Blue Fern Studios Bird Cage Chipboard

This Blue Fern Studios Bird Cage Chipboard is one of my favorite pieces in their collection.  I adore all the pretty elements throughout the design and it comes in two pieces which makes it even more fun to decorate. The sketch came from Keeping The Best a bi-monthly sketch challenge site. I adored this sketch so much, I used it twice.  I used a two-tone color technique on the chipboard pieces and have described below how you too can achieve this really nice crackle and toned affect.

To achieve the two-toned color chipboard piece, paint chipboard with a white dauber, and then apply your favorite crackle product to the large surfaced areas of the chipboard only. When the crackle product has thoroughly dried, use a misting product and apply the mist to the small areas of the chipboard.  Some of the mist will flow onto the crackle product which is fine.

TIP: To enhance those lovely little cracks on your chipboard, use a dry and sharpened watercolor pencil.  Hold the pencil horizontally to your chipboard, and press down the sharpened end of your pencil with your index finger on top of the sharpened area and gently rub in a tiny circular motion in a parallel position. Lift the pencil up and use your index finger and blend the color in. Do not hold your pencil in a vertical position.  Do not wet the watercolor pencil because it will render a muddy looking appearance.