Dry Embossing needs a light table?!
 

hi ladies,
not sure if this is the right place to post this, but I'll try anyway.
Is there any way to dry emboss without a light table, or am I just setting
myself up for frustration?
Thanks!
Jenn

You need a light source of some kind. If it's daylight outside you can use a window.

Otherwise - I think you might not be happy without a back lighting of some kind. You really need to be able to see the pattern through the paper to know where to push down with the stylus.

Good luck!

If you're not doing any intense embossing, you can line the paper up to the stencil so that the image is where you want it, then lay it down [stencil side down of course], and then lightly 'feel' around with your embossing tool until you find the image and start rubbing. I'm too cheap for a light table at this point (college student), so I improvise.

I used to use my window when embossing on a sunny day, but at night--not so much. I did break down and get a light table (using my 40% coupon at Micheal's, I'm sure), and it makes the job very easy. I have, however, read in other threads here on SCS that a string of Christmas lights under a glass 9x13 pan can be used, or if you have a glass top table, put a lamp underneath the glass (another take on 'light table'!). I guess if push comes to shove and you have a glass door on your shower,you could even put a light behind the door and use that (just don't push too hard!).
HTH!

Thanks everyone!
I was showing my dh the light table in the SU catty and he said he would make me one (yippee!!) -- so I thought I'd share his idea with you too:) He's going to get a clear or opague storage container and fix a floresent bar light (meant to hang under shelves) onto the lid. Then by placing the container on top, it SHOULD work the same way. We just need to find a container with a totally flat bottom.
The window is a good idea in the mean time:)
-Jenn