Learning to ink an embossing folder is a simple way to add detail to a background. It enhances the design and highlights specific features. This month, I used the Stampin’ Up! Country Birdhouse Bundle for my classes and was asked to create a gingerbread birdhouse card. I chose this technique for the background on the card.
How To Ink an Embossing Folder
For this card, I used the Birch Wood 3D Embossing Folder. I applied ink to the inside of the folder, where the Stampin’ Up! logo is printed. Instead of dragging the ink pad over the folder, I used a blending brush. Although dragging the pad is faster, on this folder it leaves drag marks, and the ink can become too dark. The amount of ink on the pad also affects the outcome. A brayer is another option, but I found it applied too much ink for the desired effect.
After applying the ink, I placed the cardstock on the uninked side of the embossing folder, carefully closed it, and ran it through the Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine. I used a scrap of paper to prevent ink from transferring to the other side of the folder, making clean-up easier. However, the folder rinses clean with water, so it’s easy to maintain.
Gingerbread Birdhouse Details
The gingerbread birdhouse hangs from a pine branch, which I die cut using the Golden Greenery Dies in Shaded Spruce. I cut the birdhouse from Pecan Pie cardstock using the Country Birdhouse dies and embossed it with the flower design from the Fun Patterns Embossing Folders. I lightly dragged a white ink pad over the embossing to give a frosted effect. The red and white die-cut flowers around the bird match the embossed design.
The birdhouse features a white roof with a stamped red decal. I added Real Red & White Adhesive-Backed Peppermints embellishments to complete the look, replicating the charm of a traditional Christmas gingerbread house.
For the sentiment, I white embossed a greeting from the Greetings of the Season Bundle on Shaded Spruce cardstock. The bird and flowers are arranged over the hole in the die cut from the same bundle.
Final Card Elements
For the inside I used another sentiment from the Greetings of the Season stamp set, stamped in Real Red ink.
This inking technique with an embossing folder adds a unique touch to your cards. It’s easy to experiment with different embossing folders and ink combinations. I hope you’ll give this technique a try and discover how it can elevate your own card designs!
Please note: If you are a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator – make sure you are signed out of your account when clicking the download link, otherwise it will divert you to your back office.
I have created these tutorials as a free download, but please use for personal use only.
Thanks so much for stopping by Confetti Card Studio today! Join me for a class in person! ~ Vanessa
