Inked Embossing Folder Card with Watercolour Technique

A project from our live show MY PODCAST - Catch my latest updates broadcast 13th October 2025 · 10/13/2025 · watch it from 35:45

Create a dimensional card by inking an embossing folder, spraying it with water to blend the colours, and running cardstock through a die-cutting machine. The result is a beautifully textured card with both embossed and debossed details that can be further enhanced with paint or ink.

You will need

TV - Signature Watercolour 3D Embossing Folder - Winter Pines - 120621MSEE IT TV - Signature Watercolour 3D Embossing Folder - Christmas Poinsettias - 290225BSEE IT Signature Watercolour High Definition 3D Embossing Folder - Autumn Breeze - 290225CSEE IT

DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE (PDF)

Step by step

1. Cut your cardstock to size, roughly 6x6 inches or smaller. ▶ watch 36:00
2. Select a water-based ink pad in your chosen colour, such as faded jeans or walnut stain. ▶ watch 37:30
3. Ink both sides of your embossing folder by swiping the ink pad across the design in all directions to pick up the fine detail. ▶ watch 38:00
4. Don't worry about getting ink around the edges, as this adds to the effect. ▶ watch 38:45
5. Fill a spray bottle with water and lightly mist the inked embossing folder to activate the ink and create a watercolour effect. ▶ watch 39:45
6. Place your cardstock into the embossing folder. ▶ watch 40:00
7. Run the folder and cardstock through your die-cutting machine according to the machine's instructions. ▶ watch 40:30
8. Open the folder carefully to reveal both the embossed and debossed details on your cardstock. ▶ watch 41:00
9. Once dry, you can optionally tap a white ink pad over the raised areas to push back darker colours and enhance the dimension. ▶ watch 42:00
10. Trim your finished piece and mount onto a card base, or use as an aperture card if desired. ▶ watch 43:00

Tips from the show

• Use water-based ink pads for best results as they move around when sprayed with water.
• Both the embossed (raised) and debossed (recessed) sides of the folder create beautiful effects.
• A white ink pad can be used to push back darker colours and enhance the detail after the card is dry.

Written up from the show itself. See every guide from our shows · free how-to guides · watch live on My Telly