Distress Ink Techniques for Cardmakers – Online Class
** Note: The LIVE portion has already taken place. Class resources are available. A replay of the class videos, group participation, coloring guides, and handouts **
Join Jenn Shurkus for an online class, hosted in a private Facebook group!
In this 6.5 hour class, we are going to dive into the world of Distress Inks. Jenn is going to compare and contrast regular Distress inks and Distress Oxides. She is going to share a variety of different techniques that you will be able to use in your cardmaking. This class is going to be dedicated to learning, and creative play. We will not complete any card designs but will have fabulous backgrounds that you could create cards with later, or use as references in your crafty space. This class is perfect for beginners or more advanced cardmakers- there is something to learn for everyone!
Jenn can already tell that there will be a part two to this class because she has SO much to share with you!
All of the class videos are available to watch in the private Facebook group.
Included in the class is a downloadable class handout that will include:
- class prep information
- step-outs of the techniques you will be learning
- instructions listed per technique
Also included is a bonus handout
- showing samples seen during class, with links to more information about them
Some feedback from previous class attendees:
Jenn’s use of product, coupled with her tips, tricks, and easy to learn and follow techniques, has broadened my creativity! I find myself becoming comfortable doing some things I wasn’t comfortable doing before! She is a great teacher and her classes are amazing! – Jackie, Little Canada, MN
Jenn’s classes are so much fun and very instructive. I really think beginners to old pros at card making can enjoy and get something out of these classes. And the fact that you can watch the videos whenever you want is an added bonus. The handouts alone are worth the price of the class. If you want a day of fun creating, sign up for a class! – Anne, MA
As a “work in progress” card maker, I found Jenn’s class incredibly helpful! I learned so many new tips and tricks and am now able to expand the utilization of the materials that I already own. Jenn was extremely engaging and supportive before, during and after the class! The class would be perfect for new and experienced crafters!
Order class supplies
Kits will not be shipped for this class, so there are some supplies you should have on hand. Mostly, Jenn wants you to use what you have and see what you like during class, then you can always invest in more. All supplies are pictured and linked below. If you have questions please email Jenn
Supply List:
Jenn will be using a rainbow of Distress Inks in both regular Distress and Distress Oxide (exact colors shown below). You do not need to have all the same colors, or even that many different colors or different inks. Read below for more information
Required Supplies:
- At least 3 regular Distress inks and 3 Distress Oxide inks. You can get away with just one kind of Distress, Jenn will be comparing and showing techniques with both, you can always purchase some after class and practice the techniques if you like what is shown in class.
- Either Ink Blending Tools or Blender Brushes – Jenn will be using both and recommending when to use which
- Distress Watercolor Cardstock and Distress Heavystock White – you can use different surfaces, but you will get different results. Jenn highly recommends these and will go over their advantages in class. She recommends having at least 40- 4.25″ X 5.5″ sheets of BOTH- we are going to be playing and making A LOT of backgrounds.
- Water Mister Spray Bottle – Jenn recommends the Distress Sprayer
- Embossing Ink and clear and/or white embossing powder
- Heat Tool – Jenn recommends the Ranger Heat Tool
- Flour Sack Cloth or paper towels
- A sheet of acetate/transparency – you can use plastic from stamp packaging
- A non-porous surface to work on – Jenn recommends a Ranger Craft sheet
- Paintbrushes – Jenn will be using Round paintbrushes, Ranger has a fabulous variety pack at a great price, linked below
- Cup or Bowl for water
- Red Rubber stamps – Jenn will be using a variety of backgrounds, and solid, less detailed images. You will also want to have one open image, like the Hero Arts Jelly Fish stamp below. You can see specific sets Jenn will be using, but you do not need to have these exact stamps- use what you have!
*Please note there may be a few additions to this list in the next few days, Jenn will be sure to update this page as well announce it in the class group
 Tim Holtz, Picked Raspberry Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Picked Raspberry Distress Oxide Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
Tim Holtz, Distress Oxide Spiced Marmalade Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz Distress Ink Pad Mustard Seed Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Distress Oxide Mustard Seed Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Twisted Citron Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Distress Oxide Twisted Citron Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Mowed Lawn Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Distress Oxide Mowed Lawn Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Peacock Feathers Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
Distress Oxide, Peacock Feathers Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Wilted Violet Distress Ink Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Distress Oxide Wilted Violet Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Taylored Expressions, Blender Brushes Shop at: etc |
 Picket Fence, Magic Brushes Shop at: SSS | LF |
 Simon Says Stamp, Set of 5 Rainbow Pack BLENDER BRUSHES Shop at: SSS |
 Make It By Marko, Peacock Blender Brush Caddy Shop at: etc |
 Ranger Mini Round Ink Blending Tools Ibt40965 Shop at: SSS | LF | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz Distress Sprayer Ranger 4 Ounces Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Tim Holtz, Distress Watercolor Cardstock 8.5 x 11 Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
Distress Watercolor Cardstock Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Distress White Heavystock Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Ranger Paintbrush Set Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Faber-Castell, Collapsible Water Cup Shop at: SSS |
 Versamark Shop at: SSS | HA |
 Tsukineko Versafine Onyx Black Ink Pad Shop at: SSS |
 Simon Says Stamp, Fine Detail Clear Embossing Powder Shop at: SSS |
 EK Success, Powder Tool Shop at: SSS | LF |
 Mini Misti Shop at: LF |
 Original Misti Shop at: LF |
 Misti Precision Stamping Tool 2.0 Shop at: SSS | LF |
 Lawn Fawn, White Embossing Powder Shop at: SSS | LF |
 Lawn Fawn Stamp Shammy Shop at: SSS | LF |
 Mermaid, Stamp Shammy Holder Shop at: Shurkus |
 Mermaid Mint Shammy Case Shop at: Shurkus |
 Ranger, Heat Tool Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Ranger Non Stick Craft Sheet Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
 Lawn Fawn, Acetate Shop at: SSS |
 Flour Sack Cloths Shop at: etc |
 Hero Arts, JELLYFISH Bold Prints Shop at: SSS | HA |
 Hero Arts, School of Fish Bold Prints Shop at: SSS | HA |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Rosette & Florette Shop at: SSS |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Lattice & Flourish Shop at: SSS |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Perspective Shop at: SSS |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Watercolor Shop at: SSS |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Papillon Shop at: SSS |
 Tim Holtz/Stampers Anonymous, Specimen Shop at: SSS | Ranger |
How this will work:
Once you have purchased this online class, and your order has processed you will want to join the private Facebook group and access the class resource page.
To find the class Facebook page and class resource page:
- goto https://shurkus.com/my-account
- log in to your account
- then under “my orders” find the order for the particular class, click that
- down towards the bottom, you will see “NEXT STEP”
- There is a link to the class Facebook group, and under that, you will find the link/password to the class resource page
- This is a different password than you used to log into your account.
When requesting to join the private Facebook group, please be sure to answer the 3 questions, this will help me verify that you are signed up.
On the class resource page, you will find the class prep handout. This will include the details of what to have stamped, die-cut, and pre-cut ahead of time before you watch the class videos.
With the supplies you have gathered ahead of time you will be able to watch the videos and to create right along with Jenn as she teaches. You will be able to comment, ask questions, and interact with other students. You can also share your projects in the group. If you happen to miss the live broadcast, or if you want to rewatch it, it will be permanently saved in the group video section. You will still be able to ask questions in the group or reach out to Jenn.
All important announcements and the replays of the videos will be kept in the “Announcements” section of the Facebook group, so they will be easy to find.
FAQ
Q: What if I want to take the class with a friend, should we both register?
A: As many of us are starting to get together with friends again, to hang out and hopefully create together. I wanted to remind you that the policy for my online classes is that everyone who is taking the class should register for the class. It is not fair for a group of friends to get together under one registration. The class fee is very affordable and a lot of hours go into designing and hosting the classes, I hope you will understand and support me.
Q: How long will you have access to the class
A: Indefinitely (as long as Facebook is around)
Q: I don’t have Facebook. How can I join the class?
A: Because we are using Facebook’s platform to host the class, you must have a Facebook account to join.
Q: I plan on taking the class with a friend, do we both need to sign up?
A: Just as if you were to take the class in-person, everyone that plans to attend the class, should sign up and pay for the class.
Q: I don’t have all the supplies listed.
A: You can always substitute for similar items, or leave something out. Email Jenn if you have questions
Q: Your class is at 11 am Eastern time, but I live in England. What time will your class air?
A: Go to World Clock and personalize the clocks at the top with New York time and your local time.
Q: I took one online live class. Will your next class go to the same group?
A: No, each class will have its own unique Facebook group. You must sign up for each class separately.
Q: Where do I find the video?
A: On the day of class, pull the group up on your phone, tablet, or computer. When class starts, you will see a post that Jenn is going Live in the group. Click on that to watch. After class is over, you can watch the video by clicking on the “Video” section of the group.
Q: What payment options do you offer?
A: All major credit cards and PayPal
Q: Can I have a refund for the class
A: Unfortunately, since you have already gained access to the class resource page, and were provided the website and password there are no refunds.
Q: I have technical problems!
A: Email Jenn and she will do her best to help. However, if she is in the middle of the LIVE she obviously will not be able to get back to you until after. Note that the classes will work well on your computer with a high-speed internet connection. They are not guaranteed to work on tablets, but we have tested them on our iPad and they worked well.
Q: In what language are the classes?
A: The classes are in English. There is no written transcript of the videos.
Q: When will the class handout be available?
A: All handouts are posted on the password-protected class resource page and available now
rosebrierstudio (verified owner) –
I’ve taken a lot of classes with Jenn, online and in-person. I always learn so much. Even tho I’m not a card maker, this class taught techniques it was easy to translate to pages in my art journals. Over the years Jenn has suggested supplies in her classes. Every single product she has recommended has proved its value a hundred fold to me!
Deb Glover (verified owner) –
I thoroughly enjoyed this class. The knowledge base I have after taking this class helped me create and “go outside the box” on my creations. The handouts and sample photos that Jenn includes is invaluable! Thanks so much Jenn!
April Davis (verified owner) –
This is a must class for anyone who loves Tim Holtz Distress inks and oxides! Jenn takes the time to walk you through the differences between the inks and how they react, then teaches you how to utilize the most of the medium. You will have tons of practice and plenty of works to make cards.
Linda Callahan (verified owner) –
This class was waaaaay out of my comfort zone! I had never done these techniques before. Jenn made it fun and easy…..and educational. It was interesting learning about the best kind of paper to use for these techniques and the different inks and how they react. I learned so much! Great class!
Daisy Mae (verified owner) –
This was my very first online class. I was super nervous, which is silly, I know! Jenn is such an amazing teacher. She goes at such a good pace that allows everyone to be comfortable. The cards are adorable and the techniques that I learned are worth WAY more than the very affordable price of the class. The ability to prepare ahead of class was very useful and made the class so much less stressful. I plan to attend all Jenn’s online classes!
Kathryn Shea (verified owner) –
I’ve taken 5 classes from Jenn. This was my third class. I LOVED this class, I love getting inky and messy! LOL, reminds me of my early childhood teaching days and Bev Bos. As long as you continue to learn, you continue to grow in your craft. (by Kathy Shea) Jenn teaches so many techniques, tips and tricks in this class. I personally have discovered through this class to use Rangers Distress Watercolor Cardstock paper. I order it online from Hobby Lobby when they have it 40% off, no limit. I highly recommend you do the prep work Jenn recommends for the class. Hero Arts has fabulous background stamps. A color wheel would be useful to help create beautiful blended colors. I look forward to Jenn’s next class on Alcohol Inks – lets get inky, too!
Annette James (verified owner) –
I took this class as a newbie to Distress Inks. I was in love with everyone’s inky backgrounds that I was seeing online and wanted to try it. Jenn’s class was absolutely amazing! She went over basics, gave us tips and tricks, showed many examples she created and walked us through making many inky backgrounds. She is such a great teacher and makes everything simple. I took this class live then repeated the very next day and I even went back a month later and did it again. This was my first class with Jenn and I was hooked. I have since taken 5 more classes with her, she is awesome.
Barb D (verified owner) –
This was such a fun & informative class. Jenn explains & demos the techniques so well. This was the first class I’ve taken with Jenn & I loved it!
Cindy (verified owner) –
Loved everything about this class and Jenn’s teaching style. Hope she continues with all the online classes. Learned so much and got hooked on distress oxides. The techniques are fabulous and make each card unique.
Pat Dieterich (verified owner) –
Excellent class, full of creative “pearls of wisdom” from Jenn!
Carolyn Parsons (verified owner) –
Great class, learned a lot and I am looking forward to part 2. My only wish is that you would provide breaks! It is too hard to sit 3 hours straight without a break.
sharon Newcom (verified owner) –
Had a wonderful time learning new techniques and helpful hints on which papers for which application.. I have been practicing these together to help me make many Easter cards that will impress the Family. I look forward to another class with Jenn. She made things very easy to understand and if you had a question, Jenn answered quick and throughly. If you get a chance… Take a CLASS .. It’s SO worth your time.
Robin McIntyre (verified owner) –
So far, I’ve taken only two classes with Jen, but I’ll definitely be taking more. I appreciate her excellent class preparation materials, her measured pace during class, her creative ideas, and her method of sharing techniques. Jenn is a talented, articulate, personable teacher—the perfect combination!
Teresa (verified owner) –
This was the first class I’ve taken from Jenn and I am so glad I did! I never knew you could do so much with Distress Inks!! Jenn took her time explaining each technique in a way that even a Distress newbie like me could understand. She also gave us some invaluable hints and tips on the products she used. I was so pleased with this class that I signed up for another class right away!!
Kerryn Murnain (verified owner) –
What a fantastic class and something I can refer back to. Jenn was a fabulous teacher and explained everything really well, she also answers emails quickly if you have questions about the class. I did 45 backgrounds from this class and will turn them into cards. We got a very good handout and extra handout with cards that Jenn had made using the techniques we did in class. I will definitely be signing up for more of Jenn’s classes. Thank you
Kathy Toman (verified owner) –
I love the virtual classes because I can always go back and replay if need be so that takes out the stress of making sure I get everything right the first time. It’s great that she tells you everything you need for the class but also says you don’t NEED everything that you can use what you have on hand also. Would love to do an in person class some day and I’m sure I would love it but would miss being able to replay parts of it over again. Thanks for making your classes available to those of us who may not be able to work on your schedule but can watch the class later when we have the time. Looking forward to many more of your classes
Barbara Foster (verified owner) –
I loved the class. I will watch it again (& probably again).
Andrea Dulaney (verified owner) –
This class was so amazing! Jenn taught us so many different techniques using distress ink and oxides. Backgrounds galore!! Best class ever!
HECTOR (verified owner) –
Awesome 👏🏽 👌 🆒️ 🙌 fantastic, fabulous, great. I have taken three classes and in all you learn something new and unique. Even if you don’t have all the supplies you can still take her classes and she encourages you to use what you have. She always recommended but never pressure to have exactly everything that she has. Even if you can’t be with her in the live you can always reply her classes at your convenience. First person I took online classes from and who ever I decided to compare her to better step up their game lol j/k every one has a different and unique way to teach and you can tell she loves what she does. JEN keep up the great work.
Vanessa Rysavy (verified owner) –
Loved, loved, loved my first class with Jenn! I learned so much! She was great at giving us as much information as possible to prep for the class, including a handout, and I love that I can access that class again and again for inspiration. I will be taking more classes from Jenn in the future for sure.
Kerryn Murnain (verified owner) –
Fantastic class. Highly recommend this class. Will be going back to refer to it often. I made 48 backgrounds from this class and will make them all into cards
Sarah Zottl (verified owner) –
I really enjoyed my first class with Jenn. Her instructions are second to none. The pace of the class was good for a seasoned crafter but clear and concise enough for a newbie. Being able to go back and eaten a relay is a definite bonus. I was lucky enough to take a class by Jenn through a virtual event that was also spectacular. Looking forward to signing up for more classes. Highly recommend you try one class. You will be back for more than.
Joanne Swarthout (verified owner) –
This was a really fun class! Learned new techniques! Jenn’s classes are so much fun!
Bonnie Chesbrough (verified owner) –
This was my first class with Jenn. I was very nervous I would get lost. Jenn is the best instructor I have had a class with.
So much information. I understand inks so much better. Still playing with the techniques we learned. I love seeing other peoples cards after the class. Highly recommend any class that Jenn teaches.
Karen Sutton (verified owner) –
Great class….one I will go back and rewatch for sure!
Liz (verified owner) –
I had the supplies, but didn’t know what to do with them. This class made my inks and oxides one of my favorite baskets to reach for. Jenn is a fun and easy to follow teacher who made every strategy seem accessible. And she had tons of examples to show. Highly recommend!
Sandye (verified owner) –
I have taken numerous classes taught by Jenn. They are always wonderful! They are well worth what we pay:)
Joan Greenwood (verified owner) –
This was my first class with Jenn, and will definitely take more classes with her. I was nervous I wouldn’t be able to keep up but I knew I could play the video again. I worried for nothing. Jenn is a wonderful teacher. I was relaxed and really enjoyed the class. before this class i used distress inks for edging Papers and a bit of colouring. Jenn opened my eyes to all the wonderful things I can do. I can’t wait to do another class with her.
Kristine iwashita (verified owner) –
I learned a ton of new techniques and tips from Jenn. Simple explanations and examples for us to see. I especially like the tips she throws in because she is so experienced. My first online class ever and I can’t wait to see what is next.
Robin Bernier (verified owner) –
This was my first class with Jenn–and it won’t be my last!! I love her teaching method and appreciate her sharing all the great techniques. I did not hear about the class until it was over but that was no problem. I watched the replay and felt like I was watching it live. I really liked that she encouraged us to use what we had. Of course, since the class I have been Jenn-enabled and added a few more awesome products to my collection. Looking forward to my next class.
Jennifer (verified owner) –
I heard about this class from a friend and decided to sign up and it was great!! Jenn is a great teacher and breaks all the steps down in a very understandable way. Learned so much from this class and created a lot of card fronts that I can put on a card and send out!
diane campbell (verified owner) –
This class was awesome! My first class with Jenn. Thank you for being patient, supportive and a GREAT instructor. I learned a ton. I also appreciate that the support continues beyond the class thru fb, email, etc. HIGHLY recommend. Looking forward to part two.
Kim Walters (verified owner) –
This was my first class with Jenn and it was awesome! She gave us so many great ideas on how to use distress and oxides inks and more than just blending. I personally love the “smooshing” technique with multiples color layers for fabulous backgrounds. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Jenn!! I’ll be back for more classes!
Melissa Miller (verified owner) –
If you’ve ever struggled with creating Distress Ink and/or Distress Oxide backgrounds, this is the class for you! Jenn has such a wonderful teaching style and provides the information in an easy to follow manner. Her classes are worth every penny!
michelleann714 (verified owner) –
This was my first class with Jenn, and I definitely will be back for more! She gave so much great information, did a wonderful job managing close to 500 people for the online class, and was encouraging and fun along the way. 🙂 Lots of great backgrounds prepped for future cards! Thanks for a fantastic day, Jenn! Highly recommend!