Instructions:
Paper casting is a centuries-old technique that can produce fresh, elegant, and unique cards. The process of paper casting involves creating a "cast" or a mold of a stamp image using nothing more then household tissues, glue, and water.

The raised portions of the casting show the beautiful details of the stamps you select. The casting can be left bare for a white on white appeal, or colored with chalks, pigment powders, watercolors, or other color applications. The solid design of Rainbow Blossoms (LL840), Pastel Petals (LL841) and Flower Blocks (LL842) make casting easy without the need of a mold.

To Start
Pour a bit of white glue about the size of a nickel into a disposable cup. Add approximately 2 oz. of water. Mix well. Tear or cut eight pieces of plain white (wrapping)tissue paper 1/2 inch larger than the perimeter of the stamp to be used.

With rubber side up, lay down two or three sheets of tissue to cover the image, dip the stencil brush into the mixture, then pounce onto the tissue. The brush will push the tissue into the crevices of the stamp. Make sure all areas of the tissue become wet but not soaked. Repeat this process layering and pouncing until all pieces of the tissue are used.

Removing The Cast
Invert the stamp onto a flat surface, use the stencil brush to pounce around the outer edges to flatten. Gently remove the stamp, and allow to dry overnight. The casting may look curled once completely dry, but flattens when mounted to card stock.

Finishing
Tear or cut around the edges and mount to card stock as in the example above. Color can be added once the cast is dry as in the example below.

Variations to this technique are endless. Try using a small amount of colored tissue (layer 2 or 3) to create a pastel look. For a washed out look, apply a small amount of pigment ink on the stamp before the casting process.

Making a Mold
Creating a simple mold for detail stamps is easy using thick Fun Foam. Heat the foam with a heat tool as per manufacturer’s directions, press the stamp into the foam while warm, let cool, and remove the stamp. Follow the instructions for casting above.

Additional Info:

Tip: Wrinkles are a natural part of casting and add character to the finished piece.

Glue is recommended when using wrapping tissue, as it is smoother than other houshold tissues. Mount your finished cast with brads, eyelets, or ribbon to assure the layers of paper will not loosen.

Make several casts for later use.

Suggested Materials:
white glue
small stencil brush
tissue paper
Rubber stamps, particularly LL840 and LL841