Do you struggle with colouring? Then, you need to try these… (mic drop!)
Acrylic markers! Have you tried them yet? They are a game-changer for cardmakers looking for vibrant, long-lasting colors with smooth application. Whether you’re adding details to die cuts, colouring over embossing, or going freehand, acrylic markers are versatile tools that make your projects pop!
Today, I’m sharing three super fun techniques for using acrylic markers on your card designs. Plus, I’ve got a bonus tip — you’re going to love this one!
Here are today’s cards… can you see the bonus tip?
Would you like to see how these techniques come together? Click HERE to watch at YouTube.
This post is part of my Take 2 Series with Altenew, which means you get double the inspiration, and if you want to see MORE ideas like this, CLICK HERE.
I use affiliate links, which means if you click on a product and make a purchase, I’ll receive a small portion of the sale at no extra cost to you. This helps support my channel and the shops we love 🥰!
Let’s dive into the techniques!
Technique #1: Colour on Embossed Images
Embossing folders and acrylic markers? A match made in cardmaking heaven! After you’ve embossed your cardstock, simply grab your markers and colour over the raised areas.
The beauty of this technique is how the markers highlight the texture of the embossing, adding depth and richness to your design.
Pro Tip: Allow time for the first layer to dry before applying another layer of colour to avoid smudging. The drying time also helps keep your colors nice and sharp!
Technique #2: Direct to Die Cut
Acrylic markers are perfect for adding colour directly to die-cut images. This is one of my go-to tricks when I want vibrant, consistent colour. The great thing about markers is that they can give you that precise control you need for filling in the edges of your die cuts or creating beautiful gradients across larger areas.
Pro Tip: Always test your colors on scrap paper first to see how they look, especially when working with lighter or darker shades. You can layer up the colors to create depth and dimension in no time!
BONUS TIP: Don’t stress if you don’t like the colour. Because they are opaque, you can always reapply colour to fix mistakes—another reason why I love acrylic markers!
Technique #3: Freehand Drawing
Feeling artistic? Acrylic markers are fantastic for freehand drawing! You don’t have to be a master artist to create stunning designs. Whether you’re doodling little accents around your die cuts or creating your own original design from scratch, these markers make it easy to add unique details to your cards.
If you’re looking for something simple yet striking, try drawing a border or a flower! The possibilities are endless.
Bonus Tip: Work on Colored Cardstock!
Here’s my little secret—working on colored cardstock! Acrylic markers show up beautifully on darker shades, creating a striking contrast that makes your designs pop like never before. Whether you’re working on deep blues, purples, or even kraft, the markers give your design an edge with that bold, vibrant finish. Trust me, your cards will stand out!
Final Thoughts
Acrylic markers are such a versatile tool for adding dimension and personality to your card designs. I hope these tips have sparked some fun new ideas for your next project! Don’t forget to test your colors first, layer up for shading, and take your time—good things take time!
I’d love to see what you create with these techniques! If you give them a go, be sure to share your cards with me on social media!
Crafty hugs,
P.S. Need supplies? Here are the links to the products I used today (some of these are affiliate links, so I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase—thanks for supporting my channel 🥰)!
*Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon, this content is provided ‘as is’ and is subject to change or removal at any time. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Other Supplies:
Altenew Acrylic Markers Vol 2: White | Buttercream | Shattered Shell | Pumice | Sea Forest | Latte | Mocha | Polished Stone | Stormy Sky.
Altenew Cardstock: Misty Morning.
 Daisies 3D ALT | SSS |  Scripty Sentiments Dies ALT |  Magnificent Magnolias ALT |  Acrylic Markers Vol 2 ALT | SSS |
 Permanent Markers ALT | SSS |  Altenew Cardstock ALT | SSS |  Neenah Solar 110 AMZ | SSS | Neenah Solar 80 AMZ | SSS |
 Obsidian ALT | SSS |  Perfect Picker ALT | SSS |  Tweezers ALT | SSS |  Fine Blade Scissors ALT | SSS |
 Bone Folder ALT |  Score Board ALT | SSS |  Platinum 6 ALT | SSS | OTH | SB US | 9″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer AMZ |
 Glue Tape ALT | SSS |  1/2″ Ultra Sticky Tape ALT | SSS |  1″ Ultra Sticky Tape SSS |  Foam Tape NEW sizes! ALT | SSS |
Bearly Art Glue AMZ | SSS |  Satin Masking Tape ALT |
Therese, I love your cards! Both are so beautiful!
On another note: your posts are still not being delivered to my inbox… just wanted you to know – thank goodness for those YouTube notifications! x
=]
I know Michele, I haven’t worked out a way to add them to an ‘immediate’ email as yet, so have been including them in the weekly emails (not ideal I know). The email company i use are ‘working on it’, because the old WordPress.com blog I used did it for me…. but I know already this one will be better as I can see that people are not having the problems leaving comments like before. I would get a ton of Anonymous comments which is frustrating if you are joining a giveaway, I haven’t seen any on this site yet. That is just one of the benefits… I’ll let you know
Absolutely stunning! Love the coloring on the embossing folder idea.
Thank you Lisa, it was such an easy but different kind of way to colour.
LOVED the video! Gorgeous cards! I have Hawaiian Shores brush and fine tip pens, so would love to see a video using them. Thanks for all the inspiration, Therese!
Sounds like a great idea Greta, those fine tip pens are so versatile, I will add it!
Dear Therese
As always gorgeous cards and I learnt so much.
hugs from Sri Lanka
Thank you so much Surekha!
Goodness gracious are these ever pretty! Love the colors, Therese!
Thanks so much Lisa, I’m glad you like them!
Such charming makes Therese, the designs are so polished and perfectly executed, all are so classic and sophisticated. I love your work so much, hugs xx
These are gorgeous – I love the colours
Thank you so much Gab!