The first time you see heat embossing in action is a magical moment! To see that powder melt and get all shiny and glossy; it can’t be beat! When you see it, you want to know how to do it. And when you learn how to heat emboss, you want to do it all the time. Heat embossing is a foundational technique that will open doors to many other advanced techniques that take advantage of the unique properties of an embossed image. So, it’s worth learning, and learning correctly!
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supplies for heat embossing
You don’t need much to achieve great results. In fact, you don’t need anything special! Of course, if you need to do some shopping, I have the items linked here and down below. Be sure to check out my Crafty Sales page for any deals you can take advantage of at your favorite crafting haunts.
- cardstock and stamp sets
- Anti-static powder & brush ( I use baby powder and a basting brush)
- Embossing ink (Versamark Clear, recommended)
- Embossing powder (I’m demonstrating with WOW! powders, but explore all the different ones out there until you find your favorite brands)
- Heat Tool
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steps to heat emboss
- Generously brush anti-static powder onto cardstock.
- Stamp your desired image or sentiment using Versamark ink.
- Coat the stamped image in embossing powder. Use a coffee filter to catch the excess and return to the container.
- Gently tap the cardstock to remove any stray powder. Use a tiny paintbrush to grab strays if desired.
- Heat image with a heat tool. Don’t move the tool until the powder starts to melt, then move slowly, melting as you go. Heating from behind or on top should yield the same results.
- Allow the image a few seconds to cool and wipe off excess anti-static powder with an almost-dry towel. (only necessary if you see excess powder on the cardstock)
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watch the technique tutorial
My How To tutorial videos are filmed with real-time narration. You can pull out your supplies and follow along because there’s no editing, except for drying time. Pause when you need to, but otherwise, get ready and create right along with me!
See this technique in action!
Here’s a recent project that features heat embossing.
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