Blending Brush Custom Cardstock is the star of today’s spring-inspired card, featuring the Simply Leaves Bundle. This bundle includes the Simply Leaves stamp set and coordinating Simple Leaf Punch, making it easy to create beautiful leafy cards.
Creating Blending Brush Custom Cardstock
I used an idea from Jacque Williams to create the coloured leaves. First, I sponged three shades of green ink onto Basic White Cardstock with a Blending Brush. I then gave the cardstock a light spritz with water.
As the water hits the ink, it repels it and creates little white spots. This adds another layer of interest and gives the leaves a lovely organic appearance.
Once the cardstock had dried completely, I punched out the leaves using the Simple Leaf Punch. Finally, I stamped the veins onto each leaf.
The result is Blending Brush Custom Cardstock that has a completely different look from plain coloured cardstock. Plus, you can create your own colour combinations to suit any project.
Adding Vellum Leaves
I also wanted to include some vellum leaves for a softer look. I sponged the vellum with Soft Sea Foam ink, but this time I didn’t spritz it with water.
After stamping the veins, the ink needs a minute or two to dry. So, take a little care when handling the leaves straight away to avoid smudging the stamped images.
Creating the Two-Fold Card Base
The finished card is the same width as a regular card, but it has two folds instead of one.
This simple change adds extra interest to the card. More importantly, the way the layers are positioned helps keep the front of the card closed. The card base design came from Alejandra Gomez.
I embossed the larger panel of the card base using the Textured Tree Rings 3D Embossing Folder. The texture adds another natural element and works beautifully with the leafy theme.
Layering the Blending Brush Custom Cardstock Leaf Card
Next, I layered Old Olive Cardstock with a piece of Moonlit Flora Designer Series Paper. I then arranged the punched leaves over the top, mixing the different shades and textures.
I also wanted a little more variation in the leaf sizes. So, I stamped one of the smaller leaves from the Simply Leaves stamp set and fussy cut it out.
I then used this stamped leaf as a template to cut down one of the vellum leaves. This gave me another small leaf the same size.
Finally, I added Natural Matte Dots to complete the card.
You Can Make it Measurements
Watch the Blending Brush Custom Cardstock Video Tutorial
A Fresh Spring Card
I’m really pleased with how this card turned out. The different shades of green give it such lovely spring vibes, and I particularly like how the Blending Brush Custom Cardstock makes each leaf unique.
The combination of the soft vellum, leafy Designer Series Paper and textured card base also gives the card plenty of interest without making it feel too busy.
Sometimes a simple technique like blending ink onto cardstock is all you need to create something a little different. And, of course, the Simply Leaves Bundle makes creating all those leafy shapes incredibly easy.
Click here for a complete supply list for printing, shopping, or saving. When you’re ready to order, I’d love to help you and be your Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator.
I also used the blending brush custom cardstock technique for elements in these projects:
Beautiful Ordinary Life Twisted Easel Card – Confetti Card Studio
