Did you know that you can do MORE than just Letterpress with Press Plates? Today I have 2 fantastic ways to stretch your plates to the next level!
But first, I wanted to let you know that this is part of my Take 2 Series with Altenew and I’m so excited that you are joining me for another video today. Let’s begin with a peek at today’s cards…
You can see the video below or watch it HD at YouTube.
I use affiliate links which means that I will receive a small portion of the sale at no extra cost to you).
I truly appreciate your support!
TWO Alternate Ways to Use BetterPress Plates!
And just in case you missed it, check out my previous video sharing How to Get the BEST Results with The BetterPress, right HERE!

Both of today’s cards were made using the beautiful Rustic Burlap Press Plate, but these press plate techniques could easily be stretched to any other press plates you have available.
Technique #1 – Blind Letterpress
Typically the Letterpress look is created with a debossed inked impression. Blind Letterpress is exactly the same process but it is without the use of any ink. The result, is a subtle debossed impression, and can be used with many Press Plates, why not try backgrounds, images and even sentiments.
PRO TIP:
The Cotton Card Panels will have the best result here but do try what you have on hand. I have also successfully used Watercolor Cardstock with a very similar impressed result.

I added some Antique Gold Ink splatters to the background, but another option would be to add some subtle ink blending or swipe a gold ink pad over top of the debossing.

BONUS TIP:
Did you notice that I stamped some leaves on the background panel before I ran it through the BetterPress? I think this texture on the background leaves adds something extra to the overall design.

Technique #2 – Hot Foil
Did you know that you can Hot Foil using the Press Plates? This is a great way to get ‘double duty’ from a product and these plates are compatible with most Hot Foil Systems and Hot Foils available (please note that Hot Foil plates do not work with the BetterPress system).

PRO TIP:
I would recommend doing a ‘test’ piece before commiting to an entire panel to make sure that you are going to get the best results.

I used Brushed Gold Hot Foil for this beautiful shiny Rustic Burlap background. There is definitely an impression into the cardstock from the plate, but because the cardstock is thinner it is not as ‘deep’ as the result you would get from the Letterpress.

Today’s cards not only focus on achieving MORE from the BetterPress system, but also on how easy it is to add some beautiful flowers and create easy cards using the panels created.
I hope you are inspired to stretch your BetterPress plates! Let me know in the comments below if you are going to try either of these techniques. Have fun crafting!

Also, just in case you want to do a little shopping I’ve added the links below (some of them are affiliate links which means that I will receive a small portion of the sale at no extra cost to you). I truly appreciate your support of my card adventures!
Other Supplies:
Cardstock – Cotton Card Panels
![]() Neenah Solar 110 SSS | ![]() Neenah Solar 80 SSS | ![]() Porcelain Cotton Card Panels 118lb SSS | SB | ![]() Brushed Gold – Hot Foil ALT | SSS |
![]() Rustic Burlap ALT | SSS | ![]() Eclectic Bouquet ALT | ![]() Plants & Vases ALT | SSS | ![]() Featured Sentiments Die ALT |
![]() BAG Rosa Gallica ALT | SSS | ![]() BAG Rosa Gallica Die ALT | SSS | ![]() Halftone Hearts ALT | ![]() Obsidian ALT | SSS |
![]() Embossing Ink ALT | SSS | ![]() Blush ALT | SSS | ![]() Rouge ALT | SSS | ![]() Crimson ALT | SSS |
![]() Misty Morning ALT | ![]() Cloudy Sky ALT | ![]() Nimbus ALT | ![]() Frosted Foliage ALT | SSS |
![]() SIlver Sage ALT | SSS | ![]() Jade ALT | SSS | ![]() Eucalyptus ALT | SSS | ![]() Forest Fern ALT | SSS |
![]() Mini Blending Brush Set ALT | SSS | ![]() Metallic Gold & Silver ALT | SSS | ![]() Antique Gold Spray ALT | SSS | ![]() WOW Heat Tool SSS |
![]() Antique Gold ALT | ![]() Powder Tool SSS | ![]() Tweezers ALT | SSS | ![]() Fine Blade Scissors ALT | SSS |
![]() Scissors SSS | ![]() Bone Folder Altenew ALT | SSS | ![]() Stampwheel ALT | SSS | ![]() Stampwheel Square Grid Flip Plate ALT | SSS |
![]() Mini Blossom ALT | ![]() 9X12 Ultra Sticky Mat: Grid ALT | SSS | ![]() Score Board ALT | SSS | ![]() Paper Trimmer SSS |
![]() Bigshot SSS | ![]() BetterPress SB ALT | SSS | SB | ![]() Go Press N Foil SSS | OTH | ![]() Satin Masking Tape ALT | SSS |
![]() Bearly Art Glue SSS | ![]() Glue Tape ALT | SSS | ![]() 1/2″ Ultra Sticky Tape ALT | SSS | ![]() Foam Tape ALT | SSS |
That gorgeous Eclectic Bouquet always fills MY heart with joy, Therese – I love your clever textured backgrounds for them and can’t wait for that Rustic Burlap to be back in stock!
=]
It’s a beaut for sure, crossed fingers it is back in stock soon!
I love stopping by here for your tips, tricks and pretty cards!
Yay! So nice to see you here Lisa x
Great to see an example of foiling with the Press plates. It makes a lovely background. How does it go with sentiment Press plates?
Yes, the sentiment plates foil too! To be honest, bang for buck, I will be buying Press Plates over Hot Foil plates as they serve ‘double duty’!
I love the blind letter press technique and will be trying it for sure! Beautiful cards and great tips. Thanks so much.
So glad you enjoyed these cards, thank you!
Such gorgeous cards!