Weeks of Wonder: Random Stamping

Random stamping is truly a classic favorite way to use stamps. The technique can turn any plain cardstock into a work of art with verve, flair, and whatever color combination you desire. You can mix and match stamps from different sets to boost a trendy look and convey your theme perfectly.

And here's the secret to perfect random stamping: try to work in clusters of three and create some visual triangles with your stamped images. This will give balance and variety. You'll also want to rotate your stamp images if you're repeating the same image—like a flower, for example—so that the result looks more organic and natural rather than automated or mechanical. You'll also want to stamp right off the edges of your base paper as you randomize, so that some images are partial (life doesn't color within the lines, and your stamping should imitate life!) If, once you've finished stamping your "triangles," you perceive that anything is off balance or you have any odd spaces, you can always fill them in with smaller stamped images later.

On the Happy Easter card, the background was stamped using the subtle color Crème Brulee, then, using the same image, a "pop" of color in Sunset really makes a perfect posy anybody would love. Another fun way to use the technique is to create your own Background and Texture paper using the guidelines I've already provided. You can use the technique on a full sheet of cardstock and then simply cut whatever pieces you need for your project, which is exactly how the "He Is Risen" card was created. (The small squares with Grey Wool florals are all cut from a larger piece of random stamped cardstock.) Also, check out the unique sentiment paper on this card, created by simply stamping the sentiment repeatedly on the paper using first and second generation stamping.

The mini album uses a really updated random stamp look—working with wholly disparate images. It looks great and the unusual color combination is funky and new. As you perfect your inner random stamping diva, also try a couple of other hints, specifically:

• Start in the top left corner of your project and radiate out and downward for best balance.

• Select stamp images of different sizes and "heft." You should have three "weights": a large, medium, and small image to be aesthetically pleasing.

• Start stamping with your largest image(s) first, working to fill in spaces with your smaller images

• Feel free to layer stamped images over one another for a natural, textured look (I find it's easiest to start with lighter colors first, and work to darker colors, but color can be applied using your personal preference.)

• Have a blast!