Ask Karen - episode 2

Happy Tuesday Everyone!! It's time for another edition of "Ask Karen" (incert echo here).

I'd like to thank Tracey for compiling this week's Ask Karen questions from questions that I received while teaching this weekend at Go Scrapping's Peterborough Retreat. Thanks Tracey -- here it goes!!

Question 1: What's the difference between Dye, Pigment, Archival and Distress Inks?? Great question -- here's a "Coles Notes" version for you.

Dye Inks are absorbed into paper quickly and work well on most paper types. Because they are absorbed quickly, they are not suitable for embossing and they are not very blendable. They also tend to fade over time (unless you are using an archival dye). I like them for subtle ink effects.

Pigment Inks are thicker, slow drying and sit on top of paper which makes them ideal for embossing projects. These inks also tend to be more vibrant than dye inks. They won't, however, dry on glossy surfaces unless they are used with embossing powders or spray fixative.

Archival Inks - Oil-based ink that will dry on glossy, non-porous materials as well as remain vibrant on paper and other porous materials. Because it is oil-based, you can spritz mists and work with other water-based products without smudging the image. The perfect ink to use for images you would like to watercolour or "Copic colour"!!

Distress Inks - are a fade resistant dye ink that is formulated to react with water. It's great for antiquing techniques and is slower drying than other dye inks which makes it perfect for blending. Even though it's not, I equate it to stains.... It goes on vibrant but becomes more subtle when it dries. You can also use this ink to tint your photos!! --yep, they are acid-free and non-toxic too :)

Question 2: When using die cuts or chipboard pieces, how do you remove the little nibs on the edges?? Get out your nail files ladies :) They are the perfect tool to sand away those stubborn little nibs off of die cut chipboard pieces. As for paper nibs from die cut sheets -- you can trim those away with your little scissors or.... my fast and easy hiding technique... ink those edges :) A little ink hides a multitude of sins. LOL ...just kidding ... but it does work.

Question 3: Can you use a Rub-On over a piece of chipboard that you have already embellished with crackle paint? Yep! You can. Tracey tried it at the crop and it turned out beautifully!! She made a "crackled" Halloween Moon and rubbed a witch rub-on over it. Perfect!!!

Thanks for the questions ladies!! Don't forget to send me questions throughout the week. I will answer them here on Tuesdays!!