Grateful for You: A Masking Technique Tutorial

Today, I am excited to share a card project that beautifully combines a masking technique with the gorgeous Layers of Beauty stamp set. This design is perfect for expressing gratitude and showcasing how blending colors can create a stunning background to frame heartfelt sentiments.

The card starts with a base of Thick Basic White cardstock, providing a sturdy and clean foundation. A layer of Old Olive cardstock adds a touch of earthy elegance, followed by a piece of Basic White cardstock inside the card for the message. This layering creates a cohesive and polished look, both inside and out.

For the card’s art piece, a layer of Basic White cardstock was placed on Grid Paper. Using large Post-It Notes, I masked off a frame about an inch wide all around the art piece layer. Stampin’ Up!’s Masking Paper could be used here for an equally precise result. Once the mask was secured, the magic of blending began.

Highland Heather ink was applied with a Blending Brush to the top two-thirds of the unmasked area, creating a soft and dreamy backdrop. A separate brush was used for Old Olive ink, which blended seamlessly into the bottom third. For added depth, Gorgeous Grape ink was gently layered in the top left corner, deepening the color and adding visual interest. These hues worked together to create a harmonious blend that captures the eye.

When the mask was carefully removed, the crisp, clean frame revealed itself, showcasing the blended colors like a window to a serene world. The Layers of Beauty stamp set was then brought to life with Memento Tuxedo Black ink, adding delicate, detailed florals over the colored area.

The sentiment, “you make my heart smile,” was stamped onto a strip of Highland Heather cardstock and layered over a mat of Old Olive. This combination tied the color palette together beautifully. To add dimension, the sentiment was adhered to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Inside the card, the sentiment “Grateful for You” was stamped in black ink, a perfect complement to the heartfelt message on the front. To complete the design, a small double bow made with White Baker’s Twine was tucked under the sentiment strip, adhered with a glue dot. As a final touch of sparkle, clear dots from the Pecan Pie & Clear Dots Ribboned Adhesive-Backed Dots were added to the card front, catching the light and adding just the right amount of shine.

Here’s the YouTube video from my channel. Please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel while you’re there! Your support is so appreciated.

This card not only captures the essence of gratitude but also highlights the beauty of the masking technique, blending brushes, and thoughtful embellishments.

Measurements: (in inches)

Card Base (Thick Basic White) – 11 x 4-1/4
1st Layer (Old Olive) – 5-1/4 x 4
2nd Layer *Art Piece* (Basic White) – 3-7/8 x 5-1/8
Sentiment (Highland Heather) – 1/2 x 4-1/4, coordinating cardstock to mat (Old Olive) 5/8 x 4-1/4
Inside card (Basic White) 3-3/4 x 5; coordinating cardstock to mat (Old Olive) 3-7/8 x 5-1/8

I hope this project inspires you to create something heartfelt and beautiful today. Happy crafting!