Hey everyone! I hope you're having a great July! In this month's Ellen Hutson Newsletter, we're going to be taking a look at an "oldie but a goodie" Perfect Pearls.
Perfect Pearls are a great way to add some pearlescent shimmer to your cards. It's a different look than you can achieve using other mediums. Depending on the colors and techniques that you use with the Perfect Pearls, you can get many looks. Instead of a bold, in your face shimmer and shine like glitter paste or embossing powders, this is a more subdued pearlescent finish.
In the video tutorial, I'll be showing you some different ways you can use them. Be sure to check that out for more tips and tricks.
Here are a few ways you can use Perfect Pearls
Shimmer Over Stamped Images - Stamp you image in Versamark ink and then cover with Perfect Pearls to give a pearlescent finish to your stamped images.
Stenciled Shimmer - Apply ink to your project through a stencil and then pounce on Perfect Pearls.
Stamped Off Shimmer - Apply ink all over a die cut piece and pounce on Perfect Pearls. Then use a stamped inked with Versamark to remove the Perfect Pearls in just the stamped areas.
Shimmer Spritz - You can mix Perfect Pearls in water to create a shimmery spritz. Or use this pearlized water to watercolor for a subtle pearlescent finish on your watercolored project.
Perfect Pearls come in a lot of different colors. Try different colors of Perfect Pearls on colored card stock. You'll be surprised at the beautiful results you can achieve. My favorite is the Perfect Pearls in Mint on Mulberry card stock. Beautiful!
Perfect Pearls has a built in fixative to keep it in place. You can lightly mist your project once the Perfect Pearls are in place to lock them in place.
All of my projects today feature the new Mermaid's Tail stamps and dies from the Essentials By Ellen line. This is definitely my new favorite stamp and die combo. I love the big bold mermaid tail. It's the perfect focal image for A2 sized cards. You don't need much else on your card when you have a big, beautiful, shimmery mermaid tail as your focal point.
I also love the sentiments included with the Mermaid's Tail stamp set. There is a great mix of snarky sentiments, as well as encouraging sentiments. I mean, who doesn't love a sentiment that says "Mermaids Don't Have Thigh Gaps"? I can't wait to use the one that says "I want to be where the people aren't". But if snark isn't your thing, you've got plenty of options, like "make waves" and "keep swimming".
I've used a variety of sentiments on my card projects today.
So there you have it. A quick look at Perfect Pearls...and three fabulous mermaid projects to go with it.
I hope you enjoyed today's projects. Thanks for stopping by. Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous day!
Watch The Video
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If you're anything like me, you love having different looks for the same product! The Be-YOU-tiful die is a favorite of mine because I love that the letters are joined together to create one "unit", and the lettering style itself is thicker, providing some super fun options! Each of the ideas shown could be done with any die cut word of similar styling.
I wanted to create a bold statement with this design, but also wanted the coloring work to be quick and easy. A large image, like this Stampendous butterfly and Distress Stains made this one of the speediest watercolor projects I have ever done--like, EVER!!! I did pre-clean this stamp to "season" it; initially, it was repelling the water-based Distress Stains. A quick scrub with some stamp cleaner and patting it dry had it primed and ready to go. Another large scale butterfly that would be awesome with this watercolor method is one by Tim Holtz, HERE.
The beauty of using the Distress Stains for this watercolor method, is that the scrubby top made it easy to apply the color to the stamp surface, and there is no need to worry about spritzing the stamp with water! The Stains have just the perfect wetness and consistency to just apply color and stamp! BOOYAH! *fist pump*
Stacking multiple die cuts of black card stock into the negative space before gluing the watercolored die cut layer on top, pops it up just enough to define it and yet still retain that crazy cool almost "camouflaged" look--the one that makes the person you give it to wonder just how in the world you did that... But, of course, we know the easy-peasy secret! *wink*
TIPS:
Layer your paper and die on top of 4 thicknesses of unused dryer sheets (I typically fold two in half and then stack them together) before running through the Big Shot and you will be able to eject the die from the paper without a pokey tool, and all the bits and pieces will also stick to the dryer sheet without getting lost.
The gold foil accent dots on the butterfly card were achieved using the same method described below on the next card (Hint: This Two Way Glue Pen is your friend and one of my most favorite tools... Just sayin'...)
Ombré + glitter is a marvelous combo! Here it is highlighted by a gold foil background that was created by swiping a Two Way Glue Pen, allowing the glue to dry; it will become tacky to the touch when dry and allows you to press transfer foil sheets to it--a super fun and super easy way to quickly add foil accents to your projects! Gotta love that!
Be-YOU-tiful was die cut from iCraft double-sided adhesive foam; with the sticky on both sides you can mount it, and then remove the liner from the front side to add glitter or anything else that will stick! Be sure to watch the video to see how I mounted the die cut foam piece to the card without distorting its shape--it's a lot easier to see how it's done than try to understand a written description. :)
TIPS:
To apply glitter in an ombré fashion, choose 2-3 colors that blend well from one to the next, and keep your project tilted so glitter lands as much as possible on one area at a time.
I like to use disposable cereal bowls lined with coffee filters, one per glitter color. It allows me to keep the glitters from cross-contaminating, and it's easy to then funnel the glitter back into the jar when I'm finished. It also helps keep the mess at bay. Ask me how I know... *wink*
This final design is an example of "repeat impressions". The die was "debossed" using the Silicone Rubber Sheet with the Big Shot multiple times across the surface of Letterpress Paper. (Debossed = pressed down into the surface; embossed = the pattern is "reliefed" or raised from the surface)
I made a thick, chipboard like embellishment by die cutting the shape 3x from Neenah Solar White 110# card stock and a pretty floral patterned paper, layering and gluing them all together. It was then mounted over one of the debossed images.
TIPS:
I adore the debossed look on Letterpress Paper in particular, but you can also try watercolor paper or heavy weight card stocks; be aware that too much pressure can cause the paper surface to crack sometimes, so you will have to play with the amount of pressure/shims necessary with the type of paper you are using.
I did not have the Impressions pad handy, only the Silicone Rubber Sheet. So, I had to modify my sandwich as follows for the above results:
My comfort zone tends to be water-based mediums, but when I saw what Wendy Vecchi does with her Archival Inks (set 2 here) I was totally fascinated--the end result was a "smoky" watercolored effect that just looked so stunning, I had to try it myself! Even though I knew my fingers would get "inky"... *gasp*
Actually, it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it was going to be as far as the finger-staining went. ;)
I started with 3 colors of Archival Reinkers that I knew would work well for creating some fairly neutral backdrops I could get a lot of mileage out of:
I also had a shoebox lid lined with aluminum foil (this was so I could heat my little pieces and tilt the paper without burning my fingers, and the foil would prevent ink from getting all over inside the shoebox, which I also frequently use for heat-embossing).
The process (I have a video of the process towards the bottom of this post):
Apply a drop or two of Archival reinker to the non-stick craft sheet
Add droplets of rubbing alcohol with the dropper tool
Swirl the color around just a little with a palette knife (do not over mix to avoid muddying)
Place or swipe the stamping specialy paper into the mixture and lift out
Tilt and heat with embossing gun to push/move and swirl color across the surface
Add more droplets of rubbing alcohol to the paper surface to reactivate the ink to create more interesting patterns; continue to tilt and heat as desired
I was extremely pleased with the end results, and wishing I had MORE colors of the Archival reinkers! Out of curiosity, I grabbed some Copic reinkers and played around with combining those to the Archival colors, to see what would happen... WOW! It worked!!! Here are the end results:
Top row: All Archival Bottom row: Archival + Copic
Left: Copic + Archival, Right: Archival only
One thing I did note, which was difficult to capture on film, is that the Archival reinkers would smooth out, resulting in a completely smooth paper surface, whereas the Copic reinkers would pool and build up in some areas, resulting in a very shiny and raised/textural finish. The results with the Copics were also not quite as "smoky" looking.
Initially I didn't want to do anything with these beautiful pieces--in fact, now that I know what I'm doing and how easy it is, I'd like to do a whole series of these and just frame them for art on the wall!!!
But, I also thought they'd make stunning backgrounds for cards:
NOTE:The surface is actually slick when finished so the inked stamp can really slide around on you! Take care to stamp straight down, then lift the stamp straight up.
The process is every bit as easy as I described, but for those of you that appreciate a visual, I have done a video. Thanks for watching and please give it a thumbs up on YouTube! :)
The wood/woodgrain trend doesn't seem to be dropping off at all--I love the natural look and feel of real wood embellishments on my projects but sometimes, it can be fun to "dress" them up or alter them! There are TONS of fabulous wood shapes, embellishments and other alterable items that can be used!
There are so many different techniques that you can apply, but I thought it would be fun to share some recent things I tried. I must admit, I also love that they were easy to do! I also have a video that shows the different things I played with so you can follow along that way, if you like! :)
(select 720p for HD quality viewing)
White embossing on Real Wood sheets is a fabulous effect--just be sure to keep your heat gun a safe distance away to avoid warping! Wood veneer sheets are as thick as card stock, but they aren't designed to take high heat gun temperatures. If you do end up warping the wood, use plenty of strong-bonding adhesive over the entire back to mount it to your card base to avoid buckling.
Gelatos are a quick and easy away to apply creamy pigmented color directly onto wood surfaces--I didn't take the time to prime this wood veneer/shape with gesso, but if you were working on a project much larger than a card, you might do that. I tried using a water-brush to blend out the color, but I seemed to have better luck just using my finger tip!
Woodburning is such a beautiful artistic form. But, just the thought of me wielding a wicked hot woodburning tool is kind of scary. Ok, REALLY scary!!! Plus, I don't know that I'd be patient enough anyway. But, faux pyrography? Piece o' cake!
I used Memento Luxe Pigment Ink in Espresso Truffle and pressed a wood veneer butterfly against the inked surface. While the ink was still wet, I used a Tsukineko Brushstix to smudge the image lines to simulate that smoky woodburned look, and then heat set it. An image with lots of detail and open line work looks AMAZING with this technique!
At first glance you might think this is cracked porcelain tile, but yes, it's a wood veneer! I first applied a thin coat of regular white embossing paste, then Distress Paint, then a thin layer of Crackle Embossing Paste--let each coat dry completely before applying the next. To enhance the cracks, I applied Walnut Distress Ink, dabbing it on top with a foam blending tool and then spritzing it with water.
The dark walnut color seeps down into the cracks and tints them beautifully! After wiping the excess water on top away with a paper towel, I made sure the surface was completely dry, touched it up along the edges with a Wink of Stella Gold Brush Marker. When dry, I then applied a thick coating of Glossy Accents. The Glossy Accents goes on cloudy, but becomes crystal clear when fully dry, leaving a glassy, smooth finish on top!
The watercolor trend is one I am utterly nuts for and so glad to see it surging in popularity once again with not only card-making but scrapbooking as well! It is such a beautiful look and as stampers we are lucky to have so many options available to us for applying it to our projects!
While I'm not covering ALL the watercolor options out there, I wanted to share some methods and materials I've been having fun playing with and the results I've gotten. One thing I would urge anyone to do, is to experiment and play with the different methods/materials--watercolor can be a little unpredictable, which is partly why it is so lovely, so it helps to spend some time just exploring different ways of watercoloring and learning how to get the look you want. With the exception of a relative few things, there is no right or wrong. :)
TIPS:
If you plan to stamp an image and color it in, be sure to use a permanent, bleed-proof ink like Staz-On, Archival, or India Ink. This will keep the image lines from bleeding/mixing into the colors you are painting with. Although I used black for this article, some of these inks come in a range of colors so you are not limited to black only.
For optimal results, use water-based coloring tools or mediums that are water-soluble, such as:
Gelatos (Gelatos are a creamy water-soluble pigment, housed inside a chap-stick style tube and can be used on a variety of services; available in various sets and in individual colors, known as "Double Scoops". Pictured above is the Designing with Gelatos Starter Kit)
And while you can watercolor on a variety of papers, results will vary greatly so I recommend using bonafide watercolor paper for the best results; it is designed to handle water whereas other papers tend to pill/deteriorate*.
One thing I like to do is cut a sheet of watercolor paper into smaller pieces, like eighths. This way I don't feel like I'm wasting any of it with my little experiments and practice runs. :)
*Once you've gotten comfortable with your watercolor method, you might wish to try several other papers, which I have found can work for watercolor; it does take a little practice to recognize how dry/wet to keep your brush to avoid over-working the paper. I love using Smooth Bristol and Bazzill Marshmallow or Butter Mints for stamping single-layer watercolor cards because they have a smooth surface that allows for very crisp, even impressions.
In lieu of step-outs, I have a two-part video for you that demonstrates some fun techniques for the aforementioned supplies. Grab a cuppa and get comfy. ;)
Once you hit the "play" button, you can click the 720p setting for HD quality
Even though I tend to be a control freak--and you can have quite a bit of control with it, depending on the methods you use--one of the things I personally adore most about watercolor is how loose and free it is--I like to slop the color around, to allow color to flow outside the lines, to pool, and intensify in some areas, and be very translucent in others and even get "splotchy".
I hope my play-time with watercolor encourages you to explore and enjoy it, too!
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SUPPLIES & MATERIALS: (Note - Although listed in sets here, Ink Pads and Gelatos are also available individually)
The book begins - "If tomorrow morning the sky falls..." As of late I have felt the sky falling and when trying to prepare for this month's newsletter post I pulled out a book that I was given back in 1991 by a dear friend. We had just received the new Art Squares and when thinking about how I would create some type of trading card I put two and two together and realized that inspiration was at my finger tips.
My inspiration is the book titled "If You're Afraid of the Dark" by Cooper Edens. The whimsical illustrations and sweet words bring a smile to your heart! So in that moment, ideas began to flow.
This little book is truly amazing and I encourage you to get a copy to share with your children, a friend, or just for you!
With this post I am happy to share a brand new addition to our Inchie Art product line. In addition to Inchies, Inchie +, and Twinchies, Inchie Arts has rebranded their product line and added two new sizes to that line - ATC sized (2 1/2" x 3 1/2") and 3" squares. These Art Squares are now availabe in seven different colors. I am so excited about these additions due to the ever growing popularity of Mixed Media art. The surface of these squares allows for you to stamp, watercolor, spritz, add gesso, paste... you name it, give it a try.
Today I will share how to use several different product lines with the ATC cards - Claudine Hellmuth's Studio Line, Distress Paint, Dylusions Ink Sprays and Embossing Paste - let the exploration begin.
"If your heart catches in your throat... ask a bird to sing."
Cut patterned paper pieces to adhere to your ATC Art Square. For this card I am using the Wheat color ATC card together with a couple of papers from the Studio Calico Classic Calico Collection Volume 3. To adhere the paper to the trading card use Studio Matte Medium. This adhesive is fantastic to use with paper and many other items.
At CHA Claudine taught a fabulous way to utilize her stencils and paint on projects. Using tissue paper you can create fantastic layered looks and be able to place your objects exactly where you want them... with no mess!
Position the stencil and use an ink blending tool (be certain to use the foam pad version) and a small amount of Studio Paint. After I shot this photo I actually added a very small amount of the teal to alter the sky blue color ever so slightly.
Allow to fully dry. You can heat set it with your Heat It tool if you are in a hurry as the paint layer is so thin.
Paint a layer of Studio Multi Medium on your trading card and position the tissue paper atop the trading card. Then paint a second layer of Multi Medium over the top of the tissue paper. Allow to dry.
The effect of Stencil Paste when used with stencils is fantastic. Apply a small amount to the straight edge of a craft scraper and smooth this over the area of the stencil you would like to use. You can mask off any areas you do not want the paste to seep through - in this case I had plenty of space to work without risk of making a mess, so no masking was necessary.
Remove the stencil immediately after adding the paste. I like to clean my tools immediately after use for ease, BUT another great tip Claudine shared for cleaning those stencils that might have dried paint, is to put it in a container and add regular rubbing alcohol. This helps to easily remove the paint from the surface of the stencil (AND an added bonus is that it works for removing paint from clothing as well ;-D)
Another product that adds wonderful dimension when using stencils is Studio Gesso! In the picture above I have mixed the gesso together with Studio Sky Blue paint.
Using tissue tape to ast as my mask, I tape off all areas of the stencil that I did not want gesso to seep through. Apply in the same manner as you would the Embossing Paste. Work quickly as you need to remove the stencil immediately to avoid "seepage".
As you can see I did get some "seepage", but it turned out to be a happy accident...
You can see in the closeup picture below that I used Blank Canvas paint on the end of a small brush and stippled it over the blue paint creating this fantastic little shadow. Yep, everything works out in the end :-D
Use a fingertip knife to cut away the excess tissue paper.
Add a sweet heart pearl...
and listen to the birds sing in your heart.
"If you find your socks don't match... stand in a flowerbed."
Dylusions Ink Sprays can be used in multiple ways - spritz with them and paint with them. For intense color add the spray to a watercolor brush using a pipette. For less intense watercolor effects spritz a little ink on a non-stick craft sheet and use a waterbrush filled with water to apply the ink.
To fill the watercolor brush unscrew the barrel of the brush and remove the black valve. Add the ink, insert the valve and you are ready to paint with delicious intense color. I prefer to use Tim's watercolor brush for this application as the color of the barrel is clear, whereas the Niji barrel is green in color. Using the Niji for all my water projects makes it easy to identify the difference very easily.
TIP: Store these brushes alongside your bottles by using a rubberband to attach them to the bottle and easily identify which colors you have at your fingertips.
Art Squares are available in white which are perfect for watercolor techniques. For best results be certain to always use the pebbled side of the Art Squares. Position an Eclipse Tape mask over the flowers...
and stamp cute little Ruby with her boots hidden in the beautiful blooms. Remove the mask and paint.
Simply watercolor directly on the ATC card using the beautifully intense Dylusions inks. As you can see when I first started I had a rather mottled look that was a little too dark for my liking. I simply brushed over this surface with my waterfilled waterbrush and used a paper towel to dab off the excess color creating a fabulous sky.
It is simple to create your own little cloud masks. Attach a couple of small Eclipse Tape strips to a piece of typing paper and die cut two sizes of clouds.
Reposition the mask over the flowers and one over cute little Ruby's body.Then position the cloud masks on your project using the White Distress Paint dabber to add texture. Allow to dry as shown, or use a paper towel to dab away some of the excess paint for a fluffier effect.
Add detail to the flower centers and buttons with a Clear Gloss pen. (Sorry for the poor photo - I just couldn't get a better photo of this little detail.)
Standing in a bed of flowers makes everything better!
"If you're afraid of the dark... remember the night rainbow.
Distress paint has fabulous coverage - I began with a white ATC card!
Apply the Distress Paint direct to the card. As you can see the surface is streaky, but...
wipe over the surface with your finger and it all magically smooths out! Distress Paint will easily wipe off your fingers - yeah! Once it is dry it becomes permanent on your surfaces, yet it will still come off your hands with ease.
With the paint still wet, spritz with Dylusions ink and watch the paint react to the waterbased spray - WAY cool!
Apply heat to dry enough to remove the tacky nature.
Situate a starry stencil and spritz with White Linen Dylusions Ink Spray. It creates an awesome night sky effect as it dries.
Apply a small amount of silver embossing paste to the straight edge of a craft scraper.
Swipe over your stencil work from the bottom up allowing the paste to feather out as you move upwards for a random look.
It was amazing to observe the waterbased Dylusions paint seep up through the paste as it dried. Unfortunately I did not think to take a picture at that point because I set the stencil back in place once the paste was dry and reapplied more silver paste over the top because I wanted to truly have a silver background. If you look at the final picture below you can sort of see what I am talking about as the stars towards the top have a purple cast to them. Experimentation is going to lead you to many fascinating discoveries!
Dab three different colors of Distress Paint on your non-stick Craft Sheet and use a waterbrush to pick up those colors swiping them across watercolor paper to create a rainbow effect. I started at the top with Barn Red, then added a stripe of Mustard Seed, cleaning my waterbrush and then blending a strip of the two colors to create an orange. Continue adding and mixing colors until your rainbow is complete. Allow the paper to dry and then cut out the rainbow and apply 2-way glue to the entire surface. Sprinkle with Warm Highlights glitter and remove excess glitter.
Once your base is completely dry attach the rainbow using 3D pop dots.
"If there is no happy ending... make one out of cookie dough."
I hope that this inspires you to pull out a favorite book and be inspired. Create an entire series on your own or ask some friends to join in the fun and then trade your cards. Above all, enjoy the time you get to spend just fiddling around with your crafting supplies and run away from life for just a little bit!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!!!
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!!!
