Here I am with another cool background technique for you to try- the Wax Paper Resist Background technique. The best thing about THIS wax resist background technique is that you probably already have everything you need to create it without heading to the store. Let’s get started!
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Star die cut and shaker components from My Favorite Things: Shaker Pouches & dies: http://shrsl.com/u1wz “Star” text (Die-namics): http://shrsl.com/u1x7
Here are the supplies I used:
- Photo paper (you can use glossy in theory, but photo paper is meant to soak up ink without smearing so it’s a better choice!)
- Wax paper (I used Reynold’s Cut Rite from the grocery store. Some folks have told me that Dollar Store wax paper isn’t waxy enough for this!)
- Iron (I love my mini iron from Darice- it has no holes and heats up to the perfect temperature, and it’s only $8 on amazon: affiliate link) http://shrsl.com/txsw
- Embossing folders and embossing machine- optional, of course. If you crumple your wax paper, you’ll get a “leather” effect. Embossing folders just give you a more distinct pattern.
- Stamp pads. I liked the Distress Ink, Archival ink, and Hero arts pads the best. Chalky inks (like Distress oxides) leave a chalky finish that will need to be wiped off, so why bother?
So here’s the technique!
- Cut your photo paper and wax paper to fit the size of your folders or card fronts.
- Emboss or crinkle your wax paper.
- Lay photo paper glossy side UP- lay down wax paper on top.
- Place a second piece of photo paper glossy side DOWN, making a “sandwich.”
- Iron this sandwich for 1-2 minutes or until warm, allowing the waxy to melt.
- Let cool.
- Remove the wax paper.
- Apply stamp pad ink LIBERALLY to the glossy side. I use the “direct to paper” technique, but you could use a brayer or blender tool.

Layer wax between 2 layers of photo paper, making sure the glossy sides of photo paper are touching the wax sheet.

After heating & letting the stack cool, apply ink LIBERALLY. Saturate the paper!

Buff off extra ink with a paper towel to bring out the pattern even more.
I made you a video to show you the whole thing, and share some extra samples with you.
Here are some of the folders I used: and the woodgrain one is only $4 with free shipping on Amazon!

Shaker Pouches & dies: http://shrsl.com/u1wz “Star” text (Die-namics): http://shrsl.com/u1x7
And here are those finished cards again:

Yay for you card kit: http://shrsl.com/u1ww
I hope you try wax paper resist technique- It’s a great way to use those embossing folders in a creative new way!
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Hi, Jenny, this is a great idea. I wonder if I could run the “sandwich” through my laminator instead of using an iron. What do you think?
Thanks for sharing this technique. I have never tried this but will be doing it soon. I love the wood grain embossing folder you used.