Creating your own cards can be easy and fun. The best thing is, it does NOT have to be an expensive hobby. Use your
computer to print out words if you don't own stamps. Use your own software to create text for your cards. Purchase a large pack of variety paper (used for resumes etc.) to add
layers to your cards. Many craft supply stores sell "scrap bags" of small pieces of card stock. If you sew, you
will have fabric scraps that can be used.
There are an endless variety of items you can use to create your own
unique cards. You probably already own a lot of these things. Stencils, watercolors, oil paints, fabric scraps, colored pencils, crayons, ink stamps, bits of ribbon, buttons ...
The list is endless. Don't be afraid to try new techniques. Mix and match colors, paper shapes, and textures to create interesting
results. This is just a small list of ideas.
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FREE Watercolor Stamping Instuctions
Create your own "watercolors"!
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Don't miss our lessons on making cards using Watercolor Stamping |
Assemble Tools
Stamps, cardstock, watercolor markers
Right: Paper cutter & decorative scissors
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I cannot say enough good things about Fiskars Double Sided Tape Runner
(the type shown on the right). It is easy to use and really sticks.
It automatically releases tape as you touch the surface with it, and automatically
breaks the tape as you release it from the surface. You don't need very much (just a bit
on each corner of your papers) so it lasts quite a while.
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Set Up Your Work Area
Place a large protective paper on your table (I use freezer paper bought on a roll at Costco)
Gather together supplies and tools. Be sure to have plenty of paper towels, soap, wet wash cloths etc.
available for cleanup.
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Types of Paints / Powders
These are just suggestions. Try watercolors, water based craft paints, watercolor markers, etc.
Perfect Pearls
Dab the medium over the stamp. The stamp will become sticky.
Stamp your card. Dust the colored powder over the stamped
image. The powder will stick to the areas stamped. Brush
off excess. This gives a sparkly effect.
Stencil Paints: Delta "Stencil Paint Creme"
These are oil based, which makes them quite messy to use. They are the consistency of lipstick. Rub
the stencil brush into the paint, being careful not to get too much paint. Wipe off excess on scrap paper. Use the stencil
to paint onto your cardstock. This was a bit tricky to use, but created a nice effect. The instructions
say that the paint can be washed off the stencils, brushes etc. with soap and water, but I found this extremely
difficult. The paint was all over my hands by the time I was finished.
With practice, it does look very nice.
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Perfect Pearls
Stencil Paint
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Ready To Go!
Choose a stamp or computer image, stencil etc. that you will use for your design. Use
scrap paper to experiment with techniques and colors. Try many different paper colors, shapes and sizes.
You may find that one color of cardstock brings out your design much better than other colors.
It may be easier for you, in the beginning, to create your design on a piece of cardstock that will be attached
to the front of your card. This way, if you make a mistake, you do not lose an entire card. If you do make a
mistake directly on the card, it can be saved. Simply create a new design on a piece of cardstock and attach
that to the card, covering the old design.
Mix-match paints with stamps, add decorative paper scraps, try out colored pencils ... New looks can be created
by using a variety of techniques on one card. Don't forget your computer - use it for an endless source of greeting
card phrases, clip-art, etc.
Don't miss our lessons on making cards using Watercolor Stamping
Want to see even more ideas? Origami, quilling etc. Card Making Supplies
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