Adding Depth and Style - Embossing Folder Technique

Today’s card idea came to me after seeing another demonstrator share a project on Facebook. While their card used only Basic White cardstock, I decided to add my own twist with vibrant colors and dynamic designs, resulting in cards that I absolutely love! Here’s a look at how I explored and expanded on this technique.

I started off in a way that was similar to what I had seen the other demonstrator do. This Embossing Folder technique involves embossing sections of cardstock while leaving other areas un-embossed. By positioning the cardstock partially inside an Embossing Folder (EF), running it through the Cut & Emboss Machine, and then re-positioning the cardstock to run it through in a different area a second time, an un-embossed area can be created that is perfect for stamping.

Beginning simply with the So Swirly EF, I was inspired to go beyond the monochromatic style I saw on Facebook and chose the cheerful and bold Poppy Parade as an accent color. The sentiment, “A Million Thanks,” from the Sweetly Scripted stamp set, was stamped in coordinating Poppy Parade ink. The embossed layer was adhered to a Poppy Parade mat and then mounted on a Thick Basic White card base. The inside of the card continued the theme with layers of Poppy Parade and Basic White.

Next, I tried the same technique with a new color palette and EF. Using Shaded Spruce, I paired the Dotted Circles EF with the “Happy Birthday” sentiment from the same Sweetly Scripted stamp set. This combination of texture and deep green tones created a stunning effect.

I then experimented with a larger un-embossed area to allow for a more substantial sentiment. The Changing Leaves Hybrid EF provided the perfect autumnal vibe, especially when paired with Pecan Pie and Night of Navy cardstocks. The sentiment, “Hoping You Have the Best. Day. Ever.” from the Country Birdhouse stamp set, was stamped in Early Espresso. To finish, I added Pecan Pie & Clear Adhesive-Backed Ribboned Dots, filling the space between embossed leaves with subtle sparkle.

Looking for more inspiration, I turned to the Color Wheel, discovering a triadic combination of Calypso Coral, Misty Moonlight, and Old Olive. This time, the Zinnia 3D EF was used and a higher un-embossed area than in previous designs was created for stamping the sentiment. Color was added to the embossed zinnias and leaves using sponge daubers with Misty Moonlight and Old Olive inks. The sentiment of “Sending Flowers and Thinking of You,” from the Simply Zinnia stamp set was stamped in Misty Moonlight ink, as well as a stamped zinnia on the card inside – adding a playful touch.

Switching up orientations, I created a landscape card with the Fern 3D EF. The un-embossed strip holds the sentiment, “A Little Note to Brighten Your Day,” from the Changing Leaves stamp set, stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black ink. A Basic Black base was layered with Crushed Curry and topped with the embossed Basic White piece. For added charm, I included monochromatic die-cut leaves in Lemon Lolly, Crushed Curry, and Daffodil Delight with a few accent pieces of Basic Black, along with a loopy black Baker’s Twine bow and black Adhesive-Backed Sparkle Gems.

The Color Wheel inspired another triadic palette of Petal Pink, Blueberry Bushel, and Granny Apple Green. This card uses the Cute Crochet 3D EF and embraces a distressed look where I sanded (with an old card sanding block I had from about 10 years ago) the embossed two-tone Petal Pink cardstock, which revealed its light core. Splatters of Blueberry Bushel from Stampin’ Blends adds texture, while the sentiment, “Healing – Peace – Rest,” from the Comforting Thoughts stamp set, brought serenity. Blue Ombre Matte Decorative Dots complete the design.

Finally, I couldn’t resist making a Christmas card. The Timber 3D EF embossed a two-tone Pool Party cardstock piece, which I sanded for a distressed effect. Early Espresso ink was used for the sentiment, “Falalalalalala,” from the Reindeer Memories stamp set. Layers of Early Espresso, Very Vanilla, and the distressed Pool Party created a cozy holiday feel, while embellishments from the Joyful Images Mix & Match Specialty Ephemera Pack and Pool Party Ombre Matte Decorative Dots tied everything together.

Here’s a video from my YouTube channel, showcasing how to create this technique.

This Embossing Folder technique is truly versatile, and experimenting with colors, layouts, and embellishments has been so much fun. Whether you’re creating cards for birthdays, holidays, or heartfelt notes, this method offers endless opportunities for stunning results.