Galaxy Backgrounds Tutorial

Galaxy backgrounds are a fun way to play with your Distress Oxide Ink. They can be used on masculine or feminine cards depending on the base colours you use. In this masterclass, I have used more feminine colours to give a pink/purple/blue undertone to the galaxies, but you can mix it up and try a yellow/orange/red version or even green/blue/yellow to produce striking results. You can co-ordinate the base colour scheme to the recipient’s favourite colours too.

My preferred method to create a galaxy background is to start with a watercolour base coat of the vibrant colours. Once dry, use an ink-blending tool to add deep blue Distress Oxide Ink and black Distress Oxide Ink to re-create the darkness of a galaxy. Using regular Distress Ink instead of Black Soot Distress Oxide Ink creates the translucent effect – this means you don’t completely obliterate the bright colours beneath the surface, just tone them down a little. I also like to add three layers of stars; this adds more depth to the background.

My biggest tip for this masterclass is to leave the galaxy backgrounds to dry for 48 hours before attempting to heat-emboss onto them. You can dry them using a heat tool but letting them dry naturally really helps to ensure there is minimal moisture left in the cardstock. It is also a good idea to use an anti-static tool before heat-embossing to ensure you get a nice crisp embossed impression.