Layering Stencil Hydrangea Card

A project from our live show HOBBYMAKER TV - Join us for the latest show - Broadcast 2 p.m. (UK) 15th August 2026 · 15/08/2026 · watch it from 41:30

▶ 🔊 TAP FOR SOUND

Recorded videoOffers on screen may no longer be valid - find out more at Hobbymaker.com

Create a stunning watercolour-style card featuring vibrant red poppies with verdant green stems and leaves. Using numbered layering stencils, you'll build up beautiful depth and shading by applying ink through each stencil in sequence, then add an artistic finishing touch with a water spray technique. This dimensional floral design creates a realistic botanical effect perfect for special occasions.

DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE (PDF)

Step by step

1. 

   Position the first numbered stencil (marked '1') on your pale green card stock, aligning it with the edge of the card. The white card base should be positioned to the left for reference.

   ▶ watch this step (42:15)
2. 

   Apply purple ink through the stencil using a light hand and a blending tool. Work the ink gently over the stencil design to build up colour gradually.

   ▶ watch this step (42:30)
3. 

   Carefully remove the stencil from the card stock and set it aside. Allow the pink and purple ink to dry slightly before proceeding to the next layer.

   ▶ watch this step (42:45)
4. 

   Position stencil number 2 over the pink poppy layer on your pale green cardstock. Align it carefully with the first layer, ensuring the design lines up properly.

   ▶ watch this step (43:00)
5. 

   Apply a slightly darker shade of purple or press harder with the same colour to build dimension on the flower. Work from the edges inward to create depth and a more realistic appearance.

   ▶ watch this step (43:15)
6. 

   Continue working through stencils 3, 4 and 5 in sequence, applying pink ink through each stencil. Build up the colour depth and detail gradually with each layer, creating dimension in your poppy flowers.

   ▶ watch this step (43:45)
7. 

   Using the final stencil layer, apply your darkest purple ink to the hydrangea to create shadow and definition. Build up the colour gradually using a dauber or sponge.

   ▶ watch this step (44:30)
8. 

   Lightly spray the finished floral design with water to create a blended, watercolour effect. The water will soften the edges of the stencilled flowers and leaves, giving a more natural appearance.

   ▶ watch this step (50:00)
9. 

   If the ink has bled or lost detail, reposition the final poppy stencil layer over the flowers and reapply red ink with the blending tool to restore definition and crisp edges.

   ▶ watch this step (50:30)
10. 

    Once the stencilled design is completely dry, use the coordinating die to cut out the hydrangea flower, or leave it as a stencilled background on your card.

    ▶ watch this step (51:00)

Tips from the show

• Do not wash your stencils between cards if making multiple designs—keep them ready to use and wash only at the end.
• Start with the lightest ink on the first layer and gradually increase pressure and darkness with each subsequent stencil.
• You do not have to use all the stencils in the set; use them creatively over corners or partial areas of your card for variety.

More from this show

• Lamination Stamp Card with Watercolour Technique
• Layering Stencil Poppy Bouquet Card

Written up from the show itself. See every guide from our shows · free how-to guides · watch live on My Telly