Bandana Technique – Quick & Easy Technique

The bandana technique was inspired by a video I saw on You Tube featuring the head instructor for Ranger Industries.  It uses a white gel pen, and is so easy! I know a lot of stampers have commented that they don’t really like using Stampin’ Up!®‘s Signo White Gel Pen because either it skips or doesn’t work well.  Well, I’ve picked up a couple of tips worth passing along that will soon change your mind and make the gel pen a well-used tool.

First of all, do not press hard when using the pen-it requires a light touch to get the ink to flow properly.  I barely touch the surface of my card stock, and it worked really well.  Also, if it seems to not work, try shaking it like a thermometer or dip it into warm water.  Try scribbling on a piece of scratch paper to get the ink flowing.  Be sure to cap the pen promptly so it doesn’t dry out-it dries quite quickly. 

Basically, to execute the technique you’ll want to use stamps that feature line drawings, doodles, flairs and flourishes, and dots or other graphic.  Also use black or dark ink in order to achieve the best contrast.  SU!®’s Classic Black ink® works well with the technique.  Feel free to add your own doodles and designs to fill in blank space.  Most of all, have fun with it!

Materials:

Stamps:

Time Well Spent

Polka Dots & Paisley

Paper:

Only Orange card stock

Basic Black card stock

Ink:

Classic Basic Black

Accessories:

Signo White Gel Pen

Black Stampin’ Write Marker®

black gingham ribbon

Photo Corner punch

Double Rectangle punch

Directions:

1.  Randomly stamp image on card stock using black or dark ink.

2.  Accent stamped images with white ink.

3.  Add free-hand dotted patterns, swirls, or other designs if desired.

Have fun, and thanks for looking!