Heat Embossing Basics

Learn different ways to use embossing powder on your projects.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   First Technique - Stamping
   
   To emboss a stamped image, treat cardstock with an anti-static powder tool. Apply embossing ink to the stamp. Stamp the image.

   

2. Step 2

   Sprinkle embossing powder over the stamped image. Tap the cardstock gently to remove any excess powder.

   

3. Step 3

   Pre-heat your heat tool for 45-60 seconds. Hold the heat tool 3-4 inches from the paper and melt the embossing powder. Complete the card with a sentiment strip.
   
   TIP:
   If using glitter embossing powder, heat the back of the cardstock to prevent blowing glitter away.
   

   

4. Step 4

   Second Technique – Direct Ink to Paper
   
   Swipe and/or press an embossing pad onto white cardstock.
   
   Repeat Steps 2 and 3.
   
   
   

   

5. Step 5

   Swipe an embossing pad over the previously heat embossed area. Repeat Steps 2 and 3. Heat embossing twice creates a smoother finish.
   
   Repeat Steps 4 and 5 in a different color.
   
   

   

6. Step 6 (Optional)

   Die-cut the embossed panels and assemble finished card.

   

7. Step 7

   Third Technique – Emboss with Pigment Ink
   
   Stamp the image and sentiment with black pigment ink.
   
   TIP:
   Pigment ink sits on the surface of the cardstock and is slow drying which allows for heat embossing.
   

   

8. Step 8

   Repeat Steps 2 and 3.

   

9. Step 9

   Fourth Technique – Color with Embossing Pen
   
   Fill in details with an embossing pen. Heat emboss with embossing powder (blue here). Fill in additional details with the embossing pen. Heat emboss with a different colored embossing powder (green here).
   
   TIP:
   The embossing pen can be used to heat emboss digital stamps and can also used with stencils.
   
   

   

10. Step 10

    Fifth Technique – Draw with Freestyle Tool
    
    Draw 1 stripe with WOW! Freestyle Tool and repeat Steps 2 and 3. Repeat for desired number of stripes and colors. Finish card with stamped sentiment.

    

11. Step 11

    Sixth Technique – Color Block with Embossing Brush
    
    Swipe the applicator brush over a card panel to create one block of embossing gel. Heat emboss with embossing powder. Repeat with different colors until 3 color blocks are complete.
    
    TIP:
    For a dry brushed look, remove the majority of embossing gel by wiping the brush against the bottle opening.
    

    

12. Step 12

    Seventh Technique – Double Emboss
    
    Stamp an image on the embossed color block panel with black pigment ink or embossing ink.
    
    TIP:
    Use a stamp positioner for best results as the embossed panel may be slick. Do not overheat as the color block panel will start to melt and blend with the sentiment.
    

    

13. Step 13

    Heat emboss with black embossing powder. Repeat if necessary.

    

14. Step 14

    Use the embossed panels to complete cards or other projects.

    

Video!

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Heat Embossing Basics. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

***Please note - Internet Explorer/Edge is not a supported browser, and will not allow you to see the videos. Please use Chrome, Firefox or Safari to view our tutorial videos.