Faux Postage

This technique is fun and easy and gives your cards a unique look. The first time takes a little more work because you have to make your mask.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Download and Print the faux postage sheet. Cut the sheet apart to make four separate templates.
   
   Download (PDF, 36K)

   

2. Step 2

   Now let's make a mask. Tape your window sheet over one of the faux postage templates.
   

   

3. Step 3

   Using a ruler and craft knife, cut out each rectangle leaving 1/8" border around the printed lines

   

4. 

5. Step 4

   Pop out the rectangles you cut. Your mask is finished!
   
   

   

6. Step 5

   Tape your mask over your other faux postage piece. Center the windows over the faux postage rectangles.

   

7. Step 6

   Use your sponge dauber to color the inside of your rectangles.
   

   

8. 

9. Step 7

   Stamp in your image in one postage rectangle at a time. If neccessary cover the others up.

   

10. 

11. Step 8

    Add more or a different color around your image.
    

    

12. Step 9

    Cut closely around your faux postage piece with a postage scissor.
    

    

13. Step 10

    Finish your card!

    

Variations

Your own template
Create your own template and the possibilities are endless with this technique. Our template (at the top of this page) uses the Tables feature of Microsoft Word to create the grid pattern. If you'd like to try varying the one we used, try our editable version.

Download (Word doc, 48K)

Get crazy
Do a little poking around on the web and you'll find a whole world devoted to fake postage, including downloadable templates and related supplies.

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Faux Postage. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!