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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
August 16, 2023
Q: Louise asks: "How would an image colored with watercolor markers differ from using water color pencils?"
A: Both will produce watercolor-like results... the difference will be in opacity and lightfastness. Dye based products (markers, inks) are transparent and not lightfast. Watercolor pencils are more likely to be pigment based, more opaque, and lightfast.
August 9, 2023
Q: Carol writes: "I want to know how to stitch card layers together with a sewing machine. I have been told to use a ball point needle in the past. Do you have any other tips to help make this technique look good?"
A: Hi there! We have a great site tutorial HERE that should answer your questions! (You can jump to step 25 if you are already familiar with your machine.) I use a sharp needle and make sure to mark it with a Sharpie (purple for paper!) so it only gets used for paper - paper will dull a needle quickly and you won't want to use it on fabrics. There are some great tips in the tutorial comments too.
August 2, 2023
Q: Mary wants to know: "What is your favorite quality paper for inking an entire area/background?"
A: Great question! I often use the hot press watercolor paper used in today's tutorial (140# Fabriano Studio hot press paper) or Bristol smooth paper for blending. Ultrasmooth cover stocks are good as well - Neenah Classic Crest, Accent Opaque Cardstock, or Hammermill Premium Copy Cover.
July 26, 2023
Q: Sonya asks: "When using glittery embossing powder, how do you keep the glitter from coming off your card after embossing?"
A: I would reheat it just enough to activate the powder again, and add a layer of clear embossing powder over the glittery powder to lock it all in. Just be careful not to overheat.
July 19, 2023
Q: Micheline asks: "I have a lot of brass stencils from many years ago when they were popular, used with a stylus and light table. Do you have any suggestions on how these can be used with die cutting machines and what sandwich to use?"
A: I know for a while there was a company (Sizzix?) that made them with a type of carrier folder to go through a die cutting machine. I don't think there was a universal folder. You can use the brass stencils in a die cutting machine with a silicone pad - pad down first, then cardstock and the plate on top with whatever sandwich you need to create the correct pressure - the edges of the plate will also imprint though, so you'd need to work that into your design or crop on those lines, and you won't be able to isolate small areas to emboss like you can by hand. Sometimes it's fun to just do a little old school embossing with that stylus and light table!
