Make everything shimmer with one simple product!
If you’ve ever wanted to have shimmery inks in all sorts of colors, but couldn’t justify purchasing a whole bunch of specialty inks, then you’re going to love my project and video today. In today’s project, you’ll see some amazing subtle shimmery effects, and then in the video you’ll learn how to take any water-based ink and turn it into a beautiful, shimmery medium with one simple additive. You’ll want to make everything shimmer!
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
Class #2: In the Mood for Color
My second class for my Altenew Educator Level 2 certification is In the Mood for Color. In this six-lesson course, we explore colors and the underlying mood that is associated with that color. I really felt like I wanted to tackle an orange design, so, whether they come in orange, or not, I made some begonias a beautiful shade of orange to represent health, happiness, and most of all – courage!
My Project
After having used Whispy Begonias earlier in the week, I definitely had my mind set on using it again for this project. I love the bloom, leaves, and the four sentiments in the stamp set. It’s one of those many-occasion, many-technique kind of sets that will get a lot of use in my studio.
Looking for more specials and deals from your favorite craft stores?
Check out my Crafty Sales page – UPDATED DAILY!
The Technique & Design
I thought I would try out the Birch Wood sheets from Altenew, along with a watercolor/emboss resist technique. I added some clear gesso to the wood panel to keep the ink from bleeding too much. It worked pretty well! Then, I stamped each begonia separately, heat embossing in clear, masking it off, and then repeating the process to get the three overlapping blooms. I did the same thing for the leaves, masking off the flowers first.
Then, I started to watercolor, using the new Golden Sunset ink cube quad pack. Once I got to the darkest shade (Marigold), I decided to add some shimmer into the ink using Tsukineko All-purpose Ink in Frost White. Just the tiniest drop will add the most amazing shimmer to any water-based ink. It is an even, subtle look that is stunning in person.
Crafter’s Toolbox Video
Let’s take a closer look at that subtle shimmer on the flower petals. You can make this shimmer paint in any color!
Thank You!
Time is precious and I’m truly grateful that you chose to spend a few minutes of your day here!
I would love to connect with you on Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest where we have the opportunity to share and interact even more!
2 down, 8 to go!
Using the wood sheet really had me flying by the seat of my pants for this design. Fortunately, I have a lot of tricks in my Crafter’s Toolbox! That’s why I’m happy to share these videos with you – so you can have the same techniques and ideas to draw from when you’re stuck for ideas, or feeling like you’re not sure how to make a vision come to life.
I’d love to hear what Crafter’s Toolbox video you’ve found most helpful – let me know by leaving a comment on today’s post!
you make a difference!
You can help my artistic efforts by using these links to shop for your supplies! These are Compensated Affiliate Links, meaning that when you click and shop, I may receive a small commission on your sale, at no additional cost to you. It’s an easy way to say “thanks” and keep this great content flowing!
Beautiful card. I like the birch wood background and how you created shimmer.
That is brilliant! Love the happy colour you chose. The shimmer looks fantastic and the birch wood paper just takes this card to another level.
I am so glad that you entered your beautiful work in the AECP assignment Gallery. Awesome details and design! Super work!
GREAT take on this course! I love the textures on wood paper and you know how to use the colors and maximize the effect! Thanks so much for entering your beautiful work in Altenew AECP assignment Gallery. Beautiful colors and design. Well done!