Autumn Leaf Resist Tutorial

Hello friends.  Last week I posted a card (HERE) using the "resist" technique, and I had quite a few questions on how I did this.  I was asked to do a video like on Make it Monday, but unfortunately, I don't have either the equipment to film a video or the computer knowledge to do one either!  But I can make cards and I can take pictures, so hopefully this will help those of you wanting to try out this technique.  Here's everything you need to start out:

I made my own stencil using a leaf die, but you can use any shape that has an open space.  Make your stencil with heavy cardstock (I used watercolor paper) and apply 2 way glue to the back of the stencil and let it dry so it works like a post it note.  You do this so the stencil won't slip around when you place it on the cardstock piece you want to use for your card front.)  You also need a VersaMark pad, ink pads, sponge daubers, and a small stamp...I used the small flower center from Funky Florals (PTI).

Place your stencil on your card front and press down so your card doesn't move around.  Now start filling up the open space with your stamp inked up with VersaMark.

If you click on this photo to enlarge it, you will be able to see the leaf shape filled with the little flower centers stamped with the VersaMark.  You do NOT need to add any embossing powder or heat set this...you will be sponging directly over the VersaMark.

Now you are ready to add the ink color of your choice and start sponging.  Use small circular motions and start on the stencil first before moving onto the inside edge of your cardstock.  The "magic" appears as soon as you start adding ink, and the more ink you add, the more your image will show up.  Any type of dye based ink will work with this technique.  Chalk also works well with this technique.  I have tried pigment ink with not very good results, so I'd stay away from that.

You can choose to use one color or many, like I have done here with this Fall colored leaf.  Don't be afraid to overlap your colors...the more you blend, the more seamless your colors are!

Once you have all the ink applied, remove your stencil (carefully), and you are now ready to finish your card.  Again, you do NOT need to apply any embossing powder or heat...your card will not smudge and will actually dry quite quickly.  Here's how I finished my card front:

I added a sentiment from Funky Florals, and then drew a simple black line around each edge to frame in my beautiful leaf.  A simple twine bow, a few sequins, and an orange card base, and my card is finished.

Since this is my first tutorial, I hope I explained it well enough that you understand what to do on your own!  Any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!  And I would love to see what you come up with too, so please share!! :0)

Thanks so much for stopping by today...I love it when you do! :0)