Have you ever tried the Embossed Ink Smooshing Technique? In Facebook and YouTube live on 16th October, I shared how to create beautifully textured backgrounds using this fun, slightly messy (but totally worth it!) technique. It’s a wonderful way to add colour and interest to your cards using ink pads, water, and your favourite embossing folders.
Adding Colour with the Embossed Ink Smooshing Technique
This week’s project combined two of my favourite things—inks and embossing folders! I used vibrant colours like Daffodil Delight, Azure Afternoon, Petunia Pop, and Berry Burst, along with a touch of White Craft Ink to bring out the embossed texture. Each card came out different, and that’s the best part—no two will ever look exactly the same!
You simply apply your ink onto a non-porous surface (I used my glass mat), spritz with water, and “smoosh” your cardstock into it. Once it’s dry, run it through your embossing folder—I used the Sunflower and Joined Together folders for mine. To finish, lightly brush over the raised areas with White Craft Ink to make the design pop.
Here you can see the finished card on the left and the inked background before adding White Craft Ink on the right. The white softens the colours and helps the embossed detail stand out.
Here are the completed card:
The first card the Sunflower 3D Embossing Folder:
The second card with the Joined Together 3D Embossing Folder:
This technique is a fun and effortless way to build a colourful background that highlights the texture and detail of your embossed design. If you like each one being different, then this is a great technique for you to try.
Finishing Touches and Inspiration
To complete my card, I mounted the embossed background on a Basic White mat and then onto a Secret Sea card base. I added a sentiment from the More Messages stamp set. I also shared a tip during the live—cutting your gold striped ribbon in half down the middle makes it a little more delicate and easier to use on smaller cards.
Inside, I added a small strip of the leftover ink-smooshed and embossed piece to tie everything together. It’s a simple detail that really finishes the card beautifully.
You can watch the full video to see exactly how it all came together. You’ll also see how I made variations using the different embossing folders.
Watch the full Ink Smooshing technique here:
If you’d like to learn more techniques like this in person, check out my Monthly Technique and Fun Fold Card Classes held at my home in Albany. They’re a great way to explore new ideas, meet others who love crafting, and take your card-making to the next level.
I hope you have fun trying out the Embossed Ink Smooshing Technique, and if you would like to come to a class, please get in touch with me or sign up to my mailing list for more tips and inspiration.