Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Tip Tuesday: layering



Welcome back to Tip Tuesday! Today we will be sharing some ideas for layering on cards or scrapbook pages.

Tip #1
To make your focus layer stand out, use a BLACK cardstock layer showing 1/8". This creates a thin black border and draws the eye inward.

Tip #2
Monochromatic layers are very pleasing to the eye. Use a light color, then a darker shade, then the first light one again to create the illusion of depth. I really love using Bazzill's monochromatic colors or Core'Dinations cardstock packages for this technique because the colors are already picked for you to match perfectly.

Tip #3
When using 3 or more layers (yes, I really love layering), make them different reveal widths to add interest. For example, first layer is 1/8", second is 1/4", third is 1/16", etc.

Tip #4
Remember the "Rule of 3". The eye REALLY likes things in 3's. So try to stick to 3 layers, or 3 elements, or embellishments on your card.

Tip #5
Use Nestabilities to die cut the perfect layers. Embossing with the dies can also create the illusion of an extra layer.

Tip #6
Use graduated sized punches to create layers. EK Success has wonderful nesting punches in squares, circles, scalloped circles, scalloped squares, and ovals that are perfect for creating layers.

Tip #7
Layering a card front onto a white card is a way to be able to stretch those more expensive papers. Cover the whole white card front or leave a narrow border of white.

Tip #8

Sponging ink around the edge of a layer can sometimes help to make it really pop.

Tip #9

A good way to create a faux layer on a card is to emboss lines on the card. Put the card face-down on a Scor-pal, Score-buddy, or Martha Stewart scoring tool and score lines around the edges of the card. When the card is turned face-up the lines will be raised and will create the illusion of a layer.

Tip #10

You can punch shapes out of the center of layers that will be covered up to help stretch your card-stock and paper. Just make sure you don't punch too close to the edge!


How about some of your tips for layering? Please leave them in the comments section below.

Hope to see you again tomorrow when we will be sharing some more happenings from the Warehouse. And then check back on Thursday for a little video clip on how to cut perfect layers for an arbitrarily-sized rectangle using a Fiskars cutter, along with some in-depth information about using those cutters.

2 comments:

  1. Great tips! I get stuck in the rut of just layering on a thin strip of black. Excited to try some of these new ideas.

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  2. Barbara L.9:32 AM

    Love the new format, Fran. Great tips today.
    Don't forget you can use text weight papers to layer and have less weight for mailing.

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