Ink Pad Dragging Technique on Embossed Paper

Learn how to use the ink pad dragging technique to add color to embossed card stock. And I have two different ways you can use this technique in your cardmaking. The cards feature the Gorgeously Made Dies, Timeless Charm Bundle and the Quatrefoil Embossing Folder from Stampin’ Up! However, keep in mind you can use any supplies you have on hand with this technique.

Ink Pad Dragging

First let’s talk about the technique. Start by choosing the ink color(s) you would like to use. I chose to use Berry Burst and Night of Navy as these are some of the colors in the Masterfully Made Designer Series Paper. However, any color will work. Next, choose the embossing folder you would like to use. I recommend choosing a folder with a very detailed design such as the Quatrefoil embossing folder. This will ensure the raised parts of the embossed paper will pick up the ink and you will have minimal ink in between the raised design.

Once you have the ink and embossing folder, you are ready to start the technique. Start with a 5-1/2 x 4-1/4 inch piece of white cardstock. Emboss it with your favorite embossing folder. Open up your ink pad and turn it upside down so the ink pad is facing down. Position the ink pad on an angle above the embossed cardstock. Lightly drag the ink pad across the embossed cardstock. Do not apply pressure, just drag it. You can repeat this dragging process until the raised areas of the embossed cardstock are covered with ink. Be sure to watch the video to see the ink pad dragging technique in action!

I recommend starting with a large piece of embossed cardstock to help you get the hang of this technique. You can always cut pieces down when it comes to creating your cards.

Partial Ink Pad Dragging

The last couple of card ideas feature a partial ink pad dragging technique. Instead of applying ink across the entire piece of embossed paper, simply drag it across a portion of the paper. This first card showcases the ink pad dragging technique on just the right side of a 5-1/4 x 4 inch piece of embossed white cardstock. Notice how it highlights the embossing and almost looks like patterned paper!

The second card features the partial ink pad dragging straight down the center of the embossed white cardstock. It does take a little practice and I definitely did not always drag the ink pad straight! The first card turned out perfect! It was a straight ink drag. The second card was a crooked drag so I simply added some other elements to make it appear straight. So don’t get discouraged!

Tutorial & Supplies

Now you have two different ways to use the ink pad dragging technique in your card making. For a complete list of supplies and all the step-by-step instructions for completing these cards, feel free to download the printable tutorial.