Creating Embellished Accents: Crafting Mixed Metal and Shabby Chic Designs
Discover a simple and creative way to make mixed metal and shabby chic embossed embellishments using leftover scrap cardstock or repurposed inked and embossed papers that didn't quite meet your expectations. These easy-to-make embellishments add a touch of charm to various paper crafts.
Here's how:
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Start by selecting a range of die-cut pieces from scrap cardstock in any color and shape you desire.
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Lightly mist the backs of the pieces with water and then place them randomly in an embossing folder of your choice. Embossing with water helps prevent cracking and ensures a crisp impression.
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For a shabby chic style, lightly apply gesso to each piece by gently rubbing it over the raised impressions. Allow the gesso to dry.
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Choose two or three acrylic paint colors for the shabby chic effect. Once the gesso is dry, randomly apply the colored paint to the top of each piece, creating a worn paint effect.
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Once all the paint is dry, use a text stamp to randomly imprint text onto each piece for added character.
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For the mixed metal pieces, start with a metallic acrylic color of your choice and lightly apply it over the embossed surface. Smear additional metallic colors randomly across the embossed areas, allowing a bit of each color to show – gold, silver, copper, or bronze.
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To finish, use a patina-like ink color, such as Tim Holtz Broken China or any blue or green ink, to edge the pieces, giving them a worn and aged appearance.
These versatile embellishments can be used in various ways to enhance your projects and provide an excellent opportunity to utilize scraps or repurpose embossing techniques that didn't go as planned. Enjoy your paper crafting journey!