Watercolor Ink Blending with Reinkers

Join instructor Brandi for a stunning watercolor technique class that transforms ordinary dye ink reinkers into vibrant, artistic backgrounds! In this beginner-friendly workshop, you'll learn how to create gorgeous layered watercolor effects without traditional watercolor paints, then combine them with heat-embossed florals for a modern, sophisticated card design. The contrast of bright, organic watercolor backgrounds with crisp black and white elements creates a striking card that looks gallery-worthy but is surprisingly simple to make.

What You'll Create

• A modern, sophisticated card featuring watercolor ink-blended backgrounds
• Layered watercolor effects using dye ink reinkers (demonstrated in vibrant pinks)
• Heat-embossed white floral image on custom watercolor background
• Black and white striped design elements with varying widths for visual interest
• Gold or white heat-embossed sentiment on black cardstock
• Finished A2 card (4.25" x 5.5") with coordinating inside panel
• Multiple background variations as you experiment with the technique

Techniques You'll Learn

• Creating watercolor backgrounds using dye ink reinkers instead of traditional paints
• Layering wet-on-wet vs. dry technique for different effects
• Building color depth through strategic layering and drying
• Adding texture with water droplets and paper towel dabbing
• Heat embossing on watercolor paper (special considerations)
• Flattening warped watercolor paper with a laminator or Minc machine
• Creating visual interest with varying strip widths
• Rule of thirds placement for balanced design
• Strategic sequin placement using odd numbers

Skill Level

Beginner to Intermediate - This class is perfect for crafters who want to explore watercolor effects without investing in traditional watercolor supplies! If you have dye ink reinkers (which many stampers already own), you can create these stunning backgrounds. The technique is wonderfully forgiving and organic—there's no "wrong" way to do it. Basic heat embossing skills are helpful, and you'll learn special tips for embossing on textured watercolor paper. The instructor's relaxed, encouraging approach makes this accessible for everyone.

Class Features

• Step-by-step guidance through watercolor ink blending process
• Live demonstration with detailed explanations of wet vs. dry layering
• Real-time class participation with multiple students crafting along
• Troubleshooting tips for heat embossing on watercolor paper
• Complete supplies list provided
• Lifetime access to class replay
• Multiple design variations shown by class participants
• Tips for creating backgrounds in batches for future projects
• Interactive Q&A throughout the session

What Makes This Class Special

This technique is a game-changer for stampers who already own dye ink reinkers—you'll discover a whole new use for supplies you may already have! The organic, unpredictable nature of the watercolor blending means each background is one-of-a-kind and can't be replicated, making every card truly unique. The contrast between the soft, colorful watercolor background and the crisp black and white design elements creates a modern, sophisticated look that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, the technique is surprisingly fast once you get the hang of it, making this ideal for batch card-making sessions.

Resources Included

• Detailed supply list with specific product recommendations
• Strip width measurements for the black accent strips (1/2", 1/4", 1/4" slightly smaller, 3/4")
• Panel sizing guide (5.25" x 4" white backing panel)
• Watercolor paper preparation techniques
• Tips for flattening warped watercolor paper
• Multiple color combination ideas from class participants
• Troubleshooting guide for heat embossing on textured surfaces
• Sequin placement guidance using rule of thirds

Perfect For

• Birthday cards with modern, artistic flair
• Any occasion cards that need a sophisticated look
• Using up dye ink reinkers in your collection
• Creating unique, one-of-a-kind backgrounds
• Batch card-making sessions (make multiple backgrounds at once) and showcasing bold color combinations with elegant contrast

Whether you're looking to breathe new life into your reinker collection or simply want to create stunning watercolor effects without traditional paints, this class offers a fun, forgiving technique that produces professional results every time. Join our crafting community and discover why this instructor loves pink (and you might too)!