Altenew Academy · Online Class

Simple Smooshed Backgrounds Class

Lessons
1 lesson
Level
Beginner
Format
Self-paced · Lifetime virtual access
Description

Discover the joy of cardmaking with our bite-sized classes designed to spark creativity, reduce stress, and inspire handmade happiness.

Want an easy way to add artistic flair without overthinking it? The Simple Smooshed Backgrounds Online Class teaches you how to create gorgeous, one-of-a-kind backgrounds using the smooshing technique—perfect for adding effortless color, texture, and personality to any card.

Instructor: Lydia Evans


Class Features:
  • Lifetime, on-demand access – Join once and rewatch your exclusive class content anytime, anywhere, as often as you’d like!
  • Step-by-step video tutorial – Follow a detailed, easy-to-understand lesson packed with tips and techniques to elevate your cardmaking skills.
  • Exclusive, inspiring project – Learn through a one-of-a-kind project designed just for this class, only available to students.
  • High-quality visual inspiration – Get motivated with beautifully styled project photos to spark your creativity.

Lifetime access

Revisit every lesson, forever.

Downloadable resources

Printable instructions

Community

Share work in the student gallery.

About this class

Smoosh Your Way to Artistic Backgrounds

Smoosh your way to art. Let Lydia show you the smooshing technique, so your backgrounds gain one-of-a-kind color and texture without overthinking.

What you'll learn

  • Transfer water-reactive inks from acetate sheets to watercolor paper for organic textures.
  • Control ink smooshing density to avoid muddy color overlaps and puddle buildup.
  • Dry ink layers between presses to create crisp, overlapping color splatters and bubbles.
  • Choose harmonious ink color combinations that blend into clean background washes.
  • Transform unpredictable ink patterns into colorful backdrops for bold focal sentiments.
  • Craft one-of-a-kind card backgrounds quickly using basic inks and water mists.
Simple Smooshed Backgrounds Class class schedule

How it works

Your creative journey at Altenew Academy

A simple, supportive path from first lesson to finished masterpiece.

Enroll instantly

Pick your class, check out in seconds, and get lifetime virtual access.

Watch & learn

Stream crisp HD video lessons taught by top papercraft artists. Pause, rewind, go at your pace.

Create with confidence

Follow printable guides, color maps, and cut files as you craft alongside each lesson.

Share your work

Post your finished projects in the student gallery and celebrate with fellow makers.

Your instructor

Learn from the best

Discover the mentor behind your learning journey — sharing knowledge, guiding your growth, and helping you succeed every step of the way.

Lydia Evans

Lydia Evans

Cardmaker

Lydia Evans is an expert paper crafter and long-time Altenew designer known for her innovative techniques, bold colors, and dynamic designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all. Each lesson walks you through techniques, making these classes beginner-friendly while offering fresh inspiration for experienced crafters.

On-demand classes feature pre-recorded video lessons ranging from 1 to 10 lessons focused on specific techniques or creative themes. Once enrolled, you can log into your Altenew Academy account and learn at your own pace.

No. On-demand classes are completely self-paced. You can pause, rewind, rewatch, and fit your crafting journey into your personal schedule whenever inspiration strikes.

You receive lifetime virtual access upon enrollment. The video lessons and downloadable resources stay in your Altenew Academy account so you can revisit them whenever you like.

The Class Pass Only option gives you full digital access to all pre-recorded video lessons and downloadable guides. If you want supplies delivered to your door, choose the Class Pass + Kit option to receive the curated materials needed to craft right along with the instructor.

What makers say

Loved by Altenew Academy students

What students say about this class.

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