How To Start
This technique can be done on single images or larger multi-image Shadow Stamps. Pick which stamps you would like to use. I particularly like the small Shadow Stamps (such as B1918 Background IV and E2290 Small Fluted Block), as well as the large composites (like H2069 Screen Solid and S2057 Super Background of Twelve Solids).

Next, the trick to a water color effect is using a fine mist spray bottle with water (distilled for acid free, archival) which allows the colors to flow together slightly and to lighten the stamped image. Finally, pick your color spectrum. Ink cubes work best for tighter color balance, but all sizes may be used to achieve beautiful results. A stamper may apply as many colors to one stamp as they wish. I have found that two to three colors work best.

Choose about six complimentary ink colors for the project, and change color applications as you go. For example, use Topaz, Cinnamon, Paprika, Amethyst, Green Tea and Sand. Choose two colors out of the six, like Topaz and Green Tea, go through the steps below, clean stamp, and then use two other colors such as Paprika and Cinnamon.

Color Blending on Your Stamp
Once you have selected your stamp and ink colors, you can start making cards.

For a single image Shadow Stamps (see leaf card):

1. Gently dab ink pad diagonally to one corner of the stamp.

2. Apply a second color to the opposing corner, slightly overlapping of the first color is fine. (Apply more colors as you like.)

3. Once done, spritz the stamp once or twice with water, holding the spray bottle away from the stamp about one foot.

4. Stamp on any matte (non-glossy) card stock or water color paper. Wipe stamp with a paper towel and repeat steps one through four until a desired effect is achieved. Overlap each image or leave as a single image.

5. Since water was used, the paper has a tendency to buckle. Place it between two sheets of paper in a book until completely dry and flat.

For multi-image Shadow Stamps (see tulip card):

1. Apply lightest color pigment ink randomly onto rubber stamp.

2. Apply a second more intense color in areas not inked by first color, leaving areas for a third color application.

3. Fill in areas not covered with a third color, slight overlapping is desired. (Apply more colors as you like.)

4. Once done, spritz with water and stamp onto paper.

5. Place in a book to dry flat.

Ink Tips
Now that you have tried it, remember that different inks give you varied results. The key is to know the properties of your inks. Here are some tips.

Shadow Ink dye colors lend particularly beautiful results using the blending technique. These inks are very versatile as they do not dry on the stamp. I have found that the longer they sit on the rubber, the softer the look (no bubbles). Different color intensity can be achieved depending on the paper used. Glossy paper allows the image to appear a bit darker than matte paper, although drying time takes slightly longer.

Multi-color stamp pads work great to achieve a blended effect, plus provide a wide spectrum of color. Water may be used to dilute the color, following the steps above.

Water-based markers can be used as a "make it yourself ink pad" by scribbling onto vellum, then spritzing with water dabbing the stamp in, then stamping on paper card stock. The colors remain bright and vibrant.

Pigment Inks (VersaColor, ColorBox, Encore, etc.) often give the most richness in color. While dye pads often soak into the paper once stamped, and thus lighten slightly over time and sometimes even "feather," pigments remain rich. However, pigments do not work well on glossy papers, unless embossed.

Blending colors on Shadow Stamps using Shadow Ink and other inks is a wonderful way to create unique cards. The key is to experiment and have fun!