How to make a mixed media card base.
I purchased a set of red cards and envelopes thinking they'd be great for Christmas cards. I just couldn’t get inspired by the colour. I didn’t want to cover with another piece of paper so I pulled out my acrylic paints and a roller to see what would transpire.
These card bases are essentially layers of acrylic paint, applied with a roller. I used three shades of blue, white, brown and gold.
The stencil I used is a Finnabair by Prima Marketing Stencil 6"X9" called “Manuscript”.
Get Started with a Base Layer.
Roll the white paint in all directions. You don’t need to completely cover the card with paint as there will be additional layers of colour added.
Add Colour in a “L” Shape
Use a dark blue, rolling in random directions. Keep the right upper corner lighter. Apply more paint more heavily along the center and bottom.
Create Bold Contrast.
The next layer of contrast paint is applied sparingly in that same “L'“ shape. In the video I used a teal colour. Use a lighter hand in the upper right corner.
Build a Lighter Blue Base.
Repeat the same rolling process using a lighter shade of blue.
“Ground” the Front of the Card.
Along the bottom edge lightly roll a darker brown. This creates a stage or ground for what you add on top. I lightly add a touch of the brown along the folded edge.
Final Layer of White.
Working from the upper right corner roll a top coat of white. Heavier in the upper right fanning it out towards the middle.
Stencil with White.
The white paint is applied more solidly along the the folded edge. Don’t fill in the stencil completely. The painted edge is left ragged.
It’s Almost Done!
You could stop here if you want.
Gold Edging Takes it Home.
Apply a thin layer of gold along the bottom. If you want a messier edging you can pull the card through the paint and smooch it to create a more organic edge.
Snow Storm.
Add some water to the white paint and using a stiff brush spatter the white paint, Heavier in the upper right corner.
Finish off with Stamped Elements.
I’ve added some water coloured stamps from Paper Artsy on the top of my card. A hand dyed fabric ribbon finishes it off. It’s ready to send.
If you try this technique be sure to tag me. @engelbelle on Facebook and Instagram.
