Heat embossing is great fun to do and is a simple technique to learn and can be used in many rubber stamping projects. By heating embossing powders that have been poured over an image that has been stamped with an embossing or slow drying ink. This is then heated to form a raised surface bringing a new dimension to a project. Embossing brings an added dimension to rubber stamping projects. Embossing powders can be purchased in a wide selection of colors and these offer a great opportunity for creative exploration.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Quick
Here's How:
- Gather materials together. Working on top of a piece of plain scrap paper, stamp an image onto the practice paper or card. Don´t scrimp on the ink! Plenty of ink is required to ensure that there is a good inky surface for the embossing powder to stick to.
- Sprinkle embossing powder onto the stamped image. Don´t worry about trying to sprinkle the powder only onto the outline, spoon it all over. Any unused powder will be brushed off and collected afterwards so none will go to waste.
- Gently tip the paper up and knock off any loose powder onto the scrap paper below. Use a soft paintbrush to wipe away any loose powder. It is important to remove any unwanted patches of embossing powders to give a good, clean image. Using the scrap paper as a funnel, return the unused embossing powder to the jars.
- Using a heat gun or heat tool, gradually heat the embossed image until it melts. Refer to manufacturers instructions for any specific information about heating times.
- Leave image to cool and finish the project as required. The finished embossed rubber stamped image makes a good outline for coloring the design and won´t bleed into water color inks and paints.
Illustrated Step by Step Guide
Tips:
- Use strong clean designs; very ornate images can be difficult to emboss.
- Wipe surface with an antistatic wipe or pad. This will help stop unwanted embossing powder adhering to the static.
- Slow drying pigment inks will also give reliable results.
What You Need:
- Paper or cardstock (a slightly absorbent surface works best)
- Sheet of clean plain paper to work on
- Heat gun or heat tool
- Rubber stamp
- Embossing ink (or slow drying ink)
- Paintbrush to wipe away unwanted powder
- Antistatic wipe or pad if required
