Wanna learn how to watercolour an embossed background like a BOSS? Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into a watercolour technique for paper crafts that’ll turn heads and spark envy! With a few simple tools like Stampin’ Write markers, a clear block and some embossed watercolour paper, you’re on your way to creating a masterpiece.
I showed this card technique at a recent Facebook Live event. Check out the recorded tutorial here and follow these sassy steps to unleash your inner artist.
Let’s see our design!

What You’ll Need
- Embossed Watercolour Paper: Thick and thirsty, ready for some colour! (This one’s embossed with the Starstruck embossing folder I got free during Sale-a-Bration, ending Feb 28/25!
- Stampin’ Write Markers: Pick bold or soft colours, your call! My three are a mix of blues and greens.
- Clear Acrylic Block: Your makeshift palette for those juicy markers. A medium or large size is ideal.
- Brush and Water: Essential for spreading that colour goodness everywhere. TIP: Use a brush with water in the reservoir like Water Painters or Aqua Painters and avoid any spillage!
How to Watercolour an Embossed Background
Step-by-Step Guide
While the video gives you the best instruction you can clearly see and hear, here are the 5 steps to watercolour greatness!
- Colour Me Fancy – Swipe your chosen Stampin’ Write markers across the acrylic block, laying down a generous swash of colour.
- Prep Your Canvas – Add some clear water over your embossed watercolour paper until it’s shiny and damp but not dripping. This sets the stage for some serious colour magic.
- Tap It In – Dip your brush into the ink on the acrylic block, then tap it onto the wet areas of your paper. Watch the colour bleed into the water, creating dreamy effects.
- Colour Play – Add different colours by tapping into the different colours of ink on the block and repeating the tapping process in various spots on your paper. Let it flow into each other for cool effects.
- Let Dry and Brag – Allow your creation to dry completely. You can speed things up with a heat tool, or just let air do its thing if you’re not in a rush.

How To Make This Idea Your Own
- Creative Splashes: For an artsy touch, flick additional water or ink over the paper once it’s painted and dried!
- Seasonal Themes: Match your colours to the season. Think burnt oranges for fall or lush vibrant greens for spring.
- Monochrome Magic: Use shades of the same colour for a sophisticated, understated look.
Don’t miss out on all the juicy details and additional tips in our video tutorial right here! Also, if you’re looking to pinch pennies on paper, check out our genius guide on how to save money on watercolour paper.
Get Creative with Your Markers & Embossed Backgrounds
This watercolour embossing technique is not just about adding colour. It’s about unleashing creativity and making your paper crafts sing with personality. Perfect for both newbies and seasoned crafters, it’s a surefire way to sprinkle a little magic into your projects.
Are you curious for more crafty/artsy wisdom? How about a free tutorial showcasing a perfect layout to add into your card making repertoire?
Sign up for our email newsletter and never miss a beat on all things creative. Just fill out the form and click the yellow button!
Soft & Sophisticated!
Here’s a final peek at our softly coloured design. Don’t you love the way the colours merge into one another? You can achieve this effect easily at home too!

I hope you made sure to check out the video to see exactly how to create a background like this. If not, take a few minutes (it’s only just over 2 minutes long!) now and get the tricks you need for a flawless finish! And if you have any other questions for how to watercolour an embossed background, just be sure to contact me at jo@designwithjo.ca.

