How to Emboss Photo Albums
Embossing creates a raised, shiny or metallic surface on paper and other flat surfaces. There are several techniques for embossing. Professional embossers often use heat and pressure to emboss with foil strips, while it is easiest at home to use a heat gun with embossing ink and powder. Embossing will work best on a photo album that has a flat surface without thick padding. Supplies for embossing can be found at any craft store in the scrapbook or stamp sections.
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Things You'll Need
- Photo album
- Stamp
- Embossing ink pad or ink pen
- Embossing powder
- Heat gun
Instructions
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1
Determine where you want your embossed design on the album cover. Use an album that has a flat surface without much padding. Embossing works better on paper album covers, rather than fabric or leather albums.
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Ink your stamp using an embossing ink pad. You can use an ink pad that is colored or a clear ink pad. Be sure to cover the stamp in ink for a thorough application.
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3
Press the stamp onto the album firmly, taking care not to smudge the stamp. If you are not using a stamp, draw or write a design directly onto the album using an embossing ink pen.
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4
Open the embossing powder and pour a thick layer onto the stamped area, covering all of the ink. Work quickly so the powder will adhere to the wet ink. Embossing powder can be found in many colors and styles.
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5
Lift the photo album and tap it gently to remove excess powder. The powder that is stuck to the ink will stay in place.
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Plug in and turn on the heat gun. Move the heat gun slowly over the stamped area, leaving 2 inches of space between the gun and the album. Follow manufacturer's directions when using the heat gun. Continue to heat the embossing powder until it melts and turns glossy.
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Turn off the heat gun and allow the album to cool before use.
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Tips & Warnings
Monitor the heat gun carefully to prevent burning, and keep it at least 2 inches from the surface so the paper on the album does not overheat.
References
- Photo Credit Photo Album image by rlat from Fotolia.com
