A site for my handmade cards, accompanied by my photos and written meanderings which are occasionally witty, often tongue-in-cheek, and rarely profound. Beginning in June 2013, you'll also see lots of NBUS, which is an acronym I coined for Never-Before-Used-Schtuff. Note: my Privacy Policy can be found at a tab below and you can find my NBUS Challenge online. I hope you'll join in the fun there! Thanks for coming by! Have a beverage and enjoy!

January 28, 2023

Creative Heat Embossing

Hello Stamplings!

Don't look now, but we are almost at the end of the first month of 2023! Didn't we just put up our new calendars?! This whooshing is getting so out of hand that I've ordered an extra seat belt for my office chair!

Speaking of blasts, I had a blast making today's twofer ~ and several more! At our last Zoom session, we tried a technique called, "Creative Heat Embossing." It's a technique I've seen in the past and have been wanting to try. In brief, you use creative ways to apply Versamark to a background panel and then you emboss the panel using one or more colors of embossing powder.

Onefer
For this background, I used a crumpled paper towel to pounce Versamark randomly on my red panel and then I heat-embossed it in gold. (The red panel, not the crumpled paper towel.) You can also use crumpled plastic wrap for a similar look. I finished the card using poppystamps, "Feather Tree Frame" and a NBUS hugs and kisses die from Penny Black called, "Filled With Love."

Challenges
Twofer
For this Christmas card, I also used a crumpled paper towel, but this time Hammy lined up gold, silver, platinum, and copper embossing powders for me to use one-by-one and I love how it turned out! I added a simple sediment banner for the Creative Expressions sediment and a bit of bling. I'll be linking this card to the Rudolph Days challenge.

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As you can see below, Hammy and I became addicted to trying different delivery methods and different colors of e/p. We loved the randomness of the pouncing and then the glimmery-shimmery reveal as the heat gun melted the powder. In addition to using crumpled paper towels, I used a small square Versamark pad direct to the panel, an old steel-wool pad, and daubers of various sizes and shapes:
And here are some of my other finished designs:
The colors and shimmer are hard to capture, but you get the idea. I want to try more combinations like the middle right card. The different embossed powders are gorgeous on black or colored card. (That get-well design in the lower right came about because I used a large oblong dauber to ponce ... we all agreed the embossed results looked like band-aids!😁)

* * *
During the pandemic I've been fortunate to meet monthly via Zoom with crafty friends and I've loved trying out various new-to-me techniques and ideas. Many of our sessions have been led by the very talented Loll Thompson. Each month Loll generously provides samples and worksheets for us.

And now we are delighted to let you know that Loll has designed a new blog which allows all of you to reap the benefits of our sessions, both past and future! Thank you, Lolly! 

The name of the new blog is Group of Seven Cardmakers
Each month there will be a new technique featured and Loll has filled the side-bar with loads of information and advice from past sessions for you to enjoy. We hope the new blog (and our seven individual blogs) will schpark and inspire YOU to try some of the techniques that you've either never heard of or that have been on your "Try This" list for a long time! 💕

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Enjoy your day! No, seriously, enjoy! LITS!*

As always, thank you for coming by to visit the Playhouse and special thanks to you if you take the time to join as a follower! Please let me know you came by so I can be sure and return the flavor!

*Life is too short!

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58 comments:

Andrea said...

Wow toy have been busy Darnelll?
, I love using embossing powder it’s like magic��

Jeanne H said...

Wow, you have been busy! Loving this idea and will try it soon. Thanks for the new blog with all such talented crafters. Hugs to you.

Leslie Miller said...

How fun! I've done something similar but never this creative. I especially love your background with the triangles and circles. It's a cool retro vibe. Striking results on each and beautiful cards resulting. I also love the "bandaid" card. Thanks!

Julie B said...

My you have been having fun, love the richness of the different EPs on the red, such a great effect. I can't believe January is almost over either, I'm sure time ran slower when I was younger! ;)

brandco2450@gmail.com said...

Love all these cards with your "new" technique!
They look "free"!

Loll said...

WOW! Your post is a feast for the eyes, Dolly! I LOVE your two red cards you've featured. They look so beautiful with the metallic embossing powders added over top. And then to see all the other cards you've made and what you've used to add the embossing powder ... so creative and fun, my friend! xx

Julia Aston said...

Wow Sis - you really had a technique marathon card-making party (and you didn't invite me??!!) I just love the gold on the red - and then the mix on the red - and then there's the fun squares from the ink pad - and the beautiful colors on the black - oh and the white and some other color in circles on the black! Well done you! Julia xx

Christine Alexander said...

Wow Darnell, so many amazing cards. I love all your little circles and triangles and those band aids are adorable ♥

JoAnn said...

Fantastic cards with this technique. Love the Christmas card. I will definitely have to try the paper towel idea. Thanks for sharing this and congrats on the new blog.
Have a wonderful weekend. Hugs, JoAnn

jimlynn said...

Talk about being on a roll making cards....wow! LOVE all of them too. Cool technique and beautiful cards.
Lynn

Bonnie said...

Wow! It's good to get a better look at all these fabulous backgrounds, Dolly! Trouble with Zoom is that we don't really get a great look. You have outdone yourself, my friend! And your introduction to the Group of Seven blog puts me to shame.

Pat said...

Wow Darnell, you have been busy with this technique and what fabulous results, and both red versions with the white die cut leaves and hugs and kisses then the large Christmas sentiment on the gold strip work brilliantly, and the different ways of doing it for the six images below, and also some more finished versions all look absolutely gorgeous. Will definitely be giving this a try. x

frommycraftroom said...

WOW! You have made some awesome backgrounds into fabulous cards. How clever.

Where did you get your extra seat belt? I need to order one too.

Vicki Dutcher said...

You go girl! Many many samples! I tried this today and loved the end result!

Linda W. (ScrappinBari) said...

Wow Darnell - you have run wild with that technique! Such an amazing batch of cards!! Especially love the one with the big red hearts!

Patricia said...

When i start doing techniques like these it is hard to stop. I think you mihgt have the same affliction as I do. You got some wonderful backgrounds done and turned some beautiful ones into cards. thank you for sharing on this new blog and i can't wait to see what else you bring us each month.
I'll be following.

Susan said...

Well, I think I need a Hammy to inspire to keep on trying various ways of adding the embossing powder (and to line up the necessary powders). Tessa is no use at all. She comes up to the craft room with me and promptly makes herself a nest amongst the pillows on the spare bed and goes to sleep. Your cards all turned out beautifully. My favourite is the Christmas one with the gorgeous metallic colours on red and then the equally gorgeous gold band and red die cut sentiment. Out of the smaller pictures, I have to say I love the look of the squares created by the small Versamark cube, but my favourite of the finished cards is the Valentine one at the top right - such a great design with the triangles and circles and beautiful heart.

kiwimeskreations said...

Yay - go Hammy - what a blast you and your 'Mom' had, and well done on putting out the different colours of EP for her to play with. Between you, you have created some pretty impressive results! Oh and they are beautiful also, and have made up into a batch of stunning cards.
Blessings
Maxine

Aquarius said...

Certainly looks as if you've had much fun with this technique - A good excuse for me to have a go and use some of my collection of embossing powders gathered over the years. Thanks too for the link to the new blog

Christine said...

Long time no see..... Found you by followit after bloglovin went down. Great to be back.... And great cards still being made. Wonderful! Alls right with the world!!! lol
This is a super idea, I love making backgrounds so this is right up my street. Thanks for sharing.... Also the news of Loll's new blog
Xx

Kathyk said...

Just WOW! What a lovely collection of backgrounds and makes - you are so on a roll, Darnell!

Happy Sunday

Kathyk

Sandra H said...

Hi Darnell, wow so many adorable and stunning cards the spinner is astounding as always perfection as always, nice to be able to go to classes and they certainly pay off enjoy your day x

Carole said...

Wow! Wow! Wow! Have you turned the craft shed into a factory? What fabulous creations...don't know where to start. Must give this a go. It's too hard to pick a favourite adn your Get well one reminds me of capsule tablets...maybe cos I take them!..lol, Just been to visit the new blog...it's great that you are all giving your expertise to others out there. Thank you...looking forward to seeing more of 'what you get up to'! xx

Stamps and Paper said...

Darnell you certainly have been busy experimenting with this technique and ended up with come amazing colours and backgrounds...your two cards are gorgeous

Anne

Jeanne said...

Sounds like you ladies have the best time and now you will be sharing with us. So cool! Thank you. Your cards here look fantastic. Love the powders you used and some of the textures you achieved are fabulous! Thanks so much for sharing all that you share!

sandie said...

Gosh you have been having fun and what a fab selection of cards…so many! What a cool technique and love the Xmas one with all the powders mixed. And I will be sure to go visit Loll’s new blog xx

Brenda in IN said...

You really added some cute shapes to experiment with and they turned out such fun cards. The red and gold cards are gorgeous and the embossed colors on black is simply stunning. That is an adorable get well card with band aids.

Larelyn said...

What an interesting technique to try and so many different ideas. I love all of y Thanks for joining our Cut It Up LOVE challenge.
Hugs,
Larelyn (CIU owner)our results.

Deanne Saunders said...

Beautiful creations!! Thanks so much for participating in my IF YOU GIVE A CRAFTER A COOKIE... challenge!!! I appreciate that you play along and I enjoy visiting your blog!! Have a happy crafty day!!
Deanne at A Little Bit O’ Paper

designbydonna said...

Wow! You mailed this technique. Love all the glimmer. I have to try this. Definitely going over to follow Loll;s new blog. Thanks for letting us know

Brenda said...

I have visited the new blog and I am loving it! I love that all the techniques will be in one spot, so much easier to find when I want to try one. This technique is very cool looking. Love all the different looks you got with your backgrounds Auntie! They made for some interesting and beautiful cards. That Christmas one is my favorite one and I am loving the get well card too and the circle/triangle heart card. Well, love them all but those are my favorites! So fun! Hugs, Brenda

Lynette said...

Looks like you had tons of fun with this technique, Darnell!! Awesome cards, for sure. How fun to meet monthly on Zoom to do techniques.

HilaryJane said...

What a fabulous showcase for that technique, the opportunities are endless. I bet everyone will start using that technique now. thanks for sharing xx

Alice (scrAPpamondo) said...

Fabulous results from your experiments!! Love this technique to make interesting backgrounds, thanks for sharing! How many cards you made!
Hugs

TK said...

Really gorgeous! Love all the shine, especially your "band aid" card because I don't see them but I do see all that glorious shine! Love the new blog!!!

Cheryl W. said...

Your cards look amazing! I love the idea of learning some new techniques, so I'm definitely going to check out Loll's new blog. Thank you for always sharing the process of techniques you use on your blog.

Lisa Elton said...

Wowee, look at you go! These are marvelous, Darnell. I'm especially fond of the first one. Sounds like a fun technique, might have to give it a go!

Greta said...

Fun technique with such a wide variety of results! I do love the metallics on dark cardstock! And I agree--looks like bandaids! Thanks for the encouragement. I'm doing well, except still need a med in order to get comfortable at night & get some sleep. Just so hard not to be allowed to do so many normal motions, like leaning over to pull up my socks.

LesleyG said...

Gosh you have been busy, with some fantastic results, particularly like the assorted colours. I’m loving the new blog! Xxx

Jenny L said...

Hi Darnell,
Happy Rudolf Days.
Oh that technique looks fabulous and such fun to create.
I love all the wonderful creations made from your super used technique especially the Rudolf one.
Thank you for the info on Lolls sessions.
Thank you for joining the Rudolf Challenge.
Lots of crafty love and hugs from my house to yours. Jenny L. DT.
PS I do so hop0e you and the family are all keeping well.

Sue's Crafty Corner said...

What a wonderful technique that is, I love the cards you've produced with it. I'm going to have to give this a try a some point now. Thank you for joining in the fun a Rudolph Days this month.

Sue xx

Gerrina said...

What a great technique! Love the grungy backgrounds! The first red card is stunning! I went to the blog and will follow; always on the hunt for more techniques for my stash... Hugs, Gerrina

Faith A at Daffodil Cards said...

OK! I'm strapped in, Yep! Time is flying, but so are you 7 clever ladies, WOW! Darnell, incredible results with so many things, that have produced unusual and incredible results, love the cards you made from the backgrounds. I am going to have to try that, perhaps even I can do this? We'll see anyway.
Have a great week.
Faith x

Bobby said...

Your Christmas card is absolutely breathtaking, Darnell. I also love the one with the variety of metallic powders. That's about the only kind I have and I can't wait to get them out and try this technique. I see some of you use the techniques on cards and then forget them before I can try them out. With this new blog I have a place to reference them whenever I want.

Donna said...

Amazing cards and a fun new technique to try! Thanks for the links!!

Bonnie Lynn said...

Oooohhhhhh I am going to have to check out the new blog! I've had this blasted flu bug for almost 6wks now and my mojo has up and checked out completely. Hopefully I get inspired to try something new to me. Your cards though are AMAZING!!!

Cat Craig said...

What a wonderful collection of backdrops, new technique and the cards...the cards are such fun eye candy.

Sarah said...

Wow Darnell!! What incredible effects you have achieved with those gorgeous embossing powders!! xx

Papercraft Boutique said...

Wow, you made so many awesome cards using this technique. Darnell! I love that you used different things to pounce with VersaMark! So interesting! The shine and the combination of the metallic embossing colors are so beautiful. Looking forward to your February cards!
Hideko xx

scrappymo! said...

Hi there! Your Christ card entry for the January Rudolph days Challenge is lovely. Great technique! Especially loved that background from the selection you showed...

Check out the winner announcement, please. I have something you might be interested in reading!

Linby said...

Well done on your win at Rudolph Day!
Love these cards and have to try random embossing out. Thanks for the inspiration.
L x

Trina P. said...

Wow! You knocked it out of the park with this interesting technique. Fabulous backgrounds and cards.

Robyn Oliver said...

Wonderful results Darnell, with the red background card and you have played around some more with the heat embossing different coloured EP... so a load of fantastic cards to inspire us.... Group of Seven are very talented ladies and I'll enjoy playing along and being inspired... Robyn

Sue - said...

Oh my goodness Darnell you have been busy! What a fantastic selection of cards. There’s absolutely no way I could even begin to choose a favourite. Hopping over to visit Loll’s new blog now. xx

Linda said...

I love the new blog, seven amazing crafters working their magic ..... what's not to like! I'm hoping it's going to inspire me to get back in the crafty zone, it's been tough going recently!
It definitely looks like you had fun with the embossing powder techniques, it's always nice finding new ways of using our craft stash.
You've created a gorgeous collection of cards, lots of fun designs, but I think my favourites are those stunning red ones, especially the one with the three different powders ..... WOW! Can't wiat to see what you all come up with next xx

nancy littrell said...

WOW..WOW..WOW...You and Hammy have busy little creative beavers, my friend!!!! I LOVE all your gorgeous Heat EB background cards using different techniques:-) Your 1st 2 cards were my favorites until I kept scrolling then I was Loving all your creative beauties and how you were able to make so many clever and creative card designs:-) I did make one card..so far and then was so happy to see last night that YOU added the Linky to the new Seven Creative Cardmakers Blog and so added my card:-) Thank you so much and now I can't wait to see more cards linked by the creative girls' followers:-)

Love and Hugs to you Dolly and all the family. Can't wait for the March Technique:-)

Pia S said...

I’ve got to try this technique, the effect is fabulous! So many different looks you’ve created with this technique, each looks different and beautiful in their own way

JD/ Jill said...

Oh my! So many amazing backgrounds!