On July 5th I shared a card using the Coffee Cafe stamp set that included a background with lines of color. I had so many people ask me how I created that background that I decided to create a quick tip video.
I’m calling this the “swoosh technique”. Here are a few things you need to know.
- You can’t entirely control how the color or the lines will appear.
- Make sure your ink pad is well inked. A bit over-inked works even better. The juicer your ink pad, the easier it is to slide the pad across the cardstock.
- Be sure to allow drying time between colors or you’ll have a smeared mess.
- Experiment with color combinations but remember that two colors overlapping one another can create a third. For example, red and yellow will make orange.
I’ve included pictures of the completed card from July below along with a list of supplies. If you missed the original post to this project you can view it HERE.
The clear lid on the cup was created using the Coffee Cups Framelits and Window Sheets.
My top 10 stamp set picks from Holiday Catalog
You’ve been asking so here they are:
#10 – Santa’s Suit #146060
#9 – Pick a Pumpkin Bundle #146024 wood, #146025 clear
#8 – Merry Little Labels Bundle #146029 wood, #146030 clear
#7 – Spooky Cat Bundle #146014
#6 – Festive Phrases #144957 wood, #144960 clear
#5 – Half Full #144996 wood, #144999 clear
#4 – Night in Bethlehem Bundle #146043 wood, #146044 clear
#3 – Painted Harvest Bundle #146021
#2 – Snowflake Sentiments #144817 wood, #144820 clear
#1 – Merry Cafe, #144965
I’d love to know your top pick(s). Leave me a comment!

Thanks for the video! That looks like such fun to do!!
Hi Claire! This technique is lots of fun because you have little control and you can’t make a mistake. I hope you’ll give it a try! Thanks for stopping by today.
something so simple. great effect
Thank you! So happy you enjoyed the video. Thanks for coming by!
I am your newest FAN! Thank you for taking the time, skill, techie equipment, etc. that you have to make your videos. I love them! And, the SWOOSH technique is my new favorite — right next to embossing with paste!
Hi Noreen! Welcome! I’m so happy that you’ve enjoyed my videos. Thanks for coming by!
Gosh you really have a creative gene in you. You come up with the coolest and easiest ideas…I love them and your videos explaining them. They are always well prepared and easy to understand. Thanks.
Thank you for the kind words, Maryann! I’m so glad you find what I share inspiring! Thanks for stopping to leave me a comment.
Daisy Delight Merry little Labels bundle Christmas in the making. Festive Phrases Merry Cafe Painted Harvest Bundle Spooky Cat Count My Blessings Lanels to Love & Feeling of Christmas
All fantastic choices! Thanks for stopping by to comment, Gaeyl! I can always count on you! 😀
My favorite most items in the Holiday Catalog are the materials used to make “Quilted Christmas cards. Just received these wonderful supplies and can’t wait to get started. I truly appreciate all your tips, awards and opportunities to learn more. Thank you!
Hi Mary Lou! I see your order arrived – that means it’s time to play! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Be sure to share on our VIP page. Thanks for stopping by and for your kind words.
Thank you for the video : i like it ! It’s simple but waouh !
You’re most welcome, Marie-Laure! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for coming by!