Disclosure: This post and the photos and video within it may contain Amazon or other affiliate links. If you purchase something through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you. The embossing folder used in this post was provided by Spellbinders Paper Arts in exchange for design work. Thank you!
Do you LOVE embossing folders or have a large stash you want to use more? Today I am sharing 5 different materials to use with embossing folders, besides card stock, to get the most of your embossing folders.
For all my embossing I used a Crafter’s Companion Gemini Junior diecutting machine and the recommended plate ‘sandwich’ for this machine.
Check out the video for a closer look at all the surfaces I tested today.
Vellum Embossing
Embossing on vellum can create a simple but beautiful look. You can combine the vellum with your favorite kind of window card or add color with alcohol based mediums. Remember that your adhesive will show through vellum so try to hide it behind other elements like your sentiment or image.
Foil Paper Embossing
Embossing on foil paper was probably my favorite surface that I tried for today’s post. I have a hard time using a large piece of foil paper on it’s own because it looks like a mirror but the embossing gave it a lot of interest and broke up the reflective surface.
Glitter Paper Embossing
Embossing on glitter paper creates an easy and gorgeous background. Consider using a glitter paper over a glitter card stock as it will result in less cracking. Scrapbookcom Glitter Paper worked beautifully.
Patterned Paper Embossing
Embossing on patterned paper can add interest to subtle patterns or step up a simple card. I found it was best to use a medium weight paper to avoid cracking.
Watercolor Paper Embossing
Embossing on watercolor paper looks kind of boring at first, but the real magic comes when adding the color on top. The embossing catches pools of color to give more interesting effects.
Bonus Tips for Embossing Folders
You will probably need to experiment to find the perfect sandwich and weight of paper that works well in your diecutting machine. Keep a record of which ones you had the most success with for the future.
Many unusual materials will work better with liquid glue than a double sided tape. If you find your embellishments won’t stick to one of these surfaces try liquid glue instead.
If you get cracking and white is showing through on your design, you can often ink blend over it to hide the white and add more dimension. You can also flip it over to the debossed side, as it is less likely to have cracked.
Add these ideas to your Pinterest board so you won’t forget!
