Today's project was inspired by the Aurora Borealis image from the May Color Badge.
LINK: Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE. Thanks for the thumbs' up and for subscribing to our channel!
How many nine-letter words would you like to block out?
BRAYER TIPS:
Use a piece of kitchen rubber shelf liner under your ink pad to keep it stationary on your work surface. (I couldn't find mine so my ink pads were scootching all over the place. So annoying.)
Lift and roll for continuous motion when inking brayer and when applying color to project. (back & forth only inks one spot...)
Start off the project and roll onto the project for the smoothest application of color; roll all the way off onto the other side.
Grids can be helpful for masking edges evenly.
When changing colors of ink, roll prior ink off the brayer onto scratch paper and then load with your next color; avoids cross contamination and muddying of colors.
ALPHA DIE CUT ALIGNMENT TIPS:
Use a grid mat and washi tape to align and hold alphabet die cuts in position when mounting.
Those little black stars get me every time... *cheesy grin*
Our friend Amy Rysavy has a fabulous idea about how to quickly add adhesive to the back of your die cuts to make them into stickers using the Xyron Creative Station Lite! It's such a great way to build scenes with your stamps & dies! Check it out:
Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE! Thanks for sharing some comment love and a thumbs up with Amy there and be certain to subscribe to our channel for other fantastic videos!
They are a thicker/creamier consistency type ink that dries slower and contains glycerin, which allows embossing powder to stick to the stamped image for heat embossing.
Pigment inks provide great inking/coverage on both rubber and clear photopolymer stamps.
Pigment inks (as opposed to dye, which absorb quickly into the paper surface) tend to sit on the paper surface and are more opaque.
Most pigment inks will not dry on non-porous surfaces and must be heat embossed to seal the ink to the surface. However, there are several fast-drying pigment inks, i.e. Brilliance, that are designed dry on non-porous surfaces, such as glossy/coated card stocks.
Pigment inks are available in a wide range of colors and metallic hues; colors tend to be very richly saturated and stamp very crisply, without feathering.
Can be applied "direct to paper", blended on card stock, blended directly on the stamp (with sponge daubers or other similar applicator).
Should be heat set/thoroughly dry before using tape runner or dry adhesives over top.
Once heat set/fully dry, images stamped with (most) pigment inks can be colored with alcohol markers and/or water-based coloring mediums.
Work well for stamp "kissing". See the video. :)
Hope this gave you some helpful insights for ways to use pigment inks and what they are especially good at! :)
You can see the entire range of pigment inks we offer right HERE.
I remember when I first learned to heat emboss. It was magical then, and pretty much still is! Today I'm sharing some basic how-to's, as well as some tips for getting the best heat embossing results on your cards.
LINK: Watch in HD on our YouTube channel HERE. Thanks for giving us a thumbs' up and subscribing to our channel!
Embossing Powders are available in a variety of finishes:
Clear
Transparent colors
Opaque colors
Metallics
Glitter infused
Special effects (glow-in-the-dark, "sticky" for adhering glitter, flocking, or foils)
They also come in a variety of "grinds":
Regular
Detail/fine
Coarse/ultra thick
Sometimes, you don't need much more than heat embossing to create a beautifully finished card.
Prep your paper surface with an anti-static pouch or powder tool; it will eliminate any moisture or oils from your finger tips that can cause unwanted powder to stick in unwanted areas.
Stamp images with a "sticky" ink, either clear, like Versamark, or a colored pigment ink. A well-inked pad will give much better results than a dry one.
Work over a piece of scrap paper or a coffee filter to catch excess powder to return to the jar.
With fine detail images or small-ish/delicate word stamps, you may achieve better results with a fine grind or "detail" embossing powder.
Pre-heat your embossing gun about 30 seconds to reach optimal temperature.
Place the embossing gun close enough to watch the powder melt, turning from granular to to raised and smooth/high gloss and move on to the next area, to avoid over-heating the finished embossing or scorching the paper.
Allow a few seconds for the embossing powder to cool/set to avoid smearing.
If you're new to embossing, I hope you find these tips helpful!
The Misti from My Sweet Petunia is a stamping tool that will take your work to the next level. This week in the CLASSroom we've been featuring this fabulous precision stamping tool. There's so many different ways to use it and I'm excited about how it makes even a beginner stamper, stamp like a pro.
One of the techniques that the Misti makes so much easier is two-step or three-step stamping. Layering those images perfectly together can be a constant headache when stamping by hand but today I'll show you how simple it is with the Misti.
I'm also featuring the Painted Rose stamp set from Altenew. It's absolutely gorgeous and makes stunning large layered blossoms.
Here's what the stamp set looks like. You can see how the images layer together and there are beautiful sentiments included as well.
To use the Misti you simply open it up and hold the card stock in place with magnets. You can also place it more securely in the corners if you don't plan on stamping off the edges. I've lined it up with the included grid paper pad. My paper pad is a little wrinkly looking but it does not come that way. I had a little craft room mishap...well, flood...and it got a little damp just before I was creating this project.
To begin stamping, place your UNINKED stamp face DOWN on top of the card stock layer.
Then bring the hinged clear panel down and pick up the stamp. It's just like placing it on a large acrylic block!
Open the panel, ink your stamp, then press back down onto the card stock layer. That's it!
Now to get the 2nd layer of stamping, you take the next size of rose image and place the CLEAN stamp facedown on the image. Line it exactly where you want it. It makes this sooo much easier to do when you can line it up uninked. That's the beauty of the Misti. Again, bring the acrylic hinged layer down, pick up the stamp, ink it, then press onto the card stock.
Repeat the same steps by lining up the top rose image, inking, then stamping.
It will look something like this. I've used Avery Elle pigments ink and the product links are listed below.
Once the rose is finished, move onto the second rose image and repeat all the same steps.
Yes, using the Misti will take a tiny bit longer but you're actually saving time as there will be no inky mishaps!
Once the roses are done, fill in the greenery layers by using exactly the same steps as before. I'm loving how easy this makes layered stamp images! It's always difficult to judge exactly where you are lining up the stamp when your hand is in the way.
And of course, the Misti really shines when stamping sentiments. If you've ever stamped a sentiment, then I'm pretty sure you ruined a card or layer at least once! Those sentiments can be hard to stamp perfectly lined up and perfectly inked.
To use the Misti to stamp a sentiment, first lay out your sentiment stamps where you want them. Uninked of course!
Press the top down to pick up the sentiments and make sure they are lined up perfectly straight on those grid lines. Ink the sentiment then stamp. If for some reason you didn't ink it well enough, you should be able to reink the stamp and restamp in EXACTLY the same place! Love it!
Here's what my stamped panel looked like at this point. It's pretty but I wanted to add just a few more finishing touches.
Sponging ink along the top and part of the sides gives a graduated effect and ties it together.
Next for a little dimension I added small dots of Liquid Applique. Don't let them dry but inside...give them a little blast of heat with the Heat Tool!
They will puff up and make darling little white blossoms to accent the design. Easy and oh so pretty!
Have you tried the Misti! It's the perfect tool for making stamping a million times easier...and no more wasted paper!
Thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom! Happy stamping!
I haven't made a shaker card in a while and thought I'd try making one that features "negative" die cut stamping--the MISTI made it so easy to do accurately, with no second guessing! I've also had this gorgeous birthday set by Concord & 9th for some time and have been dying to use it! The Happy Day stamp set and coordinating dies are available separately, BUT you can also get them in a bundle HERE, at 31% savings!
I thought the gold foil access on the patterned paper (On Trend 2) really complimented the simple gold embossing of the cake just perfectly, and, of course, those Pretty Pink Posh Sequins the ultimate shaker card filler... *dreamy sigh*
Link: Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE! Thanks for watching, subscribing and giving us a thumbs’ up!
There are times when you can eyeball it, and times when if you do, the probability of botching the whole project is high. This project is definitely the latter.
Evenly spaced repeat stamping is a task best handled with a stamp positioning tool, like the MISTI.
Although I used the same beautiful color of ink (Avery Elle pigments), you could easily clean the stamp each time and use a different colored ink for each impression to create a rainbow effect. Cool beans, eh?!
LINK: Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE! Thanks for giving us a thumbs up and subscribing to our weekly video series!
I'm so used to coloring images in that I have to remind myself how striking a design can be when you do the exact opposite--with the help of the Molotow Masking Pen, it is a lot easier than you think! Here, I've mortise (reverse) masked my leaves and then watercolored... Love LOVE this effect!
I couldn't have gotten this result by using a paper type mask, due to the watercolor/water involved. Loving this method and the results!
Hi there and welcome to another #TexturalTuesdays feature! It's Lisa back on The CLASSroom Blog with another fun project featuring the We-R-Memory Keepers Fuse Tool today. If you've never tried this handy dandy gadget? I'd suggest giving it a whirl. Even if I, personally, needed a bit of a learning curve it sure is a lot of fun and can see using it a lot in future projects. (ie. Christmas Cards -- woohoo!!)
I'm always honest with you all. So, I'll be honest again. I was soooo stumped on how to use this. I looked at about a squillion videos. But the one I found most helpful was THIS one by Julie Ebersole. (Massive love to your creative noggin', Julie! ♥ )
She can make anything look easy. (Her VIDEO from yesterday is another shining example.)
I melted everything in sight and my cat hid under the bed before I watched Julie's video. I only wish I were kidding. Poor kitty. So, for everyone's safety and sanity... I CASE'd Julie. :)
I would highly suggest planning a day to play with this. Look at all the videos. Go slow. Be patient. (Unlike me.) Making the pockets are so fun and can be used for all sorts of embellishments and ideas! Think outside of the box. If you're a scrapbooker this would be great for a waterfall project for photos. Ellen Hutson, LLC sells a lot of different attachments for the Fuse tool, as well. So fun for a decorative detail!
Here's a few extra views of today's card:
And I had to show you the itty-bitty pocket full of hearts! ♥
I hope that you like my spin on Julie's card. Everyone needs to get their Fuse on! Have an awesome Tuesday!!
We're playing with the WRMK Fuse and making crazy cool things with the Essentials by Ellen Storage Sleeves! So easy and fun--gosh I adore FUSE-ing things! One of my all-time favorite tool acquisitions, I do declare!
I wanted to do a clear card of sorts ... And, I wanted to have something "suspended"/stationary inside the shaker pocket I was making and the confetti movin' around it.
I actually cut a 4.25" section completely off the bottom of one of the small Storage Sleeves, and set the top part with the flap aside for something else...
I LOVE how it turned out! (I also discovered it would fit onto an A-2 card front--I didn't know that until afterwards and of course there was a lot of monkey clapping going on at that moment...LOL!)
So, you could use it as is, or add some adhesive behind that middle part where it won't be seen and mount it to a card front of any color you like! *fist pump*
And, that's what I did with the leftover flap part! *cheeky grin*
Wouldn't that be a sweet thing to tuck into a card or letter?
Masking is one of my most favorite techniques--among other things, it's a great way to create the illusion of more layers! This particular use of masking is a technique I learned from Dawn Woleslagle, owner of WPlus9
I wanted to see if I could simulate the look using different supplies to apply the color; after a little trial and error, I found that using pale colors of ink worked the best for me.
This is such a fun, easy technique with fab results and I love that you can achieve the look in a variety of ways, from blending/spongingink, to air-brushing with your Copics or even using spray mists! *fist pump*
I haven't made a clear card in forever and I've always wanted to try something with alcohol markers and a see-through window. And, lately, I've been seeing all these fun rainbow cards all over the interwebs--so purdy!!! *ogle*
I snagged an embossing folder in my stash with a tight pattern to it, but you could use any embossing folder you have. I love the texture the design adds to the clear plastic--I could get addicted to making these!
Now, I will say that in hindsight, the next time I make one of these, I will either add another layer of plain clear acetate behind the textured panel, OR, I will mount my window to a white base card and not die cut the window through the card front at all; I didn't realize that although the Copics dry (and blotting helps), any moisture from my fingertips seemed to cause it to transfer to my hands and I had to really be careful not to get inky fingerprints all over the white card. GAAAAAH!!! I got away with it, tho... heh, heh, heh! *wink*
One of the fab things about our Basic Alpha stamp set, is that we decided to include duplicates of every letter and number--in some cases, you'll find we actually included 3. Because there's nothing like trying to spell something out and running out of characters, eh?! Yep!
Due to the "block" style of the lettering, you also have even a little more flexibility--goin' vertical, instead of the normal horizontal format.
TIP: As I mention in the video, I actually did some stamp surgery prior to starting my project: I trimmed away all the excess polymer at the base/edges of each stamp, taking care that I didn't cut into or cut away any portion of the letter itself. Yes, I performed surgery on every character in the stamp set. Because I can.
Mwuah ha ha ha haaaaaa!!!
OK, that sounded evil, but really, it's just that doing so didn't alter the way the stamp itself performs and allows me to mount the letters even tighter to each other--if I'm gonna actually take the time to spell something out with stamps, I honestly want to stamp all the letters simultaneously, as opposed to one letter at a time... *painful*
Dark ink + offset heat embossing in gold = shadow effect.
White ink on kraft + offset stamping with gorgeous dye inks = 3D effect. (a.k.a. faux embossing or faux letterpress--I know, everybody has a different name for the same dang thing...!!!)
UBER.COOL.
In the video you'll see how I used the MISTI to get everything stamped with spot-on spacing AND placement.
This technique, in and of itself, is very simple/basic stamping, and yes, you could use a regular positioner to accomplish the above; but as I mention in the video, this particular technique would be considerably more labor and time intensive, given the amount of repetition, and the swapping of ink colors, etc. to achieve the look.
The Standard MISTI was best suited for this project, given the space needed to move the paper to the left or to the right, but I also love my Mini MISTI for other projects that don't require as much space, or movement of the paper--it has a smaller footprint that really comes in handy when your work surface shrinks, too... (ask me how I know... *snort*)
MORE TIPS:
I have a really hard time seeing if letters are aligned straightly when reading backwards so I find it easier to align them first on a plastic grid (right side down) and then transferring them to the MISTI. You'll see me do this in the video.
Depending on what you're spelling out, finished project dimensions, etc., practice on some scrap paper to determine spacing; make adjustments as needed.
I find it extremely helpful to choose a measurement/mark on the MISTI ruler to act as my "register"; for this particular card, which was square, I aligned the right side of the card at the 2 1/8" mark.
This placed the center of my card (which was 4 1/4" wide) at the 4 1/4" mark on the MISTI ruler. I shifted my paper 3/8" each time I made a new impression, to get the equal spacing. You'll notice I stamped the right side of my card first, and then the left side, but I always used that 2 1/8" register mark on the right as my guide for shifting the paper whether it was left or right.
If you plan to heat emboss over dye inks, make sure the surface is completely dry and devoid of any oil from fingertips, etc.
Sometimes, the oddest things inspire a design--this one was based on a bedding set in a Land of Nod catalog photo (<--link). I fell in love with the bedspread and there was a throw pillow... A lovely girl's room, of course--just beautiful!
It's always so gratifying to translate an inspiration photo like that into a card... I love how it turned out!
In today's video I talk about working with full card-front (a.k.a. "cover plate") style dies. I show two die cutting methods that work well for me; be aware that large dies like this, with more intricate patterns, cut best with a shim/additional pressure and to be on the safe side, I usually pass it through the machine back & forth a few times--especially if I'm cutting through thicker materials, such as the 140# watercolor paper I used on this card.
Big day tomorrow! Yup! A brand spankin' new release and a fully loaded hop--so much to inspire and spark those creative juices!
Today, I'm sharing a sneak preview of a new stamp set, Basic Alpha. We packed as many duplicate letters and numbers as we could into it so you'd have lots of options for customizing your card greetings! WOOT!
I saw the most adorable poster on Pinterest the other day and it hit me that you could absolutely achieve a similar effect with a simple, clean alpha set like this one!
The trick is getting them lined up with old eyes like mine, LOL!
I'm sure there's more than one way to do it, but today's video shows a method that seems to work pretty well for me and these old eyes... ;)
Brace ya' self: I used purple. I know, right? I almost never use purple. I just always have the worst time with purple so I avoid it. But, I always see pink and purple together on Valentines, so I figured I couldn't go terribly wrong. Hah!
Foil is super hard to shoot, so you'll have to forgive the lighting in these photos and trust me when I say the card is prettier in real life than I could capture on camera...
I didn't know if this was really gonna work over the watercolor until I tried it, and lucky me!!! The first go was a winner! YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS, Preciousssss!!! fist pump
As I mention in the video, I've made this "buckle" card for years, but always done it by hand, and had to have a template, etc. I love that by using the Mini Windows die set, it's now so quick & easy to get this effect--you could even do multi-buckles (, depending on the height of your card, altho I must admit I am kinda partial to the dainty look of this square card--just feels so boutique chic to me! And, y'all know how I love that! ;)
OK, I do have to stop and gush a tad on the color of this card stock: Pale Rose Card Shoppe by Bazzill. I have been waiting FOREVER for this shade of "blush" pink in a dyed card stock --it's kind of a shell pink. Reminds me of pale pink champagne. Want.to.drink.it.up.
Side Note:For those who may not be aware, white core card stock refers to having the color printed onto the paper surface, and dyed card stock refers to the color being dyed all the way through into the paper fibers.
Then mid-stream, I decided the mittens would look cute if they had stripes, so I took a Clean Color Brush Marker (Pale Gray) (And, yes, they are also available in sets HERE) and just drew them on quickly. Because of the unique REAL brush tip of these particular markers, they look like they were handpainted on! *fist pump*
Pompom snowball? A.DOR.ABLE. *monkey clapping*
I added a couple more shots here so you can see how the right (smaller flap) tucks over the little window/door to create the closure--just click the pics to enbiggan and get a closer look (didn't wanna make you scroll into the great beyond...)
Hi everyone! It's Carissa and I'm so happy to be back on The CLASSroom blog for another Satur-YAY! We're going to celebrate the weekend by gettin' our craft on. And since the Holidays will be here before we know it, I thought we would take some of our most common gifts and wrap it up! I'm going to show you some quick and easy ways to wrap up cash, gift cards and other small gifts that you're probably giving this season using the We R Memory Keepers 1 2 3 Punch Board.
The We R Memory Keepers 1 2 3 Punch Board is a great tool to have in your stash. You can use it to make custom envelopes, paper bows, boxes, envelope liners, file folder cards and more. It comes with a handy instruction book that's easy to follow. But I'm going to walk you through a few of the basics in today's video. You can check out the video tutorial below.
I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of giving gift cards (mostly because I like for people to have something to unwrap), but my nieces and nephews love to get them. If I'm going to give them, I might as well doll them up and make them feel really special. I've made a custom envelope, perfectly sized for a gift card, and then attached it to a card front. By adding a little twine, a couple of die cuts and a stamped tag, I've dressed this gift card up for the Holiday season.
To make the envelope, I've started with some Avery Elle striped paper from the Neutrals collection. Love this collection. In fact, I would buy that black and white striped paper by the ream if I could. The measurements on the 1 2 3 Punch Board tell me the exact paper size that I need, along with the measurement for my first punch and score. Once I had cut the paper down to 5 1/8 inch, I lined it up with the 2" mark and punch and scored the paper along the Envelope Score Line A. Once you have that first punch, it's easy! Just turn your paper 90 degrees counter clockwise and line up the score line you've just created with the Envelope Score Groove. No more measuring... just keep turning, lining up, punching and scoring until you've made your way around all four sizes.
I also created a fun liner for my envelope. The instructions were in the book that came with the Punch Board and they're very easy to follow. I'll walk you through how I created this in the video tutorial below.
Once my envelope was ready to go, I prepared my card base. I'm using the Hero Arts Kraft Notecards. Pre-made cards are a huge time saver. I stamped the pine bough from the Christmas Scribbles stamp set using Hero Arts Unicorn White Pigment Ink. By stamping it several times, I created a festive backdrop for my envelope. I added a few lengths of twine to the envelope before attaching it to my card front using some Be Creative Tape. I didn't use any adhesive to close up the envelope. This envelope will be held together by the twine that I've attached and can be opened and closed by tying or untying the twine. I love that interactive element.
To add some more festive touches, I added a tag and some holly leaves. The holly leaves are from the Poinsettia and Pine die set. I've cut them from some Juicy Pear card stock and some Tim Holtz Metallic card stock. I also cut a tag using the Mama Elephant Slim Tags Trio die set and stamped it with a greeting from the Mama Elephant Confetti stamp set. I'll be using these same tags and stamps on all of the gift packaging I create today. I'll also be using the Poinsettia and Pine die set on all of my projects today (I'll just mix up the die cuts that I use).
Cash and checks are another popular gift for the Holidays and can be fun to dress up as well. I thought it would be fun to create another festive envelope perfectly sized for some cold hard cash. In order to figure out my measurements, I used the We R Memory Keepers Envelope Generator App. This same tool is available on the web as well. You can find it HERE. I measured the item, put the measurements in to the envelope generator, and just like magic it shows me the paper size to start with as well as the measurement for my first punch and score. Remember, the first punch and score is the only measurement you'll need to create the envelope. The process for making this envelope is just like the gift card envelope...the initial measurements are just a bit different.
I also created a bow for this project using the 1 2 3 Punch Board. Warning, these bows are fun and addictive! They'd make a great addition to any project (not just for the Holidays). I could see a bunch of these paper bows as decorations for a baby shower. The instructions for the bow are right on the punch board. And I'll walk you through this in the video as well.
Once the bow and envelope were assembled, I dressed them up again. I cut a faux envelope wrap using the My Favorite Things Fishtail Flags dies. I also added some mistletoe die cuts from the Poinsettia and Pine die set. And to add the white part to my mistletoe, I added some pearls. Apparently those are called berries (something I've discovered after searching online...I had no clue). They were the perfect finishing touch!
The final project is another envelope, but this envelope has some dimension to it. This makes the perfect wrapping for small items like necklaces or earrings. These envelopes with a bit of depth would also be perfect for some of the cards you might create that have lots of dimension. I'm making a small version, but to make something larger, you'd just start with the sizes marked on the Punch Board.
The process for this is very much the same as your basic envelope. However, this time we'll be using both the A score line and the B score line. This additional score line will give the envelope depth. Once you've created both score lines, you'll rotate the paper (just like before) and line up the A score line with the score groove and repeat the same process around all four sides.
I used some strong adhesive to assemble this envelope. The 1/8 inch Be Creative Tape was perfect for the job. I also cut a slit in the lower flap to slide my upper flap in to. This allows the envelope to open and close without adhesive. Adding the slit also makes it reusable because it doesn't have to be torn to be opened. It's the gift that keeps giving. ;)
To decorate this little cutie, I created another bow and added more die cuts from the Poinsettia and Pine die set. This time, I used a gold glitter pine cone. You didn't actually think I was going to let this entire post go without some gold glitter card stock did you? I also cut some label shapes using some We R Memory Keepers Nesting Dies. It's a fun touch and gives my embellishments a grounding place. And for some more shimmer, I topped it off with some Sparkling Clear sequins from Pretty Pink Posh.
So now you have a few ways to wrap up your smallest gifts for the Holidays, or any occasion for that matter. This is just a few ways you can use the 1 2 3 Punch Board. There are so many more project ideas in the booklet included with this tool. I can't wait to play with some more of the ideas included with this tool.
Don't forget to watch the video tutorial below. I'll walk you through these projects. I've also included links to all the products used in these projects below.
Thanks for stopping by today. I can't wait to see what you all create on this fine Satur-YAY! Don't forget to share your projects on social media and use the hashtag #EllenHutsonSaturYAY so I can check out what you're creating. I'll see you next month for another Satur-YAY! Until then, that's a wrap! ;)
Watch The Video
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You can watch the video in HD on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE.
Recently the Molotow Masking Pen landed at my house (that's code for: Julie went on a shopping spree...!!!)
It's a pump-action pen that dispenses masking fluid and it's refillable? YES!!! *fist pump* No need to keep a stash of cheap brushes around and toss them after every use! The tip is white, and when you pump it against scratch paper, the fluid dispenses down the barrel and into the tip, turning it blue.
The masking fluid dries fairly quickly, and then your paper is ready to accept wet mediums, like blending inks, watercoloring over top, etc. I believe you can even try alcohol markers with it, but I haven't tested that yet.
I did my stamping on Bristol, because I wasn't sure what I was flying by the seat of my pants, unsure if I wanted to watercolor, or spray or blend inks, yadda yadda.
But, because I was using Bristol, I decided to go ahead and try my ink blending skills once again, as various crafty friends have recently told me that the Ranger Distress Inks blend quite well on Bristol and watercolor papers (as opposed to Neenah Solar White).
Consensus? The masking pen is BOMB!!! It couldn't be easier to use, it does the job well, and it's easy to remove! I did notice that if I got overly aggressive in rubbing away the mask that if there was any residual ink on top of the masked area, it did transfer a bit to my finger and therefore, to my white flowers.
Solution? Use a water brush to apply clean water to those slight smudged ink areas to dilute the color, and blot with clean paper towel.
CAUTION:The blue tint of the masking fluid can transfer to your project over time, so it is best not to leave images masked for an extended period of time; do whatever it is you're gonna do, then remove the masking.
Sometimes, you stare at something and everything just goes "click, click, click!!!" And, ya' gotta sit down and make! :) This was so fast and fun--CAN'T TAKE IT!!!
I had to laugh when I opened the jar because it looked like freshly whipped frosting in there! Almost good enough to eat--BUT DON'T, PLEASE!!! I was a little nervous because it was the maiden voyage of my jar of black embossing paste (which I have had forever and done zip with)! And, I was using it on white card stock! Um... hello?! BLACK paste? On WHITE card stock?
Are you CRAZY???!!! (internal shrieking)
I didn't think about it until I was spreading it out... ACK! It actually worked just fine, I didn't goober up a thing! *fist pump*
I keep petting the stars (now that they're dry) because I wasn't expecting this type of finish, for some reason. I thought it would be hard and shiny, but instead it is matte and spongey-ish! And, it didn't take nearly as long to dry as I thought it would, but that's probably because I did put a fairly thin layer on. And, the weather has been quite warm...
Hi everyone! Welcome to Satur-YAY! We're going to celebrate the weekend by gettin' our craft on. Today, I'm sharing a fabulously foiled Back To School teacher gift. I'm going to show you yet another way to add foil to your projects, as well as give you some tips for mass producing along the way.
The foiling technique I'm using today is what I consider to be the "original" foiling technique. This technique requires your images to be printed using a laser printer (an inkjet printer won't work). The toner from the laser printer is activated by heat and causes the foil to bind to it. But don't worry, if you don't have one, you can take your project to your local copy center to be printed. Since they're black and white images, they aren't usually too expensive.
I started by creating a card front using Photoshop Elements. I wanted to personalize the cards for the teacher I was giving them to, so I made sure her name was on them. You can also used Word or another program that you may be comfortable with to create your document. Once you've created your document, print it out on a laser printer or take it to your local copy center to have it printed.
I used two free fonts for the lettering on my card front. You can download them by clicking the font names here. Nike Total 90 & Halo Handletter
I also created a full sheet of toner paper. I'll show you exactly how I did this in the video tutorial below. I'll use this with dies to cut shapes and then add foil to those shapes. This is a fun way of creating foiled images using whatever dies you may have.
Once I had all of my card fronts prepped, it was time for the fun part....adding the foil. I used the Heidi Swapp Minc Mini Machine and Therm O Web Deco Foil. I chose gold and red foils, but you could use any color you want! The Deco Foils come in so many great colors and patterns. When I revealed the foiled sentiments and dies after running them through the Minc Machine, I was blown away! It's amazing to be able to create customized foiled cards in your own home. And it was easy! I'll walk you through how to use these products in the video tutorial below. *all supplies are linked below*
I used the WPlus9 Class Act stamp set to create some fun paper to put behind my beautiful foiled apples. This created the perfect grounding place for my die cuts. I layered the stamped ledger paper with a piece of vellum cut to the same size and dolled up my messy paper stack with a mini paper clip from Tim Holtz.
Since I was giving this as a gift, I made these cards en masse. Mass producing is great for making gift sets, or for when you need a bunch of cards to have on hand. You can either create them all exactly the same, or vary it a bit by changing the sentiment or by using the exact same elements and tweaking the layout just a bit. I've included my favorite tips for mass producing below.
Tips For Mass Producing
Start with a plan. Make a rough mock up or draw a quick sketch so that you know exactly what you will need.
Take it step by step. I like to do each step in it's entirety when I'm mass producing. For instance, I did all of the die cutting at once, then I did all of the foiling at once. I also created all of my card bases at once. Since you have the tools out for each step, it will save time to do it for every card your creating all at once.
K.I.S.S. Keep it simple silly. Do things that are quick and easy to repeat over and over again. Intricate steps are great when you're creating just one card, but will become tedious and frustrating when creating multiples.
Break it down. No, I don't mean dance (although that's always allowed in my craft room). You don't have to create all of your cards all in once setting. Break the process up over a couple of crafting sessions. You may even find steps that are great for taking on the go to kids' practices or while waiting for appointments.
Choose fast adhesives. I like adhesives that are quick and easy to use when mass producing. For instance, tape runners and tear-able adhesives are perfect. I love the Scotch Foam Adhesive because I can quickly tear pieces in the sizes needed, which makes it quick and easy.
Once I finished off the cards, I wanted to doll them up a bit. I put them in a beautiful clear card box and wrapped it up in some fun red twine. I also added a coordinating tag to the front of the gift box. This makes for not only a beautiful gift, but a beautiful presentation as well.
I realize that not all of you have teachers that you need to thank, but keep in mind that this project could be easily tweaked to fit any occasion or personality type. Change the die cut and school themed embellishments, and you'd have a fantastic gift for any special person in your life! In fact, I may just have to make a set of these for myself! I must confess I was a little jealous as I was making them.
I hope you've enjoyed this Back To School edition of Satur-YAY! Now it's time for you to get to craftin'! Dig out your supplies and get your craft on! You don't have to make anything teacher related, just make something! Don't forget to share it on your social media account and use the hashtag #EllenHutsonSaturYAY so we call all check out what you've made. We all love to ogle everyone else's projects!
You can watch this video in HD on YouTube by clicking HERE. Don't forget to subscribe so you won't miss any of the fabulous video tutorials on the Ellen Hutson channel.
Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you've enjoyed this project. Until next time, I hope you have a fabulous Satur-YAY!
Sometimes, you start a project with one idea in mind, and when the plan goes awry, you can end up with crap, OR you can end up with a pleasant surprise...! The technique on this card was a happy accident... And, I'm probably the last stamper on the planet to figure out what would happen, but, hey, I was feelin' so *brilliant*, I'm gonna share it anyways. ;)
Some tips, as you'll hear on the video:
Use a good quality RUBBER brayer for best results (ink tends to build up on the plasticky type).
Roll and lift, roll and lift, to rotate the brayer in a continuous motion; just rolling back and forth will only ink one area of the brayer because you're not completing the rotation. Same goes for when you're then brayering your paper surface.
Use water-resisting tape to mask, not paper tape; the application of ink will soak thru paper style masking materials.
When stamping with Versamark over the top of the brayered ink, allow time for the effect to develop--it's really cool! And, set the card aside to dry where it won't be adversely faded with some awkward pattern. When I finished my card, I took a photo of it and then immediately filed it into a basket with other cards, against the basket slats; as the ink continued to dry and was exposed to light, and possibly some heat from a nearby lamp, the pattern of the slats from the basket ended up imprinting or somehow fading into the brayered background. You don't even have to ask me how I know; you can see it right here on the finished card, LOL! Next time, I'll set my card somewhere where this won't happen.
After seeing several examples of partial DOUBLE die-cutting I thought it would be fun to try it using the sweet hippo in Wish Big! You can certainly achieve this look in several different ways...
Stamp, die cut and mount the hippo separately...But it is awfully cool to be able to pull it off with the one top layer! And, it would also be a great effect as a single-layer card!
You could also fussy cut around the hippo by hand, if you didn't happen to have the matching dies.
If you haven't seen it before, this is one of those die-cutting techniques that is more easily explained (and understood) with video than a written explanation. And, once you try it, you'll like it. And, you'll wanna see what other die combos you can do this with.
I still struggle with my ink blending skills, but try not to be too hard on myself because that circular motion tends to cause the tendinitis in my right arm to flare up. Boo. :(
Enjoy the video here or in HD on our YouTUBE channel here! Thank you for taking a moment to give it a thumbs up and for subscribing!
I'm so glad Jennifer showed us how to use a laminator for wonderful stamped foiling results in yesterday's post here in the CLASSroom. It inspired me to get out the foil I haven't had a chance to use yet and figure out how to use it with these pretty butterfly dies by Taylored Expressions:
Here are the easy steps I came up with:
1. Die cut Taylored Expression's In Flight Cutting Plate from Neenah 110 lb. Solar White cardstock. I always use a metal adaptor plate in my die cutting sandwich when cutting with a very detailed (lots of cuts) cutting plate and when using heavy weight cardstock, to ensure good, clean cuts:
3. Remove the printed backer sheet from one side of the cardstock, then die cut with In Flight Overlays butterflies with the cardstock facing up, or towards your dies. Again, I used a metal adaptor plate to ensure these delicate butterflies would cut through the heavy weight cardstock AND the adhesive backer sheet:
4. Use a scraper to carefully remove delicate die cuts such as these butterflies from your die cutting mat.
5. While the die cut butterflies are still in the surrounding cardstock, use a craft pick to gently remove the adhesive backer from only the die cuts. This will make it easier to apply the foil to smaller, thinner delicate die cuts such as these butterflies and by only removing the adhesive backer from the die cuts, you won't waste a lot of extra foil by applying it to un-die cut cardstock:
6. Apply Thermoweb gold foil to the adhesive butterflies, gold side (the side/color you want to show) facing UP. Burnish the foil into the adhesive with a Teflon Bone Folder:
Gently remove the foil sheet to reveal the pretty foiled butterflies. If you happen to have missed a spot with the foil, just place a piece of foil back over the spot and burnish again:
7. Adhere gold foiled butterfly die cuts to the white In Flight die cut panel using a liquid glue.
8. Adhere butterfly panel to Ellen's Curious Metallic Gold Leaf Cardstock background; avoid getting adhesive on the backs of the butterfly wings, so they will bend up on the card front.
9. Splatter card front with Gold Wink of Stella Glitter Brush Marker by squeezing on the barrel of the marker so excess liquid flows into the brush. Then tap the brush marker against your finger so it flicks onto the white butterfly background. You may want to practice on a scrap piece of paper first, as I did with the square above the marker.
10. Stamp Taylored Expression's From Me to You frame and sentiment with Delicata Golden Glitz ink onto Neenah 110 lb. Solar White cardstock; allow to dry.
TIP: Since this From Me to You frame die is all enclosed and you can't see through it in order to position it over the stamped sentiment (and I have absolutely no luck at whatsoever trying to stamp onto die cuts!), here's a great die cutting tip I learned:
Die cut a scrap piece of cardstock (black below) with the frame, then use that scrap to position over the stamped frame image:
10. Once you have the scrap die cut piece in place, while still holding the scrap cardstock securely in place, slip the die into the previously die cut "well" and secure with washi tape. Then run through your die cutting machine:
Perfect die cuts, every time! Store the scrap cardstock template with your die and it will be ready for the next time you need it!
We are so very excited to have Jennifer McGuire back here in the CLASSroom today sharing her creativity and knowledge with us! Jennifer is continually experimenting with products and discovering new ways of using them. Recently Jennifer shared this video with all of her followers on her YouTube channel and I fell in love with this awesome technique. With the recent popularity of all things "foiled" we wanted to share her fabulous technique with you here!
Please welcome Jennifer as she once again shares in-depth information, showing how you can create gorgeous foiled cards using your stamped and embossed images! I would love to be a little bird on her shoulder observing and taking notes as she plays with her supplies and today's video allows me to do just that!
We would appreciate if you would help us thank Jennifer for sharing her creativity with us here by heading over to her blog Jennifer McGuire Ink and leaving a comment there by May 19th. Look for the post where she shares her sneak peek of the project in today's video along with a photo of the blog candy shown below. One lucky random winner will even win a 9" Laminator - thank you for sharing your love and appreciation with Jennifer!
Jennifer, I am so very blessed to have you in my life - thank you for your kindness, friendship and inspiring us with your creativity! Big hugs, Ellen
Adding foil to a project is a great way to add shine and interest. After lots of experimenting, I found the best way to foil a stamped image with something we almost all have already - embossing powder! It may take a bit of practice and experimenting but once you have success, you will be able to foil over and over. It is addictive! -Jennifer
We hope you enjoy Jennifer's video - you can watch the video in HD by visiting the Ellen Hutson LLC YouTube channel - thank you for taking the time to give it a thumb's up! We would love it if you subscribed to our channel - we appreciate each of you who tune in each week for Julie's Hello, Monday series and you never know when we will surprise you with additional video inspiration!
For your convenience we have listed the products used in this video below.
Additional posts you may find of interest are found at the following links:
What sets these "markers" apart from other water-based markers is their nib: It is a REAL BRUSH. So imagine color with a built-in paint brush tip but a marker barrel. I know, right?!
They come in a wide array of colors, but by blending, you have an unlimited palette at your disposal!
At the beginning of the video, I'll be demonstrating some quick/easy blending methods, in combination with a waterbrush to pull and manipulate the color.
I find I really love the effect of these markers most especially on watercolor paper, and the great thing about heat embossing your images, is that the embossed lines work wonderfully to contain the color/water within each area, enabling you to move on quickly to adjacent parts of your image and continue painting.
Unlike alcohol-based markers, which can etch/eat away heat embossed images, Clean Color Real Brush Markers are water-based; the embossed lines and imagery will act as a resist and any excess color/water sitting on top can simply be blotted away/off with a clean paper towel--just avoid using a rubbing motion so you don't smear any wet paint elsewhere onto your project.
Like almost all coloring mediums, it's easier to add more color than it is to take it away so begin with a light touch. The medium to darker colors of these markers are quite intense and a little goes a long way when you begin to add water and pull the color--this can work to your advantage because the shading is practically built-in with the methods shown.
Trust me when I say that you do not need to paint one petal at a time! *grin* Quickly swipe a little of the desired color from the marker along the outermost tips or inner edges (around the stamen) of ALL the petals of your flowers, and then start pulling the color with the water brush (you can also use a regular brush and a cup of water if you prefer).
The Clean Color Real Brush Markers are available in open stock, but I do have a list of suggested colors you could begin with, which you can see by scrolling to the very bottom of this post.
Be aware that in some instances, the color name doesn't always match up with the actual color itself. For example:
Cobalt Blue seems more like a deep turquoise color
Blue reminds me of a more true cobalt blue
Bright Yellow is what I would consider "apricot"
Turquoise Green looks like a bright teal or possibly jade
Shadow Mauve appears to be blue grey and nothing like mauve
When shopping colors in the store, hover your mouse over the swatch next to the marker to get a better idea of what the color will actually look like. :)
You can view this week's video in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE, and thanks for taking a moment to give it a thumbs' up! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a webisode! (Yes, that is a made-up word...) *wink*
The new Diagonal Window Die makes a super easy interactive feature for your cards--use it to conceal a surprise greeting or even a gift card!
And, guess what? You can also use it to create a collapsible style shadow box for your cards, too! It'll compress flat for mailing, but spring up when removed from the envelope! It's super easy to modify the die cut to create this effect, making it an awesome two-fer for your collection of dies! :)
Enjoy the video in HD on our YouTube Channel and for taking a second to give it a thumbs up! It's always a pleasure to have your company each week! :)
Sometimes, I get on a kick--I have been frustrated with my lack-luster ink blending skillz, so I keep trying. I'm nothin' if not persistent, eh?!
Now who wouldn't want a mondo rainbow colored diamond, I ask you???
I wanted to create a randomly patterned background of gemstones for this card using all the gem images in the set-- a little planning + a big acrylic block worked spiffy! AND, I borrowed a trick I've seen my friend Nichol Magouirk do with heat embossing, to pull that off--so simple, and smart! *smacks forehead*
TIPS TO NOTE:
Try clustering smaller images together at the same time on one block for a DIY random background
If you have trouble seeing what you've stamped with Versamark, apply embossing powder to the image, tap off excess and you will be able to see where to stamp again
To blend ink more smoothly, begin on your craft sheet with a circular motion and then move onto the paper
Leave your die cut inside the negative while sponging/blending ink over top, to avoid catching the edges with your blending tool
Enjoy the video in HD here on our YouTube Channel, and thanks ever so, for taking a moment to give it a thumbs up! Please subscribe! There's good stuff on our channel! ;)
