Cracked Mercury Glass Mixed Media Tutorial

Hi guys!  Autumn with you today to share another variation of the cracked glass technique, originally shown on Wendy Vecchi's blog.  This time I've geared my color scheme towards a mercury glass feel.  In my never ending quest for new and exciting techniques to share with you, this has to be an all time favorite.  

I cut my white mat board to size, then painted with PaperArtsy Fresco Finish Metallic White Fire.  Next, I distressed the edges of the panel heavily and sponged black archival ink on the edges and into the center, using a wet wipe to smear and burnish.

I used a palette knife to scrape on IndigoBlu Super Thick Slap It On paste then stamped the Crackleglaze stamp repeatedly into the wet paste.  (Make sure to wash your stamp immediately.)  Next I brushed on black gesso and burnish into the cracks.  You can also use a black Distress Crayon.  I have used both and like the gesso method best because it is more subtle.  I used my panel to create a layered frame to display a favorite santa photo.  My photo is packed away just yet, but I can't wait to dig it out in November and replace this Found Relative.  The clip will allow me to switch the photos easily

I was so pleased with the result in this color combination that I decided to try the same process on a die cut.  Everyone needs a little mercury glass snowflake in their lives, right?!  I cut the snowflake from thin chipboard, then coated with thick white gesso, then repeated the process above.  I laid a weight on the snowflake so it would dry flat.

To finish off this project I inked up a red panel then tried a two step stencil technique (which I just made up and love).  First I taped my stencil down to my inky card then tapped the edges with Versamark ink and applied Silver Liquid Glass EP.  I heat set then repositioned my stencil and sponged with black.  I used a wet wipe to wipe the black off of the silver embossed areas.

I am addicted to the drama of this card!  I think it would be great to finish both sides of the snowflake and make it a removable ornament on a card.  Hmm, maybe next time.  :)

As I said, I've had a time experimenting with this cracked glass technique.  My first, particularly grungy attempt can be found  HERE.

My golden glass project can be found HERE.  Man, I hope your gears are turning and you're thinking up new ways to expand on this technique!  I hope you'll share a link to your project in the comments if you give it a go.  Thanks so much for joining us today, Autumn