Hi there! Today’s video shares a lifting watercolor technique using Distress Oxides to get vivid watercolor results that take advantage of the dye-pigment fusion properties of these ink pads. The post also shares multiple easy ways to add ink and color onto your backgrounds.

Watch the full video HERE in HD!

(Looking for anything that I used in the video? All of the supplies are linked with images to multiple stores at the end of this post. Compensated affiliate links used when possible)

Distress Oxides are dye-pigment fusion based ink pads that give very unique results when mixed with water and used to create backgrounds. As you add water to the ink they oxidize and create a rustic looking color while still keeping some of its original vibrant undertones.

On today’s projects, I added color to my projects using a craft sheet/acetate and a water brush for more concentrated and controlled results. Using a craft sheet to transfer color spreads it outside the lines and gives a more messy effect that looks awesome on the final project. For all the control freaks like me, using a water brush can be helpful to add color in smaller areas and create shading.

On the first card, I used the Hibiscus Bouquet stamp set which works well for this technique because of the beautiful lined images that are easy to color. After clear heat embossing the images, I lifted color by adding little puddles of water and soaking them up after 5-10 seconds of sitting on the ink. Then, I added other colors on top using both methods to get a stunning layered watercolor background.

For the second example, I used the Bear Hugs stamp set and repeated the same process. I used a water brush to add detailed shading on the bear and a craft sheet to smoosh some coloring in the background.

To finish the cards, I added Nuvo Drops to highlight the color in areas and make it super vibrant. This also adds a bit of embellishment without making the card super feminine.

SUPPLIES

Below are all of the supplies used in today’s video linked to multiple stores for convenience. Compensated affiliate links used when possible… Thank you!