Smooth Ink Embossing Folders - Easy and Fast!

How to use embossing folders for a smooth, inked letterpress look.
** SUPPLIES ARE LINKED TO STORES BELOW
** For more info: jmink.me/2U4mySC
----- SUPPLIES -----
Affiliate links may be used at no cost to you. Product disclosure below.
*** FOR A VISUAL SUPPLY LIST, GO TO ldli.co/e/oo0z63 ***
• Simon Says Stamp Fall Foliage Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/qe27nr
• Simon Says Stamp Peony Bundle Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/jgklxo
• Simon Says Stamp Lumen Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/y7zqm1
• Simon Says Stamp Poinsettia Oval Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/pm4k70
• Simon Says Stamp Floral Field Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/rl5q6z
• Simon Says Stamp Forest Border Embossing Folder
--- ldli.co/e/oo09kl
• SSS CZ Design Chunky Joy Dies
--- ldli.co/e/l4n1d1
• SSS CZ Design Peace Dies
--- ldli.co/e/xkdq3j
• Simon Says Stamp Big Thanks Dies
--- ldli.co/e/17l2x5
• Simon Says Stamp Bold Thanks Die
--- ldli.co/e/dzl453
• Simon Says Stamp Giant Hugs Card Wrap Dies
--- ldli.co/e/zn9me7
• Simon Says Stamp Etched Laurel Leaves Dies
--- ldli.co/e/93n06k
• Simon Says Stamp Large Stitched Maple Leaf Die
--- ldli.co/e/k0ox1p
• Gina K SSS Summer Roses Stamps and Die
--- ldli.co/e/72km7y
• Simon Says Stamp Paper Hugs Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/n5gz9p
• Simon Says Stamp Tiny Words Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/6495k9
• Simon Says Stamp Tiny Words Christmas Stamp Set
--- ldli.co/e/g7dpe7
• Simon Says Stamp Rest Queen Stamps
--- ldli.co/e/0km2ll
• Simon Says Stamp I Accept People Stamp
--- ldli.co/e/4gd0z5
• Spellbinders Platinum 6 Die Cut Machine
--- ldli.co/e/2ox019
• Gemini Die Cut Machine
--- ldli.co/e/50zo9k
• Tim Holtz Tonic Glass Media Mat
--- ldli.co/e/3610dg
• Tim Holtz Distress Oxide Ink
--- ldli.co/e/m26dom
• Speedball 4" Soft Rubber Brayer
--- ldli.co/e/e9x4d2
• Ink Brayer
--- ldli.co/e/qe273r
• Memory Box Delicate Pastel Glitter Pad
--- ldli.co/e/jgklno
• Simon Says Stamp Assorted Holographic Cardstock
--- ldli.co/e/y7zqd1
• Trinity Stamps Bubble Blow Out Gems
--- ldli.co/e/pm4k50
• Trinity Stamps Bubble Bath Gems
--- ldli.co/e/rl5qmz
• Brutus Monroe Not Your Mamas Cardstock
--- ldli.co/e/oo092l
Product list made with LinkDeli - linkdeli.com/e...
((( a Link Deli product list: ldli.co/e/r37q...)
Sandwiches for embossing folders - according to SSS:
"For the best results using our embossing folders, here are sandwich recipes that we found to work:
Spellbinders Platinum Machine - platform and 2 metal shims, embossing folder
Sizzix Big Shot Machine - base plate number 1, and 1 cutting plate, embossing folder
Gemini or Gemini Junior machines - 1 cutting plate, magnetic shim, embossing folder.
Alternatively, some users have found they got deeper impressions from using the following recipe with the Gemini machines - 1 cutting plate, 4 sheets of 80lb cardstock (cut to at least 4.5 x 6.5 inches and stacked together), embossing folder."
----- FOR CURRENT CRAFTY SALES -----
www.jennifermc...
----- DISCLOSURE -----
Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you. Thank you for your support of my videos! I work diligently to bring you the best information I can. All products were personally purchased... except most of the SSS-branded products which were received from the company with no expectation. (Head here for more details: jmink.me/2U4mySC) This video was NOT sponsored, requested, or paid and I did it only because I wanted to. The information provided in this video is based on my own personal experience. I am not an expert nor do I work for these companies. I just am sharing what I like. :)
Please follow safety when using any products. See manufacturers website, etc.
For affiliate and product disclosure, visit www.jennifermcg...
----- FIND ME -----
Find me on social media: jmink.me/findme...

[@jennifermcguireink]

Hello! I forgot to mention you can roll the brayer directly an ink pad to ink it... but i get much better, smooth, multi-color results by doing it on my glass mat. :) If you don't have a brayer, you can ink your embossing folder like I show in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipa9fqqIoLh4mdU Have a great day!

[@martarigby8233]

Oh my!!!! 12:45 this card is amazing!!! Almost makes me want to create Christmas cards for the first time ever

[@annettefertitta6868]

Stunning!

[@cindyhenry1410]

Perfection as always! I just love your channel!! Now I have to go spend more money lol. TYFS ❤️🦋💜

[@quiettornado1970]

what if you don't has an die cut machine or press? Can a person use their own heavy muscle to do it?

[@01pnut]

Gorgeous! Especially the daisies, my favorite flower. I love your videos Jennifer, and after 40 years of card making you teach me something new every time! Thank you! ❤️

[@thememorytraveler4978]

*I’d LOVE companies to add embossing folders to match with stencils, masks, stamps & dies with stamps.*

[@thememorytraveler4978]

PS I really would like dies with leaves to match or smaller flowers etc. ....even frames matching the geometric shapes.

[@colleenzawatski6027]

Altenew does!

[@betyerpwet]

Yes! Altenew does this now, they have kits for $60.

[@coolstamper]

OMGosh Jennifer...these cards are AWESOME...esp. the green leaf background with the white leaf...it is stunning!!! I LOVE embossing folders and you made them SHINE!!! TYFS 💕😀💕

[@deborahbuchanan2995]

wow i love this how this looks and its really faster than the hand blending

[@regine-annogletree1373]

How difficult or easy is it to clean the ink from the embossing folders? TIA

[@stephanieamiott]

I tried it yesterday with white pigment ink and it came off easily with a baby wipe.

[@denisestine2141]

Hi, I think it would be very easy to do. you could do one of 2 things... spray with water & wipe with a microfiber cloth or take it to a sink & wash it off, use a little dish detergent on your fingertips if you want & dry with paper towels.

[@sofiehermansson9383]

Just wipe them clean with a baby wipe or rinse them in warm water. I never had any problems getting them clean.

[@amygathercole4078]

I just wiped it off with paper towel and water.

[@bcottle51]

I love the results of this method. So pretty (and easy!) - can’t wait to try it! I don’t have a glass mat but I think I’ll try using my gel press.

[@oritviderman135]

What did you use instade of glass mat?

[@lauralong]

These new embossing folders are sooo cool!! I love the deep impression and the look from either side of the cardstock. The technique you've shown has sold me on at least three of the embossing folders -- the leaves, daisies and the large floral. Now to try it our with some of my other folders and my ink pads instead of the distress oxide. I think it will still be pretty, but the oxide has a stickier property that gives better coverage. First, experimentation; use what you have. Thanks, Jennifer!

[@bethpiquard]

👏👏👏💜💜💜👏👏👏

[@paulaj4433]

Thank you for this technique. My middle school students are making Veteran's day cards and I needed an easy quick technique for backgrounds.

[@JewelrybyJeanette]

Beautiful! I've been using this technique for many years.

[@geminigirl68]

Such a beautiful release! I do wish companies would start making embossing folders 6x9 for slimline use as well. I'mmsure we'll be seeing those soon!lol I really enjoyed your brayer technique.That blend turned out gorgeous!

[@micheleunsworth5412]

I really loved your video on using 3d embossing folders Jennifer! They ALL looked terrific. A while ago, I bought a Spellbinders 3d metal embossing plate one sided) and haven't had a chance to use it yet - I have a Big Shot and am wondering how I should figure the sandwich for using that particular embossing plate?

[@jennifermcguireink]

i am sorry - i don't have a big shot.

[@amygathercole4078]

I have a big shot and found just using the main thick plate, embossing folder abs and then cutting plate over the top worked a treat

[@stefaniestaniak4329]

Beautiful cards and wonderful technique. Your videos are so worth every minute of time watching. I only have one 3D embossing folder but I see more of them in my future! Can’t wait to use this technique. Thanks.

[@rosespivey61]

Beautiful technique, what do you use to clean the embossing folders.

[@barbaraleffingwell7486]

I am using the Spellbinder Platinum, the SSS 3D Embossing folders Forest Border and Wildflower Field. My sandwich is, from the bottom up, platform, I piece of cardstock not folder, metal shim, embossing folders. When you embossed with the Forest Border and others you did not indicate any issue with warping of the embossing folder. Using the sandwich I have indicated, I have warpage in the folder, but then lose detail. How to overcome this conundrum?

[@gretewennike4548]

your bonus card made me cry - this is a card we should send to everybody who has been shielding like me for the last 8 months

[@beverlywaters6171]

Hi Jennifer. Although I am loving usung my 3D folders and the Distress Oxide ink, I would like to see a video where the embossed daisy is colored. Do you have any videos where the emphasis is on that? By the way, I love the way you explain things. Beverly Waters

[@DianaSnodgrass0701]

I tried this. My brayer just wiped on the level glass with ink, instead of rolling. It was a complete failure. There was not enough friction to turn it. I used a level glass surface (glass cutting mat). What am I doing wrong??? Thanks.

[@elenboswell9978]

I have a few embossing folders that I never use as I don’t really know how to get the best from them. But this is brilliant, I’m going to get them out right now and have a play 🤗

[@judym.1073]

Love it! I can hardly wait until the new 3D embossing folders I have ordered arrive!

[@juliev5233]

Thank you for using a “busted” folder. I accidentally snapped one and was… let’s just say disappointed and thought it was trash.

[@longlivedemocracy756]

Jennifer, thank you so much for giving great inspiration for making beautiful cards that can be mass produced quickly! Unfortunately, I have yet to start my Christmas cards, but this gives me hope that I can produce something beautiful in bulk at the last minute!!! ♥️ ☺️

[@AuntieTriza]

Can anyone help me figure out why I get a shadow/double print effect on the bottom half? As the folder goes through my big shot, I can see the paper moving slightly so the inked part no longer lines up with the embossed bit. I've tried different inks, different folders, different machines, slower, faster but the paper always moves. It's like it is being stretched as it goes through? Help!

[@karent3394]

I did purchase these and although they are beautiful folders I will only be able to use them in my Spellbinders Platinum as these folders are way too thick for any sandwich configuration with my Gemini (large Gemini)

[@lizzystitch4842]

I think placing ink on the glass surface and loading brayer from there is the big key to getting smooth color. Brayering from ink pad seems to load up too much ink and then I get a splotchy background.

[@dianemcdonald3900]

Beautiful background ideas!! Thank you!!

[@myrnaanderson9894]

Wow! Thanks. Great ideas using embarrassing folders.

[@jerryclark9418]

Thanks for the wonderful ideas...can't wait to try this technique.

[@dianezimmerman1979]

ty so much. i love all your demos. have a blessed day!

[@eastendcrafter19]

Love these, but I notice that your leaves folder appears to be taped together. Did it break?

[@leahdauria913]

I was curious about this too!

[@pennyf9886]

I love that no ink blending with a tool is involved with this!!

[@ibelf2465]

I spent a few hours playing with some embossing folders using this technique, so fun. I realize this is about a year old but I am wondering if anyone knows where the Joy die cut is sold? I guess it's the outline of the word that I am liking. Is there a certain word/way to know if certain die cuts do this? I know what a silly silly question! Thank you for the inspiration today, you are amazing.

[@oritviderman135]

I love this technique. I have also seen people embossing with stencils. How can you do that with the gemini?

[@res-h7s]

Wow Jennifer! These are amazing.

[@pamelazimin4326]

Always love your videos Jennifer, thank you!

[@valrodgers8889]

WOW, I pulled my brayer out yesterday. Will try this today.

[@Pebblesmas]

Woe such beautiful cards, amazing

[@vickygoodwin9771]

Congratulations on 400k, I love your style and look forward to every video!

[@jennifermcguireink]

wow - i didn't notice it was that close - thank you for telling me. :)

[@sherylosullivan9619]

Breyer for folders! Why didn’t I think of that?

[@Wjgustaf]

I seem to have trouble with my card stock cracking when I use the folders with heavier embossing. A friend told me to spritz with water but I imagine that wouldn’t work with the inks. How do you keep them from cracking and splitting?

[@pennyf9886]

maybe try spraying the water on the side that will not be inked?

[@sofiehermansson9383]

Try a less havy weight cardstock and go slow. Otherwise wetting the paper is the way to go, making the paper fibers softer and more flexible. Try and I think you'll like it!

[@joyxx9717]

Hi Jennifer! Hope you're doing well. I just wanted to ask the material you used to make the green word THANKS glossy? Couldn't find in the description, thank you so much! Also do you have a video using Crafter's Companion gemini 3D EFolder? I find it difficult to make a sandwich for that, actually making me fear of destroying my machine. Thanks! 💚

[@jennifermcguireink]

I covered the word in Glossy Accents. Here is a resource from Crafter's Companion that I think will be helpful: www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/page/2019/10/03/the-sandwich-menu-a-guide-to-die-cutting-and-embossing-sandwiches/

[@angela-johnathonmcarthur1071]

Hi Jennifer, I was so wowed by this technique that I broke out my supplies to give it a go. I’ve run into an issue though and hope maybe you have some troubleshooting ideas. I put the oxide ink down on my glass mat but my brayer just slips and slides in the ink, it doesn’t roll in it. I’m not getting much blending or much coverage on my brayer which is leading to either blotches on my paper or no ink at all. Any thoughts on what I might be doing wrong? TYIA! 😊

[@jennifermcguireink]

weird- i have no idea. what kind of brayer do you have? is it rubber?

[@angela-johnathonmcarthur1071]

Good call, it was my brayer! I think the one I had was silicone, which would explain the sliding! I bought a rubber one today and it works like a charm! Thanks for your response to my question Jennifer, I greatly appreciate the time you took to help! Have a great evening! 😊

[@kristinekerr3688]

Great info!! Question: I’m still unclear on the sandwich for the Gemini Jr...so it’s a clear cutting plate or metal shim followed by folded cardstock topped w/ embossing folder? Or did you completely eliminate both the cutting plate an metal shim and just use folded cardstock and embossing folder? It sounded like you did the latter but that seems odd w/ no cutting plate or shim anywhere. Thx so much. I have tried at least 10 different scenarios in my Gemini Jr and if it goes thru it’s not embossed enough and if I add a shim it won’t go thru at all! Help!!!

[@jennifermcguireink]

Stay tuned for a video soon with tips for the Gemini

[@maxinehordle9247]

Loved this video. Thank you.

[@oritviderman135]

Is there a better way to use a 3d embossing folder so the clear cutting plate dont worp and bent? I saw your youtube about using dies sandwitch: clear cutting plate with gemini green double cutting plate ... It was WOW a game changer. So I was wondering if you also have a tip for 3d embossing with gemini.

[@jennifermcguireink]

Boy that is a hard question to answer because 3D embossing folder are not all the same thickness and every Gemini can be just a bit different in the pressure it adds. Just play with sandwiches and make them a tad thinner if you are getting to much pressure (and causing warping)

[@BackyardFarmerCrafts]

Hi Jen. I want to recreate this style of card but I do not have a brair. Any suggestions?

[@jennifermcguireink]

You could try tapping your ink pad directly on to the embossing powder. I like the brayer as it is easy to get a nice blend.

[@maryarabia-galgon1653]

I am pulling my brayer out!!

[@victoriasmith5771]

One of my embossing folders broke and when I saw your taped I thought "O! Did her's break? Maybe I CAN still use mine!!" I love all your videos! Thanks for sharing!

[@scrappingranny]

Great technique I am looking for a very good black card stock that is good for card basis can you recommend one I love Gina K but I can’t Get it here without taking a mortgage out for shipping Simon Says no longer carry it help

[@jennifermcguireink]

sadly, they don't get to pick the cost of shipping :( Black cardstock - the best is from Hero Arts!

[@pattyfromherz9965]

Thank you Jennifer, it was a wonderful video, love the cards. the techniques were really awesome.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@kathylarsson8388]

What type of brayer did you use and did you put the ink directly onto a glass surface? I tried your technique and the iink beaded on the glass and also beaded oonto mg bayer. Whayt did I do wrong Jennifer. Thanks

[@jennifermcguireink]

My favorite is the Tim Holtz brayer. It works great for me

[@CoriDahmen]

More gorgeous projects with great tips and ideas. Thank you.

[@arlenepowders4989]

Thank you, Jennifer….these ideas are beautiful…..and I love your encouraging words!

[@sherrylhenning5630]

Hi Jennifer! Beautiful cards! Thanks for the heads up on the blog hop! I already checked my e-mail. I would have missed it if you hadn't said anything! SSS has the BEST hops and I could use that gift certificate right now. Like so MANY people right now, the budget's kinda tight. Have to squeeze those pennies so hard I give Lincoln a massive headache! Great time to pull out all those supplies I haven't used for absolute AGES! Having fun getting reaquianted with all those dusty friends sitting in the back of the shelves and drawers! HUGZZ!

[@vixonhz4559]

I love the beautiful effects of the cards, it's given me great ideas , mixing distress inks together using a brayer. I only have a small brayer , so far For this how many inks would I use. I actually tried doing this using a small paint roller , tightly wrapping gladwrap around it. It still transfered ink to. The embossing folder. This is after I saw ur tubes. Wonderful work keep it up.,☺️👍

[@giselled.4149]

I don’t know how you come up with all of these ideas but I guess that’s why you have the blog and channel! Lol! I love all of these backgrounds! The possibilities are endless and yet fairly simple! TFS!!

[@patriciabethke4142]

Another great video, I watch for all your videos, they're so informative. My wish list is growing. But I will pull out the embossing folders I already have and give it a try. Thanks.

[@pattiepan]

Jennifer I don't know how you do it....over and over again...new stuff to learn from you...thank you so much for being YOU pat

[@Charliemmh921]

Jennifer thanks for the brayer tip! I struggled with this technique because I would get ink where I didn’t want it on the embossing folder. This should resolve this problem. Can’t wait to try it out. Thanks for sharing your talents and take care.

[@judyhartmann3071]

I have watched many of your videos a d always enjoy what you share and how you can get multiple uses from a craft tool! These new embossing folders are beautiful! I love embossing folders and finding new ways to use them! I only have a couple of 3D folders but they are really fantastic! Thank you for your wonderful instructional videos! I have been watching your videos for quite a while now. You are in my top 5 to watch!

[@krispyatt7376]

Wow, great technique and as always beautiful cards. Thanks for sharing your talent💕❤️🙏🏻

[@pamnichols4268]

I love this technique! May have to get a brayer... I only have regular embossing folders, but this looks so amazing... Thanks for sharing !

[@ruthwerbecki7823]

These are all so beautiful, Thank You for all your ideas about the embossing folders. Plus the tip about cleaning your working space BEFORE starting a new project.

[@cindyroman-daversa9194]

🤗🤗🤗🤗 I have Christmas folders that I had no idea what I wanted to do...now I do!!! Now to find my brayer...thanks so much for the inspiration ♥️

[@teresasanner-fecto3690]

Oh my goodness! I am so excited. This is one of my favorite techniques, but I always got splotchy results. I don't know why I didn't think of this. Thank you so much for sharing your genius with us.

[@debbielemarbre]

Jennifer I ordered brayer and it wont pick up the ink off my glass mat, what am i doing wrong

[@jennifermcguireink]

what kind of brayer?

[@LizBgood]

Well, I'm headed for my office (craft room) to pull out my brayer and have some fun. I've been meaning to do this but Jennifer, you motivated me!! Can't wait to see what I come up with!

[@shellylaw4]

Wow! Gorgeous! You are so talented. I love your helpful and inspiring videos! Thank you for sharing!

[@judyconstantino9838]

Love this technique! Do you know what sandwich would be used for manual machines?

[@gretchenwilson1482]

Absolutely gorgeous! You always come up with the most amazing cards! I have other 3D folders but never thought of using a brayer! Better get my table cleaned off so I can make a beautiful mess! Thanks Jennifer! Hugs!💜🤗🤗😷🇺🇸

[@rebeccah.h.8838]

I like that you used the brayer! I also noticed that you used tape to repair a broken folder. I should have tried this before throwing it out. Thank you so much for sharing your techniques!

[@kathygroff4526]

They’re all such lovely designs on the embossing folders! The winter forest is really beautiful. Thanks for your tips and examples today....I’ll be getting out my Folders box and going through with my DO inks to see what will work for new backgrounds! TFSharing, Jennifer! 🌼🍁🌲💌

[@polaroiddiva]

I love this look! But I was struggling with getting a smooth, even application of ink on regular card stock. I decided to play with some other papers and tried some shimmer card stock and shimmer paper that I had (white and cream). The ink went on so much smoother for me and I love the elegant look it gives. Distress Oxide Fossilized Amber on a cream shimmer paper is yummy.

[@lisadelong1455]

Beautiful cards! I have a ton of embossing folders that I have used with this technique before. However, I don’t have any 3D embossing folders and I can see there is a big difference in the results. I will have to grab a couple of the 3D ones and play. Thank you for always showing fun and new, and old new ways, techniques.

[@muzoscrap7304]

What beautiful backgrounds you get ! 😍😍😍 I love embossing folders and this technique was showed just in time Big thanks for sharing all your tips and tricks everytime 👍😘

[@cindym9851]

Such an awesome awesome technique and so many possible looks!! Love it!! Many thanks

[@MariaNyceDesigns]

Wow Jennifer, these cards are spectacular, love every single one of them!!! These embossing folders give beautiful results, especially with this technique! Thanks so much, as always, for sharing your time, talent, & creativity!!! Stay well, blessings always kind & sweet soul!!!

[@created2bless322]

Thank you for making this video for us! You totally Rock!!!!

[@henriette9969]

Gorgeous cards, not only stencils but now also the embossingfolders are hot! I love them both and have many of them, so thanks for your gorgeous technique reminder for the awesome folders. Stay safe and have a wonderful day.

[@Marqaisa]

Awesome! I have a LOT of embossing folders just begging to be used in this great way! Thank you!!

[@kayfurnish8715]

I love this technique, Jennifer! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. I've done this with ink pads before, but never with the brayer. The results are so much better with the brayer!! I have a ton of embossing folders that I rarely use, but now I'm going to have a "background day" and do this technique so I'll have a bunch of backgrounds ready to go!

[@karolsantiago9670]

Need to order a brayer asap!

[@lesleykollinsky7968]

Thank you, Jennifer, I have not been for a visit in a while and I thoroughly enjoyed today's video tutorial.

[@conniepyle904]

I purchased one of the new 3D embossing folders for Christmas Cards and it took a will but Simon Says Stamps helped me with how to sandwich it for a Gemini Jr and it was gorgeous. Thank you for the beautiful card creations with the 3D folders, I plan to get more now that I know how to use them and so many different ways to use them, thanks to your creative talents.

[@cljordison]

Another great technique to use with product from our stash! Thank you for sharing another amazing video!

[@bethjackson8727]

What an incredible idea. It’s so smooth and soft. The ink on the coloured cardstock is great too. Much softer though. I’m just starting my Christmas cards and I’m going to try gold and silver too.

[@susanrossman529]

The point being that when u have a great background, u only need to add a little to make a fabulous card. Thanks Jennifer!

[@cindyellis765]

Absolutely gorgeous cards. Great ideas and tips. Thanks so much for your videos. You are one of my faves!

[@marjd6524]

I love your techniques and how you present them. You are an amazing creative lady.

[@nancyrose3671]

This is fabulous! I really enjoy finding fresh ways to use older products I have. Thanks for the inspiration! Since you’re using oxide inks I wonder how it would look with black card stock!

[@norinemueller4588]

Love this technique use to do it years ago so pretty just wish they made the embossing folders for a 5x7 card really hate the A2 size it feels more like a note or thank you card than a reg card IMO

[@1tinac]

One of my favorite crafting tools is embossing folders. Thanks for the great tutorial. Wonderful cards.

[@lafstamper]

I’m definitely doing creative therapy today! Thanks for the inspiration.

[@madusonkeeper]

I have been loving holographic as well got some patterened holographic from simon says stamp love it as well as erin lee brand!!

[@ypaternotte]

It is really fantastic so simple and beautiful you showed me so much different techniques i like them thanks, yvonne