Tutorial - Pug Party

Today I want to show you, or perhaps remind you of, an old stamping technique that's making a bit of a comeback - masking. Whether it's with masking fluid, post-it-notes or low tack adhesive paper, the technique is versatile and relatively easy to do.

1. First, we need to create our mask. I'm using a large post-it-notebook that has a wide adhesive strip along the top edge. Choose something that's relatively low tack so you can remove it without tearing the cardstock.

2. Stamp your image making sure you include some of the adhesive section (if you're using a post-it-note). Use a pair of small, sharp scissors to cut around the image, directly over the stamped line. Cutting very close will ensure you don't end up with a gap (or halo) around your first image.

3. Stamp the front-most image on your cardstock. This is the dog that is sitting at the front of the completed picture.

4. Position the mask over the top of the stamped image. Line it up as perfectly as you can so that you don't end up with gaps or over stamping.

5. Stamp a second and third image on either side of the mask, reinking between impressions.

6. If you wish to position an image behind two others, you'll need to create another mask and layer it over the area you wish to protect. In my case, I want another pug to sit behind the first and third.

7. Carefully remove the mask from the dog on the right hand side and place it over the image on the left. Stamp again. Because the mask is relatively low-tack, you can use it over and over again.

8. Remove the masks and add some colour.

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In My Thoughts

A simple card to let someone know you're thinking of them.

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LAST CHANCE FOR DIGITAL STAMPS

The Beccy's Place digital stamp store closes in a few days.

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Tutorial - Stamped Sentiment Backgrounds

Let's make a fun, stamped sentiment background!

1. Start by stamping your image on a piece of cardstock. Don't go too big or you'll soon get tired of all the stamping, and remember to use the appropriate ink for your colouring medium. Stamp an additional image on a large post-it-note or piece of masking paper and cut around it to create a mask.

2. Colour a shadow under your stamped image. (If you attempt to do this after stamping the background, you run the risk of smearing the sentiments).

3. Position the mask you created over your stamped image to protect it while you work on the background.

4. Place one full, stamped sentiment in a prominent place, then fill in the rest of the area around the image, keeping the sentiments in line and as straight as possible. If you wish, you can add very light pencil lines to your cardstock to help keep things even.

5. Remove the mask and colour your image with your choice of mediums.

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Thank You Card

I'm finding the coloured cut sheets very handy for those days when you don't have the time or energy to devote to colouring an image. Plus, you can cut a few extras to keep in your stash for those unexpected card emergencies!

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Alcohol Inks

Long ago, during my painting days, there was a trend to create washy, acrylic backgrounds with navy blues, browns, pinks and purples and then layer pretty roses over the top. I decided to revisit some of those colours but with my alcohol markers and some blending card. I have to admit, it's nothing at all like the paintings, but I still love the effect!

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Tutorial - Faux Slimline Tent Fold Cards

I love the look of slimline cards, but I always hesitate to make them because I really don't enjoy creating envelopes. But with this card fold, the envelope dilemma is no longer an issue! And you can easily resize the card while maintaining the fabulous slimline-look.

1. Start by choosing a couple of colours. I've gone for a pretty pink and a soft grey, which I'll also use to colour my image. It's easier to choose your cardstock or paper first and then match your colouring mediums to your selected products.

2. Stamp and colour your image using the palette you chose earlier.

3. To construct the card base,  you'll need one piece of cardstock measuring 4" x 6", one piece measuring 3" x 12" (scored and folded in half), two pieces of coordinating paper measuring 23/4" x 53/4", plus any embellishments you'd like to add.

4. Attach the patterned paper to the front and inside of the slimline card. If desired, you can add a stamped sentiment or other decoration to the inside.

5. Add glue to the back of the slimline card, centre it over the 4" x 6" piece of cardstock and press in place to form the base of your card.

6. Time to decorate! I added my coloured image, a ribbon bow, a long sentiment, and some little punched flowers to the front of my card. I also used a corner rounder on the base cardstock.

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