If you're looking to experiment with embossing powder, here are ten top projects that show you how to use embossing powder in different ways.
Whether you’re new to using embossing powder or want new ideas and top tips for different techniques, we’ve got plenty of options for you to try.
What to do with embossing powder
Embossing powder is a fine powder that is used in heat-embossing techniques. The colour of the powder can be matt, metallic or even clear. Once you’ve stamped a design in ink, you sprinkle the powder over the top, so it adheres to the stamped design, tap off any excess powder then melt it with a heat tool, to create gorgeous, shimmering effects.
The end result creates a raised, glossy finish, for extra texture and interest. Clear embossing powder can also be used to create ink-resist effects, too! If you're unsure of which inks you can use, check out our handy guide to cardmaking inks.
What can you use embossing powder on
You can use embossing powders in a variety of ways, and on a range of different materials. Here, Sarah has used embossing powders on cards, candles and photo frames. Take a look at the projects below, to discover the different kinds of effects you can create.
1 – Make 3D embellishments with embossing powder
Do you know just how versatile embossing powder is? Mix it with Melt-It! Powder and it can be melted and poured into silicone moulds to make 3D embellishments. Mix one part embossing powder to four parts Melt-It! Powder and heat gently in a foil case before pouring into your chosen moulds.
2 – Create a crackle effect
Triple embossing on die-cut shapes can create a cool crackle effect. Die-cut flowers from card then clear emboss them three times. Once cool, bend back the petals to crack the layers. Add ink to accentuate the cracks.
3 – Use clear embossing powder to create a resist effect
If you wondering what is clear embossing powder is used for, this is a great option. The resist technique is so much fun! Stamp and emboss a clear design onto white card then spray coloured ink over the top, to reveal the pattern. Accessorise with a glitzy embossed wooden button.
4 – Combine embossing and foiling
Team embossing powder with foil to create shiny patterns on your cards. Stamp with embossing ink, sprinkle with bonding powder and melt. Apply a layer of foil, shiny side up, then gently iron. Peel off the foil and the image will be left behind.
5 – Add colour to vellum
This simple colouring technique is so pretty. Stamp flowers onto vellum and emboss in white. Turn over the vellum and colour in the flowers on the wrong side, using permanent marker.
6 – Make a candle sleeve
Create a beautiful candle sleeve by heat embossing on vellum and attaching with double-sided tape. Make glitter borders by running double-sided tape on vellum, sprinkling with embossing glitter then melting and attaching top and bottom.
7 – How to use embossing powder with glue
How about trying freeform embossing? Rub PVA glue onto your card, using your finger, then emboss in blue for a water effect. Or, splatter PVA onto card with a paintbrush then emboss over the top.
8 – Create a watercolour effect
Create this pretty watercolour effect by stamping and embossing in white onto white card. Apply colour over the top by mixing watercolour markers with a little water then brush over.
9 – Use embossing glitter
Using embossing glitter on a die-cut shape, like these feathers, is very on-trend at the moment. Die cut in coloured card and rub the tips with an embossing pad before sprinkling with glitter and heating.
10 – Stamp into melted embossing powder
The subtle pattern on this photo frame was achieved by pressing stamps into molten embossing powder. Emboss with different colours of powder four times, so there’s a thick layer over the frame. Rub embossing ink over a stamp then melt a small area of the frame and press the stamp into it. Remove the stamp, once set, then repeat the process until you’ve covered the frame.
