Acrylic Distress Technique

Happy October!

Here's a card that we made in my last class using the Acrylic Distress Technique. This is a very simple technique to try out, and it looks fabulous.

All you need is acrylic paint and a sponge brush, card stock (I used Very Vanilla (101650) but any light color will work); an embossing folder and your Big Shot; sand paper and ink. I used my new Stampin' Up sanding block (129367), it's a great little tool, and has a large sanding surface on the back and a narrow one on top.  It comes with sandpaper that has a Velcro backing so it just sticks right to the block.

First, paint a light coat of acrylic paint on the card stock to be distressed and allow it to dry thoroughly.  This color is "Key West" by Apple Barrel.

Next, run your painted card stock through the Big Shot using your embossing folder. Make sure the raised portion of the design you want to distress will come through on the painted side. I used the Lacy Brocade embossing folder from this fall's Holiday Mini Catalog (127819).

Cut or punch the painted card stock, if desired. I used the Apothecary Accents framelets dies (127003). Sand the raised area until card stock shows through.  Make sure your paint is thoroughly dry, otherwise the card stock will tear.

Using a sponge dauber, lightly sponge ink onto the sanded portions of the card stock. Be sure to sponge along the edges as well. The ink will stick to the exposed card stock more than the paint, darkening the design. Soft Suede (126978) is the color used on this card.

Finally, combine your acrylic distress background with your other card elements! Pop! Easy and elegant.  The phrase on this card comes from the World Treasures stamp set (126765w/126767c) and is also available in French (128228).

Enjoy!