SSS Die-Cember Release, Sweet Tulip, and Three Ways to Ombre and Create Dimensional Die Cuts

Hey guys!  Did you see the new Die-Cember release at Simon Says Stamp?  I've got a few cards to share today using the new Sweet Tulip die.  

I knew that I wanted to create an ombre background within the frame of the die, and decided to try a few different methods for this.

To start I created a mask by diecutting the piece from a scrap piece of cardstock and using the negative cut.

For the first card, I used the mask as a template, tracing around the window.  I then used Copics to color the opening.  

The die cut was cut using white foam with an adhesive background.  The foam is super fiddly, especially with such a delicate die cut, and I wasn't able to get as dramatic an ombre with the colors I used.  

I think I picked too many colors (five), next time I think I would try and just use three so the gradation is more defined.

Next, the old fashioned way.  I used the mask for inking with Distress Oxides.  

The die was then cut four times from white cardstock and they were layered together to create a dimensional piece which was then centered over the inked area.

For the final card, I used the mask over another piece of cardstock and used three Dylusions Ink Sprays to create the ombre effect.  

For the die cut this time, I thought I would use a hybrid approach.  I adhered the foam piece to some white cardstock.  Then die cut the piece.  My goal here was to give the foam a bit more body and make it easier to deal with.  This made it a lot harder to die cut though, but definitely easier to place over the sprayed area.

The sentiments for each of the cards is from Altenew's Leaf Canopy set.

Here's a look at the masking piece after I finished all my cards:

So three different ways to create a similar effect.  My two favorites are probably the traditional inking method and the spray.  Which do you like best?

Don't forget to stop over and check out the Die-Cember release!