So, how is masking done?
There are two simple forms of masks used by rubberstamp artists. In the first method, the mask blocks out your main image. I sometimes call this the "crop" method, because when creating your mask, you crop out all other images except the one to be covered. The second method utilizes a reverse mask, or template, in which everything but your main image is covered up. I like to call this the "punch" method, because when creating your mask, you are effectively punching out the stamped image and leaving everything else around it. Please note that it is the thickness of the mask that keeps the background images from overlapping the stamped main image.
Let's explore a couple of step-by-step projects so you can see exactly how each method is accomplished.
The Magnolia
1. Stamp Magnolia image onto glossy cardstock.
2. Stamp this same image onto a piece of thin scrap paper. Cut out (crop) along inside edge of design outline. This image becomes your mask.
3. Align mask on top of original stamped image and secure with repositional adhesive. Sponge on background color and then overstamp with background script.
4. Remove mask. 5. Use brush markers to color in leaves and branches.
6. Heat Set ink. Mount on coordinating cardstock.
At this point, I think it prudent to mention that you can use a number of different mediums for your mask. Scrap paper with repositional adhesive, a slip of Post It Notes, Masking Magic by Therm O Web, liquid masks and Eclipse Art Masking Tape by Judi-Kins are only a few of the options available. I encourage you to explore the different mediums and decide for yourself, which is best for you.
The Pear -- This project utilizes both types of masks.
1. Stamp Pear image onto glossy cardstock.
2. Stamp this same image onto a piece of thin scrap paper and crop it. This image is your "crop" mask.
3. Align mask on top of original stamped image and secure with repositional adhesive.
4. Stamp Pear image again but overlap original image on the right, then again on the left side.
5. Now create a reverse mask of the Pear by stamping it again on a piece of scrap paper large enough to cover up all 3 stamped Pears on the cardstock. This time only cut out the image of the Pear (punch). Do not disturb the rest of the sheet. This is your "punch" mask.
6. With crop mask still in place, align punch mask over the right Pear image and secure with repositional adhesive.
7. Stamp Script background image over punch mask.
8. Remove punch mask and repeat steps #6 and #7 on the left side Pear.
9. Remove all masks and place only punch mask over central Pear image.
10. Stamp Script background image over punch mask.
11. Remove mask.
12. Color picture with pastels (artists chalks) and mount on coordinating cardstock.
Tips
1. A crop mask does not have to completely cover the original image. In the gallery sample # below, I only covered the dark blue section of the vase to achieve the look of the flowers standing inside.
2. Sometimes masking will leave a halo effect around the stamped image. If this happens to you, it's usually an indication that your mask was cut too large. Try cutting a new mask, but make sure you cut inside the design's outline.
3. Save your masks. They are reusable.
Gallery
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Stamping Hugs,
Deena Canup
