Keeping it Simple!

I just wanted to make a simple card. I had dug out a tractor stamp by PSX. I embossed it in black on Real Red card stock. I layered it in white and black. I was a bit disappointed in the background. I was hoping it would show up more. I used Versa Mark instead of red ink. I prefer to use the ink that matches the card stock, it shows up better on the backgrounds. Live and learn, right??

But like I stated, it's a very simple card. Simple to make and simple looking too. No frills at all. Definitely a masculine card!!!

I like using embossing powder, only when I'm making a couple of cards at a time. But ask me if I like embossing powder after I've made a bunch for a swap!!! LOL

I like how it melts across the paper. Though with the very fine stuff you have to be extremely careful that you don't get a "grease spot" on your paper instead of the nice raised embossing. I find that if you let the heat tool heat up first then let it blow across your card stock it works much better. Keep it moving from left to right and then right to left, passing your design area before coming back across it. Just like you would use spray paint. Never emboss in a circular motion. Some areas tend to get over melted and that is when you get the "greasy spot" on your card stock. I'd have to say my favorite color to watch melt is the gold. You can just see it liquefy across your paper as you go. Plus this one, for me is the easiest to see where you missed too. But as for the black embossing powder, just hold the heat tool about 2-1/2" away and keep it moving. Never stop it in one spot. You are not only asking for that over melted spot but you are asking for a fire too. Paper burns at 451 degrees Fahrenheit and the heat tool gets much hotter than that. I believe you could even melt the paint off your house with that thing!!! Pretty scary!!! LOL I usually have a fire extinguisher close by when I use any tool that gets that hot. It's just best to be safe than sorry. And if you don't have a fire extinguisher it's best to go purchase one, they are not that expensive. But in the meantime you can make sure you have a bowl of water sitting by to drop the flaming paper into or a wet (not damp) towel on your work surface. Just take all the preventative cautions you can!!!!!

I have a very fun "Weekend Project" for tomorrow. It's one that is geared for the little ones!! I'm going to be making some extra ones to sell at the local craft fair this fall. I'm hoping they will be a good seller!

Thanks SO much for stopping by,
Wanda