Coloring with Pastels is a Hoot!

I know I'm probably the last person in the scrapbook world to actually do this, but I just recently discoverd how fun it is to color stamped images with pastel chalk. What is so unbelievable is that I have owned pastel chalks for about 3 years. I have tried to color things in the past, but using Q-tip type applicators never did the trick for me. In my previous crafty-life, I was an avid watercolorist, and loved the fine tips on expensive watercolor brushes. I could get color in the tiniest places with one of those brushes. So - I quickly abandoned using chalks. That is until recently.

I recently got my hands on a Stampin Up blender pen, and with a little instruction, I learned that you can use the blender pen just like a watercolor brush. Boy, was I excited to try this. Now, the technique doesn't look exactly like watercolor, and the chalk technique gives an imperfect look, but with all the distressing I do - it suits me just fine.

I made some step by step photos to show you how easy it is. Even tho most of you probably already know this, maybe you can just smile and say "Atta girl" as you read.

You will need:
-Chalk Pallete
-Smooth Cardstock
-Stamps
-Dye Ink
-Stampin Up Blender Pen



Stamp your image on cardstock.



To color, dip the end of the blender pen into chalk cake.



Apply directly to your stamped image. Apply more chalk if you want the color to be more saturated. For less color, scribble your blender pen on scrap paper until desired tint is achieved.






To clean the tip before changing colors, scribble on scrap paper until pen no longer shows color when used.

That's it!! This is so simple and gives the effect of watercolor quick and easy.

I trimmed my stamped image and used it on this card.



Supplies: Owl Together Now Stamp Set; Very Vanilla and Craft Cardstock, Bella Rose Designer Patterned Papers, Chocolate Chip and Riding Hood Red Ink, Stampin Pastels, Baja Breeze Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Blender Pen (All from Stampin Up). Other Supplies: Button, Candle Wicking Thread, and Martha Stewart Border Punch

And, well, I couldn't stop creating. I had to make another card.



Supplies: Owl Together Now Stamp Set; Very Vanilla Cardstock, Bella Rose Designer Patterned Papers, Chocolate Chip and Old Olive Ink, Stampin Pastels, Blender Pen (All from Stampin Up). Other Supplies: Button, Jute, Martha Stewart Border Punch, Worldwin Cardstock, Cricut Die Cut Tag

What I like about this technique is the ability to color my images but not have them screaming "look at me". I love markers, too, but sometimes I want the color to be more subtle without having to purchase all the various colors and hues in the marker world. I like the ability to apply the color soft and muted..... pastel and chalky - just like their name.

I hope you have been inspired today. For those of you going "You are just now learning that technique" - well, maybe you have some secrets you can share with me. I'll all ears. Have a wonderful day and thanks for stopping by.