Inking on Dark Cardstock

Hello! There are many ways to ink on dark cardstock, even if you want light colors on top. Today, we’ll look at one of them, using Distress Oxides. The new Layered Mixed Flowers stencil set from A Colorful Life Designs is a pretty, easy-to-use set that looks so pretty once it’s inked.

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I had a panel of purple inks I had picked up after I sprayed some stencils. There was a lot of ink left, and I didn’t want to waste it. I grabbed a piece of Strathmore Smooth Bristol Cardstock, and swept it through the ink, making a pretty, mottled, kinds shimmery panel. I trimmed it down with my Tonic/Tim Holtz Deckle Trimmer.

On top of the dried panel, I used a variety of Distress Oxide colors to ink up the stencils. I used Spiced Marmalade, Salvaged Patina, Lucky Clover, Saltwater Taffy, Squeezed Lemonade, and Twisted Citron. Because of the pigment properties in the Oxides, and the chalky finish they have, you’re able to see the colors really well on top of the darker purple background. I love how soft the flowers look with these inks.

For my card base, I painted on Angel Pink Fireworks! Spray from Imagine, and then splattered on Cottage Ivy Fireworks! Spray. It looks so pretty when the light hits it. My sentiment was cut from light blue cardstock and green mulberry paper, using the Classic Word Dies from Pinkfresh Studio. This set is discontinued, but you can get THIS one, which is also very nice. For additional sparkle, I used a few gems, in a horizontal pattern, across the middle. I adhered the gems with On Point Glue from Imagine.

I love the effect of the Oxides on darker cardstock or inked panels. The colors may not be as vibrant as they would be on white paper, but the look is unique and very pretty. Please be sure to visit A Colorful Life Designs to see the many, many stencils they have to offer. You can use my code, AlFan10 to save 10% off of your regular-priced purchase. Then, show off your creations in the A Colorful Life Designs Fan Group on FB. Thanks so much for stopping by. Have an inspiring day!