In the class today the instructors were using diffusers and coverplates, both commercially available ones and homemade ones.  They also used Press and Seal to make a fairly tedious technique considerably less tedious.  I decided to try  using  a cover plate die along with Press and Seal to create one background  and a Tim Holtz diffuser along with an embossing folder to create a second background.   I love the background with the diffuser.  The other one was prettier in my head than on the end result.  I have a plan B that I will attempt if I have enough time.