Hello, crafters! In this blog post, I'll take you through our top tips, particularly for beginner card makers. However, even if you're experienced and find yourself encountering issues, these tips are here to help you. We will be discussing how to fix 10 MISTAKES that you may be making when you're crafting, including issues like using the wrong colouring medium for your stamped images, how to fix upside-down cards, and ways to make fussy cutting even easier. So, grab your crafting supplies, and let's dive into these valuable tips and tricks.

1. Upside-Down Cards

How many times have you painstakingly assembled your card, only to realize it's upside down? Frustrating, right? Fear not, because I've got two quick fixes for this problem.

Solution 1: Transform It into an Easel Card

If you're up for a little creativity, flip your card over and fold the back panel in half using a scoring blade. This creates an easel-style card, which can stand beautifully on its own. Simply add some glue to secure the fold, and you've rescued your card with an elegant twist.

Solution 2: Remove Double-Sided Tape

Should you prefer a standard card layout, and you've used double-sided tape, fear not. Use your heat tool to gently warm up the tape, making it easier to remove. Remember not to pull forcefully to avoid damaging the cardstock. Once you've peeled it off, your card will be ready for repositioning if needed.

2. Fussy Cutting Tips

Fussy cutting intricate images can be quite the task. To make it easier, always keep your scissors facing forward while turning the paper. Open and close the scissors as you guide them around the design. This approach saves time and reduces strain on your hands and wrists.

3. Shaking Ink Sprays

Many ink sprays contain mica or powder at the bottom. Avoid shaking them up and down, as this can cause the mica to clog the spray tube. Instead, gently roll the spray between your hands or shake it horizontally to mix the contents effectively without causing blockages.

4. Efficient Ink Blending

Achieving smooth ink blending requires a few tips. When applying ink to your blending brush or foam applicator, load it generously. Rather than timidly dabbing the ink, use circular motions to ensure the bristles are thoroughly coated. You can also swipe the ink onto your project but maintain ample pressure for a rich, even application.

Additional Tip: Use a Resistant Mat

To enhance your blending, work off the mat onto your cardstock, rather than applying the ink directly to the paper. This ensures better control and allows you to build up the ink gradually.

5. Heat Embossing Troubleshooting

Heat embossing can be a bit tricky if you're not careful. When using clear embossing ink and stamps, avoid rocking the acrylic block. Instead, press it straight down to get a precise image. If you encounter any excess embossing powder on your project, gently tap it off using a soft brush or eraser before heat setting.

6. Prepping New Stamps

Freshly bought stamps often need some prep work. To ensure clear, crisp images, rub an eraser gently over the surface of a new stamp. This removes any manufacturing residue, making your stamping experience more successful.

7. Cleaning Stamps

Cleaning your stamps is essential for maintaining image quality. After using a stamp, especially large ones, small ink droplets may cling to the stamp surface, leading to "misted spots" when stamped. To prevent this, lightly lift the edges of the stamp before pressing it down and use a thin rubber mat underneath your paper to ensure even stamping.

8. Die Cutting Plate Residue

Residue on your die cutting plates can transfer onto your cardstock, particularly noticeable when die cutting white paper. To prevent this, regularly clean your plates. Start by using a wet baby wipe to remove any lingering paper bits. For deeper cleaning, you can apply a slight, even warmth to your plates or even soak them in hot water.

9. Proper Scoring and Folding

Surprisingly, there's a right and wrong way to fold scored lines. To ensure a neat fold without cracks, fold the scored line towards the front of your project. Use the edge of a bone folder to smooth down the crease for perfect results.

10. Choosing the Right Inks for Stamping and Colouring

Choosing the correct ink for stamping and colouring is crucial. Remember that different coloring mediums pair best with specific ink types:

  • Solvent inks, like StazOn, are ideal for watercolouring.
  • Water-based inks, such as Distress Inks, work well with watercolour.
  • Pigment inks provide good results with alcohol markers.
  • Dye inks, like VersaFine and Memento, are versatile and can be used with various colouring methods.

Select the right ink for your project to achieve the best results and avoid unintended blending or smudging.

Incorporating these card-making fixes into your crafting journey will undoubtedly enhance your skills and help you create cards with precision and flair. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more crafting inspiration and visit the CraftStash shop for all the products featured in this video. We hope you found this guide helpful. Happy crafting!

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