Stamping with blending brushes can be a creative and enjoyable way to add depth and dimension to your projects. Here’s a list of tips to help you make the most out of stamping with blending brushes:

1. Choose the Right Brushes:
   • Select blending brushes with soft, synthetic bristles for smooth blending.
   • Use different sizes to accommodate various stamp sizes and details. Stampin’ Up! offers small and large, plus a storage rack for them.
2. Prep Your Surface:
   • Start with a clean, smooth, and dry surface to ensure the best results.
   • Ensure the surface beneath is also smooth and clear.
3. Ink Selection:
   • Use dye or pigment inks that work well with blending brushes. Stampin’ Up!’s inks are almost all water-based and rich in color for maximum versatility.
   • Experiment with different ink colors to create gradients and ombre effects.
4. Tap, Don’t Smear:
   • Gently tap the blending brush onto the ink pad to pick up color. Start with a little – you can always add more to the brush.
   • Avoid smearing the ink; tapping helps control the amount of ink on the brush.
5. Build up Colors Gradually:
   • Start with a light application and gradually build up color for a seamless blend.
   • Layering allows you to control the intensity of the colors.
6. Circular Motions:
   • Apply ink in small, circular motions for a smooth and even blend.
   • Keep a light touch to prevent harsh lines and uneven coverage, and tap off your project once or twice before applying to your project.
7. Masking Techniques:
   • Use masking techniques to create layered or overlapping stamped images.
   • Mask off areas you want to protect from additional ink. Masking Paper is an excellent tool for this!
8. Clean Between Colors:
   • Clean your blending brushes between color changes to avoid muddying the colors. Also, dedicating brushes to a “color family” (like greens, blues, etc.) is helpful.
   • Simply rub the brush on scrap paper until no more color comes out to “clean” the brush between shades.
9. Experiment with Pressure:
   • Vary the pressure applied to the blending brush to achieve different effects.
   • Light pressure is ideal for soft blends, while firmer pressure can add intensity.
10. Try Different Surfaces:
    • Experiment with different paper types and surfaces to see how they react to blending. Basic White cardstock is perfect for everyday blending as it is super-smooth.
    • Consider using specialty papers like watercolor paper or cardstock.
11. Use a Light Hand with Detailed Stamps:
    • When working with detailed stamps, use a light touch to avoid over-blending and losing details.
    • Use a smaller blending brush for intricate areas.
12. Embrace Imperfections:
    • Don’t be afraid of imperfections; they can add character to your stamped creations.
    • Mistakes can sometimes turn into happy accidents, leading to unique designs.
13. Practice on Scrap Paper:
    • Before working on your final project, practice blending on scrap paper to get a feel for the colors and techniques.
14. Combine Stamping and Blending:
    • Experiment with combining stamped images and blending techniques for dynamic results.
    • Stamp a focal image and blend around it to create a cohesive background.

Remember, the key to successful blending with brushes is practice and experimentation. Have fun exploring different color combinations and techniques to discover your unique stamping style!

I use Blending Brushes often in my virtual and in-person classes. For info about my upcoming in-person and virtual classes, check out my class descriptions here and my calendar here. I hope to see you at a class sometime soon, but you can always find ideas here on my blog as well as on Facebook and Instagram.

Blending Brush Supplies

Blending Brushes

[153611]

$13.00

Small Blending Brushes

[160518]

$12.00

Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Cardstock

[159276]

$10.50

Stampin' Up! Masking Paper

[155480]

$7.00

Abundant Beauty Decorative Masks

[162331]

$10.50

Blending Brushes Storage

[160519]

$16.00