Written by Linda Fields
WARNING! Alcohol Inking Is Addictive!

Ranger, Sizzix, Stamper’s Anonymous, these amazing companies are home for the creative thinker Tim Holtz. Together, they’ve made the most incredible crafting tools and materials. That being said, I had a blast teaching my latest workshop “Fall Harvest”. Inspired by both Tim Holtz and Tracey Dutton (Lavinia Stamps Owner), I taught a transfer method using both Alcohol Inks and Distress Ink overlays to create magically vintage backdrops. As the workshop name implies, the class was for making Autumn cards (see slideshow below) but I also made Christmas cards too! It proved, yet again, just how versatile this card making technique can be!
You have got to try this!
Have you ever used alcohol inks? What about Distress Inks? Imagine bringing them together! Shoot, add in some Oxides too for a whole other world of fun! Anyone who has these materials knows just how versatile they can be. But remember, you’ve been warned. Once you start, you won’t stop! You’re only as limited as your imagination!

Stamped or die cut black silhouettes are beautiful against these stunning backdrops.
The overwhelming response I’ve had to keep teaching this three-step backdrop technique has been amazing. I love, love, love to see all the unique pieces, the creativity and joy. You can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when creating something so beautiful. Each backdrop made is truly a one-of-a-kind piece of art that can never be duplicated. Take a moment to think about that. There is only one in the entire world!
Want to learn this technique? Visit Linda’s Studio Library where I have video tutorials ready! The Fantasy Backdrop Video Tutorial is a fan favorite but feel free to give them all a go! Want more? Need one-on-one tutoring? Get in touch with me and we’ll set a date and time!
This one technique creates so many different, magical results. You’ll never want to stop.
Supplies Used:
- Sizzix Pumpkin Die Set
- Sizzix Woodlands Die Set
- Stampers Anonymous Ledger Script Stamp
- Stampers Anonymous Raven Stamp Set
- Ranger Alcohol Inks
- Ranger Alcohol Transfer Ink
- Ranger Blending Solution (optional)
- Ranger Distress Inks (Kit #3)
- Ranger Distress Inks (any colors)
- Ranger Distress Oxide Inks (any colors)
- Ranger Archival Ink – Black
- Tim Holtz Glass Mat
- Stamping Platform
- Ink Applicators
- Detail Brushes
- Neenah Cover Stock Paper – White 297 gsm
- Yupo Paper (backup for Craft Plastic)
- Grafix Dura-Bright Craft Plastic (highly recommend)
- Black Cover Stock Paper
- Tim Holtz Manual Air Tool
- Tim Holtz Brayer
- Rubbing Alcohol (highest percent possible)
- Small 2 oz Squeeze Bottle with Fine Tip
- Spray Bottle
- My Sweet Petunia Glue Gun (highly recommend)
Please Note: I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you should you use my affiliated links. Your support keeps Linda’s Studio going and growing. Thank you so much!










