A few years ago, I purchased a book, Scraptastic, by Ashley Calder. I just found the book on my shelf and have been re-inspired by her unique style. Looking through this book has just boosted my desire to try new techniques on my scrapbook pages.

Therefore, this weekend I tried stamping in gesso:

First, I spread gesso over a chipboard shape with a brush. I varied the thickness but made sure the whole piece was covered.

I lightly misted a rubber stamp with water and pressed it into the gesso. (Make sure to clean off your stamp right away.) To speed up the drying time I used a heat gun.

I then inked over the chipboard shape and then wiped it off with a paper towel to reveal the texture. I did this several times until I reached the desired color I wanted (allow the ink to dry, again I used a heat gun).

I then brushed a small amount of paint over the shape. I rubbed off the excess paint to expose the shadows and highlights.

Some close ups:

. . . and the finished lalyout.