double 'bossed cards, almost like double Cuttling

I was playing around with embossing folders a few days ago, using them in various ways. I know. Big surprise, eh? LOL!

Here's a twist on a technique that you've seen described here and elsewhere. It's what I called double Cuttling when I first described it. In my version you run your card front or card stock through your die machine inside one embossing folder, accent the embossing, then run it through again inside a folder of a different design and accent that embossing in a complementary color. This was originally done with the Cuttlebug embossing folders. Now you can do this using the Sizzix textured impressions folders, too.

So, my twist on this technique? I use just one folder; the other steps are essentially the same.


This was made using one of the A2 size folders from a Sizzix textured impressions folder set, the spring flowers and paisley. First I de-bossed the card front. I then went over that with my Pear Tart Memento dye dew drop inkpad. I placed the card front back into the folder, this time em-bossing it. I went over the embossing with Dandelion Memento dye ink. The stamped images and sentiment are by Hero Arts. The borders were made using the Lattice Arch Martha Stewart edge punch.


For this card I followed the steps that I outlined above, this time using the D'Vine Swirls Cuttlebug folder, Bahama Blue and Grape Jelly Memento inks. The stamped images are again Hero Arts. The border was made using the double scallop edge punch by Martha Stewart.


For this last card I used the same technique. This folder is from the Sizzix Argyle and Lines & Circles textured impressions set. The inks used were Angel Pink and Lulu Lavender by Memento. The die cuts were made using Spellbinders scalloped oval Nestabilities. The stamps are by Hero Arts.

I like this twist on double Cuttling. Double 'bossing can give a more subtle and less busy look, plus the images are all essentially the same design and look very cohesive as a background. I've found that it's best to use a fairly heavy card stock because of all of the 'bossing. I like to deboss first and use a lighter accent color to bring out the white of the debossed areas. I then emboss and accent with the darker color, so you get that neat combo of images in light and dark. I haven't experimented with this technique using colored card stocks yet, but that might be an interesting look, too. Core'dinations card stock might be a lot of fun. Lots of possibilities! Good thing we have another snow day here. :-)