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
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.

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
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
From the community
Cards made by Altenew makers
A peek at the beautiful work our community is sharing — yours could be next.
What makers say
Loved by Altenew Academy students
What students say about this class.
Simple Smooshed Backgrounds Class










