Single Layer

What do you think when you first hear single layer? Do you think simple? Boring? Plain? Uninteresting? I hope this card proves that isn’t true.

The truth is something may look like a single layer, but upon closer inspection, there are depths you didn’t notice at first. This card is a perfect example. It is a single layer card. Only one layer of paper is used. But, there are multiple layers of ink that create depth, texture, and interest. So, is it really a single layer?

With a cake, you call it a single layer if the cake itself was only baked in one pan. Stack several layers together and it is no longer a single layer cake. But there could be depth and interest with something added inside or with layers of frosting a decoration. So, is it really a single layer?

And then there are people. No matter how simple someone seems or you think their personality is all laid out in front of you, there is always more waiting to be discovered. No one can be classified a single layer. Everyone has more depth and layers upon layers within to be discovered if we will only take the time.

White card with blue stripes. White arch in the center of the card with arched sentiment that says, "you are simply fantastic." Flower bundle with pink roses and other flowers and lots of green leaves is along right side of card.

Card Details

Do yo want to create a card using only a single layer of paper: But, you want it to still have interest and depth and texture? I want to help turn your crafting stress into success. Use masking and layering with stencils and ink blending.

Ink Blending with Stencils

My favorite coloring technique created this card. Ink blending with stencils. Layering stencils especially. I love how you can add the appearance of depth by even using the same color with the different stencils. Adding layers of the same color ink to parts of your image creates a realistic look by creating varying shades of the same color on an image. Or you can get creative using different colors with the different stencils. And the best part, once you move the stencil you have a gorgeous image and any “ink outside the lines” is left on the stencil, not on your card.

Masking

Another way to add depth and interest is with masking. Cut an arch out of masking paper and adhere it to the card before adding the stripes. Then, remove the masking paper and you have a clean, white, arched center. No good at cutting free hand shapes from your masking paper? Me either. That’s why I used a die from the Everyday Arches die set.

What did I learn creating a single layer card?
Single layer does not mean boring.

Click here to see and purchase products used to create this card.

Also used:
Seasonal Decorative Masks (retired)

Just Add Ink Challenge: Just Add a one layer card with stamping/stenciling
Challenge #766

Tic Tac Toe Challenge #278 photo of game grid — Tic Tac Toe made with left column: Stencil, Blue, Stripes

Image of text: "As you like it challenge
Show us your style!" — My current favorite coloring medium is ink blending with blending brushes and stencils.

TGIF Challenge #540
Beautiful Arches with photo of arch — Make sure you head over to #tgifc540, As You Like It Challenge: Favorite Coloring Medium, #tttc278, and Just Add Ink #766 to see the inspiration cards by the design teams and other creative entries.

This card was created for the Stampin’ Up! Only Challenge 384: Color Challenge. For this challenge, look at the inspiration picture and create a card using the colors you see. We’d love to have you join us and share your color inspiration cards. Please join us at SUOC384. This challenge is open through Sunday, September 14.