Do you like to create a scene? Well, you may know already that I definitely do… a stamped scene that is 😄! Today we are getting Back to Basics, and I have 5 Hacks to share, to help you Mask like a Pro.

Did you know that I am hopping along with Alex Syberia Designs shouting it out loud for this New Release, and I just couldn’t stop creating with these fun new products.

Today, I am joining the Video HOP and you have a chance to WIN, find all the details at YouTube (linked below). Did you see my other cards that I made for this release? Check them out HERE and there is still more to come!

But, before you go, would you like to see today’s card and ALL the TIPs? Then scroll down, I’ve also linked the HOP at the bottom of this page.

You can see the video below or watch it HD at YouTube.

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I use affiliate links, this means that if you choose to click on a product that is linked to an affiliate shop then I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you).
This is a great way to support my channel as well as the shops that I love!

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What is Masking?

It is as it sounds. Masking is the technique of covering portions of an image temporarily so that more images or patterns can be stamped or blended over top to create a unified scene, image or design. It can be as simple of complex as you desire.
Masking is a great way to add layers and dimension without the bulk of adding cardstock layers to a card design.

What do you Need to do Masking?

This will depend upon the finished design, but, typically a pair of scissors or paper trimmer and something to mask with, will be enough. You can mask with copy paper, post it notes, and there are specialty papers low tack adhesive sheets which are made for this very technique. And, you can mask with stencils!
**If you plan to stamp or ink blend, then you will also require the tools to do this with.

How to Mask!

• Stamp the image you wish to mask onto a piece of masking paper
• Fussy cut it out using a pair of fine scissors
• Stamp the same image onto your project
• Remove the release paper from the mask and temporarily adhere it to the project image
• Stamp the remaining scene or images over top or overlapping the masked image
• Remove the mask to reveal your masterpiece

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Today I have 5 HACKS to help you Master Masking!

TIP #1 – Plan your Design

If you are a beginner or the design is complex, then a sketch will be invaluable. You will be able to see which images will be at the forefront of your design. This is key, because these are the images that you will need to stamp first and then mask, and once the mask is removed, everything else stamped will look as if it is in the background.

TIP #2 – Use a Sticky Mat

There are MANY different versions of sticky mats now available. If you are masking with stencils then the mat will hold them in place without the need for adhesives. And, knowing that the stencil will not move, makes blending and stamping faster and easier.

Other options to hold stencils in place – tape them down, use magnets or even low tack sprays.

TIP #3 – Stamp Positioning Tool

If you have one of these, then you already know how much of a game changer they are, especially for a beginner stamper. Having the ability to confidently ‘restamp’ an image in the exact same position each time, means less frustration and less waste.

These tools are particularly helpful if you are stamping on the edge of a stencil (or even thicker cardstock) as that little bit of extra height from these can affect the stamped edges. But don’t worry, if you don’t have the perfect result, then you can always come in with a marker and draw in the lines if you need to, it’s especially easy if you stamped using black ink.

Don’t have a stamp positioner? The same can be done if you stamp using an acrylic block!

TIP #4 – Masking Paper

Masking paper is a great tool to have and a little goes a long way. And, did you know that you can ‘re use’ a mask? Simply store it on the stamp packaging ready for your next crafting project.

You can use whatever you have on hand, even copy paper works a treat. Just remember that if you are adding a lot of ink or marker colouring overtop of a mask it could seep through thinner paper. Post-it notes are a perfect quick and easy mask for straight lines or to stamp on and fussy cut (make sure to use the sticky portion of the note).

TIP #5 – Low Tack Glue

If you are using adhesive to hold a mask, or stencil, in place then ensure that it is either very low tack or repositionable. Nothing is more frustrating than removing some of the paper along with the mask! Also, don’t leave masks in place too long as the glue may adhere stronger over time.

BONUS TIP!

When fussy cutting a mask make sure to cut it on or just inside the stamped line. This means, that when an image is stamped over top of the mask the stamped lines will touch, giving your scene a seemless finished result.

Other Ideas

• Use masking to stamp multicoloured sentiments
• Create multicoloured patterned backgrounds (use strips of masking paper or stencils)
• Protect an image or sentiment with a mask when adding splatter details to your project
• Masking is a great way to bring stamps from any set or company together, to create something new and exciting, so don’t be afraid to stretch your stash!

Join the VIDEO HOP HERE at my channel for your chance to WIN!

I hope you are inspired to try some masking on your next handmade card project! If you do, don’t forget to share them on social media with me, I’d love to see what you make!

Sending crafty hugs your way today,

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 may get a small commission at no extra cost to you). I truly appreciate your support of my card adventures!

Other Supplies: SHOP the NEW RELEASE HERE!
Copic Markers: RV00 | R11,34 | T4 | Y21 | BG11,72 | 0
Altenew Inks: Frosty Pink | Golden Honeycomb
Embellishments: Kindy Glitz – Crystaline
Glue: Repositionable Tape

Affiliate links are used

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Special Delivery SSS | OTH	Birthday Bouquet SSS | OTH	Neenah Solar 110 AMZ | SSS	Neenah Solar 80 AMZ | SSS
Stamping Blending Paper US 8.5X11″ OTH	Foam Sheets AMZ | SSS	Masking Magic SSS	Masking Paper ALT | SSS | OTH
Tuxedo Black SSS	Nocturne SSS	Red Cosmos ALT | SSS	Sun-Kissed Delights ALT | SSS
Dew Drops ALT | SSS	Minty Mint ALT	Party Dress OTH	Ink Blending Tool ALT | SSS
Copic Markers SSS	Mini Score Board SSS	Stampwheel ALT | SSS	Stampwheel Square Grid Flip Plate ALT | SSS
Slimgrip Sticky Mat ALT | SSS	Sticky Grid Mat Ultra ALT | SSS | SB	Acrylic Blocks SSS	Media Grip Mat SSS
Gemini Junior SSS	Gemini Double Cutting Plates SSS	Turntable AMZ	Satin Masking Tape ALT | SSS
Bearly Art Glue SSS	Foam Tape ALT | SSS	Mint Tape OTH