Lea's Little Christmas Tree

For this image Lea has used a technique known as "Direct to Rubber." See how the tree looks as though she has hand painted it rather than using a stamp? That is the beauty of this technique! By using a solid rubber stamp, adding color and shading directly to the image before you stamp it, you are treated to a light watercolor effect that is very different from a starker stamped image.

Want to know how to make your project look even better? Well here is a tip from Lea herself on how to use this technique to the fullest!

"Direct to Rubber is a technique that I love to use. It gives me the freedom to change and manipulate images based on the look and feel that I want. To get the best image I always lightly spritz my stamp with Copic's blending solution right after coloring. This adds back any moisture that may have evaporated as I worked. Then, once the image is damp I immediately stamp it. The result is a watercolor effect that I love!"

Also, keep in mind that it is important that you use the Copic Blender Solution and NOT Ranger's. The Ranger solution has resins in it that can really mess up your lungs. To use the Copic Blender Solution hold the stamp out away from your body and spritz. You will be thrilled with the unique the results!

Personally, I love how Lea has used her Spica pens to add a little bling to her tree! The sparkling decorations give it that final touch and makes it "Pop!" I just got my very first set of these pens, and I love them so much that I am often tempted to color my own walls. They give a subtle sparkle that is classy and fresh all at the same time.

If you have any questions for Lea about this project or about Direct to Rubber stamping, just ask! I am sure that she would love to help!

Lea's Little Christmas Tree was created using the following products:

• Copics - YG67, YG63, E35
• Copic Spica - Mint, Garnet
• Copic Blending Solution in a Ranger Mini Mister

These products can be purchased directly from Cutters Creek by clicking here!

Thank you Lea for another great project! Now, I'm off to go try this technique!