An Embossing Extravaganza

I had a lovely evening last night in the studio playing with embossing folders with the gals from the Technique of the Month Club. We welcomed some new members and I'm thinking as the popularity of this group grows... we'll have to add two classes a month starting in the fall -- SO if you are interested in coming out and playing with us every month, let me know. Love to have you here.

So how did we play with embossing folders you ask?

Well....

First I showed the gals how to use the Ranger Blending Tool and Distress Inks to create a background for cards. This is my "go to" embossing technique and I wanted to share it with the ladies. Together we created this card. (You may remember it from another post) The stamps are the Scrolls Work Stamps I have here in the studio. Love it

After our cards were created we played.

I showed the girls that if you added Distress Ink right on the flat side of the embossing folder and then embossed the paper you'd get a cool inked effect.

Then... conversely, if you add ink to the bumpy side of the embossing folder, you'd get a letterpress-like de-bossed effect.

Here's a better view of the whole de-bossing thing:

Add the two together and you can create some funky backgrounds

BUT... be careful when you de-boss. De-bossing will create a mirrored effect. If there is a folder with writing on it that you'd like to use be prepared to see it print backwards *smile*

I like that... but I know many of you don't. Just thought I'd give you the heads up *smile*

Next we embossed paper with the folders and then added embossing ink to it to heat emboss over it. I got this idea from a Blogger I admire (Linda Cain) and thought... yep -- this is fun. Here is the beginnings of a bookmark embossed with Gold UTEE. Love the gilded effect.

And Here is a little piece I created with Yellow, Tiger Lily and Gold UTEE.

It's all good. Finer images can be embossed with fine embossing powders too. Take time to play with it!! Here's a tip: Do not press your embossing ink onto the embossed card to ink it. You just want to add the ink to the top of the embossed image. I like to apply it lightly in a circular motion just to "kiss" the edges. ...Did I say lightly? *smile*
Now, Tim Holtz's new embossing folders by Sizzix are, I believe, a little deeper than other brands out there. Try running your Grungepaper through it!!!!

OMG -- LOVE that. Now picture embossing your Grungepaper before making Grunge Roses and layered flowers. Eeeekkkk.... Guess what I'll be doing in the studio this week! LOL
I have Tim Holtz's current folders in the studio now for $12.50/pkg. Each package contains two embossing folders. Come and check them out and PLAY
Have FUN!