I hold stamp clubs 2 times a month and one of the cards I teach them is a technique. I make a small sample and a brief instruction piece for them to put in their journals. (I give one to them when they first sign up as a gift) It can be a challenge to find a new technique-so I searched on Splitcoast stampers and found the Faux Stamped Leather! I knew I was going to use the Sailing Home to make this technique! It’s a simple technique and a little messy.

First you take a piece of Crumb Cake and stamp your image with a dark color. I used Early Espresso for my anchor. Then you take the Stylus to outline the image while you have the cardstock on top of the Piercing Mat. (cushion) It will look like you hand punched leather. Now for the fun! Gather the following ink pads and sponges: Crushed Curry, Grapefruit Grove, Soft Suede, and Early Espresso. You will use your sponge (I use the ones Stampin’ Up! sells, 3 in a pack. I cut each one into 1/4’s) and sponge the color from edge to the center of your paper. Start with the lightest color and progress to the darkest. I then ran it through with the Stitched Shapes die to give it more texture.

To create the background, I stamped Night of Navy onto Night of Navy cardstock for a tone on tone. I love having masculine cards ready to go!

We are at our Annual Labor Day retreat!!! I am getting my crafting mojo back after the crazy summer! Be on the look out for more posts!!!

I highly recommend joining The Crafting Corner team today! You get to choose $155 in any current product (including the Holiday Pre-Order!!!!) for just $99 plus tax! ($30 more in product than usual!!) THEN Stampin’ Up! will give you a $10 bonus coupon to use next month….which next week!!! So what are you waiting for??? Click on Laura’s Stampin’ Up! website to join the fun!