A: Great question! I would make sure the metal is very clean before applying the ink - otherwise, it shouldn't need any preparation. Once applied, a solvent would cause it to bleed, so I would seal with a water-based acrylic or polyurethane. One thing to note about alcohol inks is that they are not lightfast, so unfortunately they'll fade over time. A UV protective spray and placement out of direct sun will help preserve the color longer.

A: Some cards are stitched with a sewing machine (straight or decorative stitching with a needle dedicated to paper). Some cards are hand stitched and there are even dies dedicated to this craft, with holes for embroidery stitches in different designs. There are a number of faux-stitching techniques, and dies that cut stitched borders or lines. So many options! (Remember piercing holes and then 'connecting the dots' for faux stitched borders?) Here are some tutorials for inspiration:
Sewing on Cards
Stitching on Patterned Paper
Stitched Die String Art
No-Line Piercing

A: I have a small pile of larger blocks on my desk - those get used as palettes for painting, and to weigh down cards while glue dries (like in this week's video!). I have a handful of small blocks (one of each size) nearby - sometimes it's easier to use a block for a small stamp or for random stamping of a background image. The rest of my blocks are in a box, and I've rarely used them for stamping since I got my MISTI 8 years ago!

A: I keep my hot foil plates with my dies. I have a standing file cabinet that I use for storage, and the dies and plates are stored on magnet sheets backed with chipboard. Each sheet goes into a "quick load" sheet protector (open on two sides) and then into a hanging folder, labeled with the category.

A: I fold away from the side I scored, so the groove is on the outside of the card (mountain). HERE is more information on scoring, folding, and paper grain! Our members are so knowledgeable!