Paper Napkin Cards aren’t what they used to be. Have you ever used napkins or other frail papers in your art? Ever had the thinnest of papers fall apart on you? Tear as you separate them?
I’m just a girl (got gwen stefani stuck in your head now?) who LOVES that look you can get from a Gelli Arts® Gel Plate – (affectionately called Gelli Plate), a brayer, acrylic paints and a few stencils. Seriously – if you’ve never tried printing with a Gelli Plate, or used paper napkins on cards, keep reading…
I’m not talking about your everyday prints. I’m talking about those layered prints, that have the positive, negative and a whole lotta grungy colored goodness going on. So what in the world does that have to do with Paper Napkins you might ask? Well, let me start at the beginning…
Paper Napkin Cards
A few weeks ago I showed in this video exactly how I make cards quickly using the top layer of paper napkins. I always find paper napkin patterns that I LOVE. It’s become a little bit of an addiction. And forget about it around the holidays….that’s a great idea by the way…a stack of Christmas Cards made from an inexpensive pack ($3 for 80 focal images!) of Paper Napkins! It’s a no-brainer…
That video shows just how easy it is to make cards from a pack of paper napkins. Spoiler alert – they don’t even use adhesive to make the panels! Now you REALLY want to see how to make cards from paper napkins, huh?
Almost always, you’re only going to use the top layer for cards. That means that you are usually left with 2 blank layers unused. I told my youtube subscribers that I’d have some fun ideas for what to do with those left over layers, and that’s where we’re at today!
So, since today we’re making happy cards, I thought why not make THREE for you! The first two use layer 2 & 3 from the napkin – you know, the left over pieces.
I have a video coming on my youtube channel in the next few weeks, and you’re getting a sneak peek at the final projects. Are you a subscriber? If so, definitely tell me in the comments!
Here’s a little something to help you GET inspired and GET creating today with your gel plate.
If you want to know how to use one…I’ve got a great how to use a gelli plate video here and this one shows a fun multi layered print that showcases 11 ways to improve your card design.
The Prints
Now you’re going to need the unprinted layers from when you separated your napkin – it’s okay if they have some ghost imaging on them. I’m going to show you two ways of getting some COOL pieces for your cards and mixed media projects.
If when making your cards, you run up against needing an easy way to separate the layers, I have a way to do that. It’s quick, easy and works every time. And the video is only 2 minutes…even better:
CLICK HERE to watch in HD on YouTube
Now that you have your layers separated, our first two projects use white, plain, layers. This is perfect for those prints that still have a ghost image on them too.
Did you subscribe to my youtube channel? I post weekly videos on a variety of card making and mixed media projects. Hope you pop by!
For these two Paper Napkin Layers, you’ll need to create a fun pattern on your gel plate with whatever medium you want. I used a Gelli Arts® Gel Plate, a Brayer, Acrylics, stencils and items that create texture – like the above one – large bubble wrap.
Don’t leave your napkin down too long, pull your print right away. Be careful, as it’ll be wet and napkins can tear easily. This one below tore. To fix it, I adhered it next to each other. It ended up creating this cool torn look.
Notice the cool texture from the napkins? The pattern from the embossed edge? I’m telling you – it’s the COOLEST textured look.
And you don’t need anything complex for a sentiment. I used some go to sentiments like the ones from the stamp set Fluttering Friends.
Custom Gloss Spray Prints
For the third project, get a little creative and create your own papers – who needs to buy those?!! USE WHAT YOU HAVE. First up, try stamping with your favorite background image in archival ink on the napkin layers or tissue paper.
I had the need to be a little creative for about 20 minutes one day. Look at all these you can create! I used LOTS of backgrounds by Catherine Pooler, some Unity stamps (see those flying keys…love a good nod to Harry Potter) and a few other favorite stamps.
This way, when you need something interesting for a project, you have a cool stash. Best part, you’re using what you already have – doesn’t get better than that! Isn’t that cottage garden background by Catherine amazing!
For this project, I thought it would be fun to use one of my favorites (not pictured above) – Rondi’s Window Background Stamp. I love this background stamp. You can create some of the most gorgeous cards with this stamp. Now, I got a little creative here, and didn’t use a gelli plate! GASP!
Instead, I thought it would be fun to break out some of my new Dina Wakely Gloss Sprays and see how well they color fragile papers. Isn’t that tie dye effect just gorgeous?!! I love that hello die by Catherine Pooler, it’s the perfect compliment to backgrounds!
And speaking of the PERFECT compliment. Like those super THIN stripes? That’s the single best background stamp you could EVER own! It’s by The Ton and Effie outdid herself on that one. They are thin, perfectly thin and the best compliment to any background. Enough to hold interest, yet not steal the show.
Hope you enjoyed those!!
The Happy Hop
It’s been quite an interesting few months, and we all have been cooped up in our homes! A few companies decided that we all need a little joy and happiness.
Can you believe there are 146 stops on the hop – seriously…can you believe THAT?!! Crazy, right?
Be sure to hop on next to the incredibly talented Kevin Bray Here!
Happy hopping, be sure to subscribe to my youtube channel for weekly inspiration, and stay safe!
About Ingrid Blackburn
Ah, such a great use for some amazing napkins in my stash. Thank you! Also, I had a couple questions about classes but couldn’t find a contact page or email address.
Hi Beth! I’m so glad you loved that. It’s such a great technique. Feel free to email me at ingrid (at) thecreativegrove (dot) com. Sorry about that – I definitely need to add a contact form for sure! I’ll look for your email. 🙂 Ingrid
I LOVE napkin cards, but haven’t tried the gelli plate or the brayer on them. Very creative. All of your cards are beautiful. Thanks for a wonderful hop and the inspiration!
Wow Ingrid 🙂 I just got my first gel plate and need to get it out and play!!! Your cards are amazing! Thanks for in the inspiration 🙂
Awesome card and thanks for the great tips!
Beautiful cards, thank you so much for sharing 😊
I just love your cards. Thanks for sharing it. It gives me some inspiration. Please stay safe.
Fun techniques, thanks for sharing.
Amazing Ingrid, your techniques never cease to amaze me!
Cool techniques Ingrid. Time to play! Thanks for sharing!
It is always nice to see other peoples ideas; they challenge and inspire you.
These are really great designs Ingrid! I love your color choices too.
I always love the cards you create, these are no exception! Gorgeous! Love your techniques and colours.
Wow, super cool cards! I love your backgrounds and creative designs.
Thank you for participating in this excellent way to encourage stay-at-home! As always when I enjoy your content, I’ve learned something entirely new!
Wonderful cards! I’ve never made napkin cards but they are so pretty I think I need to buy some. A gelly plate and brayer are on my wishlist. I subscribe to your YouTube channel already. Thank you for sharing.
What a fun technique using the napkins. Thanks for sharing your talent!
Great ideas 🙂 Nice to see you on this hop, I am a YT subbie 🙂
Would love to see a video about the gelli plate with the napkins 🙂 like with the second card 🙂
Thank you Ingrid. Love the techniques and various media used on each card. The cards are are lovely!
Those background are so much fun. I love the motto “use what you have” I need to think about doing that more often. Thanks for sharing and inspiring today
Awesome cards. I would like to try the spray gloss,it looks fun and the colours are vibrant. Thanks for participating in this wonderful blog hop.
Very new to this idea and it looks like fun. Watched the how to separate the layers video and will be sure to watch more to understand the process.
Thanks for all the inspiration and ideas! Awesome cards! I am already a subscriber on your YouTube, but I just hit the notification bell too. I’ll be checking out the gelli plate and napkin ideas! Thanks for spreading joy along the hop!
Ingrid, you are the queen of mixed media, and your cards are gorgeous!
Wow! These are so fun and you’ve given me a lot more ideas on how to use my Gel plates and with using my Gel plates. Enjoyed your fun videos too! Thanks for spreading some joy today and being part of this amazing hop!
Wow!! These are really fabulous!! I’m definitely going to check out the first video. There really are some beautiful napkins out there and you’ve figured out how to use them all in such a great way!
Beautiful work! xx
Ooh these backgrounds are great! Thank you for sharing with us 🙂
Wow! Awesome cards! I loved your napkin videos- so cool! I need to give this a try!
Wow – you created those beauties with napkins????????? Awesome, thanks for inspiring!
Great cards and ideas Ingrid, I am a subbie, have not been watching many videos but will be by to check out some more of yours soon. Thanks
FABULOUS cards!
LOVE the colours and designs, SUPER EXCITED to see new-to-me techniques too 🙂
Thank You for sharing and INSPIRING!
Thank you so much for sharing how to use the gelliplate! I have seen it and wondered how in the world to use it?! So looking forward to trying it! Thanks for the wonderful video, and I am now subscribed to your blog and will enjoy learning!
WOW. you provided a whole lot of inspiration! Thanks so much.
This is an incredible share. Very creative and fun. Thanks for sharing
Wonderful colourful creations. Gelli plates are for sure the buzz word right now! Hugs, Wends xoxo
Awesome cards, interested in seeing more napkin card
WOW!
Oh what fun!!! Love the Gelli Plate works of art! You are so talented and am amazed!!
So creative, love this idea. Thanks for sharing.
I tried using a napkin one time – a long
time ago. Didn’t work out too well and
I haven’t tried it again. I’ll be
folowing your ideas and see if I can do
better. Great cards. thanks for
sharing. txmlhl(at)yahoo(dot)com
I didn’t know that I needed a gelli plate!!
thanks for sharing your amazing creativity – love the results – I need to have a go at this now!
Your cards are amazing. So many possibilities when using napkins. The background you created were fantastic and look so easy to do. Will have to try that, since we are under stay at home orders. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe.
Awesome cards! You always make mixed media look so easy. Thanks for the videos…
Wow!! What fun mixed media projects!! Fabulous!!
Oh cool, that’s something I have not seen before! Thanks for the inspiration and tutorial!
Great idea, and with such fab results!!
Your cards are gorgeous!!! I love your videos and can’t wait to watch this one<3<3<3 Stay healthy! Stay safe! Stay crafty!
I’ve used a gelli plate and I’ve used napkins on cards but never both of them and I am now a subscriber. 🙂
Love all these beautiful, colorful, fun cards. Great techniques.
Ingrid! You Rock! You really do! I subscribed to your Youtube videos about a month ago & I am loving your tutorials using the Gelli Plate. I’ve got one & am going to break out of my “safe & everything must be lined up just right” mode & give it a go, because I love the look of some of the altered art or mixed media that can be used for cards. Thank you so much!
Wow, such fabulous techniques!! I have seen the napkin technique and even found some napkins I liked to try this with. But of course, it is lined up with the other zillion projects I have. :). By the way, the lemon napkins, swoon!!!
lovely idea! thanks for sharing! will definately try it out x
Gorgeous creations, I watched your video & can’t wait for the next one! Awesome event to spread Joy during these uncertain times! Thanks for the chance to win!
Simply amazing!! perfect for this hop! Thank you to all who have come together!
Oh great…now I can start boarding pretty napkins now. Neat trick! I did not know there were 3 layers and explains a lot of my failed attempts. Thanks and be safe!
Thanks for enlightening me! Beautiful work!
Wow, these cards are great and really inspired me to play with my gelli plate. Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Great works of art! Thanks for the inspiration! I love my gelli plate, even though I’ve only used it once. LOL
Love your creative ideas and cards! I have followed you for a few years and love all your videos. They are fun to watch and teach us new techniques. Thanks for taking part in this fun blog hop and bringing smiles to us all. Now I have to find that gel plate among my crafty “stuff” and start creating myself.
thank you for sharing your creativity.
You are one uber creative gal. Thanks for sharing your awesome ideas and inspiration during this special event (as always).
Blessings,
Karen Letchworth
I love your inspiration and ideas Ingrid! So much fun and now I have to break out my sprays and try them. Beautiful job!
Gorgeous cards! Those backgrounds look amazing!
Wow, I have made things with napkins before, but I am intrigued to see how it is done without adhesive! You are always so creative, Ingrid! 🙂
Wow!! I marked you to come back to, want to learn more!!! Thank you for sharing!!!
Gelli plates are a mystery to me so it was fun seeing how you use them. Very vibrant cards!
Thanks for sharing I will be looking you up to learn more 😊
Love my hello plate and your cards here!!
What a neat idea!
this are really cool cards! fun technique
Wow, you’ve showcased some really neat techniques! Thanks for sharing your tips and tricks!!
This is pretty popular right now. I should start buying cute napkins. Thanks for your ideas.
Wow, great technique
Those are Beautiful. Going over now to make sure I am subscribed.
Those are all fabulous!
Beautiful cards, thanks for sharing!
Very different and good use of on hand items.
So many fun ideas here! Thank you for sharing your creativity and videos on how to do them all.
Fantastic cards! Thank you for sharing the techniques.
Cheryl
http://shestamps.blogspot.com/
Love your cards! Thanks for sharing!
Amazing cards and loved the different techniques.
So cool using plastic wrap as adhesive!
So much fun learning a different technique
I totally want to play with a gellie plate! Looks like so much fun
Lovin those backgrounds!!
Wow, Tou are so creative and artsy. I have made a few cards using tissue paper. It’s fun to work with. Thanks for sharing!
great idea. Thanks for sharing your inspiration.
Hugs
Ute
DT Whimsy Stamps
Such awesome cards!!! Cool technique! Thank you for sharing!
I like your last card the best!! You always create some fun and unique backgrounds and textures! You are not just a card maker but truly an artist!
These are beautiful! What a great technique! Thanks for the inspiration!
Love these gorgeous prints!!
Wow, so happy I found your blog! I recently played with my first napkins, your have made it even more interesting. Love your creativity – excited to join your Youtube Channel!
Always awed by your creations, Ingrid! So great seeing you on this hop! Miss you! ♥
Love your work! Absolutely stunning results!
Wow, these are incredible! I’ll never look at paper napkins the same way!
These are amazing. You have taken paper napkin cards to an all new level. I love your work and admire your creativity!
Very nice techniques. TFS
Such a cool idea! I’m going to have to try this!
I have made many napkin cards but only use the pretty top layer! I do subscribe to your channel and enjoy your videos!
OMG! I have never done this! I have to try! These are stunning!
I am following you Ingrid, my talented artist!!!
Omg these are incredible
Super cool! I have never tried paper napkin cards before; now I am inspired. Thanks!
adorable cards! love it!
Vivi
Awesome cards!
I’m totally a YouTube subscriber. I always look forward to your videos. I really need to try using my Gelli Plate and I think I need to try the whole napkin thing!
i have thought about using napkins on cards, but not in this way, great idea thanks
Cool technique! Love these cards!!!
Funtabulous creations! I love what you’ve created here and I’ve played with those gloss sprays! I have to say that I love them!! 🙂 TFS!
I haven’t tried this concept yet. I will definitely try it out. Gorgeous cards.
Fun cards — I especially like the rainbow one.
I bought my gelli plate after watching some of your wonderful videos. Great cards and so fun. Thanks for helping to spread joy.
they look like super fun projects. lovely cards
beautiful cards
Great technique!
Cute, thanks for thinking of us and sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it Sheila!! 🙂
such fun inspired to get out my geli plate – TFS
Happy printing Gail! Thanks for popping by. 🙂
Cool cards!! I totally need to try that technique. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
TONS of fun. 😉
I love the bright colors of these cards–it does put a smile on my face! Thanks for participating!
Thanks Barbara – glad you enjoyed it! 🙂 Thanks for popping by.
Thanks for showing completed cards using your backgrounds. I have a lot of fun making them, but sometimes get stuck pulling the card together. And those gloss sprays! 🤩
I know, right?! SO much fun. Thanks for popping by. 🙂
Very cool!
Hi Avra! Glad you enjoyed them. 🙂
Awesome cards
Thanks Kathy! Hope you enjoy the hop. 🙂
These cards are really fun! I really want to try these gloss sprays. Will be waiting for the video to see the full process.
There is Denise. I filmed it a week ago, it’s massive footage so is in the editing process. I have some gel printing videos coming first – one later today! Thanks for popping by the blog – have fun hopping!! 🙂