In the Workshop: Glitter Techniques

Remember this teaser post?  As promised, here is the scoop on one of my favorite new crafting processes:

A Bit of Background Info

When I was at the stamp convention in August, I spent quite a bit of time at The Stamp Doctor’s Booth.  Mechele Rudd, the owner, demonstrated how to achieve this gorgeous result using glitter and a product called Sticky Powder.  Here’s a snapshot of my Instagram feed:

A few reasons why I love this technique:

• You can create gradations of color within one image.
• You can layer different sizes of glitter (large vs. fine) within the same graphic.
• The final products serve as amazing embellishments or background details on your cards.
• The glitter on your final image stays in place.  You don’t have to worry about little pieces flaking off each time you move the card.

Here are the notes I wrote down based on Mechele’s wonderful demonstrations:

Materials Needed

• The Stamp Doctor’s Sticky Powder
• Glue Pad
• Heat Tool
• Glitter
• Small brush or paper towel
• Small brayer

Helpful Hints

I was so excited to experiment at home using this design process.  After a little trial and error, here is what I learned:

• Don’t overheat the sticky powder!  Apply heat to the powder just until the powder changes form.  As soon as it turns to more of a glossy shade, move the heat to another area.  I learned the hard way that if you apply too much heat, glitter will not stick to the image.  As you can see, overheating will create empty spots on your final product!
• Glue pads need to be re-inked more frequently than other stamp pads.  Double check that there is enough covering your stamp.
• To apply the glitter, just use your finger tips- no fancy equipment required!
• Consider how you store your glitter.  I use little circular trays.  Since you will be essentially “painting” with glitter, having all of your color choices easily accessible (instead of neatly sealed in their small containers) makes this project a breeze!
• If you don’t have a small brush to wipe away any excess glitter, a paper towel works great in a pinch!
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with layering glitter of different sizes.  Start with the largest size and apply to the area of choice.  Smaller sized glitter pieces will fill in the rest!

Thank you, Stamp Doctor, for showing me this amazing process- definitely a favorite of glitter techniques!

To see a card using this technique, click here!