A Trio of Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)

Artist Trading Cards

I really enjoy working on small surfaces such as artist trading cards. These cards measure 2.5″ X 3.5.”   Artist Trading Cards are mean to be shared but not sold.  Many ‘swap' groups exist where members made a certain number of ATCs, mail them to an organizer, and then receive a mix of other cards back in return.

I started out with several of my favorite colors of Distress Ink and an ink blending tool.  I got carried away and forgot to take more process pictures! Basically I just add layers until I'm happy with the background.  You can see many more ATCs by clicking here.

Here are the finished three, after I'd added more layers as well as focal image stamping.

All of the stamps and most of the stencils are from Tim Holtz.  The two on the outside are what I call ‘cheater' stamps. Do you know what I mean by that?  Tim designed them so that EVERYTHING you see in black is part of one stamp.  All the work is done for you, so you just need a colorful background and you're good to go.

Bingo (above) is one the pre-made designs.  Believe (below) is a sentiment stamp.

And last but not least, the crowned bird with the chandelier is a pre-made design.

Free Resource

I've created a Distress Ink Blending Checklist for newsletter subscribers. May I send you a copy? Click here to get one.

Enjoy this last gasp of summer, if you're in my neck of the world, or whatever season it may be in yours.  I've really enjoyed this summer even though it seems to have gone very quickly.  One son is  back in college and the other is starting his final year of high school. Exciting times!

Online Art Class

If you’d like to learn more about the techniques I use working with Distress Inks, Dylusions Ink Sprays, Distress Stains and more…. check out my online class with Craftsy.  It comes with lifetime access and a money-back guarantee!   It’s called Inventive Ink: Colorful Mixed Media Effects.   Here’s a 2-minute preview video:

 

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Marjie