Easy Layered Color Distress Ink Background

Easy Layered Color Distress Ink Background Technique

I used this very simple technique to create the stamped background paper located at the top of this card.  This technique really adds such depth and faux texture ~ it really makes your stamped images pop.

Supplies:

Distress Inks (several colors or shades)
Cardstock
Ink Blending Tool
Water
Heat Gun (optional)
Stamps (I am using 11-10 Get Inked Stamps)
Ink

Instructions:

1. Rub 3-4 different colors of Distress Ink on your cardstock.  This isn't anything that is precise...just here and there, up and down, etc.

This is just an idea of what you will end up at the end of step 1... Don't worry if it's a bit intense...there is a step later on that will tame those color beasts!

2. Use the Ink Blending Tool and apply another lighter color to fill in all of the white areas on the cardstock that you didn't cover in step one.  You'll notice that it's already not as loud ;)

At this point your cardstock will look like this...

3. Place the inked cardstock on your non-stick craft mat and squirt it with lots of water....  Not just a few spritzes like in the "Spritz & Flick" Technique but lots...  I usually use my bit squirt bottle and give it 3-4 pumps.  Let this water sit at least 10-30 seconds.  Dab and remove any excess water that hasn't been absorbed.  You can let it dry naturally or use your heat gun to speed up dry time.

As the paper/inks dry you will notice the colors become much lighter.  This is also when the depth and faux texture will show up because the inks have migrated and combined.

5. Your background is ready for stamping!

So there you go...

another quick and easy background technique that yields amazing results!

Give it a try and see how you like it!