Ever stare at your collection of patterned paper and think, “It’s too pretty to cut!”? Here’s the thing—patterned paper was made to be used, and when you let it take center stage, it not only reduces your stash, but shares the beauty with others.
Why Use Patterned Paper as the Focal Point?
If you’re short on time or just starting out with cardmaking, patterned paper is a heavy-lifter. It eliminates the need for complicated stamping or layering while still making your cards look polished and professional. With just a single sheet of patterned paper, a sentiment, and a few embellishments, you can create a card in minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your supplies and make the most of what you have.
Using patterned paper as the focal point is a fantastic way to create quick, on-the-go cards without sacrificing style. Whether you’re in a rush, feeling uninspired, or just want to let that gorgeous design shine, patterned paper is your best friend. But let’s take it up a notch! Here are three ways to level up your card designs while still letting your favorite papers be the star of the show.
Ever stare at your collection of patterned paper and think, “It’s too pretty to cut!”? Here’s the thing—patterned paper was made to be used, and when you let it take center stage, it not only reduces your stash, but shares the beauty with others.
Why Use Patterned Paper as the Focal Point?
If you’re short on time or just starting out with cardmaking, patterned paper is a heavy-lifter. It eliminates the need for complicated stamping or layering while still making your cards look polished and professional. With just a single sheet of patterned paper, a sentiment, and a few embellishments, you can create a card in minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your supplies and make the most of what you have.
Using patterned paper as the focal point is a fantastic way to create quick, on-the-go cards without sacrificing style. Whether you’re in a rush, feeling uninspired, or just want to let that gorgeous design shine, patterned paper is your best friend. But let’s take it up a notch! Here are three ways to level up your card designs while still letting your favorite papers be the star of the show.The Peekaboo Fun Fold
Want a card that wows but is still super easy to create? Try a peekaboo fun fold! This interactive design gives a little sneak peek of your patterned paper when the card is closed, then fully reveals it when opened
- Start with a standard card base (5-1/2” x 8-1/2”, scored at 4-1/4”).
- Cut a window from the front panel using a die or punch—this can be a circle, rectangle, or even a fancy shape.
- Layer your patterned paper on the inside of the card so it peeks through the window when closed.
- Add a simple sentiment on the front, letting the paper be the focal point.
- For an extra wow factor, attach the sentiment on a small swinging flap that moves to reveal more of the paper inside!
Floating Strips
Have scraps? This technique turns them into a focal point with a twist. It looks really cool on vellum, especially with a piece of the same pattern paper behind the vellum panel. Using acetate really makes the panel feel like it’s floating.
- Cut strips of patterned paper (varying widths work great!) and adhere them to a piece of acetate or vellum, leaving small gaps between each strip.
- Die-cut or trim the acetate into a fun shape, like a rectangle, heart, or even a tag.
- Use foam adhesive to “float” this panel on your card base.
- Add a simple sentiment and embellishments—let the pattern do the talking!
Triangle Gatefold
This elegant yet simple fun fold creates a unique opening and highlights a gorgeous sheet of patterned paper inside.
- Start with a 5-1/2” x 8-1/2” card base.
- Score at 2-1/8” and 6-3/8” to create gatefold panels.
- Cut each front panel diagonally from the top corner to the bottom outer edge, forming two triangle flaps.
- Cover the inside with patterned paper so that when the triangles fold over, they partially reveal the stunning design.
- Use a belly band, ribbon, or die-cut element to keep the card closed.
I hope you have fun with these ideas. Happy crafting :).
