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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
October 6, 2021
Q: Ashley asks: "Do you prefer white core or solid core cardstock?"
A: I feel like each type has its place... For general cardmaking I usually use solid core cardstock... but if I want to distress the cardstock, tear an edge, or sand it for added texture, the white core is revealed and adds a level of dimension that solid core doesn't. I've got both!
September 29, 2021
Q: Amy asks: "When is World Card Making Day?"
A: World Card Making Day is the first Saturday of October! Be on the lookout for special challenges, sales, and events hosted by your favorite companies. I learned that WCMD was started by Paper Crafts Magazine in 2006 as an event just for their subscribers, and was so well-loved that it became a tradition that has grown and continues today. Celebrate this weekend by making a card to share!
September 22, 2021
Q: Lorraine asks: "What sort of paper is best for making envelopes?"
A: It looks like most quality envelopes are made from papers with a weight of 75-120 gsm. HERE is a chart that shows a comparison of different weight scales with the gsm (grams per square meter) standards. Printer papers or scrapbook papers are good options!
September 15, 2021
Q: Ana asks: "What can you use stencils on besides cards?"
A: Any flat surface is fair game! My most recent non-card ventures with stencils have been a shaped wood piece from the dollar store (acrylic craft paint), polymer clay earrings (pressed into the clay to make a pattern), a mini canvas and a thrift store frame (both with stenciled elements that were painted into a scene).
September 8, 2021
Q: Elaine asks: "How do I keep the lines from the digital image from bleeding into my Inktense pencil coloring when I apply water?"
A: I'd let the ink cure overnight and then spray the paper with a couple of light coats of workable fixative - I use this one. Make sure to hold the can at least a foot away from your paper - too close to the paper or too heavy coverage and the spray will cause the ink to run too.
