The Allure of Neutral Cards: Inspiration #6

 Create Unique Backgrounds with Stamps and Neutral Inks

One of my favorite techniques for creating a unique background is stamping cardstock with a slightly darker or lighter ink. Many times, stamping with an identical color delivers an unexpected texture, too. Consider using stamps with words, dots, lines, or other textures to create a neutral card design. Doesn't it remind you of the days in elementary art class when we rubbed over raised designs with crayons?

The background in the Element of Text Background card was created on Smoky Slate cardstock and stamped with Basic Gray ink using the Elements of Text Stamp Set. Have you tried an overall stamping technique when making cards? When using neutral tones, it's a freeing style of stamping. There are no worries about making a mistake.

Today's card is a simple design using an all-over stamping technique for the base, adding a textured layer, and selecting a striped Designer Series Paper. The final step is to include a popped-up sentiment on a scrap of white cardstock - check out my instructions for cutting the diagonal ends.

At the end of this post are links to the Allure of Neutral Cards Inspiration Series. Neutral cards work well for many occasions, whether a birthday, celebration, get well, or a heartfelt note. Looking for masculine cards? Consider neutral cards. With the annual catalog retiring at the end of the month, follow this blog for Last Chance products to make neutral cards.

Take care,
Linda Ann

Questions? Click on the navy button for additional blog information and quick resource inks.

Some posts contain Amazon affiliate or Stamp-n-Storage associate links, where I earn a small commission from qualified purchases. It is important to me that I only recommend quality products that I use and enjoy! I am also an Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.

How to Receive a Free "Allure to Neutral Cards" DSP Guide

Are you interested in a free spreadsheet illustrating images of Stampin' Up! Neutral DSP and recipes for example cards? Here are four ways to receive the handy guide, which is updated when new products arrive.

• Subscribe to the Tranquillity Cottage eNews at the end of this post.

• Check your email eNews if you have already subscribed.

• Comment "Neutral Cards" and I will direct message the Google link.

• Email tranquilitycottage@gmail.com with "Attn. Linda Ann" in the subject line.

• Click on the Read More link below.

Thank you for supporting my small business!

Elements Of Text Cling Stamp Set [164774]	Bright Borders Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) [164753]	Smoky Slate 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock [131202]
Basic Gray 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock [121044]	Countryside Inn 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper [161467]	Night Of Navy Classic Stampin' Ink Refill [103033]
Night Of Navy Classic Stampin' Pad [147110]	Timber 3 D Embossing Folder [156406]

 Do you have additional questions? 

Click HERE for a list of resources, including how to receive Stampin' Rewards and Free Customer Appreciation Gifts. 

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