Christmas Project #1: Details
Tags:Here's a closer look at some of the cards: the whole idea is to keep it simple (embossing and gloss can be simple once you get the hang of it) + playful + to use bits and pieces of pattern and product.
These two cards both have glossy surfaces. The first is the result of using UTEE (ultra thick embossing enamel) and the second with Diamond Glaze (you could also use Glossy Accents - tips on Rangers website for using that can be found here).
For the first card I used a Fiskars square punch for the patterned papers + covered the entire card with Versamark + then covered with UTEE (ultra thick embossing enamel). Then I tapped off the excess and used my heat gun to melt the UTEE. I think my UTEE may be old - I did not get the same sort of smooth coverage I have gotten in the past.
The "ho ho" card was used by painting over top of a Heidi Swapp alphabet mask (my favorite red is cranberry from Making Memories). After the paint dried I peeled off the mask letters and then used Diamond Glaze all over the top of the card to create the "seal" layer (it goes on cloudy and then dries clear - you can read a basic tutorial about using this here). You can just use your fingers to smooth it around the card. I let it dry over-night.
Each of the above cards include red Embossing Tinsel from Ranger - essentially embossing glitter. For these I stamped or rubber with Versamark (embossing ink), then sprinkled the tinsel, and used a heat gun to set the glitter. If you want to learn more about embossing, Ranger has some great tips near the bottom of this page. (Merry Christmas stamp is from Catslife Press)
The middle frame was created by cutting out the center of two cards (using an xacto knife), embossing the outside of both with the tinsel, and placing a transparency between the two (Red Hambly Rub Ons were used for the red trees on the transparency).
The white pen used on the third card is the Sharpie Poster Paint Pen.
Some of the other products used:
Anna Griffin Dorothy Epoxy Stickers
Anna Griffin Elegant Embellishment Stickers
K & Company Wild Saffron Fabric Brads
Also, lots of stuff fromMaking Memories St. Nick holiday collection.
Edited: Candi asked how I punched the cards after covering with paper - I used a craft knife to cut out the space (using another card as a template on top).


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33 comments
Ali, thanks for the tutorial and photos on the close up of the ART. It's great project which I would love to try on. I like it that you have so many techniques used. I esp love techniques like UTEE and embossing. The effects are great on projects.
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Thanks for sharing Ali! I'm completely inspired... I'm starting with a christmas 'count down book' and I'm sure I'll be using some of your techniques!
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awesome.
thanks for sharing.
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You are always so fresh in everything you do. I do have to ask though, often in CK there is mention of your favourite square punch. I've assumed it's a 2" punch???? Having some trouble locating it in Australia. Can you provide us with the brand?
Thanks
Briohny
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Ali, Awesome inspiration as always. Great cards. I have been wanting to try embossing for some time now but just haven't gotten to it. After seeing this I am wanting to even more. I love the HO HO card. It looks great.
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Thanks for sharing the details, because I LOVE this project.:)
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Is there any chance they make a punch to do this instead of having to cut it out manually?
Did you do the whole poem Ali? That's a LOT of cards.
GREAT job. I absolutely love it.
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Thanks for sharing these details, Ali!
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Hey everyone! I got my Ali Edward's enabled purchase: 7 Gypsies ATC Holder at http://www.youratcstore.com/. They were great - I already got it in the mail and they weren't sold out either! :) Good luck!
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just want to say thanks for all your input and inspirations. it's always a joy to see what new creation you have posted. am very much enjoying seeing what you have in mind for christmas home delights.
thanks!
jamie
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these are brilliant...can't wait for mine to arrive so I can get working!!!
xo
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There are a couple revolving holders left at this store: http://www.craftician.com/artist-trading-card-revolving-holder-p-110.html
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I've read your blog for sometime - dreaming of how great it would be to have your creativity. (I've settled happily for taking good pictures and sliding them into a photo album.)
This project i LOVE and simply must try. Just one question. What is the benefit to glossing and embossing the cards? Is this a regular step in projects you do? Thanks!
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