To paint embossed paper effectively, the technique involves lightly going over the top to hit the highlights of the raised areas. This method allows the paint to catch the texture and emphasize the embossed design without filling in the recessed areas.
Understanding the Technique
Painting embossed paper often focuses on making the raised pattern stand out. Instead of applying paint conventionally to cover the entire surface, a common approach is to selectively apply paint to the peaks of the embossing. This is particularly useful when you want the base paper color or texture to show through in the valleys.
As noted in the reference clip, you can "go over this and just kind of lightly. Hit the highlights you miss with the ink or with this kind of paint." This indicates a method where paint is applied with a light touch, skimming the surface to deposit color only on the uppermost parts of the design.
The Highlight Method
This technique is similar to dry brushing. Here's how it generally works:
- Load the Brush: Dip your brush (often a stiffer brush works well) into a small amount of paint.
- Remove Excess Paint: Wipe off most of the paint onto a paper towel or scrap surface until the brush is almost dry. You want just enough paint to transfer to the texture, not soak the paper.
- Lightly Go Over: Using a very light touch, brush the surface of the embossed paper. Brush in various directions to ensure you catch all the raised areas. The idea is to "lightly go over the top" so the paint adheres only to the peaks and raised textures.
"As you just lightly go over the top it'll" catch the texture, creating a highlighted effect that makes the embossed pattern pop.
Getting Started: Materials
- Embossed Paper: Your patterned paper.
- Paint: Acrylic paints, craft paints, or even some inks can work depending on the desired effect and paper type.
- Brush: A stiff-bristled brush is often easiest for catching highlights. A flat or round brush can work, but avoid very soft brushes.
- Paper Towels/Rag: For removing excess paint from the brush.
Tips for Success
- Start Light: Always start with very little paint on your brush and a light touch. You can always add more layers if needed, but it's hard to remove excess paint that has gone into the valleys.
- Experiment: Try brushing in different directions relative to the embossed pattern. Sometimes brushing against the direction of the texture helps catch the edges better.
- Layer Colors: You can use this technique with different colors or finishes (like metallic paints) over a base color or the original paper color for interesting effects.
- Practice: If you have scrap pieces of the same embossed paper, practice the technique there first to get a feel for how much paint and pressure to use.
By applying paint lightly to the surface, you can effectively highlight the raised areas of embossed paper, enhancing the tactile and visual appeal of the design.
