Trying New Things

Stencils from The Stamp Market

A couple of weekends ago, I attended a virtual cardmaking workshop with Scrapbook and Cards. Initially, I wasn't going to sign up because I've been making cards for-evah and have A Lot of supplies. However, it is so much fun to learn new things; I went ahead and registered. It was well worth the money, in my opinion! Participants received a wonderful kit beforehand. This was so that we would be prepared to hit the ground running when we logged in for our weekend classes. One of the things in the kit was a layered stencil set from The Stamp Market. After the workshop, I was playing with my goodies and decided to try a fun technique with the stencils - heat embossing.

Heat Embossing Instructions

There are many good ways to achieve the same results. These instructions are based on what has worked well for me.

Suggested Supplies (with links):

Versamark or ink labeled "Watermark" or "Embossing Ink". Pigment ink is another good choice
Embossing powder. There is a variety of different colors and also clear
Medium to heavy weight cardstock. The heavier, the better, because it doesn't warp as much.
Heat tool.
Rubber or Photopolyment Stamps or blending sponges
Anti-Static Pouch (optional

The picture below shows the stencil leaves after embossing with Verdigris embossing powder and then again with Copper embossing powder.

Verdigris Embossing Powder

General Steps for Embossing:

If using an anti-static pouch or cornstarch - thoroughly rub over surface. This helps to prevent embossing powder from sticking in unwanted areas.
Apply ink to cardstock (or whatever substrate you are using.) The ink can be applied with a stamp, a dauber, brush, or pen.
Sprinkle embossing powder over wet ink.
Shake off excess powder. Save the excess for future use by funneling back into container.
Heat ink/powder. Move the heat tool so that it is not in one place for too long. As soon as it starts to melt, move to next area to emboss. When all of the powder has melted, cool a bit before placing anything on the surface. Indentations can be made in the cooling powder.

If heat embossing is a new technique for you, you may want to watch the video below. (I made it over nine years ago!) It shows another technique for Heat Embossing.

Embossed 2 Step Stamping video

The stencils in the following video are layered stencils. This means that they are intended to be used together to create a more realistic look. The layering of the ink adds depth and texture to the leaves. The effect is very pretty. That is true whether using regular dye-based ink or using the Heat Embossing Technique.