These are the step by step directions for reverse masking. Obviously this can be done with any stamp set and in various shapes. This particular tutorial uses Lovely As A Tree with an oval.
Step 1
Cut your mask. For ovals or circles I use the Colluzle as seen here. I used Vellum Card Stock because it is a little heavier than vellum paper but you can still see through it. You will also see a mask created using card stock. *Note: The yellow card stock behind the mat allows me to see the vellum a little bit better. The colors on the Colluzle were created using permanent markers.
Step 2
Notice in this next picture that I like to make my mat larger than the image I am stamping on to avoid getting ink anywhere else on the card that I might not want it. You will need a sponge and an ink pad. You can also use a sponge dauber but I prefer the sponge. Hold your mat in place and with an inked up sponge you drew fromt the stamp pad use swirling motion to apply ink around the endge of the mat. I like to leave the inside blank to create a little more depth.
Step 3
With the mat still in place ink up the background row of tree with the Old Olive ink. Stamp off on scratch paper then stamp directly over the mat. You will want to press a little bit harder than normal since you are stamping over another piece of paper.
Step 4
Remove your mask. Ink up the larger tree using Old Olive ink. I also added a little Chocolate Chip with a maker to the trunk of the tree. Stamp this to the left side of the oval. Add your greeting to the right side and place on your card.
