I held a technique class recently and we made two cards using the Joy fold and the Free as a Bird stamp set. In addition to the measurements and instructions that I’ll attach to this post, I have some tips for you on using your Silicone Craft Mat to create reverse images. Let’s start with the single reversed image card.
Flipped and Folded
For this card, I used Mint Macaron, Blushing Bride and Whisper White cardstock along with the Garden Lane DSP. The birds on the branch are designed with the branch end on the left. I wanted it on the right so that when you open the card, it’s on the anchored side. The Blushing Bride flap opens opposite to a typical card. To reverse the image, I stamped it on my Silicone Craft Mat using Early Espresso. You want to use a pretty juicy ink pad for this because technically you’re stamping the image twice.
Then I flipped the mat over and gently placed it on my Whisper White cardstock. Some tutorials tell you to rub the image. I found that this left smears and I wasn’t happy with the results. So, I recommend a tapping action. Tap all along the image making sure the ink transfers completely. I finished the front of the card by coloring in the blossoms and leaves with Stampin’ Write markers and added some leftover Paper Pumpkin enamel hearts.
Here is the inside of the card that shows how it opens.
Kissing Images
For the next card, we used the same exact fold but with Crushed Curry and Balmy Blue card stock and some Perennial Essence DSP. The birds are stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black Ink and colored in with Stampin’ Blends.
Some tips for this reverse image. Stamp the reversed bird first. If it doesn’t come out right you can turn the paper over, nothing lost. Also, it’s easier to line up the stamp when directly stamping so you can get the birds placed exactly as you want them. Finally, consider using a second-generation stamp (stamp off once on scrap paper) so that the intensity of the black ink on both birds is similar. I finished the card with some washi tape instead of ribbon, but use what you have in your stash.
You can also use this reverse technique to make the images appear like a reflection by flipping the images on the horizontal axis, instead of the vertical, like is shown here.
Joy Fold Measurements and Card Assembly Instructions
Let me know if you try this fold or technique. I would love to hear how it worked for you.