Using Recyclables for Masking

I finally found a use for the heavy weight election mailers I have been receiving. I used one to create a mask for stamping.

stamping with a mask

The stamp I was using, Spellbound Cricut Workshop (C1526) from Close To My Heart, has "Happy Halloween" with a cobweb and a frame surrounding it, but I did not want to include the frame inside my cards. Here's what I did to stamp just the sentiment and cobweb:

• I aligned up the stamp with where I wanted it to appear inside the card
• I placed the post card over the open card
• I stamped the image on one of the oversized post cards
• I used my craft knife to cut out the center
• I placed the post card over the open card and stamped the image; I did have to press a little harder due to the thickness of the post card (thankfully I was using a stamp platform)
• I stamped the remaining cards (there were four cards total); I blotted the ink on the post card between uses to reduce the likelihood that the ink might pool and run onto the card

If I only needed the mask one time, I might have used an envelope or sheet of paper. Since I needed to stamp four times, I wanted something that would not absorb the ink too much. I think I am going to cut the post card into a size that will fit into the stamp envelope so I will have it to use in the future.

I am sorry that I do not have photos to the completed cards (and that the photo above is not the best). It was dark outside plus I want the cards to be a surprise to the recipients.

I am fond of the Spellbound Cricut Workshop (C1526) stamp set; it is really too bad that Close To My Heart is now closed. I used the all of the stamps in this set on my Halloween cards last year.

I hope I gave you an idea for how to use your paper recyclables, aka "junk mail", when you are crafting.

Before I sign off, I want to remind you that the sale on Stampin' Up! Kit Collections ends October 31 at midnight MDT.

Enjoy your Halloween!