Create the illusion of a sewn card using techniques that will make you take a second look to see if the card was sewn or stamped. Square Stitched-Edge Background makes the perfect quilted square for adding the image of your choice. A tiny broken line added after stamping adds a stitched element to the flowers.

Greeting card instructions:
1. Stamp six squares of Stitched-Edge Background in two rows, varying the color placement of mango, spring pansy and turquoise gem ink. Add a small Calico Blossoms image to the center of each square in matching colors of ink. Draw small stitches around each flower with a fine point blue marker.

2. Stamp "You're Sew Special on a piece of white card stock in sea breeze ink, trimming the message close to the letters. Thread a piece of white cording through each button and attach a button to each end of the message.

3. Adhere the quilted squares to a piece of purple card stock, leaving enough purple border paper to stamp the stitching. Stamp a zig-zag border around the entire card using spring pansy ink. Place a small hole at the end of each stitch with a corsage pin. Add a thin line of gray colored pencil along the side of each stitch and place a small knot of thread at opposite corners.

Faux Stitches on Fabric:

I love the look of hand embroidery on fabric but it is a time consuming process and a skill that I have yet to master. The new Hero Arts stamps allow for a hand sewn look without the lengthy process. I have been experimenting with stamping stitches on fabric and I have found that by adding some real sewing, the stamped images can be convincingly realistic. It is important to practice on scrap fabric to get a feel for the amount of ink and pressure to use. You will find that you need to press a bit harder while being careful not to rock the stamp. I have also found that a stamp positioner helps to line up the stitches for a seamless look. Stamp positioners come in many different shapes and sizes and are readily available at local stamp shops.

Fabric instructions:
1. Stamp ribbon and stitches images repeatedly along the length of the fabric. Use one color of ink for each image.

2. Hem the top and bottom edges of your fabric if desired.

3. For clothing or items that will be washed, it is important to use ink that is suitable for fabric.

Faux Stitches on Scrapbook Layouts:

Create embellishments and accessories easily with ribbon and stitches.

Scrapbook instructions:
1. Cut card stock strips in a variety of thickness. On each strip, stamp various watercolor images, including flowers, scribbles, stripes, ribbons and a title. To stamp with watercolor, paint directly onto the rubber and spritz once lightly with water. Stamp onto paper.

2. Add strips to layout, along with photos and sequins. Sew strips down for a finished look.