Two Step Stamping with Essentials by Ellen

Two-step stamps provide the best of both worlds—outline images that can be used on their own and colored in with any medium + coordinating solid filler images that you can also use for certain techniques that really do not work with outline imagery.  The solid images provide a quick and easy way to add color to your projects!

For today’s project, Julie is also combining an inset stamping method using the “negative space” from the coordinating dies.

TIPS:

• Preplanning your project will give you the most optimal results; a trial run on scratch paper can be very helpful.
• With inset stamping, it’s important that the top die-cut layer (with the negative spaces) have sufficient support across as much as of the surface as possible so more delicate areas do not sag.
• Second generation impressions will expand your ink colors.
• Stamping backgrounds using the same image as your focal, but with softer/paler colors, can provide interest and texture without detracting from your main focal.
• You can “eyeball” two-step stamping most easily (and quickly!) if the filler are “offset” or not intended to be a “perfect” match to their outline counterparts.
• You can also “eyeball” inset stamping, but if your hands are the least bit shaky, using a MISTI is the easiest way to guarantee accuracy.

Supplies: