Ink Resist Technique

Hello stampers,

As you can probably tell from my recent posts, I like making cards with fun and creative backgrounds. I think the background of any card is what makes it really special and unique. The latest background technique that I am experimenting with is ink-resist.

I made the backgrounds using Versamark ink and clear embossing powder. I like how the details of the stamped image show up so well.  I applied the different colors of ink using sponges.  I like using sponges because I can control how dark or light I want the color to be.

The first image is a sample of the ink-resist background cardstock before I have used it on a card. You can use any color combination that you like.  On the sample piece, I sponged on three colors; I used four colors on the background of the anniversary and birthday cards.

The background on the anniversary and birthday cards were made from the same piece. Cutting the background cardstock into two pieces allowed me to stretch the use of the background paper and my creativity.

What are your favorite background techniques?

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Thanks for visiting my blog.

Happy stamping!

Cards with die cut edges

Hello fellow crafters,

I love the Spellbinders Card Creator sets!  The die cut edges really add a classy and feminine touch to any card.  It really gives cards that one-of-a-kind feeling - making the recipient feel very special. The dies are designed to fit 4.25" and 5.5" card widths.  The notches on the dies give you perfect placement - no measuring needed.

The card below were made with the A2 Bracket Borders One set and the Stylish Stems Framelits from Stampin' Up.  You can use a single die to create the layered border.

The next card also uses the A2 Bracket Borders One.  On this card, I paired two dies together to produce this elegant edge on the white and navy cardstock.  The dies fit perfectly together providing different decorative options. This technique works great for monochromatic styles.  The layered circle dies are from Stampin' Up.  This is a great set - lots of layering options.

The third card was made with the A2 Curved Borders set.  On this card, the die cuts are used as an embellishment instead of on the edge.  This card takes a few minutes longer as you need to die cut three pieces of cardstock but the look is worth it.  The three layers are attached to a vanilla card - the vanilla shows through the intricate design.  The colors used are Elegant Eggplant, Crumb Cake and Mellow Moss with Altanew's Peony Bouquet stamp set. The background was stamped using a set from Inkadinkado.

I hope you get a chance to experiment with these dies from Spellbinders.  I just love all the ways they can be used to embellish cards.

Happy crafting!