I love this bag because you can use your favorite 6x6 patterned paper to create a custom bag. The finished size is perfect for all kinds of goodies. The finished bag measures 5 inches tall x 3 ½ inches wide x 2 inches deep.
Want to create your own box? Here’s a little formula for those who love math.
- How big do you want the top of your box to be? In my case, I wanted the box to house a gift card, so I wanted the top of the box to measure 3 ¾ inches x 2 ¼ inches.
- How deep do you want your box to be? This is your D value. Since a gift card isn’t very deep, I only needed a box that is ½ inch deep.
To find your paper size, just add 2 times the depth or 2D to each side of your of your top size. 3 ¾ + 2(1/2) X 2 ¼ + 2(1/2) giving me a finished paper size of 4 ¾ x 3 ¼. Then simply score all the way around at your D value. In this case, it’s ½ inch.
I always recommend using scrap paper to try out your box first, before using your last two pieces of your favorite patterned paper.
Want to create a custom size bag? Here’s a little formula for that!
- How tall do you want your bag to be? This will be your T value. In my case, I wanted my bag to be 5 inches tall.
- How wide do you want your bag to be? This is your W value. My bag measures 3 ½ inches wide.
- How deep do you want your bag to be? This is your D value. My bag is 2 inches deep.
To figure out your paper size for side one
W + D + ½ inch
For side two
T + ½D
Score side one at ½”, then at D + ½ inch
Score side two at ½ D value
Here’s what my formula looks like with MY measurements plugged in.
3 ½ + 2 + ½ = 6 inches for side one
5 + 1 = 6 inches for side two
My scores were then created at
½ inch and 2 ½ inches on side one
AND
at 1 inch on side two.
*remember, if you want to create a gusset, you’ll also score side one at ½ D + ½ inch. This is a partial score line that should not extend past the score line created on side two.
AND YOU THOUGHT YOU’D NEVER USE ALGEBRA IN REAL LIFE!!!!
I addition to cute little box and bag, I also created a fun gate-fold card. To keep it closed, and add a decorative element, I created a belly-band that slides over the entire card. I kept all of my decorative elements adhered to the belly-band rather than the card front to make it easy to slide on and off.
In addition to creating boxes, bags and specialty-fold cards, I love to use the Scor-Buddy to create score line accents on my cards. These simple little additions can add depth and texture to a clean and simple card.
There are so many ways to use your Scor-Buddy! I hope you’ve enjoyed this look at just a few of the ways to use yours!
It’s your turn to get creative. I’d love to hear what you like to do with your Scor-Buddy! Leave it in the comments below!
Thanks for stopping by today. Don’t foget to check out the video tutorial below. Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day!
XOXO
Carissa
Watch The Video
You can watch the video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe while you're there.
Supplies
|
|
Search our blogs for more information
Ellen Hutson LLC Copyright Notice
- The design work, text and photographs on this site belong to ©Ellen Hutson LLC and each individual designer that contributes to this site. This information is shared to inspire you. All content on this site is not to be used for commercial purposes without explicit permission. Thank you!
Ellen Hutson LLC Blog Inspiration
Categories
- Adhesives (8)
- Airbrushing (2)
- Altered Items (14)
- Art Parts (1)
- Christmas (3)
- Copic Markers (14)
- Copic Various Inks (9)
- Craft-a-Board (8)
- Dies - Cutting and Embossing (39)
- Embossing (5)
- Essentials by Ellen (13)
- Faber-Castell (6)
- Fabric Stamping (3)
- Foiling (3)
- Gelli Arts (1)
- Gift Ideas (16)
- Glitter (6)
- Halloween (1)
- Holiday (2)
- Home Decor (8)
- Hybrid Design (4)
- Ice Resin (1)
- Inchies (10)
- Ink Pads (13)
- Jewelry Making (4)
- Letterpress (2)
- Lifestyle Crafts (3)
- Lockhart Stamp Company (5)
- Markers - Dye Based (3)
- Mixed Media (1)
- Mixing Patterns (2)
- PanPastel (1)
- Paper Blossoms (2)
- Peel Off Stickers (2)
- Pergamano (1)
- piercing/ornare (2)
- Ranger Techniques (13)
- Rub Ons (2)
- Sewing (1)
- Soldering (3)
- Studio Line Paints, Claudine Hellmuth (10)
- Tips and Techniques (77)
- Tools (8)
- Valentines (2)
- Video (21)
- Vintaj (1)
- Watercoloring (16)