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 Raised
paper effects have long been enticing, but are
often thought of as expensive or difficult to
create. Brass stencils take the expense out of
embossing and are so easy to use that beautiful
cards and embellishments can be made in record
time.
Brass stencils can be used to emboss a wide variety
of items ranging from note cards and scrapbook
pages to journal covers, picture frames and gift
boxes. Corner embellishments can be used on photo
mats and invitations. Small patterns are a nice
touch on gift tags and borders can brighten up
almost any papercraft project.
Getting started is simple! Pick your stencil
and paper - remember, it may be more difficult
to see the raised design on heavier cardstock
- and trace the stencil onto your paper using
an embossing tool. Here are a few tips and instructions
to get you started.
- Position your stencil on a light box or window.
A light box is recommended, but a window
will work as well provided there is good light
and you can secure both your stencil and paper
to it.
- Secure your stencil with a low-tack tape.
If you only have regular tape, stick to your
clothing first to remove some of the tackiness.
Place your paper facedown on top of the stencil.
- Trace around the outside edge of the design
with the embossing tool. Use a light touch -
pressing too hard can tear the paper. To help
prevent tears, or just for smoother tracing
and extra ease tracing intricate designs, rub
your paper with wax paper first. Only trace
the outline of the design.
- Lift the paper to reveal the embossed design.
If you want a more distinct look you can color
your design with paint, colored pencils or markers.
Depending on your level of skill, you may want
to leave your stencil on your paper to color
the design.
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