INSTRUCTIONS FOR JOSEPH'S COAT (Compliments of Theresa)

By the way, this is not to minimize any opportunity you may have to attend one of Theresa's classes on this technique! It is always well worth while to do something like this in a class setting, with an experienced instructor presiding. And besides, Theresa is great fun to be around, you would learn other tips and have a blast. But since all of you are not able to do so and have requested the instructions for the technique, here it is - also a couple of her latest samples to pique your creative side. (The hydrangea is done on check-patterned paper, contributing to the design.)

Supplies:

Dreamweaver Stencils

Dye-based inkpads - multi & single colored

Dreamweaver Translucent Embossing Paste

Palette Knife

Removable Tape

Cardstock - glossy or matte finish

Options:

Use Patterned paper in place of the glossy

Create your own patterened paper using background stencils

Do NOT use permanent/archival dye-based inks for this technique. Do NOT use pigment inks on glossy paper

DIRECTIONS:

Begin by brayering multiple colors onto glossy paper using a rainbow dye ink pad.Allow the dye to dry.

Adhere stencil design using four pieces of removable tape. Remember to tape the stencil in place using the top of the design for your first piece of tape. Then work clockwise around the stencil, taping it in place.

Apply Dreamweaver Translucent Paste, using a palette knife. Remove the tape in reverse order or placement with the exception of the first piece. Pull the stencil up and away using the first piece of tape as a hinge. Place stencil and palette knife in water immediately.

For best results, allow image to dry overnight. Using dye based ink pad in a dark color (i.e. black, navy blue, purple, etc.) cover the image and surrounding area with ink. Use a stencil brush and the rouging technique to move ink into the bridgework areas.

Replace the stencil, use a tissue or paper towel to wipe the ink off from the pasted image. Using a slightly damp cloth will intensify the color.

Trim to size and mount on cardstock.

TIPS:

Tape using four pieces along the top (hinge), right side, bottom and then left side when pasting. Removal is easier if you always use the same direction when taping.

Bend the corner of your removable tape so it can be removed easily.

When paste embossing an image on a short top (i.e. long stem flowers), tape along the long side of the stencil as your hinge.

Paste should be applied using the back of your palette knife.

Three Strikes Rule: Applying the paste should be done in as few passes as possible. Apply a layer in one stroke, then scrape off the excess in the second stroke, the third stroke can go in the opposite direction to remove any air bubbles or to "clean up" an area.

Work quickly to be sure the paste does not dry on your stencil or palette knife. Place them in cool water after removing them from cardstock.