A few days ago I shared a technique on my blog, simple dreams, showing a fun coloring technique using a Prismacolor white color pencil. When using new techniques I like to experiment, trying the technique and testing it with different products. I really need to see for myself which products will help me achieve the best results. I don't quit until I feel satisfied that I have it "nailed". Well today I can honestly tell you that the cardstock and ink combination I used is one I feel really good about recommending.
I remember the days when my children were babies. Some days that seems like forever ago, and others it seems like it was just yesterday. It was in those days that the "black and white" image was a popular concept behind the development of baby toys. It brought those memories back in a big way when I was creating these flashcards to share with you.
Another memory that came back was from my school teaching days. I played all sorts of games with my students and some of them were using flashcards. The flashcards I created for this project would be ideal to use with small children who are just learning their sounds. They would also be fun for children who are learning to alphabetize. By forming a "train" placing the flashcards in the correct order it would just be another tactile method of teaching this skill. I really loved how the effect of the white on black leaves the look of a chalkboard - perfect for anything school related Ü
As I began today's project I tested the white inks that I have here at work. I came to the following conclusion:
- #1 Choice - Palette Hybrid, New Canvas (rooster on right)
- #2 Choice - Adirondack Pigment Pad, Snow Cap (rooster on left)
In the picture above I stamped the A Muse acrylic alphabet letter using Adirondack, Snow Cap on the left and Palette, New Canvas on the right. Again with acrylic stamps, images have a tendency to stamp differently than red rubber does and therefore my reason for sharing this image with you. I definitely lean towards using the Palette ink with acrylic stamps, and after working with the flash card images I prefer the Palette ink with the red rubber as well.
Next came the paper. After realizing that the Licorice cardstock just wasn't quite right, it was a bit to smooth and slippery, I went and pulled out as many different black cardstocks as I could find. The black cardstock I am recommending and have now made available to you in our store has just the right amount of tooth to grab the white wax from the Prismacolor pencil.
I share the image above with you for two reasons - the first is to once again show the level of contrast and sketch like quality this technique gives. But I did color it in too much in my opinion so that I could share how you can correct any little mistakes you might make. Notice the black Prismacolor pencil Ü
Yep, you guessed it. I was able to add some black back in over top of the white and thus define my image more. Hopefully you can see this, especially in the cupcake wrapper and the lower edge of the cupcake.
I hope this inspires you to try this technique. Please leave us a link or a comment if you have tried this technique for one of your creations. Remember to pick an image that is easily defined. As you can see with my flashcards you can also use the more finely detailed, complicated images such as the angel, but you will need some practice and a very sharp tip on your crayon for this technique to work properly.
Thank you for stopping by and I wish you a wonderful weekend filled with fun, relaxation and creativity.
Images used: Angel - Ornament Angel, Polka Dot Butterfly, Single Cupcake, Rooster, Amuse Polka Dot Alphabet
