Rusty Grunge with Distress Watercolor Cardstock | Seth Apter Embossing Folder and Die Techniques

Have you seen Tim Holtz’s recent demo with the new A5 embossing folders? (If you missed it you can check it out HERE.) I was so inspired by the texture and techniques he shared that I had to try them out myself and in doing so have put together a 3-part video series I'm calling Rusty Grunge 3 Ways—Bold Texture. Moody Color. Endless Possibilities.

In this series, I’m putting my own spin on the grungy, industrial techniques Tim shared using Seth Apter’s new embossing folder and dies, along with a few of my favorite Tim Holtz supplies.

Rusty Grunge with Distress Watercolor Cardstock by Juliana Michaels featuring Seth Apter Embossing Folder and Die Techniques

First up, we’re kicking things off with Distress Watercolor Cardstock — and as you know, this is my favorite paper to use when it comes to mixed media!


WHAT TO EXPECT

In this first video, I’m walking you through how I created a bold, rusty background full of layered color and rich texture as well as the grungy embellishments using:
  • Distress Watercolor Cardstock
  • Seth Apter’s New Embossing Folder Dot Matrix
  • Distress Oxide Sprays
  • Distress Spritz 
  • Distress Archival Ink 
  • Embossing Powder
  • and a technique inspired by a recent demo by Tim Holtz


But I didn’t stop at the background — I’ll also show you how I finished the card using Seth Apter’s new die sets along with a favorite Tim Holtz die to create coordinating embellishments that bring the whole look together.

WATCH THE VIDEO 

Check out the video and the rusty grunge techniques I'm sharing below or you can watch it on my YouTube channel HERE


RUSTY GRUNGE 3 WAYS 

This is just Part 1 of my Rusty Grunge 3 Ways series. In the next two videos, we’ll explore: 
  • Metallic Kraft Stock for an industrial rusty metal effect
  • Kraft Stock for a deep, earthy patina look
Check out the entire Rusty Grunge Playlist HERE


 

So what do you think of this technique using Distress Watercolor Cardstock? Would you try this look yourself? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments — or tag me on social if you give it a try!

SUPPLIES

Below you can find the supplies I used to create this card and the swatches. When you shop through those links and whether you purchase that exact item or something else entirely, you’re supporting me at no extra cost to you. The commission I receive helps me cover the costs of my blog and other expenses, and allows me to continue to provide you with FREE inspiration and tutorials. If you want to learn more about what an affiliate link is, you can see my full affiliate and product disclosure statement here. Thank you so much for your love and support!

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HUGS!
JULIANA

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