For this swap, we will use multiple layers to make unique postcards.

Step 1: Procure either a large cereal box or a piece of similar weight cardboard at least 8 1/2 by 11".

Step 2: Use your favorite glue to apply a layer of ripped or cut papers to your cardboard base. Use a brayer or the palm of your hand to make sure the paper is stuck really well. Let it dry completely.

Step 3: Use at least 3 more techniques from the choices below..in any order...feel free to use more...to create fabulously layered backgrounds.

• •Add paint or ink using an unconventional household item as a stamp. (potato masher, brussel sprout, flip-flop)
• •Add a wash of watered down paint.
• •Remove some paint with a paper towel.
• •Add more paper cut-outs or punches.
• •Write random words or a poem across the whole surface with a marker. Go ahead and overlap them.
• •Use masks or stencils and more paint or ink.
• •Stamp a commercial rubber stamp all over.
• •Gently scratch into the surface.
• •Use either a regular pencil or colored pencil to draw random shapes.
• •Use sandpaper to roughen it up a little in spots.
• •Add some tissue paper or paper napkin bits.

Step 4: Cut your wonderfully layered cardboard into 2 postcard pieces, minimum 4"x6", and mail one to each of your partners.

A few more notes:

When you send to your partners you must include a note describing your process. Swapping's all about the personal connection, isn't it?

Don't worry if you think your background looks ugly somewhere along the way. It happens~~smile~~There is nothing that another layer of paint wash can't fix. You also might find that you want to start more than one sheets right from the outset. I always keep gessoed cereal boxes ready to add whatever wet paint I happen to have going to them(Mostly just because it kills me to throw away ANY paint). The results are sometimes surprising and the process is sooo much fun!

When is the postcard done? When it looks right to you! If you need some more inspiration I almost always make layers like this for my postcards in my Flickr stream.

Feel free to ask any questions below...Have Fun!