Another beautifully striking page from guest scrapbooker Angela. She’s copied the sketch almost exactly, including some beautiful paper tearing to frame the pages.
I often get asked about the best way to tear paper for scrapbooking. Tearing paper is a great way to add texture and depth to your scrapbook pages, but it can also be tricky to get right. Here’s a few pointers to get you going.
Choose the right paper
When it comes to paper tearing, not all papers are created equal. Some papers tear more easily than others. Textured papers, like watercolour or handmade papers, tear more easily and add a unique look to your scrapbook pages (but be aware they may not be acid free). On the other hand, glossy papers or papers with a coating are more difficult to tear and may result in jagged edges. So, it's important to choose the right paper for the look you want to achieve.
Experiment with tearing techniques
There are many ways to tear paper for scrapbooking. You can tear it straight across for a classic look or tear it at an angle for a more dynamic effect. You can also tear the paper into shapes or use torn paper as a frame for your photos.
You can use your hands to tear the paper, or if you want a more controlled tear, use a ruler or bone folder to create a crease, then tear along the crease. Don't be afraid to experiment with different tearing techniques to see what works best for your scrapbook page.
Don't overdo it
While tearing paper can add a lot of texture and interest to your scrapbook pages, it's important not to overdo it. Too much torn paper can look messy and overwhelming. Instead, use tearing as an accent to highlight certain elements on your page.
Use layers
Layering torn paper is a great way to add depth and dimension to your scrapbook pages without adding too much bulk or bumps. You can layer torn paper under photos or embellishments to create a focal point on your page. You can also layer torn paper on top of each other to create a collage effect. Experiment with different layering techniques to see what works best for your page.
Don't be afraid to make mistakes
Finally, don't be afraid to make mistakes when tearing paper for scrapbooking. It's a learning process, and sometimes things don't turn out the way you planned. But that's okay! Use your mistakes as an opportunity to learn and grow as a scrapbooker.