Using Square Dies as Stencils
Not only are the Hero Arts Infinity Die sets extremely useful for cutting precise panels and mats for cards, but I also love using them to create stencils. Today, I’m sharing a set of cards that I created with the new Square Infinity Dies and the smaller images from the gorgeous Orange Blossoms stamp set.
To make these cards, I started by making some checked backgrounds. The trick to this process is to create a reusable stencil from a clear, acetate sheet. An acetate stencil will allow you to effortlessly reposition the stencil after inking individual squares. To create the stencil, select a small Square Infinity Die and use it to cut one square from the center of a full acetate sheet.
Then, position the stencil near the center of a trimmed panel of Dove White cardstock and ink over the stencil to create the first inked square. Continue repositioning the stencil and inking the adjoining squares until the panel is covered. For my backgrounds, I used Creamsicle, Fruit Punch and Splash Reactive inks. By applying different amounts of the same ink over the stencil, I was able to quickly and easily create fun, checked backgrounds with light and dark squares.
Next, I created four image panels using a few easy steps. I started by die cutting oranges, leaves and flowers from removable labeling tape using the Orange Blossoms Frame Cuts. I placed the die cut shapes onto trimmed pieces of Dove White cardstock. I also die cut squares from removable labeling tape using a few of the Square Infinity Dies, but this time, instead of using the die cut shape, I positioned the square frames around the die cut shapes. Using the same ink colors as the backgrounds, I inked inside each square stencil. After removing the square stencils and the shaped masks, I stamped the Orange Blossoms images with Intens-ified Black Ink onto each panel.
Before assembling the cards, I colored the stamped images with colored pencils. Then, I secured the finished panels to four Dove White Top Folded Cards.
Next, I stamped typewritten sentiments from the new Florals Lavender Bunch stamp set with Embossing & Watermark Ink onto narrow strips of Pitch Black cardstock. I immediately covered each sentiment with white embossing powder and then I used a heat gun to melt the powder. I secured the sentiments to the cards with foam tape.
For two of the cards, I also secured an additional cardstock mat behind the image panel for extra interest. Finally, I added a trio of Black Enamel Dots to each card to complete the designs.
I hope that you’ll consider creating a simple checked pattern sometime soon. The possibilities for pattern, size and color combinations seem endless. Thank you so much for stopping by today. Happy crafting!
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4 Responses
Dawn
March 20, 2020
Great ideas! I am definitely going to try this!
Fionna Wheatley
March 15, 2020
This is a great way to stretch your supplies. I really like this design, reminds me of a cottage kitchen somehow. Really pretty. Thank you for sharing!
Amanda Steele
March 15, 2020
I have tried creating my own stencils with cover dies but using vellum. Never thought of acetate. Thank you soo much!
Henriëtte
March 13, 2020
What a great idea and fabulous cards with it. Never thought of using dies to make stencils.
Thank you so much for sharing your great inspiration and have a wonderful day.