Tutorial: Understamped Resist with Lisa Spangler

Hey, hey! Hope you're having a great day! I sure am, because I got to play with this happy little cloud from the One Little Bird stamp + die set. I love this set so much! I'll be sharing a tutorial on a technique that I like to call "understamped resist" - it's a great way to get more from solid stamps like this little cloud here. So, let's get started!

I started off by placing the cloud die on a some watercolor paper. This is just for positioning -- we're not going to die cut it. Then, I stamped the face with black ink and watercolored her cheeks.

Next, I grabbed the cloud stamp and inked it up with VersaMark ink, then stamped it right over the face. If you wanted to add a little extra dimension, you could ink or watercolor just the edges of the cloud before stamping it. Just put the color right over top of the VersaMark ink before you stamp it. Check out my card here in the gallery for an example of this. 

Then, I embossed the cloud with clear sparkle embossing powder. If you don't have a sparkly powder, you can use plain clear - but I think the sparkles make it better! :)

Now for the best part - adding color! Here I used watercolors to make a sunrise background. I intentionally made it messy with blooms of color, but you can make a smooth wash if you prefer. You could also sponge on inks such as Color Theory dye inks or Distress Inks. Either way, the embossing will resist the color and keep your cloud white and happy! You may notice some paint or ink beading up on the surface, but never fear - you can easily mop it up with a damp brush or paper towel.

After the paint was completely dry, I stamped some stars with blue pigment ink and embossed them as well.

Then, to finish up the card, I just trimmed the watercolor piece, rounded the corners and added it to the front of a simple white card. I stamped and embossed the "dream big" sentiment and added that as well. I thought about adding some blue sequins, but I decided to keep it clean and simple in the end.

I think this would make a great graduation card for that special someone. But... I kind of want to keep it, LOL! I'm thinking of writing a note to my future self and seeing if the magic I've heard about comes true.

I hope you all have a great week, and don't forget to dream big! 

XO,
Lisa