Set-back stamping is where stamped images are set back inside co-ordinating die-cut apertures, which are raised using craft foam for added dimension. As crafters we love to make the most of our supplies. This technique is a really great way to get more from your stamps and co-ordinating dies, and enables you to showcase stamps in a different way.

Start by selecting your choice of stamps and planning where to print them onto white cardstock. You then stamp these images in the same place onto your top panel of cardstock or patterned paper. It is recommended to use a stamping platform for this to help with positioning the stamps but this is not essential. These stamped images are used to a guide for cutting out the apertures using the co-ordinating dies.

To add dimension, you will then need to place craft foam onto the reverse of this panel. Alternatively, you could use 3D foam pads, however, craft foam will give a much smoother finish. In order to cut the apertures from the foam in exactly the correct place, position the aperture panel on top and mark inside the opening with pencil using these marks as a guide.

Almost any stamp sets with co-ordinating dies could be used for this technique which means it can be adapted to suit many different occasions. For added interest, the top panel can be cut from patterned paper or into different shapes. You can also add detail to the stamped images using gems, pearls or touches of glitter.

1

Cut a 13cm square of white cardstock and place it inside the stamping platform. Position a flower stamp in the centre of the panel and a leaf stem in the corner then stamp onto the panel using black ink

2

Remove the flower stamp from the platform. Rotate 90° and stamp the leaf onto the same panel. Repeat for each corner. Reposition the flower over the stamped image and press it onto the top plate of the stamping platform

3

Layer a 12.5cm square of white cardstock onto a 13cm square of green cardstock. Follow the instructions from Step 2 to stamp an identical design onto the panel. Stamp ‘Happy Birthday’ in the top-left corner. Using the stamped images as a guide to cut out apertures with the co-ordinating dies

4

Place the panel over a 12.5cm square of craft foam and mark the position of the apertures with a pencil. Use the pencil marks as a guide to cut apertures from the craft foam then attach to the reverse of the aperture panel

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