You Mean Everything to Me - Altenew | How to Give Cards a 'Painted' Look

Helooo everyone! Have you been having a good week so far? 

I hope all is well wherever you may be! 

Over the course of this past year, I've dabbled a bit in different techniques and card styles.  And I've started to realize that some of my cards fall into the traditional style you've all come to know from me, while some have started to morph into a more simple and clean category. And then there is also a third, completely new look for me. 

I decided that a fitting title would be "Painted Cards" because they require a tad more artistry, a few more mixed mediums, and at times, a bit of painting. Today's post is all about how to achieve this look. 

But do not fret - even if you are not a painter or an artist, these types of cards are so doable. 

I'd love to share just a few of my go-to tips here with you today!

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TIP: USING 'PAINTED' PRODUCTS

When selecting stamps, in particular, it is super helpful to use products that allow you to layer multiple colors into the final image. Floral stamps are notorious for this, but more and more wording stamps and other images are becoming available, too. In most cases, stamps that feature shading and accent layers will be a great start to your artsy, painted card!
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For the above card, I used two of my new favorite Altenew stamps - you can find them here and here. I've been told before by fellow crafters that they don't always enjoy working with layer stamps such as these because they can be so hard to align. I currently use + love the Misti tool to line up my stamps, but every so often I get lazy, and I just wing it! Even though I don't get everything lined up perfectly, I really don't mind so much. Especially for these types of cards which are more forgiving and lend themselves nicely to an imperfect look.

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TIP: USING PAINTED BACKGROUNDS

Whether you use a patterned paper, stamp your own cardstock, or actually paint a background, all of these options will instantly transport your card into a creation that looks a bit more artsy. 

Although I love the ease of picking up a painted-style patterned paper, I usually end up making my own because I can have more control over the color, texture and style of the background. And it really doesn't take much to make it look impressive!
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For example, in the card above, I used a little bit of pink, coral and orange watercolor to drop pools of color on to my paper. Once dried, I simply flicked a few contrasting colors of paint, and that was it! 

But a similar look could be achieved by just placing some dye ink + water on your craft mat and smooshing your paper about.  

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TIP: KEEP OTHER ACCENTS SIMPLE

When finalizing the design, it can be easy to get carried away with more accents, but for this particular style, I've found it best to stick to simple finishing touches. A rhinestone or two, maybe a few sequins, Nuvo drops, or a button is really all that's needed to bring the look together.
For the background, I usually stick with a plain white cardstock, but if you really want to take it up another notch (without distracting from your "art"), you could add a vellum base embossed with your favorite print in a monochromatic tone, much as I did here with this adorable Altenew set.
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I promise that keeping these tips in mind, your cards will instantly look more painted and artsy, even if you don't consider yourself either of those ;)

I hope you'll give it a try!

Thanks for joining me,

Ivana