Using Embossing Powders

This was one of the first techniques I really got into when starting to make my own cards. It was a bit of trial and error to start with but with a bit of practice it really opens up a lot of opportunity to experiment with powders and finishes. It is also a great way of getting a really professional finish to cards.

The main equipment you will need is a stamp, embossing powder, embossing stamp pad, heat tool and optional equipment include a powder trough. The powder trough can be used to catch excess powder and whilst I did use mine when I first started I have now got used to the amount of powder I can use and pouring any excess back into the pot once finished.


 You do not need any particularly expensive stamps but I would recommend that you invest in embossing powder for intricate/detailed stamps if you are using a very detailed stamp. The regular powders seem to work really well for regular stamps.

The following steps will give you an idea of how to make trying embossing a bit easier for you.


Step one - Select your stamp and using your Clear Embossing Stamp Pad coat the stamp evenly before pressing on your card.
If you tilt the card slightly you will see the impression on the card.

Step two - cover the stamp with your chosen embossing powder. I have used a regular embossing powder for this stamp in baby blue. Gently tap the card to make sure that the powder has covered all the stamp detail and then remove the excess by gently tipping back into your jar. A quick final tap of the card will remove any stubborn bits of powder clinging to the card. I sometimes find that using a clean fine paint brush can help to remove the excess powder.

Step 3 - heat the design with your heat tool. If you find that the paper distorts slightly then alternate heating from behind the paper and in front of the paper and I find that this helps even out the sheet.

The finished embossed design:

The above is a very close up image of the finished design but this will give you an idea of the glossy raised finish you can achieve with embossing.
There are a variety of different embossing powders that provide a variety of finishes including fine powders for intricate work, glitter powders that add a bit of sparkle to finished projects and regular powders. All are available in a wide variety of colours making them very easy to use on all sorts of paper projects.