Having images flow from one layer to another is a fun visual trick that adds an interesting element to a design. A couple weeks ago I shared how to do this with patterned paper but how can you do it with stamping? It can be very difficult to line things up perfectly when stamping in layers. Almost impossible if you will. There are all sorts of stamping methods for lining things up but I must admit that I dislike any technique that takes too long.
Today I'm sharing a fun technique I learned years ago that I've always loved. It's so long ago that I can't remember how I came across it and what it might be called so I've made a up a name for it that describes it in my mind....Seamless Tiers. Each layer of stamping flows from one layer seamlessly to the next. When I first saw this technique I was quite amazed and then surprised at how easy it is to do.
To start off with you'll need three layers of cardstock. I've designed this card as a 4.25x5.5" vertical card but this technique also looks beautiful on a square card design. Very classic. Make sure each of your layers evenly stack with an even border.
Next I chose my stamps. This technique looks beautiful color but I love how graphic it looks in black and white so I chose some Hero Arts stamps that coordinate in style and and also look beautiful in a simple black image.
Just before you begin stamping you want to make sure all of your layers are lined up perfectly on top of each other and lightly adhered so that they don't shift. I used some Micro Glue Dots for this. You want an adhesive that you will be able to take apart the layers in a later step.
When beginning stamping a collage, it's always a good idea to stamp the sentiment first if you have one so that you get the placement just where you want it. The other stamps can fit easily around the sentiment. Next comes the larger images as the smallest can fit into any spaces you might need filled at the end.
Here's my finished stamping. Note how the depth of the cardstock leaves a small unstamped area around each layer. Matting the layers with a thin mat will cover that up.
Take the layers apart, adhere the largest stamped layer to the cardstock base. To cover up the faded edges, mat the other two layers with a very fine mat in black cardstock. I like to use a mat that is 1/8" larger than the height and width of the layer. When adhering the layers, carefully line up the images to get that seamless look.
I loved this card in simple black and white but decided to add the slightest subtle touch of color the the images as a highlight. Pastel Pencils are a quick way to add soft color to each flower center and you can also match up the white roses by adding some pastel color to them as well.
Thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom! Have a wonderful and creative weekend!
Supplies: Cling Etched Flowers Stamp, Essential Messages Stamp set and Indie Bloom Butterflies and Wildflowers stamp set by Hero Arts, Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger, Solar White Cardstock by Neenah, Black Cardstock, Vintage Paper Roses by Maya Road, twine, Vintage Black Pearl Trinket Pin by Maya Road, Yellow PITT Pastel Pencils by Faber-Castell
