The key to getting a good result with this technique is getting the right paper.  You need a glossy cardstock in order for the sticky Versamark ink to resist the dye ink you put over the top.  Not all glossy will react in the same way, so you may need to test your card first to make sure you have one that reacts correctly.

Ink up your stamp with Versamark ink and stamp carefully onto your glossy card.  Press down firmly then pull straight up - you will probably need to hold the card down as you do this as it will stick.

Choose a water based dye ink to apply over the top.  You can use a stipple brush or sponge, but a brayer will give the best results as you can apply the ink quickly and without smearing the Versamark image.

Roll the brayer over the inkpad several times, making sure you keep lifting the brayer to ensure the whole roller is covered.  Don't roll over the edge of the inkpad, make small movements and stay within the pad so you don't get an imprint of the edge of the pad on the roller.

Move the brayer from side to side as well to cover the whole roller.  You can't really over-ink the brayer, but you will notice if it is under-inked.

Roll the brayer right over your stamped image then lift the brayer and roll backwards.  You will see lines appear when you first start as you use up most of the ink in the first roll and as you carry on rolling, there is less ink to spread around.

The trick is to lift and roll several times - this helps to blend out any lines created on the surface. 

You can return to the inkpad and get more ink onto the brayer if you want a more intense colour or need a smoother blend. 

As soon as you have the colour you want, wipe the surface with a soft dry cloth to brighten up the resist stamped image. 

Different brands of glossy cardstock will give different levels of brightness to the finished result.  I am using some old card from my own stash and it is giving more of a tone on tone effect than a bright white.

Versamark resist gives a less precise result than some other resist techniques, but it definitely has its place in your stamping technique library.  Once you have got the hang of the brayer, you will find this a very quick and easy technique for creating background interest.

 



Even fine detail shows up

 

I originally ran this series in 2013 and this time round, I am using my own tutorials to inspire me to create a new piece of artwork to share with you each week. 

I love to create and I am also passionate about inspiring and enabling others to create too.  I hope that this email gets your mojo working and you feel motivated to get into your crafty space and have a go.





PS - if your creation features Chocolate Baroque stamps, then why not share on our Facebook Group or our wonderful private forum. In both places you will find a wonderful community of like minded Chocolate Baroque fans.