I still remember the first time I ever printed a graphic. It was one of those tiny pixilated images from a software program called The Print Shop-probably the very first version. I used a Star Dot Matrix Printer and was thrilled with the results.
One day, almost 20 years ago, while attending the Los Angeles County Fair, I saw a demonstration of "embossing" using a graphic printed from a dot matrix printer. I bought the tiny bottles of embossing powder and to this day, I still have one of them. To make a long story short, I learned to use embossing powder on my printed graphics. The dot matrix ink stayed wet long enough to hold the powder until it melted!
In the early 90’s I joined a crafting group on the internet called PALS - which stood for Print Artist Lovers. PALS were very willing to share techniques and tips. This card (Figure#1) is for illustration only and was the original drawing I made for the PALS. Note that even back then we were rounding corners and adding glitter glue as embellishments.
Today, a lone pair of scissors can be enough to jazz up a computer card. In this example, I cut out part of the graphic. The words, printed on the inside of the card, are immediately visible to the recipient. The handwritten message, however, is hidden behind the gate inside, like a secret note.
Victorian in appearance, this graphic just cried out for embellishments. I used tiny beads, gold paint, Diamond Glaze and glitter glues. A few simple touches turned this into quite a showy card. Figure #2 demonstrates the use of embellishments.
Invitations are my specialty! My favorites are printed on vellum. If I am making them in mass, I create and print four to a page. I like to add a feathered effect to the graphics I choose. After printing, I always outline in gold as a finishing touch.
Scanned objects can serve as fabulous backgrounds. This card features a scan of moss, twigs and rocks from my yard. I saved the graphic and overlaid it with a dragonfly clipart. I incorporated an element of depth by using the scan in grayscale and adding a colored graphic.
This final example (for illustration purposes only) clearly proves that computers can contribute to artistic cards. Rubber stamps, shrink plastic, shredded tissue, and diamond glaze instilled this computer card with character.
Here are a few tips for making your own computer cards:
1. Fully understand your software program. There are probably features that you’ve never used. Use the help menu in getting started. Print that menu out and do some reading. Adding extras like borders and backgrounds will lend extra flair to your cards. You’ll never know how to do that unless you read and practice.
2. Know your printer inside and out. Most printers have significant adjustments and features that enhance your printed creations. Use the draft setting to practice and then the normal or high setting for your finished project.
3. If your software allows, print fronts of cards, four to a page, cut them out and layer to other paper. Layering adds panache.
4. Use your rubber stamps, inks and embellishments along with clipart.
5. Mask the outline of a graphic. Rubber stamp images and words as a fill.
6. Print computer cards on glossy paper. The results will amaze you!
Today, I’ve combined many art forms in conjunction with my computer designs. I teach computer crafting and enjoy sharing my tips. Have fun adding panache to your cards!
For the latest version of The Print Shop, visit http://www.broderbund.com Print Artist is a product of Sierra Home, visit http://printartist.sierrahome.com
