The outer edge and interior of a die cut can be dry embossed.
Dry embossing gives an elegant appearance to a die cut that is to be used for a scrapbook layout, greeting card or paper art project. An embossing tool is held much like a pen or pencil. It is used to press or emboss lines or patterns into a surface to create indentations. The tool generally has two ends, each with a tiny stainless steel ball that measures 1.1 mm and 1.8 mm. The smallest steel ball works well for tiny indentations and outlines while the large ball is good for filling in a shape.
Instructions
1. Place the embossing stencil onto the light box or embossing station. Secure the stencil in place with two pieces of removable tape.
2. Place the die cut on top of the stencil. The die cut should be placed right side down onto the stencil especially if it is textured or patterned paper or card stock. The right side of the paper will have the raised embossed surface on it after the technique is complete.
3. Crumple a small piece of wax paper. Rub the wax paper all over the die cut. This will help the embossing tool to move easily over the die cut.
4. Place the die cut over the stencil. Turn on the light box switch. You will be able to see the stencil pattern through the paper unless the paper is very dark. You will have to depend on the feel of the stencil outline with your fingertips if the stencil is not visible with the aid of the light.
5. Place one end of the embossing stylus tool against the paper and gently press down. Fill in the outline of the stencil pattern by slowly rubbing the paper with the tool. You will use a motion similar to coloring as you fill in the shape. You can choose to make the outline only or fill in the entire shape.
