Technique: DI Watercoloring

Back in February, I took the "Painted Petals" workshop at Archivers and want to share a great technique from that class.  It's a fast and easy way to make it look like you're a watercolor master!  Back in my own studio, I realized that the only stamps that I have that will work are tiny...inchies.  So, undeterred, I decided to make mini gift cards.  There are plenty of times when I send the actual card ahead of time and just need a basic "to/from" card on the gift itself.

The Details:

• The key to this technique is to use a stamp with a negative image (where the background is the solid stamped part).  
• Emboss the image with white embossing powder, then color in with Distress Inks using a water pen.  I recommend using a high-quality embossing powder like Zing! to ensure good cover and adhesion.

• The cards measure 2-1/2" square.  These are a great way to experiment with new techniques and also to use up your scraps!
• Because the embossed areas define the image and keep you "in the lines", you can watercolor quickly with the end result looking like it took hours and some mad watercolor skills! 

Here are the two cards made at the Archivers' class; these stamped images are much larger scale:

Supplies:

Paper:  PTI cardstock 'Kraft'; SU! cardstock 'Ultrasmooth White'; K&Co
Stamps:  SU! 'Mostly Flowers'
Inks:  Top Boss embossing pad; Distress Inks 'Peeled Paint', 'Tattered Rose'
Embellishments:  ribbon
Tools:  Zing! white embossing powder; heat gun; water pen; adhesive; foam tape