Jolly & Bright Christmas …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

We maybe celebrating Halloween on my Facebook Page but here on my blog … it’s all about Christmas. It is sneaking up on us quickly so I’m hoping to inspire you with today’s cutie from the Merry & Bright Bundle!

Measurements: 

  • Lemon Lime Twist: 5 ½” x 8 ½”
  • Basic Black: scraps
  • Real Red: scrap
  • Shaded Spruce: scrap
  • Granny Apple Green: scrap
  • Crushed Curry: scrap
  • Melon Mamo & Granny Apple Green Foil: scraps
  • Night of Navy Shimmer: scrap
  • Vellum: 2 ½” x 3 ¼”
  • Merry Bold & Bright: 3 ¾” x 5”

Instructions:

  • Cut a 5 ½” x 8 ½” Lemon Lime Twist card base. Fold in half.
  • Cut a 3 ¾” x 5” multi-color designer paper panel.
  • Round the corners of the designer paper using the circle punch.
  • Adhere the designer paper to the card base.
  • Cut a 2 3/8” x 3” piece of vellum using the Nested Essentials dies.
  • Stamp the sentiment pieces onto a scrap piece of Shaded Spruce, Real Red, & Granny Apple Green cardstock using Craft White ink. Let dry completely. Cut.
  • Lay the sentiment pieces onto the vellum for placement.
  • Stamp “Jolly” onto the vellum using Jet Black Stazon ink.
  • Adhere the sentiment pieces to the label using Stampin’ Dimensionals.
  • Add adhesive ONLY to the BACKSIDE of the sentiment behind the cardstock pieces.
  • Adhere the label to the card front.
  • Cut a star from Crushed Curry cardstock and adhere to the top of the sentiment using a Stampin’ Dimensional.
  • Cut a light bulb from Melon Mambo Foil, Granny Apple Green Foil and Night of Navy Soft Shimmer paper.
  • Cut the wire and (3) bulb sets from Basic Black cardstock.
  • Adhere the colored bulbs to the bulb pieces.
  • Slide the completed bulbs onto the wire and adhere to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals. Tack the ends of the wire if needed.

Thank you for stopping by today, I hope this fuels your holiday stamping. Some of my stamping friends are done, and some are like me and haven’t started YET!! Have YOU started your holiday cardmaking?

Have a great day ~

Creating Spooktacular Mummy Cards …

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Are you ready to get into the Halloween spirit without breaking the bank? Look no further! Our clearance rack is brimming with a fabulous deal just in time for spooky season. For a mere $2.40, you can grab a pack of high-quality linen paper that’s perfect for crafting some eerie and adorable Halloween mummy cards.

These mummy cards are a breeze to make. With some simple materials and a little creativity, you can have a stack of charming, handcrafted cards in no time. Better yet … you can watch my video. Feel free to use any designer paper and greeting you have on hand!

In a world where store-bought cards can be expensive and lack that personal touch, crafting your own mummy cards is a great way to spread the Halloween spirit without emptying your wallet.

Don’t miss out on this incredible clearance deal. Hurry to my store or click on the link below and grab your linen paper for $2.40 before it vanishes into thin air. Create memorable mummy cards and celebrate Halloween in a budget-friendly and creative way.

Happy crafting! 🎃👻

Halloween Week on my Facebook page (Click Here to Join in) and don’t forget to hit the notifications button so you don’t miss out on any Samples / Tips / Specials and FUN!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: Week 2 / Pretty Paper

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Today I’ll be sharing the cards we made last night during the LIVE, the Video replay, the measurement sheets and two extra cards!! I have an action packed day for you today. Let’s begin with the video with the measurements and cards to follow.

Here is the measurements for our Double View Designer Paper card that highlights your designer paper showing both sides .. Our pretty papers make these easy to assemble cards with the message and feelings you intend.

On today’s cards I used the Merry & Bright and the Walk in the Woods Designer Series papers, with the Poppy Parade and Pretty Peacock cardstocks. The “Christmas is Better Together” greeting comes from the Beary Cute Bundle and the “Happy Holidays” came from the Throughout the Year stamp set. Both greetings were die cut from the Nested Essentials Dies.

For the fun fold I used the same designer paper and cardstock. On the Poppy Parade card I again used the Throughout the Year stamp set and the 2 3/8″ punch for our greeting, and then embellished with the Iridescent Rhinestones. The greeting, the tag & tree dies all come from the Merriest Tree Bundle.

Now let’s take a look at some alternatives for our Quick & Easy Double View card ….

On this card I used the designer paper, greeting and die all from the All About Autumn suite of products and the Elegant Borders Dies. This adds a beautiful touch to the stunning designer paper. This just shows that you can change up the 1 1/4″ section of our cardstock.

Our second card was designed to celebrate Halloween …

This little cutie screams fun! The Elegant Borders dies were also used on our Halloween card to enhance and create a fun border. A strip of designer paper and bakers twine were also used to embellish our card and tie in all the colors. I used the “Them Bones” Designer paper for our last card, along with the die cuts from the “Tricks and Treats” bundle.

And this brings me into more Halloween FUN on my Facebook page …. Be sure to head on over and join in the fun, games and specials!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: LIVE Tonight

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Are you ready to explore the world of stunning Stampin’ Up! designer papers and take your cardmaking skills to the next level? If so, you’re in for a treat! Tonight I’m going LIVE with Week #2 of my Twelve Weeks of Christmas.

📆 Date: Today 10/24/23

🕕 Time: 6:30 pm Central Time

📍 Location: Facebook Live Event / Click Here

This evening, I’m thrilled to invite you to a Facebook Live event where we’ll dive into the art of showcasing these beautiful designer papers. I’ll be sharing not one, but TWO incredible ways to make your creations shine.

🌟 Quick & Simple Layout for Easy Cardmaking: Perfect for beginners and those who love a straightforward approach to crafting. You’ll learn how to create stunning cards with ease, using the charm of Stampin’ Up! designer papers.

🎉 Fun Fold Design for That Extra WOW Factor: For those looking to elevate their card game, I’ve got a delightful fun fold that’s bound to impress both you and the lucky recipient of your masterpiece.

To join, simply visit my Facebook page at [Linda’s Stampin’ Escape] at 6:30 Central Time. Make sure to click the notification bell so you don’t miss a thing!

Don’t miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there! 💖✂️💌

See you tonight! 🌈

#CraftingWithPassion #StampinUp #FacebookLive

Autumn Leaves Card …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

If you’re looking for a quick card that anyone would love to receive then you’re in for a treat today. This gorgeous card was created with the Autumn Leaves Bundle and the All About Autumn Designer Paper ….

Measurements:

  • Very Vanilla: 4 ¼ by 11 AND 1 x 4 strip for sentiment
  • All About Autumn DSP: 4 x 5 ¼ and the scrap for the leave dies
  • Linen Thread approx 10 inches for the bow

Instructions:

  • Score the very vanilla card base at 5 ½
  • Glue the all about autumn DSP layer to the card base
  • Stamp the sentiment on the very vanilla strip
  • Die cute the leaves out of the all about autumn scrap
  • Attach the sentiment to the DSP with dimensionals
  • Attach the leaves with dimensionals and the linen thread bow with a glue dot add the speckled dot
  • Mail this cute out to a friend or family member

Thank you for joining me today! Have a great week.

I’m Here for You Card …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Today I have another beautiful card shared from one of the talented artistic in the Tutorial Design group I belong to. This gorgeous card just seemed fitting somehow. I will list the ingredients, the measurements and then step by step instructions ….

Supplies:

  • Stamp Set/Bundle: Perched in a Tree (159791), Aspen Tree Dies (159798)
  • Cardstock: Very Vanilla (101650), Pebbled Path (161722), Pecan Pie (161717)
  • Ink: Mossy Meadow (147111), Pecan Pie (161665), Wild Wheat (161725), White Craft Stampin’ Ink Refill (101780)
  • Other: Blending Brushes (153611), Linen Thread (104199), Water Painter (151298), Adhesive Backed Sparkle Gems (161288)
  • Tools & Accessories: Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine (149653), Take Your Pick (144107), Bone Folder (102300), Paper Trimmer (152392), Paper Snips (103579)
  • Adhesives: Multipurpose Liquid Glue (110755), Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430), Mini Glue Dots (103683)

Measurements:

  • Pecan Pie Cardstock:  11” x 4 ¼” (scored at 5 ½”)
  • Pebbled Path Cardstock: 5” x 3 ¾”
  • Pebbled Path Cardstock: 1” x 3 5/8”
  • Very Vanilla Cardstock: 4 7/8” x 3 5/8”
  • Very Vanilla Cardstock: 7/8” x 3 5/8”
  • Very Vanilla Cardstock: Scrap for leaves

Instructions:

  • Cut a template from a piece of scrap paper of the two size leaves from the Aspen Tree Dies.
  • Using this template and blending brushes, blend the inks through the leaves, overlapping as you go until you are happy with the coverage.
  • Using some fresh water, flick some droplets over the background.  Mix some Pebbled Path ink with a little water and flick some droplets over the background and repeat with the Craft White Ink.  Set aside to dry.
  • Stamp the sentiment on to the Very Vanilla strip.
  • Die cut three small leaves and using the blending brushes, add ink to the leaves.
  • Glue the leaf background to the Pebbled Path layer and glue to the card front.
  • Glue the sentiment strip to the Pebbled Path strip and attach to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals.
  • Add a length of Linen Thread to the right hand of the sentiment and add the leaves using glue and Stampin’ Dimensionals.
  • Add a few gems to complete.

hank you for spending some time here today. Enjoy your day.

Thankful for Friends Card ….

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today’s beautiful card comes from one of my fellow Tutorial Team members because with a little help from my friends, I can continue to share with you. This soft and stunning fall card was created by Melissa Davies ….

Supplies:

  • Stamp Set/Bundle: Autumn Leaves bundle (162719)
  • Cardstock: Basic White (159276), Pecan Pie (161717), Soft Seafoam (146988), Vellum (101856)
  • Ink: Saddle Brown Stazon (151508)
  • Designer Series Paper: Oxidized Copper (162190)
  • Tools & Accessories: Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine (149653), Bone Folder (102300), Paper Trimmer (152392), Paper Snips (103579), Gorgeously Made dies (161202), Leaf Fall embossing folder (159847), Water painters (151298)
  • Stampin’ Blends: Soft Seafoam (154902), Calypso Coral (154881), Wild Wheat (161661)
  • Adhesives: Multipurpose Liquid Glue (110755), Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430)
  • Misc.: 91-99% Isopropyl Alcohol

Measurements:

  • Pecan Pie: 5 ½” x 8 ½”, 4” x 5 ¼”
  • Basic White: 4 ¼” x 5 ½”
  • Soft Seafoam: 4 ¼” x 5 ½”
  • Vellum 3 ¼” x 3 ¼”
  • Oxidized Copper: ½” x 3 ¼”

Instructions:

  • Cut a 5 ½” x 8 ½” Pecan Pie card base. Fold in half.
  • Cut a 4” x 5 ¼” Pecan Pie panel.
  • Emboss the panel using the Leaf Fall embossing folder.
  • Adhere the panel to the card front.
  • Cut a narrow label from Basic White cardstock.
  • Stamp the sentiment onto the label using Saddle Brown ink. Set aside.
  • Cut a branch from Basic White cardstock.
  • Cut the leaves from Soft Seafoam cardstock.
  • Cut a large maple leaf from Soft Seafoam cardstock.
  • Emboss the large Soft Seafoam maple leaf using the Leaf Fall embossing folder.
  • Cut a large maple leaf from Vellum cardstock.
  • Color the entire leaf randomly using Soft Seafoam, Calypso Coral, and Wild Wheat Stampin’ Blends.
  • Saturate the water painter brush with alcohol. Tap the brush to splatter alcohol drops onto the leaf. Let the colors bleed until desired look is achieved. Let dry completely.
  • Stamp the veining onto the maple leaf using Saddle Brown ink.
  • Adhere the maple leaf to the Soft Seafoam embossed leaf.
  • Adhere the leaves and branches to the card front.
  • Adhere the embossed maple leaf to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals.
  • Die cut a ½” x 3 ¼” Oxidized Copper strip.
  • Adhere the strip to the BACKSIDE of the label.
  • Adhere the label to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Thank you for joining me today. I hope you enjoyed Melissa’s card as much as I do!

A Birthday Celebration / Celebration of Life …

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today would have been Armani’s 4th birthday, as you know… he passed away unexpectedly last Friday from what they believe was a seizure. I’m sharing the Patchwork Pieces card that I created during a Facebook LIVE for him … he LOVES Orange!! This little guy had to come into my stamp room every time he was over and checked out the cards I have made … he’s was the sweetest little guy 🧡!!

Here is the video replay of my Facebook LIVE ….

Wasn’t that fun and easy to create? And by using the designer paper and cardstock, you have enough left over for a second card. Have some fun and die cut some black and turn it into a Halloween card … the possibilities are endless.

So … Do you think he will love this card? The last one he took had flowers, but it was ORANGE!! He even passed up the spaceship over those orange flowers …. told you he was a hoot!

Thank you for stopping by and checking out my blog post today. Have a great day ~

Halloween Graveyard with Them Bones

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Yesterday’s “Stamp with Me” video and card layout featuring the Joy of Christmas Suite/Collection were an absolute delight, weren’t they? It’s always a pleasure to explore new creative avenues and share our crafting joys.

The clean and straightforward card layout demonstrated in the video is not only visually appealing but also easy to recreate. It allows room for creativity and personalization, making it a go-to design for card makers. You don’t need “what I have” … use the measurements with the goodies YOU have.

But today, we’re shifting gears and getting into the Halloween spirit! We’re all set to embark on a spine-tingling crafting adventure with the “Them Bones” Designer Paper and the “Tricks and Treats” bundle. Get ready for some frightful fun!

The “Them Bones” Designer Paper is a spooktacular choice for crafting during the Halloween season. With its hauntingly fun skeletons, bats, and other creepy critters, this paper pack is bound to add an extra dose of Halloween spirit to your creations.

Pair this paper with the “Tricks and Treats” bundle, and you’re in for a wickedly good time. This bundle offers a delightful stamp set and coordinating dies, perfect for crafting spooky cards, treat bags, and more.

I used the Timeworn Typed Embossing Folder to create the look of an old headstone to add an added touch of spookiness… on that note, I created a headstone from the die which highlights our greeting. We’ve got skeletons dancing in the graveyard with our Glow in Dark bats lighting up the way!

Stay tuned for more exciting crafting adventures, and remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s the joy we find in the journey.

Happy crafting, and have a spine-tingling Halloween season!

Last Nights Leftovers … Crafters Heaven!

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

If you’re like me, you’ve probably been busy creating beautiful holiday cards, and you might just have a pile of leftover die cuts from your previous projects. Well, fear not! Today, we’re going to embrace the Joy of Christmas suite of products and turn those remnants into a cute and quick Christmas card that will warm the hearts of your recipients.

The Joy of Christmas Suite: A Festive Wonderland

Before we dive into our crafting adventure, let’s talk about the Joy of Christmas suite of products. This collection is a true winter wonderland for crafters, featuring everything you need to create stunning holiday cards and decorations. With its rich colors, whimsical designs, and versatile elements, the Joy of Christmas suite is sure to make your crafting sessions joyful and memorable.

The suite typically includes:

  1. Christmas-themed Paper: High-quality, double-sided paper with charming holiday patterns.
  2. Stamps and Dies: Coordinating stamp sets and die cuts for easy card-making. (Save 10% when bundled)
  3. Embellishments: Currently Unavailable.

Now, let’s put those leftover die cuts to good use and create a delightful Christmas card!

All you need is your card base, I’m using Shaded Spruce, then my 4″x 5-1/4″ piece of Designer paper and then I took the left over piece from yesterday’s card and popped it onto a piece of Shaded Spruce designer paper …. And there you have it! In just a few easy steps, you’ve transformed your leftover die cuts into a cute and quick Christmas card that’s sure to bring a smile to someone’s face.

Remember, the Joy of Christmas suite of products is all about embracing the festive spirit and spreading joy through your creations. So, dig into your crafting supplies, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the magical process of making handmade Christmas cards. After all, there’s nothing quite like receiving a thoughtful and homemade card during the holiday season.

Happy crafting, and don’t forget to join me LIVE on Saturday for my World Cardmaking Day LIVE on Facebook…..

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: Week One

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

‘Tis the season to be merry, and last night’s Facebook LIVE session marked the exciting kickoff of my “12 Weeks of Christmas” series! With this week dedicated to the “Joy of Christmas,” we delved into the world of holiday card crafting, and it was an absolute delight… except maybe tying the bow! 😅 You’ll have to watch the video to catch that ….

I’m was thrilled to guide you on the first card of this creative journey. After all, what’s better than starting your Christmas preparations early and infusing a little extra joy into your holiday season? If you can’t wait till next week Tuesday, join me for my World Cardmaking Event this Saturday!!

Let’s get you set up to create today’s card with the dimensions you’ll need …

  • Cherry Cobbler: 11″ x 4-1/4″ Scored at 2-2/3″ x 5-1/2″ plus 2 – 3-1/4″ x 2-3/4″
  • Designer Paper/ Front: 4″ x 2-1/2″ Inside: 4″ x 5-1/4″
  • Basic White: 3″ x 2-1/2″ and 4″ x 2-1/2″
  • Gold Adhesive Backed Glimmer Paper: 3″ x 2-1/2″ plus 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″ for Die Cut Noel

Christmas is not just about receiving, but also about giving from the heart. Handmade cards are a personal touch that can warm the hearts of friends and family.

Make sure to tune in next week for another dose of festive inspiration as we continue our “12 Weeks of Christmas.”

Let’s make this holiday season the most joyful and creative one ever! 🎄✨

Abracadabra, Halloween Lights Card

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Happy October 1st! 🎃🧙‍♀️ Abracadabra! ✨ Get ready to add a spooktacular twist to the Merry & Bright Bundle! 💌🕸️ We’re conjuring up some Halloween magic to transform the Merry & Bright Bundle into the cutest Halloween card that your ghouls and goblins will adore. 🦇👻 And I have all the dimensions and instructions for you!!

Measurements:

  • Rich Razzleberry:  5 ½” x 8 ½”
  • Pumpkin Pie: 4” x 5 ¼”
  • Basic White: 3 ¾” x 5” 

Instructions:

  • Adhere the Pumpkin Pie cardstock to the folded card.
  • Place the Basic White in the Embossing Folder and roll it through the Cut & Emboss Machine.
  • Stamp the light bulbs on scrap Basic White cardstock using Pumpkin Pie and Rich Razzleberry ink. Cut out using the coordinating dies.
  • Optional: Color the left side of the bulb using the coordinating Watercolor Pencil to add a bit of dimension.
  • Cut out the Silver Foil using the appropriate dies. Adhere all pieces together, then adhere them all on the card.
  • Color the Glossy Dots using the Dark Rich Razzleberry and the Dark Pumpkin Pie Stampin’ Blends markers. Let dry and place on the light bulbs.
  • Stamp the letters on scrap Pumpkin Pie cardstock using the Rich Razzleberry ink pad then cut out each letter using the coordinating punch. Adhere them to the card.

It’s so exciting that you can create enchanting Halloween cards from the Merry & Bright Bundle made to sparkle and sprinkle the holiday cheer. 🌟🎃 Get the bundle today and let the crafting magic begin! 🌠🍁

Thank you for spending a bit of your Sunday with me!

Halloween Card Magic

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

If you’re as batty about Halloween as I am, you’re in for a treat today. I recently had a fangtastic time at our Halloween class on Wednesday night, where we brewed up some spooky-cute fun with the Them Bones Designer Paper and the Tricks and Treats Bundle.

Today I’ll share my adorable Halloween card featuring candy corn die cuts and the spook-tacular Z-Fold … a super simple fun fold! Start with an 4-1/4″ x 11″ piece of cardstock then score at 2-3/4″ and 5-1/2″ … that simple.

Picture this: a room filled with fellow Halloween aficionados, a cauldron of stamping supplies, a dash of creativity, and a sprinkle of eerie ambiance. That’s exactly what our Halloween class was all about!

Our bewitching adventure began with the Them Bones Designer Paper. 🦇🦴This paper pack is a Halloween dream come true, featuring quirky skulls, spooky spiders, and haunted houses. It’s a perfect backdrop for all your Halloween crafting endeavors, and it set the mood for our ghoulishly delightful evening.

To cast our crafting spell, we enlisted the help of the Tricks and Treats Bundle. 🎃 This bundle is chock-full of charming Halloween-themed stamps and coordinating dies that make crafting a breeze. But the true star of the night? The candy corn die cuts!

So, as you prepare for Halloween this year, don’t forget the magic of crafting. The Them Bones Designer Paper and Tricks and Treats Bundle are your partners in Halloween crafting crime. Give it a try, and who knows, you might just conjure up some Halloween magic of your own!

Until next time, may your cauldron be bubbling and your Halloween crafting be absolutely spook-tacular! 🎃🕷️🌙

Explore Creative Possibilities with the “Enjoy the Adventure Memories and More” Card Pack!

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Are you ready to embark on a creative journey? Look no further than the “Enjoy the Adventure Memories and More” card pack, currently on sale in our clearance rack. This versatile card pack is not only perfect for scrapbooking but also for crafting quick and easy cards that will leave a lasting impression. Let’s dive into what makes this card pack a must-have for any crafting enthusiast.

My first card was the “Thank You” card … the simplest of the bunch. The base comes from the Cards & Envelopes which coordinate with the Memories & More Card Pack. I simply cut down the 4″ x 6″ Thank you card to 3-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ (so a 1/2″ off the top and 1/2″ off one side). I then colored in the THANK YOU with Mint Macaron and Petal Pink Stampin’ Blends. Super Simple!

On to the next card, we begin with the Mango Melody and Petal Pink card base. These are scored for you so they fold nicely …

I took a second card base and cut off the front, then I cut the front down to 3-1/4″ x 4-1/4″ (you’ll get 2 from the front piece). I then layered the “heart” card which measure 3″ x 4″ … not cutting needed.

The rest is easy as I used the die cut adhesive backed elements from the sticker sheet included in the Enjoy the Adventure Memories & More Card Pack. Each of the elements were popped up with Stampin’ Dimensionals and then brushed with Wink of Stella.

The next card also starts with the Mango Melody and Petal Pink card base…

This card is all about layers … the bottom two layers are actually 2 of the 3″ x 4″ cards from the card pack. The two smaller pieces; the Petal Pink is 4″ x 1-3/4″ and was attached vertically, then the Mango Melody piece 3-1/4″ x 3/4″ was layered vertically. Both of these smaller pieces were cut from the 1/2 front that was left over from the second card!

The Happy Birthday (popped up) and Stars are elements from the sticker sheet. You’ll have to substitute a coordinating color for your cardbase the the “cards & envelopes” have sold out.

Now … I have one more card to share with you. If the first card was a bit too simple for you, this card will show you how you can get the same look, but a little more jacked up …

The card begins exactly how our first card was created, except I took the left over pieces cut off and found a full “THANK YOU” to trim down and color … this will give us more dimension. Then I punched a scalloped heart from vellum to place behind the “Thank You” so it stands out more.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to grab the “Enjoy the Adventure Memories and More” card pack at a discounted price from our clearance rack. Start your creative adventure today and enjoy the versatility and beauty that this card pack has to offer. Whether you’re a scrapbooking enthusiast or simply looking to make quick & easy cards, this pack has you covered. Hurry, because this offer won’t last forever!

Thank you for joining me today. Which one of these cards is your favorite??

Creating Magic with Water-Based Inks & Autumn Leaves …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

It’s time to Create Magic with Water-Based Inks with some tips and techniques to help you in your cardmaking and scrapbooking! Previously I shared the differences between three of our most popular inks (Click Here to View) Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting on your creative journey, water-based inks offer a world of possibilities to enhance your projects.

Today, we’ll explore the exciting world of water-based inks with share tips and a fun technique that will take your card making and scrapbooking to the next level.

Why Water-Based Inks?

Water-based inks are immensely popular in the crafting community for several reasons:

  1. Versatility: Water-based inks work on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardstock, vellum, and even fabric. They’re also great for different crafting techniques, making them incredibly versatile.
  2. Ease of Use: These inks are beginner-friendly, forgiving, and easy to clean up. You don’t need specialized equipment or ventilation like you do with some other types of inks.
  3. Blendability: Water-based inks can be effortlessly blended to create beautiful gradients and backgrounds. This feature is especially handy for creating unique card backgrounds and scrapbook pages.
  4. Layering: You can layer multiple colors to achieve complex effects and depth in your projects. This allows for endless creative possibilities.

Today we’re going to start with the basics … Simple stamping with a hint of a fun technique called “Stamping Off”. You can use pre-folded cards or cut and fold your own from cardstock. My base is an A2 size card; 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″ scored and folded at 4-1/4″. Decide on the card’s theme and the colors you want to use. This is where your creativity shines.

Today we are using the new Autumn Leaves Stamp Set along with the Crushed Curry, Old Olive and Pumpkin Pie water-based ink pads! The Autumn Leaves is a photopolymer stamp set so for best results I use the Stampin’ Pierce mat to stamp onto. (Use a scrap piece of paper over the top to keep it clean).

As for our technique to “stamp off” … you’ll ink up your image and then stamp it onto a scrap piece of paper before stamping it onto your cardstock. Position your inked stamp over the desired area on your card. Apply even pressure, pressing down firmly but not too hard. Hold the stamp in place for a moment to ensure the ink transfers. The veins for the leaves are inked up and then stamped directly over the stamped off leaf, giving it the look of dimension. It’s magical.

After use, clean your stamp with the Stampin’ Scrub or paper towel. I stay away from baby wipes, but if you use them, make sure they are alcohol, lotion and lint free… the last thing you want is to have on your stamps or ink pads is a foreign substance. This maintains the quality of your stamps.

I stamped the greeting onto a scrap piece of white cardstock using the Old Olive ink then trimmed it down. I added some of the Threaded Twine behind it after breaking it apart by pulling out a few threads. I used Stampin’ Dimensionals to pop it up. This was all layered onto a piece of 4-1/4″ x 5-5/8″ Crushed Curry mat.

Stamping cards with water-based inks is a fun and rewarding creative hobby. With practice and these tips, you’ll feel like a master card maker in no time. Each card you create will be a work of art, made with love and care…. and that is why we stamp! So, gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and start stamping your way to heartfelt greetings and beautiful cards!

Thank you for joining me today.