Watercolor and Heat Embossed Card

This is one of the first cards I made. I used a very inexpensive watercolor paper and only partially colored the background. I used CTMH’s watercolor paints with a large round brush (middle brush in the photo…I think equivalent to a #8 brush). I let it dry overnight (but you could use a heat tool to speed up the process), then stamped the (retired) sentiment stamp in Versamark ink and heat embossed with black embossing powder. Make sure your background is completely dry before using embossing powder.

Here are some tips I’ve learned recently for watercoloring card backgrounds:

• If you tape around the very edges of your watercolor paper to a board with painter’s tape, then the paper will dry flatter instead of warping.
• Start with a watercolor paper sized slightly larger than you need. Then trim off the edges to size after you’re finished.
• Keep practicing. There’s nothing like experiencing firsthand how different paints react (each type is very different) and how much water to use, etc. My first attempts were AWFUL! But with each attempt, I learned and the next try was a little better. 
• Try different paints. CTMH watercolor paints are pretty chalky. It makes for a more chalky background, which is an “in” look right now. They are more pigmented than other chalk watercolor paints on the market (Michaels carries some but they are much less pigmented.) 
• Watch YouTube videos. Kristina Werner is an amazing watercolor artist and card maker. She inspired me to dive into watercoloring and I’ve learned a lot by watching her videos.
• Have fun!

I hope you enjoyed my card. Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy watercoloring!