Dry Embossing Paste? Don’t Throw it Out! |JO-Tips #91

Uh oh – dry embossing paste? Don’t throw it out! Embossing paste is such a cool way to add some mixed media to your design. It’s been around forever, is fun to play with and great for any paper crafters wanting to dip her toe into the “artsy” world!

And you may have purchased some long ago, played a bit and then moved on to another fun technique.

So what if it’s now dried out? Don’t toss it just yet!

In JO-Tips #91: Dry Embossing Paste? Don’t Throw it Out!, we’re diving into how you can breathe new life into your paste! Let’s keep the joy of texture alive in your card making.

Why Texture is a Game Changer in Card Making

Ever run your fingers over an embossed card and felt that little spark of joy? Texture in card making isn’t just a visual treat, it’s a tactile experience that elevates every design! No matter your experience level, embossing paste is one of the most satisfying ways to add touchable dimension to your projects.

Think about the last handmade card you received. Sure, the colours and design stood out, but if it had layers, embossing or raised elements, you probably felt the creativity. Did you run your fingertips over it and have a little spark of happiness?

That’s the magic of texture. It’s not just about how a card looks but how it feels. Embossing paste is one of the easiest ways to achieve this, giving your designs a pro-level finish with minimal effort.

The moment someone runs their fingers over an embossed card, it’s like a little sensory gift. Raised patterns, soft velvety finishes, or even a bit of grit from mixed media techniques add to the overall experience of receiving a handmade card. It turns a simple greeting into a piece of art worth keeping.

Dry Embossing Paste? Don’t Throw it Out!

If you’ve ever popped open your embossing paste to find a rock-hard lump or little popcorn-like bits (like in mine) instead of a soft, spreadable medium, you know the frustration.

Above all, don’t toss it in the garbage! You’ll love how easy it is to revive it!

Be sure to check out the video to see my quick tip to save you some moola!

So now you’ve revived that block of dried up paste, you want to start using it immediately!

Here are more ways to play with it on your handmade cards for amazing mixed media designs. Check out this blog post on colouring embossing paste for card making!

How to Make This Idea Your Own

• Try Different Tools: Swap your palette knife for an old credit card or a sponge to get varied textures.
• Mix in Embellishments: Sprinkle fine glitter or embossing powder into wet paste for a stunning shimmer when dry.
• Combine Techniques: Pair dry embossing with embossed paste for a layered, ultra-textured look.

Need a Paper Crafting Question Answered?

This is just 1 of 90 more JO-Tips videos! You’ll find ones like:

• how to clean (and not clean) rubber stamps
• trick to remove adhesive oops on cards

See the entire JO-Tips playlist ! (Be sure to also subscribe to my YouTube channel while you’re there!)

So first of all, dig around and find your embossing paste. Then take a peek inside the jar. If it’s seen some age and had some air, chances are it’ll now be dry embossing paste – before you toss it, give it a second chance with this little tip!