What? Debossing again….. 😉
If you love clean and simple cards but still want detail and depth, this debossed embossing folder pencil technique might surprise you.
This project is part of my Same But Different Series: Embossing Folders, where I share stash-friendly ways to get more from the embossing folders you already own – one idea, one technique, and plenty of helpful tips. You can find the full playlist here.
So… are you ready to see today’s card?
Grab a cuppa and watch the video right here, or head over to YouTube to see it in HD.
Also, this post contains affiliate links. If you choose to click and shop, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a lovely way to support both me and the crafty shops we all love.
Thanks a bunch 🥰!
Debossed Embossing Folder Pencil Technique
There are so many ways to add color to an embossed image – but why not focus on the debossed side? It’s kind of perfect because when you add color, the impression almost cradles the pencil inside the lines.
To step it up, I started with colored cardstock as my base. I chose a light neutral tone so the pencil colors could still shine. And yes… it’s been a while since I’ve reached for my Prismacolors, and I almost forgot how relaxing (and forgiving!) pencils are to color with.
Because they’re wax based, it’s easy to build layers – as long as you don’t press too hard. The colors blend beautifully together, even without Gamsol or a blending stump. Of course, you could use those for a smoother finish, but I actually love the earthy look of seeing the pencil strokes.
Card Inspiration – Magnolia Ballerina
For this design, I used this beautiful magnolia bloom, but you can try any floral design you have in your stash. I added white pencil to the outer edges of the petals to help them stand out against the cardstock.
These earthy tones practically called for gold highlights. I finished the card with a bold gold heat-embossed sentiment, tucked some vellum die-cut leaves behind it for a soft layered look, and scattered a few gold sequins for just a touch of shine.
I could have taken it further by blending ink over the raised background… but you know me – I tend to err on the side of clean and simple.
BONUS IDEA
Another option is to apply white pigment ink directly to the raised side of the embossing folder, then run your cardstock through to create a debossed impression with soft white detail.
Allow the pigment ink to dry completely, then color over the top with pencils. The white base helps the colors pop beautifully – especially on darker cardstock.
Now it’s over to you!
Flip that folder, grab your pencils, and give the debossed embossing folder technique a try.
I’d love to see what you create – tag me or share your card on social media so I can cheer you on.
There’s plenty more embossing folder inspiration coming soon.
Happy papercrafting,
Special thanks to my crafty assistant, Chad (aka ChatGPT), for helping me stay on track with my Gemini brain, grammar, and spelling… well, all the things! 😄
Embossing Folder: Altenew – Magnolia Ballerina (? retired) – coordinating Stamp set HERE.
Cardstock: Altenew – Pink Sand
Prismacolor Pencils: White | Eggshell | Sand | Goldenrod | Sandbar Brown | Light Umber | Bronze | Lemon Yellow | 90% Warm Grey.
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 CAF Open Peony ALT | SSS |  Classic Greetings ALT | SSS |  Altenew Cardstock ALT | SSS |  Vellum SSS |
 Neenah Solar 110 AMZ | SSS | Neenah Solar 80 AMZ | SSS |  Versamark Ink SSS | OTH |  Prismacolor Pencils AMZ | SSS |
 Sparkling Gold Sequins ALT |  Antique Gold ALT |  Powder Tool SSS |  WOW Heat Tool SSS |
 Bone Folder ALT |  Perfect Picker ALT | SSS |  Tweezers ALT | SSS |  Fine Blade Scissors ALT | SSS |
 Pencil Extender AMZ |  Stampwheel ALT | SSS |  Score Board ALT | SSS |  Sticky Grid Mat Ultra ALT | SSS | SB US |
 Platinum 6 ALT | SSS | SB UK | SB US |  Platesaver OTH | 9″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer AMZ |  Precision Glue Press AMZ | SSS |
Bearly Art Glue AMZ | SSS |  Glue Tape ALT | SSS |  1/4″ Ultra Sticky Tape ALT | SSS |  Foam Tape ALT | SSS |
 Satin Masking Tape ALT |