How to Use Embossing in Stamping

If you want to take your scrapbook pages and cards to a new level, embossing may be the way to go. This effect can enliven otherwise boring pages in just a few steps. If you're ready to use embossing in your stamping projects, follow these steps to make the technique work for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• VersaMark ink
• Stamp
• Card stock
• Embossing powder
• Glitter tray
• Heat tool

1. Create the foundation layer of VersaMark ink, a special ink that shows up like a watermark. The look is subtle, but provides a way for the embossing powder to adhere to the paper. Ink your stamp as you normally would, and then transfer it to the paper or card stock.

2. Cover the inked image in embossing powder, which is available in different colors. Cover your work surface with a glitter tray or scrap piece of paper, so that you can clean up the excess powder easily when your project is complete. Knock off any excess powder before proceeding to the next step.

3. Warm your heat tool. Wave the heat tool slowly over the image until the embossing powder melts completely. This shouldn't take more than a few seconds, depending on the size of your image.

4. Wait for the image to cool before proceeding. The melted embossing powder is hot, so give it time before trying to manipulate it. You can continue to layer on the paper or cut out the embossed image to accent an existing card or scrapbook page.