Adding Texture and Dimension to Monochromatic Cards

Hello, crafty friends, I’m Adrienne Boese and you can find me online as Alice Scraps Wonderland both on Instagram and on my blog. Today I’m going to be sharing some ideas for monochromatic cards, specifically, how to add texture and dimension, especially when you are working with a single color of cardstock for your card.

There are a few ways you can add texture and dimension, but one that is really is by using dimensional stickers, like the Timeless Butterfly collection, which are the feature of this set of cards! The layered wings are perfect for adding depth to any project. Some other ways that you’ll see showcased in these cards include using stitching dies, layering your die cuts with multiple layers of paper, embossing folders, adding wax seals or wax drops, gems, foam adhesive and distressing the edges of your cardstock mattes.

For the ivory card, I used a few techniques to add texture and dimension. First was layering up a smaller matte of the same cardstock, but before gluing it in place, I distressed the edges of the matte. You can do this with blade, metal ruler or other hard straight edge.

I also added some floral die cuts to this card but instead of just using one layer for the dies, I used multiple layers. For the Peony Celebration die, I added a second outline layer to add more dimension. Each flower from the Four Petal Thank You Die also got two layers each, with some foam adhesive in between each layer for even more dimension. Then all that was left was to add a Glimmer sentiment, nestle a Moonlight Butterfly on the card, and pop on some gems.

Tip: To highlight the debossed texture of your die cuts, brush a similar ink color onto your die cuts to create an ombre look that still brings out the debossing!

The purple card got a dose of texture from the Tile Reflections 3D Embossing Folder. The simplicity of leaving a piece of cardstock simply embossed add subtle texture that plays a bit with light and shadow, especially with 3D embossing folders. I always like to give my cardstock a little mist of water before sending it through, to ensure the paper doesn’t tear. The new Mighty Mister is the perfect spray bottle for this!

Like the ivory card, I used the same technique of adding additional layers to my die cuts. I again used the Four Petal Thank You Die, this time using everything but the sentiment. The larger flower and the tiniest flowers each got cut an extra time and layered together for more dimension. To help the busy floral cluster pop on the busy embossed background, I die cut a circle to matte the floral cluster on. Then, I added another Glimmer sentiment, a Twilight Butterfly, and some gems.

Tip: For even more dimension on your flowers and leaves, curl the ends with your fingers or a tool, or use a paper shaping kit to bring your petals and leaves to life!

For the peach card, my focus here was on a stitching die as the matte for one of the Sunset Butterflies. Embroidery floss adds a softer texture that I think is so unexpected on cards!  I stitched the Sparkling Mandala with a coordinating DMC Floss from the Warm Bundle (#3774) and glued it to the backing layer.

Then I again used the Tile Reflections 3D Embossing Folder for the cardstock matte. After adding the cardstock matte and the stitched die cut, I popped on the butterfly sticker. Then, I added a Glimmer sentiment. Instead of adding gems, this time I heated up a couple of the Peachy Pink wax beads using my Sealed kit. I poured a few drops of wax onto my Sealed mat and let them cool Then I used a little liquid adhesive to pop the wax drops onto the card.

Tip: I always create wax drops whenever I use my Sealed Waxes. It’s a great way to use your leftover wax, plus, I always have a few drops on hand to create with!

Monochromatic projects are one of my favorites to create. They can be tricky sometimes, getting embellishments to show up well on your background. But with a little creativity and these ideas, you can add some wonderful texture and dimension to your projects! Don’t forget to connect with me over on Instagram and on my blog for even more inspiration and ideas. Until next time, happy crafting!

Spellbinders Supplies: