Stamping with Pearl Ex Powders

Hello everyone, Autumn here with today's inspirational post.  I hope to inspire you to use your stamps in a new way today.  Years ago, we all started collecting Pearl Ex powders, then came along Ranger's Perfect Pearls, and now there are an even wider variety of these mica pigment powders available.  Way back when, we mainly used them on black paper for high contrast, but I wanted to share a different option for you mixed media junkies, using them over inky backgrounds to create multi-layered tones or "texture."

 Build your base layer by dipping your panels into inky Distress puddles.  Continue layering ink colors until you get a desired result.  Dry your panel between colors and before stamping.

 Ink your desired stamp with VersaMark ink (the clear kind) and stamp it as you like.  Here I've stamped in the top left and bottom right to create a frame for my focal image.

 Now lightly dip a super soft paintbrush in your mica powder and very gently rub it into your stamped pattern.  If you brush hard you will get streaks, so go lightly.

 Next ooooh and aaaahhh over the lovely pattern you've created and play with the light bouncing off.  :)  Of course, this step is optional.

 Once I assembled my focal point, I added a touch of the mica powder to a Frayed Burlap ink puddle and splashed my card.  I also splashed with the pure powder and water, heavily concentrated.  I love the effect!

From all of us girls here at Stamps and Stencils, have a lovely Valentine's Day!  Hugs, Autumn