Step-by-Step Guide to Stamping Backgrounds with Pink & Main and Cathie Allan
Creating unique and eye-catching stamping backgrounds is a fantastic way to add depth and interest to your handmade cards. In this step-by-step guide, designer Cathie Allan demonstrates how to use Pink & Main products to craft a stunning birthday card. The keyphrase for this tutorial is Stamping Backgroundsβa technique that can transform your projects into extraordinary works of art. Follow along to create your own masterpiece, and be sure to watch the accompanying YouTube video for a complete walkthrough.
Here is a side view of Cathie’s card.
Step 1: Creating the Stenciled Background
Start by die-cutting the Pink & Main leaf die from heavy cardstock to create a stencil. Place the stencil on a white piece of cardstock. Using a blending foam, pounce umber ink through the stencil. After removing the stencil, gently blend the color around the stenciled images with a blending brush to create a soft, shadowed effect.
Step 2: Adding Depth with Additional Colours
Repeat the first step, but this time, use split pea ink. Be sure to have some stenciled images extending off the edges of the cardstock for a natural look. The variation in color will add depth and interest to your background.
Step 3: Final Layer of Background Colour
For the final layer, repeat the process using green tea ink. Once all the layers are complete, let the background panel dry completely. This multi-layered approach to Stamping Backgrounds will give your card a rich, textured appearance.
Step 4: Stamping the Florals
Next, stamp the Pink & Main floral stamp onto white heavy cardstock using VersaFine ink. This ink is perfect for capturing all the intricate details of the stamp.
Step 5: Coloring the Stamped Images
Coloring is where your creativity can truly shine. Work in small sections to keep your ink manageable. Start by applying clear embossing ink to the stamped image using your finger, keeping the ink wet. Dip an eyeliner brush into the ink and carefully outline the wet sections. Then, use a Fantastix brush to blend the ink. For the petals, use lagoon blue ink, and for the leaves, split pea ink. Allow the ink to dry before proceeding.
Step 6: Adding Dimension with Die Cuts and Nuvo Drops
Once your floral images are colored and dry, die-cut them using the coordinating Pink & Main dies. To add dimension and a touch of sparkle, apply Nuvo Crystal Drops to all the flowers. Allow them to dry fully before adding a small drop of white Crystal Drops to the center of each flower. This final touch will make your florals pop off the card.
Final Touches
Once all elements are complete, assemble your card as shown in the project image. The combination of stenciled backgrounds and beautifully colored florals will result in a card that is sure to impress.
For another example of how this Stamping Backgrounds technique can be used, check out this layout designed by Cathie Allan. And here is a side view of Cathie’s layout.
This project by Cathie Allan showcases the versatility and creativity that can be achieved using Pink & Main products.
Don’t forget to watch the full tutorial on our YouTube channel to see the card being created from start to finish.
Happy crafting!
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