TOP 10 Stenciling Hacks, Tips, and Tricks! (And Bonus Stuff Too)

#stencilhacks #scrapbookcom #rangerink #crafthacks
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Join me on other platforms here: linktr.ee/marypolancodesigns
My Scrapbook.com Gallery Photos: shrsl.com/34nzc
**SUPPLIES SHOWN*
STENCILS:
Bats: shrsl.com/3q7p3
Pumpkin Patch: shrsl.com/3q7p5
Little Ghosts: shrsl.com/3q7p6
Magic Potion: shrsl.com/3q7p7
Ghostly Treats: shrsl.com/3q7pa
Autumn Breeze (Leaves): shrsl.com/3q7pb
Oak Leaves: shrsl.com/3q7pd
TOOLS:
Sizzix Stamp and Stencil Tool: shrsl.com/3q7pe
Clearly Amazing Sticky Mat: shrsl.com/3q7pg
Mini Finger Ink Blending Brushes: amzn.to/3ybpktN
Rainbow Ink Blending Brushes: amzn.to/3Sv1ilx
Antistatic Powder Bag: shrsl.com/3pk6q
Wagner Heat Tool: amzn.to/3BrgFEA
Stylus Round Tool: amzn.to/3C1E6nX
Action Wobblers: amzn.to/3SrI2W1
STAMPS:
Happy Fall Stamp Set: (Truck and Pumpkin Stamps shown)
--- shrsl.com/3pt4q (Scrapbook.com)
--- shrsl.com/3po3u (Ranger Ink)
Hi Fall Stamp Set: shrsl.com/3pjtt
Halloween Boo-Tiful: shrsl.com/3q7qp
DIES:
Thanks Die: shrsl.com/3q7qr
Hillside Border Die: shrsl.com/3q7wk
PASTE/POPS OF COLOR:
Moonstone Embossing Paste: shrsl.com/3q7pq
Black Pops of Color: shrsl.com/3q7ps
White Embossing Powder: shrsl.com/3q7pw
COLORING/INKS:
Distress Oxide Ink: shrsl.com/3q7pl
Ohuhu Brush Nib Markers: amzn.to/3QPAYkE
Journal Pen: shrsl.com/3q7pz
ADHESIVE:
Bearly Art Glue: amzn.to/3QWtPz4
Double Sided Foam Adhesive: shrsl.com/3pk6s
1/8” Double Sided Adhesive: shrsl.com/3pk6t
RECORDING SETUP:
Camera Mount- Arkon Pro Phone/Camera Stand:
--- amzn.to/37f2Hr9 [Amazon]
Lighting: Emart 60 LED Table Top Studio Light Lamps (2 count)
--- amzn.to/2wVxWIG [Amazon]
Vertical Lighting for my desk (2 count)
--- amzn.to/3prtbi0 [Amazon]
Microphone: Yeti Blue Microphone:
--- amzn.to/2UA9PYR [Amazon]
Some product links used are compensated affiliate links. I earn a small commission each time you click through and purchase the product(s) listed and note, there is no additional cost to you.

[@candyclouston1412]

When I use a jar of a water-based medium (e.g., polish or paste), I spritz with distilled water before closing it up again. If one is starting to soliddify but still somewhat malleable, I'll add quite a bit of distilled water and use a pokey tool to help distribute it and stir it. (I also keep a glass rod for that, which is very easy to clean, but not as good for poking holes.)

[@marypolancodesigns]

That is such a great tip; thank you so much!

[@lindaburnette2200]

Can you give the information on the glass rod you mentioned using?

[@DancesWifHooves]

Thank you for sharing, Candy! I will have to try this - mine is a different sparkle color than Mary's but the same issue. I haven't thrown it yet because I'm really upset I wasted that amount of money on something I only used once. :( I appreciate the tip!!!

[@alanbirkner1958]

Hi, I was given 2 stencils. So now I know plenty of ways to use them. Thanks. Tina, Al's wife

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wonderful! OH this makes me so happy! Happy creating!

[@ranamcmahon7653]

🥰 Everything is so stinking cute!!! Very nice. Your enthusiasm is infectious. 🤩🎉👻😉 Thanks for sharing 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much 😀 YAY That makes me so happy!

[@leannemitchem8865]

Awesome backgrounds and tips. Live the eyes on the ghosts. Your cards are great. The bat thanks card is actually my favourite. Thank you for sharing

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! I do love that bat one; especially with that cutie on the front!

[@laura12060]

I just saw Hocus Pocus for the 1st time last year and I am 62 years old, and my 6 grownup children had never seen it either. My granddaughter who is 13 loves it!

[@marypolancodesigns]

I really enjoyed it! Did you like it?

[@laura12060]

@@marypolancodesigns Yes and we plan on watching the 2nd one on Saturday night! cant wait

[@NitrosMom074]

Hi Mary! When I’m using multiple stencils with pastes/textures, I keep a shallow dish or “Tupperware” container that is big enough to hold the stencils and fill it half way with water. That way I just throw the used stencil in the water so it doesn’t dry and I don’t have to clean them until I’m done creating.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great tip! I've done that too and it's so much better; I was lazy today. lol

[@candiwelsh5524]

You are very un Mary! I really enjoy your channel. Great Tips. All the finished cards are great!! Love them. GOD bless you my dear👍❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! That's so kind!

[@lindaj.herzog7392]

Love your teaching so much! This is what I’m playing with this week! Good timing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh YAY that's so amazing! thank you for sharing this.

[@conniefossi1327]

I love these tips. A part 2 would be great as well. Love seeing your daughter doing her thing with you.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes it's on the list for sure. So many other ideas in my dome

[@roxanneklinger3828]

Loved the backgrounds and especially the way you finished them.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!

[@christineperez7626]

Mary,you are AMAZING!! Thank you for all of these ideas and demos! I love it!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you for this!

[@cindyellis765]

Such great tips and wonderful backgrounds. You are absolutely one of my favorites on You Tube. All your tips are user friendly, easy to do and budget conscious. You personality is so bubbly and friendly, I wish you were my neighbor.

[@eliagron8750]

Me too.😁

[@marypolancodesigns]

OMGoodness, Cindy! What a wonderful and uplifting compliment! Thank you so very much. I'm so grateful that you enjoy this space; I want it to be a soft place to fall for everyone.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much Eli!!!

[@stormyswann6177]

The colorful leaf background is beautiful

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so so much!

[@irishk.1041]

Just heard your comment about "like chemistry class - but more fun". I laughed out loud. Ask me just about anything about art things or gardening. ask me anything about chemistry things - you will get the deer-in-the-headlights look 🤣. ANYTHING is MORE fun than chemistry stuff. Love putting paste over top of an inked background and YES fall should be full of wonderous colors (the angle of the fall sun is priceless for gorgeous FULL colors of everything around us). Fall's late afternoon light is the best of the best in this artist's opinion. Haven't tried my tiny brushes yet (bringing in the winter firewood right now 😁). What about really sharp tipped colored pencils with stencils? I think that might really be fun??!! 🙃 Think I may try that to see how it goes. Glad to see your daughters' hands again too 🥰 Love your down-to-earth videos. they are fun, full of inquisitive experimentation. Plus, you let things "dry up" just like the rest of us 🤣😂You make my morning coffee fun. Look for you each morning. thank you for just being YOU.

[@marypolancodesigns]

OH this is just the best comment; thank you for filling my cup today with your encouragement and love. I'm so glad you're having so much fun with us here!

[@willandastephenson5909]

Brilliant 🤩! LUV your stencil ideas 😍! Thanks for sharing ! 😃💚👻🌹

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! 😊 That means so much to me Willanda

[@sharonrusso5601]

I always have great times making backgrounds, lots and lots of backgrounds. Very satisfying. Thank you for sharing.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for this encouragement!

[@glocat1963]

This was a fantastic video. I have several stencils but don't know how to use them that good. Thank you so much for sharing God Bless!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY so happy to read this. I appreciate you so much!

[@lizzystitch4842]

Mary, I REALLY needed your tutorial! Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! This makes me so happy thank you so much!

[@lorraine8037]

Awesome, Mary! Great tips!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much!

[@tamarakilford8766]

Hello from Manitoba Canada. Thank you for sharing these tips. 💗

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for being here!

[@111renees]

Mary, thank you for all of these great ideas. I always enjoy watching you create.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much for such a kind and encouraging comment. YAY

[@Muffysmom]

These are great cards, Mary. I love these tips. Thanks for sharing.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@MsShanarun]

Such a fun video! Fabulous cards!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!

[@billiedean5914]

Adorable cards! Thank you for the inspiration!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much, I appreciate that! 💛

[@suzanestrada293]

Hi Mary. Thanks for this video. I got those finger brushes when you first showed them. They are great. I love stencils and your tips are awesome. Your videos always make me smile. I look forward to your videos. Adding bottled water or distilled water and a few drops of glycerine seem to do the trick. The glycerine helps keep the contents moist. Also, cover the top of the jar with plastic wrap before putting the top on too.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this; such helpful tips and for the encouragement as well! Big hugs!

[@michelleweston2562]

Your cards are always amazing. I purchased a whole bunch of stamps, mica powder, I even got the ohhuhu 216 set. All thi I did because I wanted to start making cards to sell. Boy did I have an awakening, there are so many ways to make so many cards. I was ordering if you could share with me, and anyone else that wants to know, how do you do shading? I keep trying and practicing, but I'm not getting the look I want. As a side note, I wanted to join the air force, I took the test and passed but I couldn't even do reserves because I have a pin in my left knee. I admire that in you, and thank you for your service. I'm sorry it's so long but I felt the need to say and ask what I did. Thank you

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Michelle! I don't have too many tips for shading except to keep watching videos and keep practicing. You'll start to get a feel for what you like and what works best. I like to saturate the image with the lightest color, then fill in the shaded darkest colors, medium, light and then again if needed. I'm sorry to hear about the AF but all things work out as they should. You can always become an AF civilian if that interests you. There are lots of different jobs. I wish you all the best!

[@HeidiLilley]

I would love to see a video using the bullet tip markers (arteza) and how you can pick good blending combinations and how you color with them. I have a very heavy hand and I find that I go outside the line too much with the brush markers. Think about the idea please 🙏.

[@judyconstantino7035]

WOW, Mary! Amazing techniques! Looking forward to part Part 2. I LOVE anything direct-to-paper. Thanks for sharing you very creative ideas!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! That means a lot to me! Can't wait for Part 2 as well!

[@HeidiLilley]

I, too, would love to see a part 2 for this.

[@cherylcrenshaw6164]

Loved your tips. Thanks.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so so much!

[@kimjriley5463]

Very cute cards. Love all the ideas!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!

[@daynachristian8579]

Eeeeeeek! I can't wait to try these techniques. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY I love a happy squeal! Have all the fun!

[@tami1796]

Thank you for sharing your videos

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure Thank you so very much for being here!

[@mzp6620]

Fab tips, thank you! I love that pumpkin stencil..so cute!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! 😊 That seriously is the cutest thing ever!

[@MareeForman]

Thanks Mary. Great tips. I love stencils too. They are such good value. 💕💕💕

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yes they are! So much fun too!

[@reneeallen1118]

What great ideas. Thanks so much

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@lindahartman38]

What great ideas to make the most of stencils. Thank you for sharing them. I plan to try them all!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY Have so much fun!

[@rolliecrafts255]

Love it! Thanks!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@dsebby404]

These are all beautiful cards - you did a great job

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! These were so much fun!

[@brendaelainewaddell1682]

Mary, I love these stencil tips and tricks. Thanks so much. 😊🇨🇦

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@deanneharrall1241]

Thank you, I’m no longer in the dark on how to use stencils and stamp pads. Fantastic!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! YAY! Get to having fun. :)

[@dmbenjiwolf]

Your videos are amazing! This was such a great set of ideas - I am now looking at my stencils in a whole new way! Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay!!! I'm so glad it was helpful. Thank you for letting me know

[@angelitanelson]

Great tips and of course....AMAZING video! Thanks for sharing your ideas and creativity ❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! 😊 That means so much to me! YAY!

[@michelemonet7616]

Love this so much!❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!

[@cynthiatuczynski9491]

Great tips and wonderful cards. Thank you for sharing 🤗😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so so much! I appreciate that

[@artcreationsbydar]

I am really happy I found your video’s. I said it in my first time on your channel. You sound so pleasant and you really enjoy what you do! :) Good job! Love the cards! And tips. :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

OH thank you so much for this sweet and encouraging compliment. I really appreciate you!

[@madeleine4725]

Stunning backgrounds and cards. Really Mary, you completely nailed it. ❤

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate that so much!

[@caroleanderson1106]

Such cute cards, Mary! So glad your daughter likes to help.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!

[@leighgifford4050]

Oh yay!!! I’ve been searching this topic for the last couple days!!! Perfect timing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Perfect! I love when that happens! I hope it's been helpful

[@lawrenesolberg6118]

Wow, Thank You Mary. You are very creative and I appreciate the way you teach us how to stencil!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so very much! I appreciate you! :)

[@michelegourd5742]

HI Mary, So nice to see you again!!🥰 Great tips!! I need to get my stencils out !!! Hope you have a wonderful weekend🥰🥰🥰

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much Michele! YAY! It will be a crafty weekend for all!

[@janeastwick1418]

This is totally off topic but I want to say I loved AJs second video about flip books! I can’t comment because they are turned off but please let him know I loved it and he makes me smile and think happy thoughts, a lot! 🥰 Oh and your video was very helpful. I loved it too 😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay! Thank you! I will definitely tell him. He's SO excited about his videos and just begs me all weekend to get working on them. lol

[@janeastwick1418]

@@marypolancodesigns you have wonderful children and I hope one day to hear what great things as adults they are doing. Much love to all of your family. 😊

[@ea8435]

Wow Mary, you really stepped up all of those cards. They were amazing! Thank you for the inspiration and tips and tricks.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so very much for this; I enjoyed this process so much!

[@deballen7031]

Hi. Thank you for sharing another well packed winner of a video. Great tips and tricks and you have given me food for thought.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thanks so much for this feedback; I appreciate it so much, Deb

[@cherij9008]

Great tips!!!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks, friend!

[@lisapalmese7935]

Fabulous!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so so much!

[@pamsosnowski6575]

EVERYONE of your cards are AMAZING!!!! They are SPOOK-tacular!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay!! Thank you so much!!

[@suklinkner8684]

Great video!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you!!

[@nanag63]

Great video!!! Thank you!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much!

[@reneeallen1118]

The cards are soooo cute!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so so much!

[@Marilynlovesebiking]

Love these tips. The leaves! I love stencils so I really like this video. Thank you. I ordered the finger brushes via your link. Your cards are great.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so so much, that means so much to me

[@theresatomkins342]

Brilliant video, not into Halloween but food for though on how to use your ideas. Looking forward to part two..

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh good, so glad you took that from the video; I knew some don't make Halloween cards but I wanted the tips to be universal. YAY

[@ritamariacastillo8812]

Thank you for all you share, Mary, always useful. I have those finger blending brushes and I love them. A set for my dye inks and the other for oxides.

[@marypolancodesigns]

So smart to get 2 sets; Love that. THank you so much!

[@HeidiLilley]

I have the same, one for distress and one for dye ink. Love them.

[@crafterintherough]

Great fun!! ❤🎉😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you 🤗

[@marshah5930]

I loved the multicolor leaf stencil with the texture paste. I have made several versions of that card and of course I added glitter!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Wonderful! It was so so fun to see the final shimmery result. Thank you!

[@shirleydesrochers3319]

Your cards are wonderful!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much!

[@starrdustmemorieswithdiane934]

Very cute Mary!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you! 😊

[@gayle1055]

I love all these stencil tips, Mary. You always come up with great tips😈

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! That means so much to me! YAY

[@herhighness7845]

I love your ideas! One that I do often, if put Versamark Embossing Powder through my Stencil, after I spray my stencil with Pixie Spray. Once I remove my stencil,, I then use my mica poweder/ Perfect Pearls over the over that was covered with versamark. Looks incredible over dark blue or black paper!!!!. (Use a Swifer cloth to wipe off excess) I always spray with a little fixative once done

[@marypolancodesigns]

SUCH A great idea; I've done similar to that but that sounds easier than what I was doing. lol

[@alit8331]

Oh wow Mary, your videos are always so fun to watch!! Your cards are unique, festive and so adorable! I adore your stencil videos. Just hearing voice calms me and makes me smile. Thank you for sharing so many tips and tricks to get more out of our stencils. Have a very blessed day!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for this encouraging compliment; I truly appreciate this. It's my hope that you all feel this way when joining me so I am so grateful you told me this.

[@HeidiLilley]

Mary, these are the best tips for getting the most from your stencils. I am not home for the next few days, having a minor surgery tomorrow, but rest assured I'll be looking at every one of my stencils when I am able to sit down long enough to play with them. I absolutely love the fall leaves and pumpkin card, as well as the great way that you finished off the witches hat one. I have not tried the action wobbles before but the pumpkin card makes me want to try it. Thanks yet again for sharing your creativity. (Please keep me in your thoughts this week as I go through this surgery process). Hugs 🫂.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Sending all the love and healing energy your way, open your arms and accept it! :) Tell yourself every day how wonderful you feel and eventually it will happen! Big hugs

[@kraftymomma1979]

Thanks for the tips 😀

[@marypolancodesigns]

my pleasure!

[@kirriesummers5219]

I don't make Halloween cards, but these are delightful. The added dimension is such a great idea and one I can utilize on many different cards. Thank you for consistently showing me how to wow my cards. 💖🇨🇦💖

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! I"m so glad this was helpful for some additional tips. YAY!

[@kiminalaska9363]

Very cool video. Thanks

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much! I appreciate this!

[@carloshaun7297]

Mary, I first “met” (saw) you, during the Card Maker Success Summit. Since I discovered you, I have been watching your KZbin videos. I love stencils, but never seem to use them, so you’ve inspired me!!! Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh that's so kind, thank you so much for the encouragement!

[@moniquevann9950]

Simple but genius Thank u 💐

[@marypolancodesigns]

Most welcome 😊 Thanks for such a kind compliment!

[@melissazabower339]

The 2 fall cards are my favorites but that wiggly jack o lantern is so fun!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so much! YES I think I had a hard time deciding myself. lol

[@brianacpratt]

You made such great cards with the backgrounds Mary 💛.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much; this was so much fun to do.

[@pamspicer97]

Great cards!! I need to get some new stencils! Love the jack-o’-lantern card!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! Yes that one is my FAVE!

[@Janstroh1]

Fantastic cards :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks a bunch!

[@Kateseyes]

Wow, love these cards. I like to use my stencils too, but not always sure what to do with them. You gave me some great ideas that I never would have thought of! Especially outlining them and coloring them in, I really like that one. The pumpkin was my favorite. I Liked how you cut out middle one and popped it up. Great job.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much!

[@nancyglaspie6735]

These are great! I bought the mini blender brushes but, I haven't used them yet!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh they're the best! Thank you so much

[@clemonscrafts]

Mary this is so fun! I linked your video to my KZbin channel (it is rather small but hey it's the thought that counts)! I always encourage others to watch your videos! Thank you for teaching us all!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh thank you so so much; that means so much to me. YAY!

[@clemonscrafts]

@@marypolancodesigns 🤗You are welcome!🤗

[@kerriegood1046]

Hey Mary- great tips and really liked your finished cards. It sounded like you really had a lot of fun making the backgrounds and video. Happy Card Making Day!!!! Grateful for all your helpful tips.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! I really did have so much fun making them. I hadn't been in there in so long!

[@Janstroh1]

GREAT TIPS !!!!!!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so so much!

[@Janstroh1]

@@marypolancodesigns you’re so welcome 😉

[@lindameigs8330]

Fun fun fun!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay!!! Thank you so much!

[@Peggy2316]

Mary, I love all your cards!! Thanks for the great ideas!! 👻🎃👻

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much!

[@denisebilquin5975]

Mary you are the best! You always inspire me to have fun and I do need to work on NOT over thinking my projects - that is always my hold back. Have a fantastic day. Love Autumn, it is my favorite time of year. I love the colors and the crisp cool air. I do not send many Halloween cards but might send a few using your simple ideas! I think my great nephews and nieces will love a wobble pumpkin card!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are so welcome! And thank you for all the encouragement and kind words. I am so happy you liked the video.

[@christineschiebel2890]

I use a Cricut to make my stencil; however all your tips work perfectly for me. Just goes to show there are as many ways to create as your imagination allows. Thank you, loved the pumpkin card

[@marypolancodesigns]

OH absolutely I agree with you! It's just endless!

[@apaperpeace7564]

I really need to get back into embossing

[@marypolancodesigns]

SO MUCH FUN!

[@JoanOrloffDK]

Awesome tips and tricks Mary 🥰 I love your backgrounds, your amazing card designs and your tutorial ❤️ thanks for sharing your creativity Hugs xx

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much, Joan! Big hugs

[@wordscrafter]

Creating a pattern paper by outlining! What a fantastic idea!!! The finished cards are gorgeous, I love autumn leaves, so I'm kinda biased 😉. Btw, thanks a ton for creating the charts! I downloaded the 120 bullet ohuhu and it really does help! I think I saw one for pastels and skin tones and I'm going to go back and get that one, too 🙂. Thanks again for sharing all the tips and tricks ❤️❤️❤️.

[@marypolancodesigns]

OH this makes my heart so happy; thank you so much for taking the time to share all of this with me! :) YAY!

[@judyhyland682]

I just found you and subscribed 🎉😊

[@marypolancodesigns]

Yay!! Welcome. I'm so glad you're here

[@candiwelsh5524]

Fun😉

[@nicolalederer9517]

I bought these little finger brushes after your last recommendation: they are just great, good price and sooo pretty. THANK YOU for that tip ( I only regret that, being in Germany, I could not use your link :( but I still found them on Amazon). Kind regards, Nicola

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY so glad you got and love them. THey are amazing and I reach for them all the time

[@arashy]

GREAT tips (always)! Weren’t we having fun before you mentioned we should? 😆 Glitter🥰 paste🤩 The backgrounds were amazing but the finished cards were up another level!!! I thought about getting those finger blending brushes but was afraid the brushes would pouf and be difficult to reinsert into each other. I’ve been waiting for them to come in a clear boxed container with separators like the foam ones have. I’ve enjoyed spending time with you today! 😃

[@marypolancodesigns]

OH good call on holding off if that's a concern for the brushes. I don't even bother stacking them back onto each other for that reason. I have a little container from the Dollar Tree that I stick them in; no cross contamination ever happens. LOVE THEM

[@lauriekirk6192]

You can flip The stencil to the other side for multiple layers too.

[@marypolancodesigns]

LOVE THAT thank you!

[@HeidiLilley]

I was thinking of that as well when you were doing the bats. Just wipe off the stencil and turn it over.

[@andrealavigne7824]

I hope you had a very happy World Card Making Day, Mary! My SIL's birthday was (officially) last Thursday. Since Mama & I couldn't get together with them then then, as they both had to work, they decided yesterday (yep, WCMD) would be perfect! So, between the 5+/- hour round trip drive & about a 2-3 hour "linner" (like brunch, but lunch/dinner), I got zero crafty time yesterday. Sigh! It was nice to get together, of course, but still.... Maybe WCMD needs to be rescheduled away from her birthday. The funny thing is, for International Scrapbooking Day, which is the first Saturday in May, we had a Mother's Day celebration for our mom, because that's when we could all get together. So no crafting for me that day, either, though I did get in some shopping at a scrapbooking store where we were. LOL I may need to have a talk with my brother & SIL about what dates we need to work around! 🤣 Seriously, though, I love how your backgrounds & subsequent cards came out! A tip for DIY glitter gel. (And sorry, but dried-out paste/gel is just toast at that point.) If you don't have Pops of Color, you can always substitute water-based ink to color your glitter paste/gel. I have used Distress inks with great success. I assume Oxides & other dye or water-based pigment inks would work as well. I don't know about Versafine inks, as those are oil-based. I have even used metallic inks like the Delicata line. And if you don't have glitter gel, use artist's gloss gel medium (available at art supply stores or even Michael's and Hobby Lobby) & mix in glitter. I wouldn't recommend something like Mod Podge, though, as it's a bit too thin. It's vital to have GEL medium. Add ink if you want to color it, or none if you want it clear. You can actually use up quite a bit of glitter doing this, which I see as a plus. I would not recommend mixing more than you think you need, though, because I don't know if you can store it well. I've never tried anyway. At any rate, those are my tips for the day! Thank you for sharing all your tips, tricks, & cards. Hope y'all are doing well. Take care, & have an awesome day! :)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for such a sweet comment! I really appreciate you sharing all of this with me. I hope you get some crafty time in soon; you deserve it after all that travel. :)

[@hankejoosen4029]

🤩🤩🤩

[@kkrolf2782]

Hi Mary … at o.d. 5:16 you were working on the BATS Stencil. Maybe F L I P the stencil to achieve the less than “matchy matchy” look?

[@marypolancodesigns]

YUSSSS what a great idea; thank you so so much! YAY!

[@lauriewray8146]

The multi colored leaves is gorgeous!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you! That was my fave....well one of them. haha

[@1jannettec]

❤