Spectrum Noir Dyed Seam Binding

I love seam binding on cards ... and I love that I can use my Spectrum Noir markers to dye my ribbon any color I want.  Here's how I do it.

I start with White Hug Snug Rayon Seam Binding.

Next I pick several colors from my Spectrum Noir markers ... for this card, I picked three different shades of blue - IB3, TB3 & GT3.  I color a few swipes with the first marker (I use my non-stick craft sheet for easy clean-up).

Next a few swipes with the second color, overlapping some of the first.

And then the third color ... it's okay to leave some white space.

The final step is to spray the ribbon with rubbing alcohol.  I have a spray bottle that I keep filled with alcohol for lots of different techniques.  You might want to wear gloves, unless you don't mind inky fingers (I kind of like them ... they're a reminder of the fun I had creating).

I continue to spritz with alcohol and scrunch with my hands until I get the color blending and coverage I want.  You can always add more marker if you want more color in certain places.  In this case, I let it dry overnight.

The final step was to press the ribbon flat ... my secret trick ... I run it quickly through my hair flat-iron for a perfect press.

Here's my ribbon wrapped around one of the shaped cards from The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady CD-ROM ... see the great variation in color.  I lined the inside of the card with a scrap of yellow designer paper ... I love the contrast it adds to the design.

And this card is perfect for the December Challenge at Crafter's Companion ... Ribbon, Twine & Thread.  

Comments

[Toni]

You've got my little grey cells going with this technique!

[Gabby]

Nice card, Stephanie! Pretty birds and lovely ribbon! I've used ink all different ways to color my seam binding. I have watched videos wherein Tim Holtz used distress markers. I think markers allow you to distribute the colors better. I've never heard of spraying it with alcohol? Wonder if it has any advantage over water, which is what I spray mine with to blend and crinkle? Hmmm. :)

[Trena in Naperville]

This is a lovely art piece Stephanie! Thank you for tutorial and tips on ironing!!

Take care and STAY POSITIVE!

[wendyp81]

Absolutely gorgeous!!! Love that tip on the spectrum noirs! Can't wait to give it a try!