Spotlight on Dry Embossing

DRY EMBOSSING

Definition:
Dry embossing, also called relief embossing, is done by tracing a stencil with a special tool, called a stylus. The result is a stunning, raised pattern on the object you are embossing.

What do you need to start?
Cardstock, paper or vellum, a stylus, a template and a light table is also helpful.

Here are the steps:

1) Secure the template to a light source with a piece of tape.
2) Place the paper over the template, positioning it so the image is where you want it.
3) Using a stylus, gently press the paper through the open areas of the template. This produces the raised image.

Tips:
Rub waxed paper on the surface of your paper first. This helps the stylus glide smoothly and helps to prevents tears in your paper.

Options:
1) Use the negative images of chipboard as a template.
2) Add colour to your raised image by repositioning the template over the image on the front side of the paper using a sponge dauber and Stampin' Pads or Stampin' Pastels.
3) Try dry embossing textured paper.


Mix the Stampin' Up Stamp sets and Classy Brass templates to coordinate your projects with our exclusive coloured cardstock and designer paper.
See the two projects below that feature this technique.

I will be advertising special classes that feature this technique by e-mail invitation.

HAPPY STAMPIN'

Spotlight on Chic Batik

Stamp and emboss an image using Versamark and clear embossing powder on Mulberry paper. After embossing the image, wet the paper and use stamping sponges or sponge daubers and your ink to dab colour on the paper. You can use Classic pads, ink refils or Watercolor Wonder Crayons. When applying colour to your project, choose 2 or 3 colours that work well together but are different enough to get a good contrast.
Note: Colours will lighten as they dry so it's best not to use colours that are too similar. If you select too many colours, you will end up with a muddy appearance.

As you apply the colour, be careful not to drag the ink across the paper, or it will tear.
You can repeat the process by stamping and embossing additional images on your mulberry paper and dyeing again. If you do this, dye with the lightest colour first and continue dyeing in progressively darker colours.

To finish, place the card stock between sheets of copy paper, and place a warm iron over it. As the embossing powder melts, it sticks to the copy paper instead of your project.
Many traditional batik patterns include bolder images.

See the Chic Batik card samples below.

Happy Stampin'