Very popular in the world of scrapbooking , embossing consists of working the paper to give it relief. Concretely, there are two techniques to know: cold embossing and hot embossing. So what exactly do they consist of? Answer !
Hot embossing in scrapbooking
In scrapbooking, hot embossing consists of creating relief on a stamp imprint using embossing powder. To get started, you will need a stamp, embossing powder (colored or transparent), an embossing ink pad (colored or transparent) and an electric embosser.
Knowing that for the ink, you should always choose a slow-drying ink so that you can have time to apply the powder on top. As for varying the colors, the colored ink will require a transparent embossing powder since it is this which will give the color to your design. Conversely, a transparent ink should be combined with a colored embossing powder. In these cases, it is the powder which will give the relief and color to the pattern.
For hot embossing in scrapbooking , start by inking your stamp before stamping your sheet. Then, sprinkle the embossing powder directly onto the still wet ink. Remove the excess and heat the powder with the electric embosser about 5 cm from the paper. Above all, don't consider using a hair dryer as it is far too coarse and will waste your time! When the powder changes color and texture, you can continue with the rest of the design.
Cold embossing in scrapbooking
For cold embossing you will need an embossing pen and an embossing stencil. Then, place the stencil directly on a light tablet to illuminate the support from below. Above, place the paper on your stencil before working it delicately using a stylus through transparency. It’s a technique that requires attention to detail and patience, especially when you’re new to scrapbooking!
For experienced scrappers, there is also the possibility of using a cutting machine which allows you to work on the patterns in detail. You will therefore have the choice between a machine that works with cutting dies or a machine that uses embossing dies to emboss the paper.
Finally, regarding the paper, it must be sufficiently flexible and resistant to avoid tearing. In terms of the ideal weight, count between 200 and 240 grams for cold embossing and between 90 and 150 grams for hot embossing. All you have to do is get started!