All About Layering 4

For this project from the All About Layering 4 class, I crafted not one, but two unique cards! Using the same stamps and ink colors as from the All About Layering 3 class, I focused on building complexity and depth in each design. It was a fun challenge to find fresh ways to layer and arrange the elements, showing how much versatility can come from a limited supply range. I’m excited to share how these two cards came together and the techniques I used to make them special!

Products Used:

• White Cardstock
• Black Cardstock
• Gold Mirror Cardstock
• Golden Days Layering Stamp Set and Coordinating Dies
• Build-A-Garden: Tulips & Friends
• Book Cover Engravings Embossing Folder
• Forest Trail Fresh Dye Ink
• Rose Petal Fresh Dye Ink
• Ranger Archival Jet Black Ink

Steps (for Both Cards):

1. Stamp and Layer the Floral Elements: I began by stamping several flowers and leaves on white cardstock, using the same layering techniques and ink colors as in the All About Layering 3 class. This time, I included the outline stamps, using Ranger Archival Jet Black Ink to add definition.
2. Die Cut the Elements: Once all the images were stamped, I used the coordinating dies to cut out each flower and leaf, preparing them for both card designs.

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Card 1:

1. Prepare the Background: Cut a piece of black cardstock to 4 1/4" x 5 1/2". Lightly spritz it with water to help prevent cracking during embossing.
2. Emboss the Background: Place the dampened cardstock into the Book Cover Engravings Embossing Folder and run it through die-cut machine.
3. Blend the Edges: To ensure the stamped flower and leaves blend seamlessly with the dark background, I used a black marker to color the white edges of some elements.
4. Create the Sentiment: I stamped the “Don’t Forget to Smile” sentiment from the Golden Days stamp set onto a strip of white cardstock. I then cut the left end of the strip into a fishtail banner shape for added interest.
5. Arrange the Floral Elements: I arranged the stamped flower and leaves on the embossed panel, positioning the flower directly over the embossed flower image. This way, only the 3D leaves of the embossing peek through, creating a layered, dimensional effect.
6. Add the Leaves: I positioned the stamped leaves around the flower, making sure not to cover the embossed leaves for a cohesive look.
7. Attach the Sentiment: I foam-mounted the sentiment on the lower right corner, where it naturally draws the eye to the focal point.
8. Finishing Touch: I trimmed a small strip from the top and bottom of the black panel, leaving a bit of white cardstock exposed when adhered to the card base. This creates a crisp white border for a polished finish.

I love how the embossed background complements the stamped elements, adding a subtle yet elegant texture that brings the whole design to life! Stay tuned for details on the second card!

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Card 2:

1. Create the Sentiment: I stamped the sentiment from the Build-A-Garden: Tulips & Friends stamp set onto a strip of white cardstock. To add a touch of elegance, I matted the sentiment strip onto a piece of Gold Mirror Cardstock, leaving a thin border at the top and bottom so that the gold peeks through.
2. Prepare the Card Panel: Trim a piece of white cardstock to 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" to serve as the card panel.
3. Add the Sentiment Strip: I foam-mounted the sentiment strip about a quarter of the way up from the bottom of the panel. This placement creates a strong visual anchor for the floral arrangement.
4. Arrange the Floral Elements: Starting from the base of the sentiment strip, I positioned the stamped flowers and leaves to appear as though they are growing upward from the sentiment. I focused on creating a natural, flowing composition that draws the eye upwards along the panel.
5. Adhere the Panel: Finally, I glued the completed panel flat onto the card base for a clean and seamless look.

This design emphasizes a simple yet elegant layout, with the gold accents adding just the right amount of shine. The upward flow of the floral elements gives the card a sense of movement and balance, making it a perfect complement to the first, more textured card design. I hope these two projects showcase how versatile Altenew’s layering stamps can be, even when using a limited set of supplies!

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