"3D" looking alphas?

I've seen quite a few layouts lately where the (I assume) chipboard alphas used are all shiny and 3D looking...does anyone know what paints/techniques are used to get this effect, as they look fantastic!

Some alphas are bought like that, American Crafts Thickers are great.
But otherwise you can ink and then add a gloss over the top. Paint them or emboss with embossing powders (you heat them so they melt) HTH

I am MASSIVE Thickers fan (some would say addict) here. I tend to use them coz they are quick and easy, (plus good value) but like Becci said you can also make your own.
I have just inked or painted raw chipbaord alphas in the past and sometimes add a coat of Dimensional Magic to make them glossy.
(Thickers are soooooo much easier though! )

Thanks I have used Thickers before, but have never seen glossy ones!

These 'puffy' ones are glossy:
http://www.handmadebysuzanne.com.au/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25_34_109

And so are some of these chipboard ones:
http://www.handmadebysuzanne.com.au/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25_34_104

Thanks for that - they are very cute I've bookmarked that site, hadn't seen it before - looks terrific!!