Simple Technique 1: Edging Cards

My favorite simple technique is to color the edges of the cards including matted layers. This quick and easy technique frames the card and keeps the eyes from wondering off the card. 

I use a marker for a crisp edge and for a softer edge, I buff the cards edge gently on a pigment ink pad (dryer the better.) Take a look at the results. Pay attention to where your eyes want to focus on each card. 

Simple Techniques 2: Add Color

Another easy technique I like that makes an impact is adding some color. I enjoy working with chalk as it is more forgiving than markers and mistakes can be erased with a pencil eraser. It also quickly covers large areas and is easy to blend. I often use it for large areas rather than marker or paint. I like the smudgy look because it creates dimension and even movement in the image. Here is an example.

• Chalk can easily be erased with a pencil eraser. 
• I do not seal the chalk with a fixative or other product since I'm not using a lot of chalk nor layering. 
• Extra balls can be made from cotton balls or I purchase white balls from the pom pom section at the craft store.

• Chalk Product: http://a.co/d/dZnOEvd

Here are a couple cards from my collection that the artist simply added color and the carving came to life!

by Sunia

by Linden Leah

Splattered

I wanted to create a background similar to the original artwork (left) by Canadian artist Jeremy Scott.

I decided to try splattering paint so the first steps would involve choosing the right cardstock and paint or alcohol ink. After playing with acrylic paint and Canson 140 paper, I explored alcohol ink with glossy cardstock (which was actually photo paper.)



Then, I tested Color Burst-- a concentrated watercolor powder (see pict.) With each test, I also had to determine whether the liquid color would move on the card to create the splatter effect and whether the medium would dry and not smear. I was pleasantly surprised that the Color Burst liquid (water + powder) dried and adhered without problems. Plus, I loved the brilliant color.















During first attempts, I strategically placed a drop of the watercolor on the card. I blew through a straw directly downward at the drop.


It was easier to work through half a straw.

ter a few trial and errors, I began mass producing cards. It was easier to work through half a straw.









The direction of the starburst could be controlled by angling the straw.













I was happy with the results. With the exception of that splotch in the middle of each starburst. Many of those faded when drying.

I added another step to the process as I wanted more random splotches. Using my recycling bin, I arranged cards and then whipped a paint brush, wet with the Color Burst, across the cards.










I have no idea why I changed my splattering method, but instead of placing a drop of paint on the card with a brush, I blew directly onto the brush. The intensity of the air burst  as the distance the brush is from the paper affected each outcome. In a sense I was now air-brushing. Notice the cool apron which is a good idea when splattering paint.




The top two purple splatters were done by blowing directly onto the brush as seen in the picture to the left. The DROP is the first method I used.





Final backgrounds. I like how each card has its own personality.




Now to add the stamped image.

Surprisingly, Versafine pigment ink dried on the prepped photo paper and without smearing. I pre-tested both StazOn and Versafine on messed up splattered cards.

I marked my oddly shaped carved stamp so I could easily line it up on the cards (left.)

Next, I stamped a plastic LTC sleeve with StazOn to help me determine stamp placement on each card. (StazOn adheres and dries on the sleeve.)



The LTC sleeve was placed over the card to determine the best direction of the background.


I'll either frame the card with another card stock layer or distress the edges to finish this piece up. I'm enjoying the outcome.

Thanks Jeremy Scott for the inspiration and beautiful artwork!