Tag: mixed media

  • Butterfly Mixed Media Journal | By, Natasha Vacca

    Butterfly Mixed Media Journal | By, Natasha Vacca

    Hello Birch Press friends, it is Natasha here today on the blog! Today I am sharing a mixed media page in my journal! I love using dies in my journal! Today I am using 2 die sets from Birch Press Designs: Butterfly Basics and Rose Leaves Contour Layers die sets! Let’s get started!

    I started by die cutting the Butterfly using the Butterfly Basics die set. I die cut the background using a premade panel from my stash. Next I die cut the top layer using the Memory Box Rainbow Reflections paper pad. Once the top layer was die cut I added embossing ink to the top layer, then added embossing powder. Once the embossing powder was completely dry, I added a paper glaze to sections of the butterfly. I allowed this to dry a bit, then added foil to sections for added texture. I die cut the antennae for the butterfly using the same background panel. I then adhered the layers together using liquid glue.

    Next I created a background panel using a gelli print from my stash. On the gelli print I added a few pieces of handmade tissue in various sections. I applied this with glue. Once this was dry, I ran the gelli print background through my die cutting machine using the Memory Box Ringadings embossing folder. I then added dye ink to some sections of the dry embossed background. Next I die cut the panel using the Rose Leaves Contour Layers die set. Once the leaves were die cut, I distressed the edges using Distress Ink. I allowed this to dry, then added embossing powder to sections of the leaves. I then added additional texture using paper glaze and foil again.

    Next I started to work on my background in my journal. I used Lindy’s Magical Powders to create a colorful background. You can create a colorful background using inks, watercolors, distress inks, as well as pigment powders! I encourage you to look through your stash! I work in layers when creating a background. I allow each layer to dry (I also use my heat tool to speed up the process), spritz the panel with water, pick up color with a paper towel, then I repeat the process until I have the color and texture I am looking for.

    I completed my journal page by adhering the leaves with foam tape. I added a piece of cheesecloth, then adhered the butterfly with liquid glue. I added a sentiment from my stash, as well as gems from the Pastel Jewels collection.

    I had a lot of fun creating today’s project! I will be back soon with more inspiration!


    Supplies


    57403 Butterfly Basics
    57522 Rose Leaves Contour Layers

    Supplies


    fp1003 Rainbow Reflections Mirror Pad
    ef1015 Ringadings 3D Embossing Folder
    JWL002 Pastel Jewels
  • Forest Canopy Layer: Mixed Media Tag | By, Natasha Vacca

    Forest Canopy Layer: Mixed Media Tag | By, Natasha Vacca

    Hello Birch Press friends, I am excited to be back up on the blog today! I am sharing a fun mixed media tag using the Forest Canopy Layer die set to create a fun tag! So let’s get started!

    I started today’s project with a pre-made tag base. Next I chose gelli prints from my stash to create a layered background on the tag. I chose several prints, ripped them, then adhered them using liquid glue. Next I chose washi tape from my collection with a printed text. I added this to several sections of the tag background. I then added White Gesso to the background using a paintbrush to sections of the gelli print. I then used a brayer to spread the gesso a bit more.

    Next I die cut Layer B and C of the the Forest Layer Canopy die set. I used white cardstock to die cut each layer. (On today’s project I did only use Layer C). I then added color using Distress Oxide ink in Peeled Paint and Forest Moss. I added water droplets to the leaves and picked up the color with a paper towel. I then darkened the edges of the leaves using Espresso Ink. I applied the ink using a finger dauber. I also added gold metallic ink splatters, as well as an ink spray from my collection. I set these aside to dry.

    Next I die cut 2 dragonflies using the Magnolia Plaid paper pad with the Simple Dragonfly Contour Layers die set. I added embossing powder to the small section of the dragonflies. I then adhered all the layers together using liquid glue.

    To complete my tag I added Distress Ink to the edge of tag using Distress Ink. I then added more texture using a spray in my stash. I added this to the tag background. Once this was dry, I added a piece of small cardboard to the bottom right of the tag. I added a bit of gesso and purple spray to the cardboard for added color and texture. I then adhered all the layers onto the tag using liquid glue (leaves, dragonfly). I added a Greeting Tab and gems to complete my tag, as well as twine, and ribbon.

    Thanks so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon!


    Supplies


    57534 Forest Canopy Layer Set
    57487 Simple Dragonfly Contour Layers

    Supplies


    st008 Thank You Foil Greetings White Circle Tabs
    pp1021 Magnolia Plaid 6×6 pack
    gem101 Treasure Chest Fairy Gemstones
  • Mixed Media with Dies and Pattern Paper | Natasha Vacca

    Mixed Media with Dies and Pattern Paper | Natasha Vacca

    Hello Crafty friends, it is Natasha here and I am excited to be back today! Today I am sharing a gorgeous new die in the Birch Press Collection – Wiegela Leaf Contour Layers! I paired this with a few other favorites for a fun mixed media style card! So let’s get started!

    I started with the Wiegela Leaf Contour Layers die set. I die cut 2 leaves using the new Greenery Solid Core Cardstock pack! I love these new pads! Once the leaf was die cut, I added Distress Oxide Inks to each layer of the leaf for added texture and color! I used: Pine Needles, Chipped Sapphire, Twisted Citron, & Ground Espresso. Once the inking was completed I added water droplets and picked up the color with a paper towel. Next I added Foundry Wax to sections of the leaf in the color Statue. I also darkened the edges of the leaves with a dye ink in brown. I then adhered these together with liquid glue and set them aside to dry.

    Next I die cut the butterflies using a leftover background I recently made using inks. I die cut 3 butterflies using Simple Butterfly Contour Layers. I added Foundry wax to the antennae as well for added texture. I also inked up the edges of the butterfly and adhered the layers together with liquid glue. I set these aside to work on my background.

    For the background I chose a few pieces of pattern paper from the Anemone Grove paper pad. I trimmed one panel to a bit smaller than an A2 card base. I then used my deckle trimmer on the edges for a worn look. I then tore a couple other pieces and adhered them to the left side of the panel. Next I applied White gesso to the panel in sections using a small paint brush and then a brayer. I apply the gesso in several directions for added texture. Next I added a few pieces of text washi tape on the panel. I then added ink blending to sections using Distress Oxide in Seedless Preserves.

    Next I added splatter to my pattern paper background. I used a combination of black, white, and gold splatters. Once the panel was dry I adhered the pattern paper background to my A2 top folding card base. I then adhered the leaves and butterflies to my card front. I chose a birthday sentiment from the new Greeting Tabs from Memory Box – I love these so much!!!!! I love the black with foil lettering, there are several to choose from!

    Thanks so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon with more crafty inspiration!


    Supplies


    57515 Wiegela Leaf Contour Layers
    57490 Simple Butterfly Contour Layers

    Supplies


    sp1011 Leafy 6×6 pack
    pp1026 Anemone Grove 6×6 pack
    st007 Happy Birthday Foil Greetings Black Tabs
  • Happy Birthday Blooms | Natasha Vacca

    Happy Birthday Blooms | Natasha Vacca

    Hello Crafty friends! It is Natasha here and I am excited to be back up on the blog today. Today I am sharing a card using a few Birch Press Designs dies! I fell in love with the new Perky Blooms Contour Layers die set and was so excited to use it! So let’s get started!

    I started by die cutting the Perky Blooms Contour Layers die set, as well as the Rose Leaves Contour Layers set using Memory Box paper in Fresh Aqua and Stormy Blue. Once all the layers were die cut I inked all the layers using a combination of Distress Oxide Inks, as well as Dye Inks. I also completed the same process with the Gentle Flowers and Leaves Contour Layers set. I also added water droplets to the flowers and leaves and picked up the color with a paper towel. I love the texture this provides. I also heat embossed the centers of all the flowers.

    Once all the layers were inked, I adhered them together with liquid glue. I set them aside to work on my background. For the background I used the Flora Plate. I used all 3 layers. For layer A and C I die cut with the Wood Grain Cream paper pack. For Layer B I chose a piece of pattern paper from the Anemone Grove paper pack. I then adhered all the layers together using liquid glue.

    I then adhered the Flora Plate layers onto a top folding A2 card base. I chose the arrangement for my flowers and adhered them with liquid glue and foam tape. Once they were all adhered down, I chose a Happy Birthday sentiment from the new Greeting Tabs from Memory Box! These are so AMAZING and I am so excited for these!

    Thanks so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon with more crafty inspiration!


    Supplies


    57531 Perky Bloom Contour Layers
    57522 Rose Leaves Contour Layers
    57437 Flora Plate Layer Set
    57491 Gentle Flower and Leaves Contour Layers

    Supplies


    PP1026 Anemone Grove 6×6 pack
    st006 Happy Birthday Foil Greetings White Tabs
  • Early Blossom | By Natasha Vacca

    Early Blossom | By Natasha Vacca

    Hello Crafty Friends! I hope you had a great weekend! I am excited to be up on the blog today sharing a new release from Birch Press Designs with you – the beautiful Early Blossom Contour Layers die set! I love florals and these dies make it so easy to create with! So let’s get started!

    I started by die cutting the florals using Hammermill white card stock. I then ink blended each of the layers using a combination of dye inks. Once all the inking was complete, I adhered each of the layers together using liquid glue.

    Next I started to work on the background tag for my floral die cuts. I started with a pre-made tag then added papers and collage paper to the tag. I used the Anemone Grove Paper pad, as well as collage paper from my stash. I ripped pieces of paper for a distress look, then adhered them with collage medium. I allowed this to dry, then inked up the background using Distress Oxide Inks. I used: Antique Linen, Pumice Stone, Peacocks Feathers, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain, and Mustard Seed. I layered these on, as well as splattered with water droplets for added texture.

    Next I added Translucent Crackle Paint to sections of the tag, allowed this to dry, then applied Distress Crayons over the top of the crackle paint. I also added some paper glaze to sections for added texture. I then added splatters to the tag using black and gold. I then adhered all the layers together using liquid glue and foam tape. The wood grain paper paper in the center of the tag is from Memory Box and it is in the color cream. I applied ink and sponging to the paper for added texture.

    I chose a pre-made sentiment from my stash and adhered this to my tag as well. I darkened the edges of the tag using Distress Ink in Ground Espresso using a blending tool, as well as additional texture using a sea sponge. The tag was completed with twine for the top, as well as lace and a button.

    I had a lot of fun putting this together! I encourage you to use your pattern paper in new ways to add texture to your card bases and backgrounds too! Thanks so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon!


    Supplies


    57520 Early Blossom Contour Layers

    Supplies


    pp1026 Anemone Grove 6×6 pack
    SH44002 Cream Woodgrain Paper Pack
  • Sending Love | By Natasha Vacca

    Sending Love | By Natasha Vacca

    Hello Birch Press friends, I am excited to be back up on the blog today sharing a fun and easy card using the Banner Heart Layering die set! So let’s get started!

    For today’s card I started with the Banner Heart Layering die set. I die cut layer A and C using white card stock. I then die cut layer B using the Festive Glitter paper pad. For the glitter layer I chose a dark blue shade from the paper pad. I then ink blended layer A and C using Distress Oxides. I used a combination of Distress Oxides: Saltwater Taffy, Picked Raspberry, Seedless Preserves, Shaded Lilac, and Villainous Potion. Once the layers were ink blended I set these aside to dry.

    Next on layer B, I wanted to add a bit more texture to the glitter paper pad. I used a combination of paper glaze, as well as embossing powder! I love the texture this provides. Once the other heart layers were completely dry, I added Gilded Foundry wax to sections of the heart. I then adhered all the heart layers together using liquid glue.

    Next I chose a gelli print from my background stash and dry embossed the background using the Ringadings embossing folder from Memory Box. I then applied white pigment ink to sections of the folder and ran it through one more time. I like this effect and the random texture this provides the dry embossed background. I allowed the ink to dry, then trimmed the panel using my paper trimmer for my card base.

    I completed my card by stamping a sentiment from the Contempo Greetings stamp and die set. I stamped the sentiment in purple, trimmed using the coordinating die, then applied foundry wax and ink on the edges as well. I then adhered the card panel, heart, and sentiment to my card base.

    Thank you so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon!


    Supplies


    57510 Banner Heart Layer Set
    CL8160 Contempo Greetings clear stamp set

    Supplies


    GP1006 Festive Glitter Pad
    EF1015 Ringadings 3D Embossing Folder
  • ATC Duo | By Sandhya Iyer

    ATC Duo | By Sandhya Iyer

    Hello, BP friends! Sandhya here. Today, I am sharing an ATC duo I created featuring the Peeking Flower and Leaves Contour Layers die set from Birch Press Designs. I also used the Anemone Grove 6×6 pattern paper pack from Memory Box. In case you don’t already know, ATC is an acronym for artist trading cards, which are typically small cards measuring 2.5″X 3.5″. It is a tiny canvas to express any form of art (stamping, painting, mixed media, etc) to share with fellow artists and collectors. However, it is totally up to an artist to make them in different shapes and sizes of their choosing.

    So when I first my hands on the adorable little peeking flowers, I was inspired to make it the focal point of an ATC. I derived color inspiration from the Anemone Grove pattern paper pack. I started by creating a few shimmery inky backgrounds on watercolor paper using Distress Mica Stains. Then, I die-cut the flowers and leaves and assembled them.

    Next, I trimmed down some white cardstock to create 2 ATC bases a smidge smaller than the standard 2.5″ X 3.5″. I ink blended over these with Villanous Potion Distress Ink and splattered with a few water drops. Next, I picked out a few pattern papers from the pack and ripped them into strips with jagged edges. I layered the strips on the ATC base and adhered them down. Then, I trimmed down to size and inked around the edges.

    I matted the base with black cardstock and trimmed down a couple of pre-printed words to add to the ATC. Then, I adhered the die-cut flower and words to the base using foam tape. I also added some gold thread on one ATC and a piece of snow gauze on the other for added interest.

    Finally, I added few black enamel dots to one of the ATCs for added interest. This brings us to the end of today’s post. Thank you so much for stopping by and I hope you have fun crafting today!

    Supplies:

    57494 Peeking Flower and Leaves Contour Layers
    PP1026 Anemone Grove 6×6 pack

  • Eloquent Butterfly Layered tag | By Natasha Vacca

    Eloquent Butterfly Layered tag | By Natasha Vacca

    Hello crafty friends, It is Natasha and I am excited to be up on the blog with you today! Today’s project combines the beautiful Eloquent Butterfly layered set, paired with beautiful papers from Memory Box! So let’s get started!

    I started by die cutting each layer (A and C) from the Eloquent Butterfly onto white cardstock. Once it was die cut, I added Distress Oxide Ink (Brushed Corduroy and Walnut Stain) to layer A and C. For layer B I die cut the butterfly using the Memory Box Glitzy Glitter pad using a piece of blue glitter paper. Then on layer B I added a couple colors of embossing powder. I do one color at a time, adding layers and not fully covering the butterfly with one color of powder. I also added a bit of embossing powder to layer A to add more interest and texture. I then adhered the butterfly together using liquid glue and set it aside.

    Next I started to work on my tag background using a pre-made tag from my stash. I then chose a few pieces of beautiful pattern paper from the Memory Box Magnolia Grove paper pad. I love these papers, they are so beautiful! I adhered the layers onto my tag, then dry embossed one of the papers using the Memory Box Ringadings embossing folder. Once this was dry embossed I tore the pattern paper to give a distressed look. I then added the same distress oxide inks to the paper. I added a bit more texture by applying an iridescent embossing powder to sections of the dry embossed paper. I then adhred the layer onto my tag,

    Next I added splatters to the tag panel using a brown spray from my stash. I allowed the panel to dry, then distressed the edges using my distress ink pad. I chose a sentiment from my stash and adhered this with foam tape, then adhered the butterfly to the tag using liquid glue.

    I completed the project with a twine at the top of the tag and a few gems from the Christmas Fairy Drops collection!

    Thank you so much for stopping by today! I will be back soon!


    Supplies


    57426 Eloquent Butterfly Layer Set

    Supplies


    pp1022 Magnolia Grove 6×6 pack
    gp1007 Glitzy Glitter Pad
    DDP101 Christmas Fairy Dewdrops
  • Warm Autumn Wishes with Adornment Pumpkin Die | by Colleen Balija

    Warm Autumn Wishes with Adornment Pumpkin Die | by Colleen Balija

    Hi friends!

    With fall upon us in full swing, I wanted to make a festive autumn card using Adornment Pumpkin die set! I’ll also be using Warm Wishes layering die, Hillside Branch & Contour Layers, Adornment Oak Leaf die, Splendor Bevel Plate (Layer A only), Memory Box Cream Woodgrain paper, Memory Box Vintage Pastel Mirror paper, and Memory Box Ringadings embossing folder! All of the product links will be listed at the end of my post!

    I’ve been seeing pumpkin cards where the pumpkins have been stamped with a design, so I decided to do that with the Adornment Pumpkin! I die cut the layers on watercolor paper and sprayed them with Hero Arts Orange and Bright Yellow shimmer sprays. These sprays add a really cool shimmer that I wanted to get with my pumpkin! Next, I grabbed Splendor Bevel Plate Layer A and used it as a stencil, applying color through the die onto the top layer of the pumpkin using a darker orange ink. I applied green spray over the leaf and brown over the stem. Then I adhered the layers together and splattered gold and dark brown inks over the top. Then I set my festively decorated pumpkin aside for later! Below is a close up of the details on my pumpkin, I love it!!!!!

    Next step was to work on the foliage that I wanted to place around the pumpkin. I die cut Hillside Branch & Contour Layers and Adornment Leaf die on watercolor paper and then sprayed those the same way I sprayed my pumpkin. Then I adhered the layers together.

    Now for the background! I grabbed a colored card panel that I had in my stash (I occasionally create several background panels to be used when needed – it’s really handy!). Then I embossed the panel with Ringadings embossing folder. This folder is AWESOME! Next, I used a sanding tool to remove a layer of ink from the raised areas of the embossed image. You can see how the circles are almost white! This is an easy technique that adds another element of detail and is amazing for mixed media! I adhered the panel to a white 5.5×4.25 card base. Also, I die cut the layers of Warm Wishes using Memory Box Cream Woodgrain paper and a bronze shade from the Vintage Pastel Mirror paper. I adhered the pumpkin and tucked the foliage in behind it, and then finished with the sentiment.

    TIP: To place the letters of your sentiment in the exact position, I place the outer portion (negative) of the die over the base layer (which was the Woodgrain Cream color) but don’t adhere it! Then I add glue to the letters and tuck them inside the positive part of the die. I gently pull the negative portion off using a pick to ensure the letters stay in place and don’t lift with the outer die! Easy peasy!

    I love how the background is quite dark compared to the colorful pumpkin and foliage. That really helps the focal point to pop! Thanks for stopping by today!

    Supplies

     

    EF1015 Ringadings 3D Embossing Folder

     

    SH44002 Cream Woodgrain Paper Pack

     

    FP1002 Vintage Pastel Mirror Pad
     

     

    57539 Warm Wishes Vintage Sentiment

     

    57481 Adornment Pumpkin

     

    57524 Hillside Branch and Bramble Contour Layers

     

    57484 Adornment Oak Leaf

     

    56111 Splendor Bevel Plate Layer Set

     

  • Fall Adornment Oak Leaves | by Colleen Balija

    Fall Adornment Oak Leaves | by Colleen Balija

    Hey friends,

    It’s getting to that time of year when the leaves turn on the trees and we begin to crave hot cocoa and Pumpkin Spice Lattes! Yummm! Fall time of year can be messy and yet it can also take your breath away with the sights and smells! So today’s card is a tribute to all that is fall! I will be using the NEW Adornment Oak Leaf die, Membory Box Ringading embossing folder, and Memory Box Gracious Gloral stamp set.

    I started with the Adornment Oak Leaves by die cutting two of the base layers onto a card panel that I had sprayed in various autumn colors. Next, I die cut the 2nd layer using silver cardstock. I splattered white ink over the leaves to finish and set them aside to dry.

    Next, I worked on the black backdrop that would sit behind the leaves and the background. I trimmed a piece of black cardstock and then heat embossed 2 sentiments from Memory Box Gracious Floral stamp in white embossing powder. Then I added some white splatters and set it aside to dry. This technique of randomly stamping a sentiment is a great mixed media tool that is easy to do and very effective! It takes a piece of plain black cardstock and adds subtle detail and interest!

    The background panel was created using Memory Box Ringadings embossing folder, which I embossed over a card panel that was sprayed in shades of grey and tan Mica. The Mica adds texture and shine, another great mixed media tool! If you don’t have sprays, not to worry! Just use your inks and you’ll achieve a similar look.

    After I embossed the image, I went over the raised parts of it with a sander and removed some of the color. You can see in the photo below the distressed look this technique provides! And it’s so simple to do!!! By the way, you can find sanders at just about any craft store! It’s a great tool to keep in your stash!

    The last step was to put everything together. I adhered the embossed panel over a 5.5×4.25 white card base, and then adhered the black panel over it, slightly off center to the left. Then I added the 2 Adornment Leaves and a sentiment from Memory Box Gracious Floral!

    This card may look complicated, but it was so easy to create, and you can do it with your own stash! Thanks so much for stopping by today!

    Supplies

     

    EF1015 Ringadings 3D Embossing Folder

     

    cl5280 Gracious Floral Clear Stamp Set

     

    57484 Adornment Oak Leaf