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Place a
stencil on your light box or take it to your window and the place
your cardstock face down on the stencil. Using a gentle pressure,
trace the outline of the stencil onto your cardstock with your
stylus. For easier gliding use wax paper as your top layer to help
the stylus glide and flow.
I've compiled
a list of Embossing Tips in Q & A format just for you. Check it out...
What is a Light-Box?
A light-box is
a small box with a light in it that is very useful when doing Dry
Embossing on your cards and other projects. It's concentrated light
helps to eluminate through paper so that you can see a stencil design
through a piece of paper or cardstock. A window works well if a
light-box isn't available but can be very tiring on your arms.
Should I
use tape?
You may want
to tape your stencil to the light box to prevent mobility during
embossing. Masking tape works well. You may also tape the stencil
directly to the paper for added ease. Be sure that you stick the
masking tape to your clothing several times before you use the tape,
however, or it may tear the paper when you remove it. Special tapes
are also available.
What type
of paper should I use?
Many papers
are suitable for embossing such as cardstock, vellum and even
handmade papers. Experiment with different types to find the one most
suitable for your particular project.
How do I
position my paper?
With your
stencil facing right side up, place the right side of your paper down
onto the top of the stencil. You will be tracing on the back side of
your paper.
What about
Stylus size?
Stylus size is
really a matter of choice. The smaller the stylus, the greater
possibility of tearing the paper, however the bigger the stylus the
less mobility. If you don't have a stylus you can pretty much use
anything with a rounded point to do the job. Try a knitting needle
for example.
What do I trace?
Using a
Stylus, trace the lines in your stencils. The center does not have to
be traced but please experiment to see how you prefer it.
What is a
Waxed Paper rub?
If you rub
your project paper with a piece of waxed paper the stylus will glide
over the paper more easily. Rubbing the paper with your fingers may
also do the trick.
How do I
make corrections?
If you remove
your paper and find that you've missed a portion of your design, you
can put it down again and fix it. Make sure to do your best at
aligning all your finished lines though, otherwise your design may be
a little off.
Do I need
to stencil all the lines?
You may decide
to use only a small portion of your stencil. That's great!! There is
no right or wrong way. For example, if you are making several note
cards and are using only part of the design, you might want to mask
off the part of the design that you're going to use. Otherwise, you
might forget and accidently stencil that portion by mistake.
Did you know
that your stencil is even reversible? Just be sure that if you're
working with letters or words that you position your stencil
accordingly so that it doesn't come out backwards.
How do I
store my stencils?
Make sure you
store your stencils using a system that works best for you. I try to
store them in individual bags and I make sure I store them flat so
that they don't bend or get damaged. |
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