In a couple of past articles, we looked at techniques for making faux metal gilding and faux tin tiles. This time we’ll look at how to make faux enamel embellishments. This technique uses silver/chrome cardstock colored with permanent markers and coated with a thick glossy finish like gloss Mod Podge, Diamond Glaze, or clear embossing powder. The solvent/alcohol-based inks are transparent and allow the light to go through and bounce back against the silver cardstock, resulting in jewel-like colors, while the thick glossy coating gives a glass-like finish just like enameled pieces. Let’s begin!

You will need:

* Silver/chrome cardstock
* Permanent markers in various colors
* Any of the following:
- Mod Podge, Gloss
- Diamond Glaze or similar water-based dimensional glaze
- Clear embossing powder + clear embossing ink + heat gun
* Embossing machine and compatible embossing folder
* Scissors
* Wax paper

Choose an embossing folder whose design is made up of separate elements that can be cut out later from the embossed cardstock. Using an embossing machine, emboss the wrong side of a piece of silver/chrome cardstock, so that the silver side ends up with a debossed design. Using a pair of scissors, cut around the shapes, leaving a narrow border around them. Color the silver side with permanent markers, then proceed as follows, depending on the finish you’re using.

Method 1, using Mod Podge. Place the colored shape face up onto a piece of wax paper. Carefully add a small amount of Mod Podge into the shape, using a toothpick to spread the Mod Podge into the crevices and onto the border, making sure that the entire shape is covered (it’s OK if the Mod Podge spills over the edge of the shape). Let dry completely; this may take a few hours.

Method 2, using Diamond Glaze or water-based dimensional glue. This method has the advantage of creating a domed surface, making it look like real glass. Place the colored shape face up onto a piece of wax paper. Carefully place a small amount of Diamond Glaze in the middle of the shape, using the applicator tip to spread the Diamond Glaze into the crevices of the design and onto the border, making sure that the entire shape is covered (no need to worry about tiny bubbles that form). Let dry completely.

Method 3, using embossing powder. Apply some clear embossing ink onto the debossed area and the border. Apply clear embossing powder onto the surface, remove any excess powder, then carefully heat with a heat gun until the powder has completely melted. Let it cool before using.