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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
September 11, 2024
Q: Lisa asks: "What kind of product would you use to die cut a stencil that will last quite a while?"
A: I have used cereal box chipboard for quite a few stencils as the most economic option - the coated side holds up especially well. If you're wanting to purchase a product intended for stencils, search for "stencil blanks". These are mylar sheets that are available in many sizes and thicknesses. Lighter weight Yupo paper die cuts well too.
September 4, 2024
Q: Maryellen writes: "I have several water brushes that I use often. The mid-size is out of water and I can't unscrew it to fill it up. It just won't budge. Any ideas how I might get it loose?"
A: Lydia posted this answer in the forums - I had to share in case others didn't know! "If it's Japanese, it might be threaded the opposite way from what you're used to - I found this out with some paint pens I bought. Try screwing it the opposite way!"
August 28, 2024
Q: Marie wants to know: "My little strips and pieces of cardstock and designer paper are piling up. What are some ways I can use them up?"
Thank you.
Thank you.
A: Here are some of my favorite tutorials for paper scraps!
Floating Strips
Starburst Background
Bargello Technique
Herringbone
Disappearing Nine Patch
Floating Strips
Starburst Background
Bargello Technique
Herringbone
Disappearing Nine Patch
August 21, 2024
Q: Debbie asks: "Can you point me toward some tutorials using acetate?"
A: Of course! Here are a few from our archives:
Magic Card
Acetate Box
Acrylic Smash
Surprise Shaker Card
Acetate Tent Card
For even more ideas, search for "acetate" on our Tutorial page HERE!
Magic Card
Acetate Box
Acrylic Smash
Surprise Shaker Card
Acetate Tent Card
For even more ideas, search for "acetate" on our Tutorial page HERE!
August 14, 2024
Q: Linda asks: "What do you use to shape paper flowers?"
A: If you get really serious about paper flower making, there are specialized tool sets with various tweezers, large ball stylus tools, and other items for making creases, rolling, rounding and shaping different die cut pieces. If you're just going to make a few flowers, look around your desk for tools with rounded ends. I usually use the ends of Sharpie pens and both ends of my bone folder (mine is flat with a pointed end and rounded end). Sharp tweezers and a quilling tool are very helpful too! For more tips and inspiration check out this tutorial, this tutorial, and this thread in the forums!
