Saturday, March 22, 2014

Once in a Blue Moon

After recently seeing many bloggers crafting with stencils, I decided to revisit this technique to make a wedding card.  I bought this crane Dreamweaver brass stencil years ago and loved it because of the Escher-like design.  Working on watercolor paper I applied embossing stencil paste to the stencil that was taped onto the paper.  Once the stencil was filled and leveled, I pulled it off the paper.  I sprinkled the raised, wet design with transparent crystal embossing powder. After rinsing off the stencil (the paste will stain it), I applied heat to the crane design with a heat gun.  In a few minutes the embossing powder will melt and the paste will be dry.  Next I brushed watercolors over the raised design and let the paper dry.  Two inch square embossed gold papers (I used wrapping paper scraps) were used to make the folded the cranes.  Finally a punched out blue vellum circle and the cranes were attached to the stenciled paste embossed panel.
I decided I wanted a less colorful card for the wedding so I did a version 2.  This card was easier to do because it didn't involve the embossing paste.  I simply embossed the crane stencil onto a washi paper (with encased real leaves).  I used an embossing plate and embossing pad in my Big Shot to quickly achieve the look without tediously hand embossing.  Washi paper is very fibrous so to achieve the torn bottom edge I applied a little water (with a small paint brush) where I wanted the paper to tear.  Sorry, the photo of the second card doesn't clearly show the embossed cranes but IRL the subtle effect is lovely.  I'm not sure which version I like better, but I am pleased with the outcome of both cards.  What do you think?

14 comments:

eva said...

pretty! i like the look of the stencils!

Leanne said...

I like them both. The technique you used on the first one turned out beautifully. And the second one looks wonderful. The subtly in both shows through.
I know whichever one you choose the happy couple will definitely love it.
^.^

Annette Allen said...

WOW this is stunning.. I adore it.. so different and totally inspiring..

Creations by Shirl said...

This is unique Lynn, glad that you are being ambitious and taking it to another level of trying out different techniques.... For me, I'm stuck in my old style, LOL.... Great inspiration and I'm sure either or the wedding couple will appreciate your awesome card!

Unknown said...

I used to love to fold cranes! I've never thought of putting them on cards! This is awesome, Lynn! So cool!

Unknown said...
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SuiLan said...

These cards are stunning! I admire your work and creativity!

Unknown said...

Both designs are so elegant. Love the technique in the first one. I remember having brass stencils for hand embossing...wish I could find them!

yyam said...

They are both lovely. I love the first one!

yyam said...

They are both lovely. I love the first one!

eunice said...

WOW!!!! Both cards are truly works of art that will be treasured for years to come by their recipients. You've got me excited to try the embossing paste technique...I really love the effect of the water colors you brushed on...the embossing powder acts as a resist, right? Simply fabulous!!!!

eunice said...

WOW!!!! Both cards are truly works of art that will be treasured for years to come by their recipients. You've got me excited to try the embossing paste technique...I really love the effect of the water colors you brushed on...the embossing powder acts as a resist, right? Simply fabulous!!!!

Maire Gamber said...

Gorgeous! I love the cranes. I have soom Dreamweaver plates... I need to try them out. Your cards inspired me! :D
Hugs,
Marie
http://thejoyofcards.blogspot.com

Jeni said...

Those are so pretty!