Block stamping/reserve masking?

[Loretia]

Has anyone else noticed the beautiful cards that have been popping up in the last couple of days with block like squares of color (usually 3 different ones) and then a main image? I have seen in many people's posts that they used the "reverse masking technique". A couple that pop to mind come from Stamping with Loll.

Call me slow, that's OK, but I don't understand how you get that look of the 3color blocks using reverse masking. I have read or watched video of several tutorials on reverse masking, but I can't get my brain to click on how you get the look they're achieving using this technique.

I'd appreciate any help anyone can give me.

Thank you!!!!!!

[Angelnorth]

You're seeing lots of them because this week's CAS challenge is a sketch based on a card where Loll used the colour blocks.

To get the effect you need a piece of paper with the square (or whatver shape you want) die cut or punched out. Use the paper with the hole, not the punched shape, and sponge ink onto your card base through the hole - that's why it's a "reverse" mask as you'd normally mask with the shape itself, not with the "waste" from round it. For multiple squares, just move the "hole" and sponge again (start with your lightest ink colour and work to your darkest if you're going to do this - a little ink may smear off the edge of the hole and it won't matter if you work light to dark).

HTH!

[Loretia]

Thanks, Joanne! That makes perfect sense to me now. I can't wait to give it a try.! I appreciate your clear, concise directions!

[La Fonz]

I could have saved a lot of money that I spent on shadow stamps if I had known about this techinque!