Search
Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
May 14, 2014
Q: Mo says: “When using alcohol markers to color nonporous surfaces, I always find the item is quite sticky afterwards. Is there anything I can do to stop or prevent that?"
A: Make sure the surface is very clean before you begin, so the inks aren't reacting with oils or dust. You might want to use a water-based spray sealant once you're done, to add a gloss or matte finish and protect your work. You may also consider using products such as Vintaj Patinas and Glaze, which are specially formulated to adhere to metal.
May 7, 2014
Q: Cathy wants to know: " How can I get a letterpress look with wafer dies?"
A: I get the best results on soft watercolor paper with some cotton content. With my Big Shot, I flip to Tab 1, then use the following sandwich (bottom to top): a cutting plate, silicone rubber pad, watercolor paper, the die (cutting side down), and a second cutting plate. For the Cuttlebug, layer Plate A and B, the embossing pad, watercolor paper, the die (cutting side down), shims as needed, and a second B plate. The result is a debossed impression of the die, which makes a beautiful background or even focal element.
April 30, 2014
Q: Leila asks: "I am exploring the art of pergamano... is there a difference between vellum paper and parchment paper?"
A: Vellum has a weight of 90 gsm, while parchment has a weight of 140-160 gsm. Either type of paper can be used, but the heavier weight of the parchment paper makes it more durable for the piercing and embossing techniques of pergamano, and also more resilient to coloring, especially with wet mediums like markers or watercolors.
April 23, 2014
Q: Debbie asks: "No matter how much ribbon I buy I never seem to have the right color for the project I'm working on. Have you tried dyeing your own ribbon with ink to match your stamping?"
A: I use alcohol markers to color ribbon and seam binding. They're great for custom coloring! You can use a single color, create a random mix of colors, or color in strips of color for an ombre effect. A few quick spritzes of rubbing alcohol will help colors blend together. It also stiffens the ribbon just a little, and helps it hold its form.
April 16, 2014
Q: Coily asks: "I'm new to card making. Now that I'm creating cards full of embellishments and the like, how do I get them to fit in a regular envelope, or how can I modify a regular envelope to accommodate my embellished card? I can't have all my fancy work all smashed up, especially if I intend to mail them."
A: Every post office and worker seems to have a different policy. Last week I was told that embellished cards must be sent at large envelope rate, which was 98 cents. If your post office goes that route (oops - pun not intended!), it's best to just use a padded envelope. Here are a few threads in the forum with more tips.
Do you need extra postage...?
Mailing bulky cards
Packaging ideas for bulky cards
Do you need extra postage...?
Mailing bulky cards
Packaging ideas for bulky cards
