Day 14: Vibrant Ink Smooshing & Reverse Stencil Wiping on Tag

 Welcome back to Day 14 of my 52 Days of Stencils challenge! 

For today’s project, I wanted to change up the canvas. Instead of a traditional card background, I reached for a thick watercolor tag base to try some high-fluid ink techniques.

For Day 14, I drew a fantastic graphic stencil featuring groups of varying circles. Before even touching the stencil, I focused on creating a messy, unpredictable watercolor background. I smooshed my Cloud 9 inks - Rhubarb Jam, Sweet Violet, and Tranquil Waters - directly onto a plastic surface, misted them with water, and pressed my tag into the pools of color.

Once the vibrant, layered background was completely dry, I laid down the circle stencil over the top. Using a damp cloth, I worked through the openings to carefully lift and bleach away the reactive ink layers. This reverse-stenciling technique is one of my absolute favorites because it leaves behind a beautiful, ghostly water-spotted pattern that blends seamlessly into the background rather than sitting on top of it.

To create a strong visual anchor for the tag, I layered a stitched pink cardstock strip behind a beautifully detailed teal leaf die-cut, topping it with a simple "SO HAPPY" sentiment strip. The deep cool tones of the leaf really pop against the warm pink and purple tones underneath!

Changing up the shape of your project is an amazing way to see your stencils in a whole new light.

See you tomorrow for Day 15!

Natalia