Mixed Media Blog

Backgrounds are the foundation of countless cardmaking and mixed media projects, and few techniques are as versatile, beginner friendly and effective as sponge inking. Using simple everyday materials and a handful of Cosmic Shimmer products, it is possible to create richly layered backgrounds with depth, texture and metallic highlights

Bring moulded embellishments to life with layers of colour, texture and subtle shimmer. In this tutorial, Andy Skinner demonstrates how a simple air-dry clay cast can be transformed into a beautifully detailed focal point for a gift tag using Cosmic Shimmer Matt Chalk Paints. Featuring the Cosmic Shimmer Little Things Silicone Mould, this project is packed with fine textures and raised details that make it ideal for showcasing layered paint effects.

Discover how to create realistic aged metal effects using Cosmic Shimmer Matt Chalk Paints. In this tutorial, Andy Skinner demonstrates simple yet effective painting techniques to achieve authentic patina finishes. The project centres around a beautifully detailed dancer, posed en pointe with fairy wings and flowing costume details captured in air dry clay using the Cosmic Shimmer Dance Silicone Mould. The elegant design provides plenty of raised texture and fine detail, making it ideal for showcasing layered paint techniques and realistic aged metal patina effects.

In this tutorial, Sheena Douglass shows you how to unlock a full spectrum of colour using Cosmic Shimmer Water-Based Inks in this simple yet effective mixing guide. By working with just three base colours and black, this tutorial shows how to create everything from bold, vibrant shades to soft pastels and natural tones—perfect for getting the most from your inks.

Turn a plain journal into a magical mixed media keepsake with this beautiful woodland scene project. Using the Enchanted Forest Scene Silicone Mould, Cosmic Shimmer Art Journals, air dry clay, and Cosmic Shimmer Water-Based Inks, this tutorial shows how to create and paint a detailed clay panel, then mount it onto a journal cover for a truly enchanting finish.

Make your own storybook woodland with this enchanting decorated frame project, created using Hearty Air Dry Clay and a collection of beautifully detailed silicone moulds. Layered with branches, textured leaves, woodland toadstools and a charming central scene, that features Andy Skinners' Let the Adventure Begin Silicone Mould as a focal point, this design transforms a simple frame into a keepsake full of imagination and storytelling charm.

Step into a world of woodland magic and create a beautifully detailed journal cover using the Cosmic Shimmer Enchanted Craft Moulds. In this tutorial, Sheena Douglass guides you through the full process – from moulding your elements in air drying clay to painting and assembling a beautifully layered, vintage-inspired design.

Create mesmerising backgrounds with Sheena using the Caught in Crystal technique – a wonderfully unpredictable way to trap colour, shimmer and texture under a glossy acetate surface. Every piece you make will be completely unique; the way the inks move through the “crystal” layer is all part of the magic. You can keep the look soft and ethereal, or add mica and gilding flakes for dramatic, high-shine panels – perfect for turning into quick statement cards, tags or art panels.

Bright layers of Cosmic Shimmer chalk paint, a swirling stencil and Andy Skinner’s Princess Attitude stamp come together in this eye-catching birthday tag project. You’ll learn how to build a striking, matte background, add subtle skin tones with acrylic to the stamped image, then re-stamp back over the top so every line of this wonderfully sassy fairy character pops.