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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
January 14, 2026
Q: Kym asks: "I am making cards from scrap strips and squares, and I can't seem to get the ends (top, bottom, and sides) to lay flat. As they sit, they curI slightly. Any suggestions?"
A: I put cards between the pages of a heavy book while my glue dries.
January 7, 2026
Q: maisyrae writes: "I saw something about using ink on an embossing folder to show the detail of the embossing. Can anyone here help me? "
A: We do have a few different tutorials - these are the ones that come to mind:
Faux Letterpress
Embossing Folder Stamping (a faux watercolor technique)
TLC361 ~ Inspired By Belleek Pottery
Click HERE for a bunch of gallery samples using this technique!
Faux Letterpress
Embossing Folder Stamping (a faux watercolor technique)
TLC361 ~ Inspired By Belleek Pottery
Click HERE for a bunch of gallery samples using this technique!
December 17, 2025
Q: Joselyn had a question about the Gable Box closure: "Thanks for these instructions... so quick, so cute! I just wonder how the ribbon is attached through the punched holes?"
A: The Gable Box is kept closed using a "no-tie bow". To create this closure as shown in Step 13, you'll punch two 1/4" holes about 1 inch apart, centered at the top of the 'handles' of the box. Cut about 9" of ribbon. Thread the ends of the ribbon through the holes, from the front of the box to the back, so that the center of the ribbon lines up with the center of the box. Take the end of the ribbon on the left and feed it forward through the hole on the right. Take the end of the ribbon on the right and feed it forward through the hole on the left. Pull the ribbon ends taut, and trim them evenly. That's it! This is a great closure for a gift bag as well.
December 10, 2025
Q: Clemencia writes: "Hi, I would like to participate in some of the challenges. Can I only make cards or can I submit an art journal page, mixed media, etc? Thank you."
A: All of our challenges are designed to be a jumping point for your own creativity and crafting needs. Please use them to inspire you as you work on whatever you wish, share if you like, and don't worry - there are no challenge police!
December 3, 2025
Q: Ramona asks: "Any fun tutorial ideas for stocking stuffer treats?"
A: How about this Sour Cream Container? You can make 4 from a sheet of Christmas paper, or style it up - I think it would be cute in a color-blocked design as a little elf or Santa hat!
