Embossing gives an expensive designer look to a hand made card. The raised imprint of a stenciled shape can be left alone or colored with a variety of mediums. Embossing can be a simple border or a more elaborate design. There are two types of embossing. Dry embossing is done with a stylus or embossing tool. Heat embossing is created with a rubber stamped image and embossing powder and an embossing heat gun.
Instructions
Raised Dry Embossing
1. Open a blank card. Place stencil under the front of the card.
2. Tape the card in place with repositionable tape to keep it from moving as you work.
3. Set the card on to a light box or hold it against a window. The light will come through the card stock allowing you to see the stencil.
4. Rub the stylus ball shaped tip down into the stencil openings. The card stock will push down with the pressure.
5. Lift the card periodically to make sure you are applying enough pressure for the embossed image to show. Remove the stencil.
6. Lightly rub the side of a colored pencil lead over the embossing to add a blush of color.
Heat Embossing
7. Choose a blank card or mat. Lay the card or mat on your work surface.
8. Press the rubber stamp into the water based ink pad. Make sure the image is covered.
9. Press the rubber stamp firmly on the card or mat. You can use an embossing pen to write a word or draw your own image. Place the card or mat on a piece of paper or hold over an embossing tray.
10. Open a jar of embossing powder. Carefully sprinkle powder directly onto the image on the card. Cover it completely.
11. Pick up the card or mat and tap the excess powder on the sheet of paper or embossing tray. Return the unused powder to the jar.
12. Turn on embossing heat gun. Gently direct the heat over the surface of the powdered ink. Notice that the powder will begin to melt into the ink. Keep the heat gun moving close to the paper to prevent burning.
13. Lift the heat gun away and check to see if all of the powder has melted. You will have a raised image that matches your rubber stamp when it is done.
