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'Blowing Bubbles' Dry Brush Pewter Effect

Create beautifully dimensional, pewter-effect embellishments for card making and mixed media artwork with the Cosmic Shimmer Blowing Bubbles Silicone Mould by Andy Skinner. This popular design is inspired by the Andy Skinner Rubber Stamp 'Blowing Bubbles' and has been reimagined in 3D as a detailed craft mould.

In this project you will see how black air-dry clay is used to make lightweight castings of the mould design, with two stages of Shimmer Paint dry brushing to achieve a realistic aged-metal finish. The final touch is a coordinating sentiment in fine detail silver embossing powder for a cohesive, elegant look.

Watch the full length tutorial with Andy Skinner

Cast the Clay
Press clay into the figure section of the mould, working from the top down to the feet, ensuring the detail is fully filled. Fill the rocky base using the same method. For the bubbles, roll tiny clay balls and press each into the recess. Tip: A light dusting of corn flour in the mould can help with clean releases.

Release & Dry
Remove the bubbles first (these pop out very easily). Use the mould’s outer lip/tabs to gently release the figure and base. Leave all components to dry completely (up to 24 hours) before painting.

Base Coat with Midnight
Once dry, apply Midnight Chalk Paint to the front of the figure, base and bubbles, edges and the back (especially important for porous clay if using with glue). This step seals the clay and creates the perfect foundation for metallic dry brushing.

Dry Brush: Stage One (Graphite)
Dry brushing is what gives this finish its depth and realistic metallic look. Make sure the brush is completely dry. Pick up a tiny amount of Graphite Shimmer Paint and wipe most of it off on paper towel. Test the amount of paint on black card. Lightly sweep across the raised detail of the moulded piece, moving in different directions. This first layer catches the “peaks” and creates a metallic base.

Dry Brush: Stage Two (Tarnished Silver)
This final highlight layer elevates the metallic shine for a true pewter look. Using the same brushing technique as before applying Tarnished Silver selectively to the highest points. Avoid fully covering the Graphite. Add a small highlight to the centre of each bubble. The result should look aged and refined rather than bright chrome.

Assemble the Card
Use Cosmic Shimmer Specialty Glue for a strong hold. Glue the base onto black card. Attach the figure, aligning the foot with the base recess. Add bubbles using tiny dots of glue and space them so they appear to drift naturally through the air. Why air-dry clay? The finished castings are wonderfully feather-light, making them ideal for cards, tags and layered mixed media makes.

Add the Sentiment
Stamp the sentiment on black card using an emboss clear ink pad. Cover with Silver Shine Detail Embossing Powder. Tap off excess and heat emboss. Trim sentiment and glue into place on your card. The fine detail embossing ties in beautifully with the pewter finish of the focal elements.