Can you believe that I haven't bought wrapping paper in over 15 years! Why buy paper when you can make your own and making your own is as easy as using simple techniques to create pattern on the surface of paper.
My favorite paper to use is butcher paper or brown craft paper but any paper (or even fabric) will work for creating wrapping.
Stamps and stencils are one of the easiest ways to repeat a design over and over again (without having to draw over and over again) and there are all kind of things that can be used as a stamp or a stencil. Use alternative materials, store bought stamps OR even use your inspiration to create your own!
TIPS:
There are all kinds of materials to use with stamps- ink, acrylic paint, watercolor, even markers can be used to ink up a stamp.
To create a uniform pattern, space and place your stamps exactly the same distance apart. To create a more expressive pattern don't worry about spacing or placement, just go wild with stamping.
Don't be afraid to overlap your stamps.
Stencils are another easy and FAST way to repeat a design to create pattern.
TIPS:
Use a paint brush, a brayer or spray paint.
Secure your stencils with painter tape if you want a clean and perfect design OR work quickly without the stencil adhered to the surface for a more messy and expressive affect.
A small amount of paint goes a long way- don't load too much paint onto your brush or brayer.
Everyday things can be used as a stencil- punchella, lace, doilies, any kind of porous fabric or paper.
There are all kinds of materials that can be used to create unique and interesting marks that can be turned into pattern. Here are a few of my favorites:
1. bubble wrap 2. any kind of pen cap or paint lid 3. cardboard roll 4. anything form nature- leaves, sticks, flowers, etc
TIP:
Don't be afraid to use more than one or even two (or three stamps or materials) together!
Comments