Stamping on Black

Like many paper artists, I love black cardstock. And like many paper artists, I also love to rubber stamp. Alas, there is a challenge in combining those two loves. The challenge is that most inks do not show clearly when stamped directly on black cardstock. Here are a few techniques and products I have found that will help your images pop on black cardstock.

I should share a few cautions before we begin, especially if you are new to stamping. As you explore these products and techniques, experiment with different types of stamps. Some products will work better with solid stamps; some will not do well with highly detailed stamps. Before you begin using a new product, it is a good idea to stamp on scrap paper before you begin your project. Do this several times until you are confident you can achieve the look you want where you want it. Please also note that some household products are not archival and not recommended for scrapbooking, but are perfect for cardmaking and other crafts.

1. Embossing powder - Embossing is my favorite technique to use on black or dark backgrounds. Stamp your image onto the black cardstock with VersaMark or embossing ink. Apply a solid coat of light-colored embossing powder and tap and carefully brush off excess. Use a heat gun on the image until the powder melts. Take the embossed image one step further by applying household bleach to the image.
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Pearl Ex by Jacquard Products - Pearl Ex powder gives your stamped image a metallic sheen. For this product, stamp image with VersaMark and brush Pearl Ex powders over the image while still tacky. Softy brush away excess and spray with fixative. On tag example 1, the image was embossed with white powder and the flower was colored with Pearl Ex mixed with Futura floor polish to set the powder.
   
   
3. Twinkling H2Os by LuminArte - These little cakes of paint called Twinkling H2Os are easy to use and give your stamped images a colorful shimmer. Spray a fine mist of water onto the paint and allow the water to soak for a few minutes. (When dry, the cakes are solid, much like watercolor paints). Dip your dry brush in the little pot to pick up color and apply directly to your stamp. Stamp onto your cardstock while the paint is still wet. Stamp a second- or third-generation image by misting the stamp with water.
   
   
4. Chalk Ink - Light-colored chalk ink stamps on black cardstock perfectly. The more ink you apply to the stamp, the more contrast your image will have to the black cardstock.
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. EZ TintZ in Whitewash - This new product from Fiber Scraps, EZ TintZ, is a no-mess, easy-to-use and easy-to-clean-up solution for stamping on darker colors. It comes in a dauber bottle and is directly applied to the stamp. This product will produce a watercolor look when used alone, or a sharper look when VersaMark ink is applied to the stamp first under the TintZ.
   
   
   
6. Acrylic Paint - White or other light colors of acrylic paint look terrific on black cardstock. Like Twinkling H2Os and EZ TintZ, you will need to be light-handed on largely detailed stamps. After using paint, stamps should be cleaned immediately after use.
   
   
   
   
   

For more subtle looks that are great for backgrounds, try embossing with clear powder or stamping with VersaMark alone. Step it up by using a bit of chalk over a still wet VersaMark image for a smoky or cloudy look.

Whichever products or techniques you decide to try, I am sure you will love the look of stamped images on dark paper. If you know other products or techniques for dark cardstock, post the ideas on the message board! I always love to learn more.

• http://www.luminarteinc.com/index.html
• http://www.jacquardproducts.com/products/pearlex/
• http://www.fiberscraps.com/cat_ez.cfm

Layout Supplies:

• Stamps: Impression Obsession, Just for Fun, Savvy Stamps and Stampin' Up
• Paper: Wube
• Font: Pea Glo-Girl
• Ink: Fiber Scraps Tintz in Whitewash, Charcoal, Sky and Leaf
• Brads
• Staples
• Ribbon

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