WATER MARKED

Handmade Card by Linda Fields

What if you could use water to stamp your design? Prepare to have fun with this great technique stamping with H2O!

The Background

I used black cardstock for my base to create depth in this water stamping effect. Using Altenew’s Mini Branch Stamp, Tim Holtz Oxide Inks in Mowed Lawn, Speckled Egg, and Iced Spruce, with a sponge applicator, I was able to create the velvety smooth background with a watermarked effect. Blend at least two layers of complimentary inks over the entire card front. The more ink the better! You’ll absolutely need a stamping platform to restamp the image in the same spot several times. Use a sponge applicator to apply water to your stamp as if it were ink. The chemical reaction creates a very cool shadow effect!

The Rest of The Story

Have you ever come up with a cool idea only to realize you didn’t think the process all the way through? That’s exactly what I did. I was so focused on creating the backdrop I forgot about the rest of the card. So, inspired by our son serving overseas in South Korea, I decided to turn this into a Korean Birthday Card. I pulled out some scrap metallic watercolor backgrounds I made from my previous Level 1 Asian themed project and die cut some flowers using Altenew’s Rose Queen Die Set.

Finishing Touches

After I used Altenew’s Birthday’s Around the World Stamp Set for the sentiment, I finger painted Rub ‘n Buff Antique Gold around the edges and pulled gold down the front to create an aged, wooden panel. This project was incredibly fun to make. I’m so happy with the finished card. Remember, don’t be afraid to experiment and yes, you might make mistakes but you’ll soon discover it’s all part of the creative magic!