My son recently asked me if I had some paper scraps he could use and, if you are a creator, you know the answer. I have so many leftover bits I have saved that I will never use. Can you relate? Today, I am going to show you how to use up that collection of paper strips and share a few ways you can amp up those pattern papers with stencils, paste, and dies.
To make these card designs, I used strips of pattern paper from the Somebunny Loves Me paper pad that comes in the Not2Shabby Box of the Month. If you missed my previous post using this collection, you can view it here.
As I was cutting the paper strips, I paid careful attention to the patterns. The papers with simple patterns like hearts, are easy to cut down, but the bunnies and trees required a little bit of forethought. On this card, I wanted the bunnies to show so I cut that pattern carefully to avoid the accidental decapitation of cottontails. The tree layer was cut so that the branches would be evenly spaced.
I took advantage of the cloud pattern on the larger strip and used that white area to stamp my sentiment. Again, I had to plan ahead for this, but it was easy to do, and looks like it is part of the pattern in the background.
To amp up this card, I used a border die and added some stitching in between each pattern. Using the scallop border softened the horizontal lines and add some delicateness to the card. The stitching gave it a little bit of texture.
The second valentine is also a simple layout created with paper strips. This one has a more romantic feel with ribbon, florals, and polka dots.
To amp up this card, I used a stencil to add some texture paste dots onto one of the paper strips. Using a stencil over your pattern paper is a great way to add to a design.
I also added some texture with ribbon and stitching. Both help to break up the patterns and soften the transition between the paper strips.
I kept the sentiment simple by using a stamped phrase from the collection that is layered over one of the floral die cuts. I debated using another bunny, but I like the way the florals look with the polka dots.
In my video, I share the measurements for each of these paper strips and show you how these cards came together.
Both of these card designs are super simple and easy to make using pattern paper strips. I chose patterns from the Somebunny Love You collection, but you can use any paper or ephemera for your creations.
I hope that all of these projects inspired you today. If you have any questions about the project or supplies listed above, feel free to leave me a comment.
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