Merry Mistletoe
by Trina Pham

Hello there.  Today I am sharing another simple Christmas card.  It used a technique I was intimidated by, but I finally tried it at a retreat back in May thanks to Susan.  The smell was what put me off, but then Susan recommended the splashless type.  Problem solved!  I barely even notice the smell.

Started by ink blending with blending brushes on hot press watercolor paper to create an ombré monochromatic background.  Stamped the mistletoe from Merry and Bright Mistletoe with Archival black ink.

Next, applied bleach to the image with a small brush.  The bleach will lift the color.

It’s a good idea to use a stamping tool, so the image can be re-stamped, if needed.  The image can be left as is or colored in.  

As you can see, I did both.  Left the leaves and only colored the berries with a red water-based marker.  For some shine and dimension, added Crystal Glaze to the berries.  And lately, I love my splatters, so added some to the upper part using white gouache paint. The sentiment from Mistletoe Swag was white heat embossed on a black strip to finish.

 You can save yourself a step by using color cardstock instead of coloring your own.  Keep in mind, the bleaching will not be immediate and will be noticeable only after some drying time.  And that does it for me.  Thank you for stopping by.  Have a wonderful week.

 

 

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