How'd They Do That? Part 1

Many times, I have had people call me up and ask about artwork they've seen in our Idea Books. "How'd they do that?" is the most commonly asked question. So, let's start a series on tips & techniques, and hopefully answer some of those burning questions.

Today, I'll be taking a page from Close To My Heart's newest Idea Book - literally! This image can be found on page 8 of the Autumn/Winter 2010 Idea Book. It's the peacock image from the "Circle of Love" stamp set - only it's stamped in several different colors (Pear, Lagoon & Pacifica).

This technique is referred to as "variegated stamping", the steps of which are as follows (you can follow along on page 9 of the Autumn/Winter 2010 Idea Book):

First, start with your lightest color ink and apply the ink to your stamp in select areas with a sponge dauber.

With the next lightest ink color, apply ink on adjacent areas of the stamp, blending with the first color. Repeat with your darkest ink color.

Then, stamp your image. Note: when working on an image with multiple colors, it helps to "huff" on the stamp to "refresh" the ink before stamping.

You may need to practice this technique a few times before getting the results you want. Start small & simple and work your way up to large and elaborate - like the image above! Try this technique to put some flair in your flowers, trick out your trees, and spice up your sentiments!