Acetate and Tissue Technique Updated

Not too long ago, I ran across a technique used in card making.  I thought that it would be a great technique to translate to larger surfaces, like layouts.   I added my own twist, which I will share with you.  When I originally tried this technique, I thought it would be great for Valentine's Day-inspired layouts.  You can see the finished layout created with this tutorial at the end of this article.

Supplies:

• waterbased reinker (I used Tim Holtz Distress Ink Reinker)
• acetate
• tissue paper
• dimensional liquid glue
• latex glove
• cardstock
• glitter (optional)
• solid image stamp (optional)
• alcohol ink pad (optional)

How to:

1.      Make sure that you have all of your supplies at hand - this is important in keeping this technique from becoming a frustration and for getting the best results.

2.      If you are using plain acetate, you can stamp a solid image stamp using an alcohol ink onto the acetate, if desired.

3.      Cover the back of the acetate piece with dimensional glue.  (It does not have to be completely covered

4.      Add reinker drops to the glue on the acetate.

5.      Add a touch of glitter if desired.

6.      While wearing the latex glove, use your finger to gently mix the glue and ink together.

7.      Once you have mixed it to your liking, add the tissue paper to the back, and tap it down.  You will see that the tissue paper is turning transparent because of the wet glue - this is what you want.

8.      Adhere the acetate and tissue paper, with the tissue paper side down, to a sheet of cardstock.

9.      Let dry.

This is a very simple technique. But while playing with it I came up with some ideas, which I will share with you here.

· Use a piece of printed acetate - like Hambly Studios Overlays.

· Use this technique as your background.  You can showcase the beautiful overlays we all hoard, but also create a beautiful background for your layouts.  This masculine layout highlights this technique:

· Once the acetate-cardstock-tissue paper combination dries, you can create custom embellishments using dies or by cutting it by hand.

· Use multiple colors of reinkers to create depth, dimension, and a fun look.  When mixing the reinker ink with the glue, don't overmix in order to avoid a muddy color.

· Layer the finished acetate product between a base cardstock and a cut-out piece of patterned paper. You can seen this technique in this Valentine's Day-inspired layout: