Polychromatic Coloring

Polychromatic Birthday Cards

Today we are sharing some coloring ideas using some simple coloring techniques as backgrounds for greeting cards that will give lots of detail while using only a couple alcohol markers or colored pencils.. We will be also adding a die cut to add dimension and design to today's project.

Welcome to my journey as I become an Altenew Educator sharing ideas and techniques that will help you learn to become a better card maker and designer. And even more than that, to use the supplies that you have in your stash to create something you can be proud of.

Today I will be showing you how to use one of my favorite Altenew Stamp Sets-Beautiful Day! It is one of the most versatile stamp sets you can have in your stash. Not only for layering, but also for coloring too. 

Here are the supplies that you will need for this project:

• Beautiful Day Stamp set
• Dye ink just a little darker than the cardstock
• Birthday Greeting Stamp Set
• Acrylic block
• Light colored cardstock
• White cardstock for the base
• Medium to large sentiment die cut
• Alcohol markers in the same color family
• Colored pencils in the same color family
• Die cutting machine
• Double sided tape
• Double sided foam tape
• White PVC glue
• Paper Trimmer
• Bone Folder

Card 1-Blue Birthday Card

Light Blue Cardstock

Deeper blue cardstock

Altenew Teal Cove Crisp Dye Ink

Silver metallic paper

Blue colored pencil

Deep blue colored pencil

Blue sequins

I started this project using colored pencils. Because of the richness in the flowered image, I wanted to have control over the strokes and colors that I used. 

Even though this card has flowers, beacuse of the color, I felt comfortable that I could use this card as a masculine card because of the blue color that I used.

Any two colored pencils will work fine as long as they are in the same color family.

In this case, I colored the darker colored sections where the shadowing would be first.  Then I used the lighter color on the petals and gave it a little shading.

1. Cut the base card with the paper trimmer to 5" by 7" 
2. Cut a layer at 4 1/2" by 6 2/8" This is the deep blue layer
3. Cut a second layer at 4" by5 1/2 ". This is the white layer
4. Cut a yellow paper at 4" by 5 1/2 ". This is the light blue layer.
5. On the light blue paper, stamp the outline flower stamp from the Beautiful Day stamp set with the Teal Cove ink.
6. Give it a moment to dry
7. Select your colored pencils. You will want two colors that are close together in color-one darker and one lighter.
8. Start with the darker color. Color in the Shadowed areas first.
9. Then add the lighter color to the rest of the flower using a feathering motion.
10. If you choose, you can add more color closest to the center of the flower using the darker tone or a second addition of the lighter tone.
11.  You are ready to cut the die cut into your designed paper.
12. Set up the plates for die cutting as recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Place your die cut up, but the stamped flowers, facing the die. This is important so that your design will appear the right way when you assemble your card. You want to place the die at least 1/3 below the top of the paper.
14. Cut the die in your die cutting machine.
15. Remove the die from the paper. You can save the die cut for another project.
16. Turn the paper over and place it in your paper trimmer. 
17. Carefully cut both sides of the paper so that the edges are removed.
18. Use double sided tape on the back of the stamped paper, but add glue to the remaining bits that are left from the die cut.
19. Adhere this to the top layer of the card.
20. Cut another sentiment from the same die cut in metallic paper. 
21. Glue the sentiment into the spot that was left from your stamped sheet
22. Adhere the designed layer to the darker blue layer with double sided tape
23. Adhere the darker blue layer to the card base with foam tape.
24. Add additional sentiments and embellishments as desired.

Project Tips

• You are working within one pastel color for this project with slight color variations.
• You can use any markers that you might have. Copics, Spectrum Noir, and Altenew will all work as long as you have a slight color variation in the color family.
• The same goes for colored pencils. Use what you have. Select two colored pencils that will work with your color selection.
• Test the markers and /or colored pencils on the paper that you have selected before you start coloring the flowers. Different markers and colored pencils may react differently to different paper.
• Metallic adhesive paper makes the task of adding your larger sentiment a lot easier. You can avoid the glue!
• The extra sentiments on this project were created with stamped embossed techniques.

Card 2-Yellow Birthday Card

    Yellow cardstock

    Cream cardstock

    Spectrum Noir markers

     Gold sequins

Altenew Honey Drizzle Crisp Dye Ink

  You can use any alcohol markers that you may   have. All you need is two markers that are in   the same color family. They need to be one   color and then one color number above that.         You can add highlights by layering the same   color several times.

  I chose to add a lot of depth to this   background  for my design. However, you can   chose to only add a light single tone on the       card  and then the darker tone to add definition   to the design.

1. Cut the base card with the paper trimmer to 5" by 7" 
2. Cut a layer at 4 1/2" by 5 1/2"
3. Cut a second layer at 4 1/4" by 6"
4. Cut a yellow paper at 4 1/4" by 6"
5. On the yellow paper, stamp the outline flower stamp from the Beautiful Day stamp set
6. Give it a moment to dry
7. Select your alcohol markers. I used Spectrum Noir markers # GB4 and Colorista marker in Canary.
8. Color all of the shaded areas with the darker of your two markers.
9. Then add the lighter color to the rest of the flower using a feathering motion.
10. If you choose, you can add more color closest to the center of the flower using the darker tone or a second addition of the lighter tone.
11. Once the color is dry, you are ready to cut the die cut into your designed paper.
12. Set up the plates for die cutting as recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Place your die cut up, but the stamped flowers, facing the die. This is important so that your design will appear the right way when you assemble your card. You want to place the die at least 1/3 below the top of the paper.
14. Cut the die in your die cutting machine.
15. Remove the die from the paper. You can save the die cut for another project.
16. Turn the paper over and place it in your paper trimmer. 
17. Carefully cut both sides of the paper so that the edges are removed.
18. Use double sided tape on the back of the stamped paper, but add glue to the remaining bits that are left from the die cut.
19. Adhere this to the top layer of the card.
20. Cut another sentiment from the same die cut.
21. Glue the sentiment into the spot that was left from your stamped sheet
22. Use double sided tape to adhere the bottom layer to the base.
23. Use foam tape on the second layer and adhere that to the bottom layer.
24. Add additional sentiments and embellishments as desired.

I hope that you will look at color and use variations of color to create a polychromatic greeting card soon. Using what you have in different ways helps you stretch your craft dollars. Especially when you are starting out or building your colors, it is helpful to build variations n different color families. 

We would love to hear your comments, thoughts and ideas on this project. Please make sure to drop a note below and let us know that you stopped by. 

We have included some tools and supplies in case you have some needs. All of these are available with a click. We may receive a commission (at no expense to you) which helps support our community.

Until next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

 Masking Unleashed

Masking your stamped images is a technique that allows you to create layered images with just about stamp set that you may have. It adds dimension and depth to any design that you would like to create It is a technique to cover a stamped image when you want to add more images to your design. So you want to partially stamp some images in your design.

Thank you for joining me today as we share some information, tips and ideas on masking techniques.

This is all about my journey as I move closer to becoming an Altenew Educator. The more I learn, the more I am able to share with you. Paper crafting has been my passion. And sharing ideas and information is what makes this community so special. So let's get started with some masking techniques and ideas.

Masking Basics

Making masks for your designs is not as difficult as you may think. There are several products that you can use to create your mask. Copy paper is one product that I am sure you probably have in your home or craft space. 

Sticky notes are another option. They come in different sizes so you should be able to find a size to fit your needs. You want to stamp towards the side where the adhesive sticky area is with these notes. One thong to remember with these types of masks is that you want to peel the paper off where the adhesive note is so that the paper lays flat on your project. After trying different options for masking, I have to say that the masking paper is my choice by far. It makes the process much easier and you can save the masks with your stamps for future use.

Masking Tips

1. Always cut out the mask on the inside edges of the line of stamped image for best results
2. Plan ahead before you start stamping. Either draw or stamp the design out to have a guide where you are going to mask first. You can make it easier by numbering your images to remember the order of your stamps.
3. If you are using layered stamps, stamp the outline first on all of your images. Then go back and add layers.
4. Layered stamps are best applied with a positioning tool like the Misti or the Altenew Stamp Wheel
5. Store your masks with your stamp sets for future use.
6. Want more information on layering stamps? Click here.

Masked Card One-Layered Inspire Card

 Magical Marker Techniques

Welcome to another technique tutorial as I go through my Altenew Educator classes. One of the best parts of attending these educational classes is having the opportunity of sharing what I have learned with you.

Today we are focusing on creating lovely watercolor backgrounds to compliment the colors of the embellishments. I will also share some ideas to help you create some lovely pieces that will take your cards to the next level.

I am using the Totally Tropical Stamp set from Altenew. I love this stamp and die set. It has a really tropical feel, Since I live in Florida and grow hibiscus, it is a perfect set for my everyday use. But it is also a great set for anyone who want s a tropical feel. It would ne perfect for scrapbooks and journals if you have travelled to any tropical climate.

Tropical Card 1-Huge Congratulations

This card was designed to express congrats for a very special achievement. While it was done in soft pink colors, it could be done in any colors that you would prefer. Use deeper colors if you would like to use it for a masculine card. Deep blues or orange tones would work. Any combination of colors works for this design. Keep it in the same color family or use contrasting colors. It is up to you!

Supplies Used:

Craft or Silicne mat

Altenew Totally Tropical Stamp Set

White Cardstock

Black Cardstock

Spectrum Noir Alcohol Markers

Rubbing Alcohol in a spritzer bottle

Brayer

Altenew Puffy Hearts Crisp Ink

Altenew Black Crisp Ink

Butterfly Sticker

Clear Gems

Acrylic Block

Clear PVA Glue 

 Double Sided Tape

Creating The Background 

The background for this card is easy and fun to create. You need to do this technique quickly before the ink dries.

• Lay the mat to cover your surface.
• Choose an alcohol and scribble the marker on your mat.
• Spritz the rubbing alcohol on the marker.
• Run the brayer through the ink .
• Then run the brayer across your piece of matte cardstock.
• You can do this as many times as you would like until you get the desired effect. You will want to go the same direction every time.
• Set it aside to dry.

Finishing The Card

1. Cut the card base to a size of 4.5 " by 6 ".
2. Cut the black cardstock to the same size.
3. Cut the background piece to size. I cut mine to 4" by 5.5".
4. Piece of white cardstock 2 3/4" by 6 inches.
5. Stamp the flowers and leaves with the black ink. Let them dry.
6. Color the flowers with two alcohol markers that are in the same color family. Color them first with the lighter color. Then Use the next darker color to outline and color both the edges and the inside of the flower. Then use the lighter color to blend the colors together.
7. Do the same with the leaves
8. Die cut or fussy cut all of the leaves and flowers.
9. Once dry give them a little dimension by manipulating them with your fingers to make them look more realistic.
10. Use a alcohol marker to add color to the butterfly sticker. Give it several hours to dry.
11. Stamp the sentiment onto a piece of white cardstock. 
12. Once the sentiment is dry, Edge the sentiment with the edge of the ink pad.
13. Touch the edge with the ink pad to create more color.
14. Using the double sided tape attach the black cardstock to the card base. Attach the background piece to the back base. Then attach the rectangular piece of white cardstock centered to the card.
15. Arrange all the leaves and flowers on top of the card.
16. Glue the leaves on first. Then add the flowers. Tuck in the butterfly.
17. Use double sided tape to add the sentiment.
18. Add the clear gems.
19. Congratulate yourself on a job well done.

 

Tropical Card 2-Congratulations

In this card I actually used the same techniques with some color variations. In this case, I omitted the extra white card pieces. I also added extra leaves to make a richer bouquet. 

I added a little border piece and a die cut sentiment.

The butterflies had some glitter glue added to add more glitter to the card.  I also added some black glitter glue to give the butterflies some bodies.

The card measurements were the same. 

Project Tips

• Make sure your project isn't too close to your palette when spritzing the sprays to prevent splatter from getting on your images.
• Soften the layers of watercolor by blending the edges with water.

So which card do you like better? As always, we appreciate your comments, thoughts and suggestions. I hope that this is a technique that you will give a try. 

We have included some supplies and tools for you to consider. Click on anything that will help you enhance your paper craft experience. We may earn a small commission for any purchase (at no cost to you. We appreciate your support.

Thank you for following our journey and sharing our experience. We appreciate you more than you know.

Till next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda 

Paper Craft Workshop: Creating Stenciled BackgroundsUse embossing paste...

Embossing Paste Basics

About Embossing Paste

There are many techniques for using embossing paste
Power Poppy - The Blog: 5 Fun Techniques for Embossing Paste

What Is Embossing Paste?

Embossing paste is simply a type of paste that is often white in color. It adds texture or dimension to a flat surface. Most often it is used on cardstock or other types of papers. It can be used with dies, but usually used with stencils. 

Though there are different types of embossing and texture pastes, generally speaking:

• They have a smooth texture.
• They are solid when left to air dry.
• Depending on the type of paste, how much is layered, the drying time will vary.
• It is great for adding texture to projects.
• You can use it with stencils, dies or free hand use.
• You cannot see through it. It is considered opaque.
• You need to close the lid tightly when not in use. Wipe the edge of the jar to make sure you will be able to open it the next time you use it

Types of Embossing/Texture Paste

There are a few different types of embossing/texture paster for you to consider for your projects.

1. Glossy embossing paste-this is a clear, glossy paste It creates a clear glossy image that is great for colored cardstock. It can create a softened image on a detailed stencil. It can be tinted with dye ink. Put some of the product on a craft mat. Add a drop or two from a reinker in the color of your choice. Mix it well. Add ick till you get the color that you want. Mix it every time you add more color. Use as you normally would. 
2. Embellishing Mousse- This product does not give you a lot of texture It is very creamy similar to the texture of lipstick. You can use a palette knife or a blending tool to apply this product. It does not take long to dry. Has a lot of color choices.
3. Glimmer Paste-This product will remind you of glitter glue. It will pick up some of the color of the cardstock that you use. You need to clean the tools or stencils that you use right away. This stuff will stick on whatever you have. It dries very fast. But it is worth the effort in the results that you will get.
4. Iridescent Glaze-This project will retain the details of your stencil very well. It has a similar consistency to texture paste. The nice thing about this product is that it cleans up with baby wipes. So easy! It is a champagne color so you cannot tint it. 
5. Embossing Paste-Embossing paste has the consistency of toothpaste with baking soda. It is both gritty and fluffy at the same time. This product creates a lot of texture.

Embossing Paste Tips

• Always clean the spatula and stencil (if you are using one) right after use. It will ruin your tools if you let it sit. You can wipe them with a baby wipe to get some of the excess off. But they will need to be cleaned with warm water and mild dish detergent. I prefer Dawn.
• If you are using a stencil, scrap away any excess embossing powder off the top of the stencil. Make as smooth and even top as possible.
• You can use an expired credit card, a gift card, or a pallet knife to smooth out embossing paste.
• Let the project dry for at least 1 hour. If you handle it too soon, you are likely to spoil your work.
• Use at least 80lb paper or heavier. You will get better results with a heavier paper. 

We will be posting more ideas to help you get the most from your embossing paste. Follow us to get more ideas and techniques.

We have placed some products that may interest you. Just click on the product you are interested in. We may earn some commission at no cost to you. This helps our community provide more information and ideas. Thank you for your support.

Till the next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

 

5 Ways To Use Embossing Space

Embossing Paste With Brass Stencils

 In The Mood For Color

Today we are talking about color and the many moods and feelings that color can invoke. Welcome as we dive into color ideas and how to use them in your paper crafting. 

We are on my journey with the Altenew Educator Class a perfect opportunity for me to share with you some new ideas and techniques that hopefully will inspire you to use color in a whole new way.

Have you ever thought about color? We certainly think of certain colors associated with seasons and holidays. But how about the cards that we create? Do you consider the mood or feeling that you want to give the person receiving your card creation? Do you grab supplies, choose your own favorite colors or think about the person that you card is going to? 

We are showing you how you can change the mood of the card by simply changing the color. Color makes all the difference in the world when you are creating your designs. 

Color Guide

Choose a dominant color o evoke the emotion that you want your recipient to feel. Then choose two additional colors that match your dominant color. They could be in the same color families. Use black grey or white to bring harmony to your design.

Red-The color red is the color of love and passion. While we often think of using red at Christmas and Valentine's Day, it can c\also be a color of strength and warmth. You could use it on a card to give encouragement. Anniversaries are another great time to use a splash of red.  You could also use red when you have exciting news to share!

Orange is a color of happiness, energy, vitality, warmth, kindness, encouragement. and optimism. It is a wonderful color for cards like birthday cards. But it would also be good for encouragement cards and get-well cards too. Congrats cards are perfect for this hue. 
Yellow brings thoughts of cheerfulness, warmth.  joy, hope. Think about the baby cards in yellow, get-well cards, and birthday cards. Pick a bright shade of this color. Duller shades bring thoughts of sickness, so you may want to avoid them.
Green is the color of nature, soothing and calmness abundance, new beginnings, wealth Think of how often we use green leaves in our cards.
Blue denotes loyalty, honesty, reliability, wisdom, hope, peace, calmness. Incorporate blue into your cards but remember too much blue brings thoughts of coldness.
Purple reminds us of creativity, mystery, spirituality, noble. It is also the color of ambition and encouragement. So, use it to give someone the feeling that they can do anything they set their mind to.

Pink makes us think of femininity, romance, youthfulness, softness. compassion. It is used most often for cards that are for Mother's Day, birthdays and other cards where you need a touch of feminine softness,

Black: speaks of power, sophistication. Graduation cards often have some black in them to celebrate a special milestone. We also use black for sentiments that pop out of the design we create. 

White gives us the idea of simplicity, peace, modernity, innocence and honesty. We use a lot of white in our card bases. It is sometimes used as sentiments on a darker base. 

Gray shows sophistication. It adds some ambience to our designs.
Brown reminds is of strong, durable, honest, trustworthy. We often think if brown for masculine cards just for this reason.

Today we are featuring two cards that feature two of the colors. Our choice for coloring medium for these were colored pencils. Colored pencils are great to use with outline stamps. You can layer them easily. There is no fuss or mess. All you need in three colored pencils in the same color family, an eraser, and a pencil sharpener. 

Coloring Tips

1. Start by choosing three pencils in the same color family. You will want to have a light, medium and a dark.
2. Layer the lightest shade first. Then add your darkest tone where you want to see shadows. Finally go over each petal with the medium tone pencil.
3. Use the white pencil to add more light at the outermost portion of your image.
4. Keep adding layers of color until you are happy with the results.
5. You can always use a blending pencil or some gamsol to blend the color on your images.

Pink Thinking Of You Card

Altenew Peony Bouquet Stamp Set

Altenew Fancy Greetings Stamp Set

1 white colored pencil

Altenew Crisp Black Ink

Black marker

Fine Line Pen

White cardstock

Light pink cardstock

Medium pink cardstock

Double sided tape

PVA glue

Green gemstones

Misti stamping tool

Scoreboard

Paper Trimmer

Foam dots

1. Cut the card base to measure a base of 4 1/2 " by 51/2"
2. On white cardstock stamp 3 peonies with the outline stamp using the MISTI stamping tool with the black ink.
3. Stamp several different leaves with the black ink.
4. Stamp one bud with black ink
5. Color the peonies starting with your lightest colored pencil first.
6. Then use your darkest color to add shadows.
7. Use your medium pencil to blend them all in.
8. Now go over the layers until you are happy with the results.
9. Using the fine line pen, trace over the outline of your flowers
10. Fussy cut your flowers. .
11. Go over the edges of your flowers with a black marker.
12. Color the leaves using two shades of green colored pencils.
13. Fussy cut the leaves.
14. Glue the first flower to the base of the card.
15. Layer the other flowers with foam dots to create dimension.
16. Glue the leaves in place.
17. Stamp your sentiment with black ink.
18. Layer the pink papers with double sided tape and attach the sentiment to your card.
19. Attach the green gemstones to the card base.

Purple Encouragement Card

Altenew Peony Bouquet Stamp Set

Altenew Fancy Greetings Stamp

Altenew Crisp Black Ink

Altenew  Deep Iris Crisp Ink

3 purple-colored pencils

White colored pencil

2 green colored pencils

White cardstock

Light purple cardstock

Double sided tape

PVA glue

Clear white gemstones

Misti stamping tool

Scoreboard

Paper Trimmer

Foam dots

1. Cut the card base to measure 5" by 7"
2. On white cardstock stamp 3 peonies with the outline stamp using the MISTI stamping tool with the black ink.
3. Stamp several different leaves with the black ink.
4. Stamp one bud with black ink
5. Color the peonies starting with your lightest colored pencil first.
6. Then use your darkest color to add shadows.
7. Use your medium pencil to blend them all in.
8. Now go over the layers until you are happy with the results.
9. Using the fine line pen, trace over the outline of your flowers
10. Fussy cut your flowers. .
11. Go over the edges of your flowers with a black marker.
12. Color the leaves using two shades of green colored pencils.
13. Fussy cut the leaves.
14. Glue the first flower to the base of the card.
15. Layer the other flowers with foam dots to create dimension.
16. Glue the leaves in place.
17. Stamp your sentiment with black ink.
18. Layer the purple papers with double sided tape and attach the sentiment to your card.
19. Attach the clear gemstones to the card base.

We hope that you will take some time to consider color the next time you create a card design. Colored pencils are fun and easy to work with, so why not get yours out and create something special?

As always, thank you for following my journey and the tutorials created just for you. We always love hearing from you. So please leave a comment, a question or a thought. We appreciate everyone in our community!

Till next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

Supplies Used

Do you need or want to find the products I used?  They are listed below (compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you). Thank you for your support.

 Impressive Layered Heat Embossing

Today we are talking about heat embossing but in a different way than you might think. Hello and welcome to my journey as I learn, grow and share new techniques and ideas from the Altenew Educator program. 

This technique would also be lovely to use on your scrapbook pages and journals.

Today instead of just standard heat embossing, we are talking about layered heat embossing. This technique while quite different is not difficult to master at all. The results can be very rewarding, and it gives you a new prospective on using your embossing powders and supplies. Let's get started. I am excited to share these projects with you today. 

The first thing that you need to consider is the stamp set and or die set that you may want to use. Any layered stamp set that you may have will work for this technique. For my project, I chose the Dahlia Blossom Stamp Set. I love the detail and the flowers in this set. It also comes with a sentiment that I find very useful. But feel free to mix your sentiments and stamp sets as inspiration guides you.

Blue Dahlia

Supplies

Altenew Dahlia Blossom Stamp Set

Rose gold ink

White cardstock

Blue cardstock

Green cardstock

Light blue embossing powder

Dark blue embossing powder

Gold embossing powder

Light green embossing powder

Dark green embossing powder

Versamark embossing ink

Embossing bag or cornstarch

Heat gun 

Altenew Gold Stripped Washi Tape

Misti Tool

Blue half beads

Double sided tape

Foam Dots

Bone folder

1.  Prepare a card base 5" by 7". Use a good cardstock at least 90-110 lb. Use a bone folder to make a crisp edge on your card.
2. Cut a piece of blue cardstock at 4 1/4" by 61/4" for your top layer.
3. Cut a piece of white cardstock at 4 1/2 " by 6 1/2" for your second layer.
4. Use a Stamping tool of your choice or acrylic blocks to stamp your layers to complete the flowers for your project. 
5. Use the stamp bag or use a paint brush to spread some powder before you stamp.
6. Stamp the bottom or base layer of your stamp set with the embossing ink.
7. Apply the lighter color of blue embossing powder to the flower.
8. Heat emboss the flower with the heat gun.
9. When the flower is cool and dry, use the bag and corn starch on the flower again.
10. Using the embossing ink, load the detail (second layer) stamp with ink.
11. Carefully lining up the stamp, stamp the second stamp layer over the first.
12. Apply the darker blue embossing powder and heat emboss the image.
13. Let that cool down and again apply the embossing bag or cornstarch to the project.
14. Use the outline stamp. Apply the embossing ink to it.
15. Stamp the project.
16. Apply the gold embossing powder to the flower and heat emboss it.
17. Continue to make as many flowers as you need. Three is usually a good number for any card.
18. Make the leaves using the same technique, The leaves have three layers also. So the technique is exactly the same.
19. Use the dies from the same design to die cut the flowers and the stamps. Or fussy cut them.
20. Use the gold lined washi tape to create the horizontal and vertical lines on the card.
21. Using double sided tape, apply the first flower flat at the left-hand corner where the washi tape bisects. just above it.
22. Using foam rectangles or dots, apply the other two flowers to create a bouquet.
23. Add the leaves flat and underneath the flowers. I added some other leaves that I had on hand to complete the look and add more dimension. I used PVA glue to adhere all the leaves.
24. Stamp the sentiment on white cardstock.
25. Layer two pieces of light and darker paper underneath with doubled sided tape.
26. Then add foam dots under the sentiment and apply it to the card.
27. Glue the half beads onto the card as shown.
28. Apply the layers to the card base with double sided tape.

Here are a few tips that will help you create your inspiration for this technique:

• Make sure to heat up your heat gun before you start heat embossing to get better results.
• Keep a small soft paint brush handy to wipe away any stray pieces of embossing powder before you heat emboss.
• If your stamp is not sticking to your platform or acrylic block, take a moment to wash and dry it off. It may have gotten some embossing powder on it.
• Use various ink colors with clear embossing powder if you do not have needed embossing powder color.
• You can make the same type of flowers from vellum.
• Experiment with different embossing powders
• Use various ink colors with clear embossing powder if you do not have needed embossing powder color.
• You can just emboss one layer if you want rather than layering all layers.

Orange Blue Dahlia

We used two three colors in this card to make a colorful encouragement card. This is a great card for those who are facing challenges in their lives.

Supplies

Altenew Dahlia Blossom Stamp Set

Rose gold ink

White cardstock

Green cardstock

Orange textured cardstock

Light blue embossing powder

Dark blue embossing powder

Light pink embossing powder

Dark pink embossing powder

Gold embossing powder

Embossing bag or cornstarch

Heat gun 

Altenw gold dotted washi tape

Misti Tool

Blue half beads

Heart half beads

Double sided tape

Foam Dots

Bone folder

1. Prepare a card base 5" by 7". Use a good cardstock at least 90-110 lb. Use a bone folder to make a crisp edge on your card.
2. Cut a piece of orange textured cardstock at 4 1/4" by 61/4" for your top layer.
3. Cut a piece of white cardstock at 4 1/2 " by 6 1/2" for your second layer.
4. Use a Stamping tool of your choice or acrylic blocks to stamp your layers to complete the flowers for your project. 
5. Use the stamp bag or use a paint brush to spread some powder before you stamp.
6. Stamp the bottom or base layer of your stamp set with the embossing ink.
7. Apply the lighter color of blue embossing powder to the flower.
8. Heat emboss the flower with the heat gun.
9. When the flower is cool and dry, use the bag and corn starch on the flower again.
10. Using the embossing ink, load the detail (second layer) stamp with ink.
11. Carefully lining up the stamp, stamp the second stamp layer over the first.
12. Apply the darker blue embossing powder and heat emboss the image.
13. Let that cool down and again apply the embossing bag or cornstarch to the project.
14. Use the outline stamp. Apply the embossing ink to it.
15. Stamp the project.
16. Apply the gold embossing powder to the flower and heat emboss it.
17. Repeat the process using the ink embossing powder to create one flower.
18. Continue to make as many flowers as you need. Three is usually a good number for any card.
19. Make the leaves using the same technique, The leaves have three layers also. So the technique is exactly the same.
20. Use the dies from the same design to die cut the flowers and the stamps. Or fussy cut them.
21. Use the gold lined washi tape to create the horizontal and vertical lines on the card.
22. Using double sided tape, apply the first flower flat at the left-hand corner where the washi tape bisects. just above it.
23. Using foam rectangles or dots, apply the other two flowers to create a bouquet.
24. I cut the leaves on my Cricut machines. You could also use dies. Crinkle the leaves with your fingers to add some dimension.
25. Add the leaves flat and underneath the flowers. I added some other leaves that I had on hand to complete the look and add more dimension. I used PVA glue to adhere all the leaves.
26. Stamp the sentiment on white cardstock.
27. Layer two pieces of light and darker paper underneath with doubled sided tape.
28. Then add foam dots under the sentiment and apply it to the card.
29. Glue the half beads onto the card as shown.
30. Apply the layers to the card base with double sided tape.

Wow that was a lot of tutorials for sure. But once you get the idea in your mind the flowers and other stamped images that you heat emboss layers will come easy, I think the result speak for themselves!

Thank you for following my journey! You can't imagine how much I value your visit today. We always love hearing from you. Please leave a comment, suggestion or idea below. 

Want to find the products that I used for these cards? They are listed below. (compensated affiliate links used at no extra cost to you) Thank you for your support.

Till next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

Project Supply List

 Art Journal Backgrounds

Let's explore ideas for creating art journal pages.

Art Journal Backgrounds

Every art journal page starts with a background. You can plan the colors and designs that you want to use or design as you go. There are so many mediums that you can use. 

• Acrylic paints
• Watercolors
• Distress inks
• Distress crayons
• Gelatos

Other Materials For Art Journal Backgrounds

There is an abundance of materials all around you to create backgrounds on your art journal pages

• Tissue paper
• Paper towels
• Lint softener sheets
• Pages from books
• Coffee filters
• Tea bag paper
• Paper scraps

Start With A Gesso Base

But before you start on your actual page design, you want to consider adding gesso to your pages. Think of gesso as a primer that also strengthens the pages in your journal. You can use a clear, black or white gesso to prime your pages. Using a foam brush will create an even base. You can also apply the gesso with a brayer. 

You can use any paintbrush that you may have. With a thicker gesso you can add texture. Use different tools like a comb, a knife, a anything that you can think of to create a bit of texture on your page.

Make sure to wash any tools that you use right away so that the gesso does not have a chance to dry. You can also keep a basin of warm water nearby to throw your tools into.

Let the gesso air dry whenever possible before you start adding any more to your page.

Make sure to use some newspaper, parchment paper, waxed paper, or a craft mat on your surface before starting your page.

Simple Way To Create An Art Journal Background

The simplest way to create an art journal background is to simply cover it with color. You can use one color; you can use two or three colors. If you are doing a two-page layout, you can do on a page in one color and the other page in a different color. Remember, it is your art, your way! So, feel free to experiment with color as your mood and spirit directs you. Make sure to use a gesso base when you are adding wet media. 

• Cover the page with any type of paint: acrylic paint, crayon, sprays, watercolors, colored pencils, inks or sprays.
• Create a mix of a few colors to cover the page: you can apply them in stripes, circles, blobs or any other combination.
• Use watercolors to create a background for your art journal. Do not water the color down too much. Mix colors or create abstract shapes. 

Add More Elements To Your Page

Spray Inks

Get out your spray inks and have fun mixing colors. Go with one color or go crazy with colors. Just have fun.

Spray Wash

• Spray a small amount of one or two inks onto a palette or plastic plate.
• Lightly mist a piece of watercolor paper with water.
• Use a flat, moistened brush to apply a thin layer (wash) of the first color onto the paper.
• Clean brush in fresh water and apply another thin layer of the second color, blending them where they meet.

Ink Splatters

• Spray a small amount of one or two inks onto a palette or plastic plate.
• Lightly mist a piece of watercolor paper with water.
• Use a flat, moistened brush to apply a thin layer (wash) of the first color onto the paper.
• Clean brush in fresh water and apply another thin layer of the second color, blending them where they meet.
• Blot the ink splatters with a paper towel and allow to dry.

 

Used Paper Towel Technique

If you keep paper towel in your craft space and use them to wipe up inks and pants. you can use them to create a background for your journal page. After you use the paper towel, just set them aside flat. Keep using them until you are satisfied that you have enough media on them. When you have enough. Cut them or rip them. Then use Mod Podge or decoupage medium to adhere them to your paper.

Coffee Filter Technique

Coffee filters come in different sizes and shapes. The best thing is that you can come by them so reasonably. Once you have them there are many supplies that you can use to color them and apply them to your pages. You need a good-sized area where the media that you use will not get all over the place. One idea is to use a cardboard box to spray and apply media. You can also work outdoors when there is no wind. Once you get them colored, you can collage them onto a page as a background.

1. Watercolors-You can use watercolors, but don't use too much water or the coffee filters will break down.
2. Alcohol Inks-You can use alcohol inks sprays and reinkers to add color to your coffee filters.
3. Distress Inks-Place some distress inks on a silicone mat or a glass mat. Spray with some water. Then press the coffee filters into the color.
4. Coffee Or Tea Wash-If you want an aged look make some strong coffee or tea and let the solution cool a bit, Dip the filters into the solution. The amount of color that you get will depend how long you leave the filters in the solution.

Alcohol Marker Technique

All you need for this technique is some alcohol markers, some rubbing alcohol and a brayer,

1. Cover your surface with a craft pad or some waxed paper.
2. Scribble the alcohol maker of your choice on that surface.
3. Spritz the surface with rubbing alcohol.
4. Roll the brayer through the alcohol and the ink
5. Roll the brayer on the paper in a vertical or horizontal direction.
6. Keep going till the paper is covered

You have to be quick with this technique so that the ink does not dry out

Acrylic Paint Ideas

Make sure to do a layer of gesso before starting with any acrylics.

1.Mixing Acrylic Paint With Baby Powder

As you work in your art journal you will want to use more creative approaches to your pages. Challenging yourself with new techniques is a great way to explore new options in your art.

Have you ever considered mixing other things with your acrylic paints to get a different effect?'

 Add a fair amount the acrylic paint with a bit of water in order to thicken up the paint.  

You could also do a similar technique by mixing it with a thicker matte medium or heavy matte medium.  It's a great way of thickening up your paint and really giving the page texture.

2. Acrylic Paint Blobs

Use your finger or a brush to create some random blobs. One the first color has dried, add more blobs in a second color.

3. Messy Brush Strokes

Just paint some messy brush strokes in different directions with two to three different colors. Let each color dry before adding another. You can use the same sized brush or mix up different sizes. 

4. Just Drip Some Acrylic Paint 

Drop some paint on your page and let it drip down the page. Do this over some newspaper or a waste basket to catch what drips off the page. Can be done with slightly watered-down paint too. 

Use one color or several. Great technique over a solid color background.

5. Splatter Some Paint

Splattering paint is lots of fun. I prefer to use darker colors on top of lighter colors and lighter on darker colors. White is very effective on really dark colors.

Use a paint brush or an old toothbrush. Load with paint and hit the brush with your hand over the page. The closer to the page you go the larger your splatter will be.

Use this technique before you add any magazine images or any stenciling unless you are ok with splatters on those too.

Watercolor Background Ideas

Watercolor Wash

Wet the page with plain water, then load your paintbrush with color and run it over the paper. You can use one color or make stripes any direction you choose.

Adding Salt To Watercolors

​​Take a small handful of ordinary salt and add it to the watercolor.  This will create texture to the page as it reacts in the water. It is a good idea at this point to either speed up the drying with a heat tool or hairdryer or wait an hour for it to dry.

Watercolor Blooms

Normally when we use watercolors, we try to avoid allowing the watercolors to mix into each other. Wee, in this technique, that is exactly what you want! 

You can do this with the same color families or contrasting colors. Go where your imagination takes you. One thing to remember the wetter the color, the more muted the tone will be. But also, the wetter the color the better the colors will run into each other. 

You can also paint in one color and let the page dry. Then drop water droplets on it and watch what happens.

Create A Background Page With Recycled Materials

It is easy to create background pages with materials that you use every day in your home. Be creative and save your craft budget by using what you have.

On this page, I started by mixing inks on the page after I had covered the page with a gesso base. Once the gesso had dried, I inked and blended some distress inks. Then I took some used drier softener sheets to add some layers to the pages.

I used Mod Podge to adhere the drier sheets to add some dimension. Then I added the same color inks on top of the drier sheets once they are dry. I had some bits and pieces from my junk journal stash that I wanted to use,

I am still thinking of adding a few more things, so the page may not be completely finished.

More Art Journal Background Ideas

25 Ideas For Art Journal Pages

How To Add Watercolors To An Art Journal Page

Have we inspired you to create more art journal pages? Pleasse leave a comment, suggestion or idea at the bottom of the page

Until next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

We have included some supplies and tools that you may need for your art journal backgrounds. While we may earn sone commissions, they are at no expense to you. We appreciate your support.