Everyday Expressions

Hi Everyone! Thanks for joining me again today! I am pretty excited to share with you an epiphany I had earlier. As you know, I’ve been accepted into the Altenew Educator Certification Program, and I’m learning a lot in the academy classes. Well today, as I watched Easy Ink Blending Techniques with Amy Tan, I read a comment that basically said, ‘Thank you for actually teaching informative techniques and tips, and not just talking about card assembly.’ Uh…wait a second. Do I do that? Yes, I do. Although I do try to give tips, it’s blah, blah, blah. Stamp this. Tape that. Glue it… So light bulb moment for me today! Thank you Amy for being an excellent teacher, and to the smart classmate who took the time to leave a comment.

So from now on I promise to give you tips, techniques, and tricks with no assembly! YAY!

This card is my submission for All About Layering 2 

Tip number one for Majestic Bloom stamp set is: Practice, practice, practice. I spent a lot of time trying different color combinations, using different colored cardstock, and working to align the stamp layers.

Tip number 2: Note the techniques and color combos on each flower and keep for future reference either in the stamp pocket or in the ink color binder. Note the white pigment ink base layer I used on Neenah Desert Storm cardstock in the samples.

Tip 3: Layer + layer + layer = Dimension. Dimension=Interest. Use foam tape with die cut leaves and flowers to “build up” for dimension. Use layered dies for greater depth. Finally build depth by blending ink colors layer upon layer. In this background I used the same colors in the flower to layer in an ombré effect and create a focal point for interest.

Technique: I like the way the black ink helps give a more striking outline for the flower. Also, it helps to align the next stamp layers. I ended up using Red Cosmos inks for this flower.

Trick: I used Crafter’s Companion Shimmering cardstock for the plaid layered dies and the background. Also, I used Frosty Pink Shimmery Ink Spray for even more effect. This combination gives a final touch of dimension to the card.

So what do you think about this new format? I hope you like it! Let me know by leaving me comments. Love and crafty hugs!

Erin