Glossary

In Cardmaking to blend is mixing colors smoothly to create a transition between them. Use blending tools such as brushes, sponges, or markers to add depth and dimension. It’s a fun and rewarding technique to master.

In cardmaking, a card blank is a pre-cut and folded cardstock that serves as the foundation for creating a handmade card. The card blank is typically made of high-quality paper or cardstock and comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes to suit different design preferences. Card blanks can be decorated with various embellishments, such as stickers, stamps, ribbons, and patterned paper, to create unique and personalized cards for different occasions like birthdays, weddings, and Christmas.

“Card front” refers to the front panel of a handmade card, which displays the decorative elements like stamped images, patterned paper, or embellishments. It’s the main focus of the design and the first thing the recipient sees upon receiving the card. Card makers use various techniques and materials to create unique and customized card fronts for different occasions, themes, or recipients.

According to Stampin’ Up!, cling stamps are made of high-quality red rubber with a foam mounting layer and a special adhesive backing. This backing allows the stamp to cling to an acrylic block without slipping or shifting during use. Cling stamps are durable, easy to use, and provide high-quality, detailed impressions. They are ideal for a variety of crafting projects, including card making, scrapbooking, and more.

A concertina fold is a type of fold used in card making where the paper is folded back and forth in a zigzag pattern, creating a pleated effect. This technique is often used to create unique designs and add dimension to handmade cards.

Decoupage is a crafting technique that involves cutting out paper images and gluing them onto a surface to create a decorative effect. The images are often layered to give them a 3D appearance. This popular craft can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood, glass, and cardboard, and can be used to decorate various items such as boxes, trays, and furniture.

In cardmaking, die-cutting is the process of using a metal die to cut out shapes from paper or cardstock to create embellishments or designs for handmade cards. This technique allows for precise and intricate designs that would be difficult to create by hand.

To produce textured paper, run it through a die-cutting and embossing machine.Dry embossing is a technique used to create a raised design on paper or cardstock using a die-cutting and embossing machine such as the Stampin’ Up. The machine presses a metal die into the paper or cardstock, creating a raised design without adding any ink or color. This technique is often used for adding texture and dimension to handmade cards, invitations, and other paper crafts.

Embellishments add personality and dimension to cardmaking. Buttons, ribbons, stickers, pearls, sequins, and die-cut shapes are just a few options. Don’t forget to use them!

Embossing is a technique in cardmaking that involves creating a raised image or pattern on paper by pressing it with a tool or machine. To emboss a card, choose a design, a piece of cardstock, and either a pre-made embossing folder or a stencil or stamp. Place the cardstock inside the folder or under the stencil and run it through the machine. This will press the design onto the cardstock and create a raised, textured effect. Embossing adds dimension to handmade cards.

Adding texture to paper crafts is easy with embossing folders. Choose from 3D, Standard, and Hybrid folders in standard and mini sizes for your mini embossing machine.

Flatten/smoosh cardmaking is the process of compressing a 3D card or paper craft into a flat state for storage or mailing. Be careful not to damage any delicate details or decorations.

Fussy cutting is a technique that card makers use to cut out a specific design or motif from paper with the intention of featuring it in a particular way within a larger project. The term “fussy” describes the level of precision required to cut out the design exactly as desired. This results in a more intricate and visually appealing final product.

Generation stamping is a technique used in card making where multiple layers of ink are stamped onto a card or paper to create a multi-colored and multi-layered effect. This technique involves using the same stamp multiple times without re-inking it to create a gradient effect. The resulting design can be used as a background for other stamped images or as a standalone design element. Generation stamping is a popular technique among card makers and can be used to create a variety of designs and styles.

Heat is often used in cardmaking for a variety of purposes, such as embossing, drying ink, or setting adhesive. Heat embossing involves stamping a design with embossing ink, adding embossing powder, and then using a heat tool to melt the powder, creating a raised and shiny effect. Drying ink with a heat tool can help prevent smudging while working on a project. And using a heat tool to set adhesive can speed up the drying process and ensure a strong bond. Overall, heat can be a helpful tool in creating beautiful and professional-looking cards.

Heat embossing is a technique used in paper crafting to add a glossy and raised image to a project. This technique involves stamping an image using VersaMark ink, sprinkling it with embossing powder, and then heating it with a heat tool until the powder melts and creates a raised effect on the paper. Heat embossing is a great way to add texture and dimension to your paper crafts.

In card making, the term Landscape refers to the orientation of a card that is wider than it is tall. This means that the card is designed to be viewed horizontally, with the fold of the card located at the top so that it opens from bottom to top. Landscape orientation is commonly used to create cards that feature wide, panoramic scenes, such as natural landscapes, cityscapes, or seascapes. It is also a popular choice for cards that have multiple images, such as a series of photographs or illustrations arranged side by side. Landscape-oriented cards can be used for a variety of occasions, from birthdays and holidays to weddings and anniversaries.

Masking is a technique used to cover a part of the card with a temporary layer, usually a piece of paper or tape, while stamping or creating a design on the uncovered part. This is done to create layered designs and to prevent overlapping or bleeding of colors. Once the design is complete, the masking layer is removed to reveal the finished product.

Matting and layering is a popular cardmaking technique where different sized and colored cardstock layers are stacked on top of each other to create depth and interest in a card design. By using different textures, patterns, and colors, this technique can add a lot of dimension and visual appeal to your handmade cards. It’s a versatile technique that can be used for any occasion or theme, and with a little practice, you can create stunning and unique designs that are sure to impress your friends and family.

Mixed media in card making refers to the use of different types of materials and techniques to create a unique and visually interesting card. This can include combining traditional card-making supplies like paper, stamps, and ink with other materials like fabric, metal, or even natural elements like twigs or dried flowers. The result can be a one-of-a-kind card that is both beautiful and tactile. Some popular mixed media techniques in card making include collage, embossing, and using stencils or masks to create dynamic backgrounds.

Mount/mat terms are commonly used in card making. A “mount” refers to the layer of paper or cardstock that is placed underneath a main focal point to create contrast and depth. A “mat” is a border that is placed around a photo or image to frame it and add emphasis. In card making, mats and mounts can be used to add interest and dimension to a design.

In card making, a mountain is a raised section created by folding the paper upwards along a vertical crease line. It adds dimension and interest to the design and can be combined with other types of folds to create unique designs.

Paste Embossing is Place a stencil on your paper, fill the design with embossing paste, and air dry. With Paste Embossing, the paste dries quickly, and I don’t think it needs to be dried with a heat tool, but others have.  The choice is yours.Paste Embossing is a technique used in paper crafting, where a stencil is placed on the paper, and then the design is filled with embossing paste. The paste is left to air dry, and once it dries, it creates a raised, textured effect on the paper. The advantage of using Paste Embossing is that the paste dries quickly, so there’s no need to use a heat tool. However, some crafters prefer to use heat to speed up the drying process. Ultimately, the choice of using a heat tool or not is up to the individual crafter.

Photopolymer stamps are clear stamps made of flexible polymer material used for crafting projects. They are transparent, easy to use and store, and produce crisp, clear images. They are produced by Stampin’ Up!, a provider of high-quality crafting supplies.

The Polished stone A fun stamping technique using Stampin’ Up! re-inkers and rubbing alcohol. To create a marble background. Great to use when low on DSP.The Polished Stone technique is a fun and creative stamping technique that is often used in paper crafting with Stampin’ Up! re-inkers and rubbing alcohol. This technique involves dropping different colors of ink onto glossy cardstock and then using rubbing alcohol to blend and create a unique marble background effect. It’s a great technique to use when you’re running low on designer series paper (DSP) and want to add a personalized touch to your project.

When making a card, the term “Portrait” refers to the vertical orientation of a card that is taller than it is wide. This means that the card is meant to be viewed in an upright position, with the fold of the card located on the left-hand side so that it opens from right to left. Portrait orientation is commonly used to create cards that feature tall, narrow scenes, such as portraits of people, animals, or objects. It is also a popular choice for cards that have a single image or a small number of images arranged vertically. Cards designed in Portrait orientation can be used for various occasions, such as graduations, baby showers, and religious ceremonies. (Hamburger helps me to remember the difference between Narrow and thick, with Lots of layers.) Portrait orientation is vertical. The portrait image is taller than it is wider.

Scoring cardstock is crucial for neat folds and a professional finish. It prevents tearing and cracking, especially for heavier cardstock. Use a scoring board, stylus, or bone folder for beautiful results.!

Shadow Stamping is a popular crafting technique that creates a shadow effect around a stamped image, making it look more realistic and three-dimensional. To achieve this, stamp the same image twice, offsetting it slightly and using a darker ink color the second time. This technique can be used in various ways and with different stamp designs, creating a range of effects from subtle to bold. It is perfect for making unique and beautiful cards for any occasion. While it is commonly known as Shadow Stamping, it is also called the “Double Stamping” or “Outlining” technique.

The smoosh technique in cardmaking involves adding drops of ink or watercolor onto a non-porous surface, such as a plastic sheet or an acrylic block. Then, the paper is pressed onto the surface, “smooshing” the ink or watercolor onto the paper. This creates a unique and unpredictable background for cardmaking projects. It’s a fun and easy way to add color and texture to your cards!

A stamp is a tool used to transfer ink onto paper or cardstock to create a design. It is usually made of rubber or clear polymer and comes in a variety of designs. Stamps can be used alone or in combination with other materials such as glitter, stickers, or die-cuts to create unique and personalized cards for various occasions.

Stenciling is a technique where a stencil is used to create a design on a card using ink or paint. This can add texture and interest to handmade cards. It’s also known as “masking” or “template technique” and offers endless creative possibilities.

The Torn Paper Scroll Technique is a great way to add texture and dimension to your cardmaking crafting. By tearing paper into strips and rolling them up, you can create a scroll-like effect that adds interest to your cards. This technique can also be used in other paper crafts such as scrapbook pages and mixed media art. Some people also refer to it as torn paper art, rolled paper art, or quilling.

Two-tone stamping is a printing technique using two different ink colors to create a single image with depth and dimension. It’s popular in card making, and scrapbooking. First, stamp the design in one color, then stamp it again in a different color, slightly offset from the first one. The result is a beautiful two-toned image with layers and shadows.

Valley fold is a technique used in card making to create a valley that looks like a ‘V’. This is accomplished by folding the cardstock inwards along a scored straight line. Valley folds are an excellent way to add visual interest and dimension to your cards and can be used in a variety of ways.

VersaMark ink is a clear, sticky ink commonly used in paper crafting and stamping. It creates a subtle, tone-on-tone effect on colored paper and is great for heat embossing. A versatile and useful tool for crafters.