I have found a new love with the combination of die cuts and Distress markers and wanted to show you quickly how easy it really is to make an ordinary die cut look super cute.
The key to getting the watercolor effect is to use watercolor paper. I have several watercolor pads and all of the papers vary slightly in color. They have a slight yellow hue to them and I prefer the Ranger/Tim Holtz Water color paper because it is bright white which allow for the colors to be more vibrant.
I die cut shapes that I want to create with out of the watercolor paper. The flower below is my new flower from the past release with Sizzix. You can see all of them by clicking here or any one of the Sizzix banners her on the blog. Using a Uniball Signo Micro 207, I add an outline around the shape and then double up those same lines:
To add color, I am going to use Tim Holtz/Ranger Distress Markers and a Water Brush. Add a light swipe of color to your shape:
Using a moistened Water Brush, start to gently blend you color. This is going to take practice so do not get frustrated. You do not want your brush dry but you also do not want it sopping wet. Use a paper towel to blot the water as you go.
Try adding two colors to a shape:
to get a really great look:
Like I mentioned above, the color of the Watercolor Paper is going to make a difference in the outcome of your art. Take a little time to experiment and play and remember that like anything else, it is going to take some practice. Remember, it is just paper so if you hate it, toss it and start again!
More on Die Cuts & Watercolors coming soon!