Alternative Uses for Scrapbook Paper

Scrapbook paper can be used in a variety of ways -- other than scrapbooking. Think outside the box! There are many different textures and patterns of paper that make terrific collages for wall art. Here are a couple of examples of collages I have made.




I purchased a 10x10 artist stretched canvas and painted it black. Then I layered and glued different textures and sizes of scrapbooking papers.


Across the bottom, I pierced two holes on each side with a sewing needle and threaded a wired string of orange beads.


Paper is from Paper Pizzaz.

When I saw this frame I thought it was perfect for a paper collage. The papers are sandwiched between two pieces of glass, which makes them appear to "float."

I crumbled the paper and then smoothed it back out for a textured look. Paper is from Paper Pizzaz. Other elements are Rebecca Sower's Fresh Cuts - Keys to the Past.

Iris Folding Cards

A couple more cards using the iris folding technique. The template and papers are from the Anna Griffin kit.

How to Create a Sunflower Centerpiece

November was my parents 47th wedding anniversary! We planned a very nice family dinner at home for them. I created a fresh flower centerpiece to brighten the table. I re-used a square glass container (I think it had cashews in it before) and placed river rocks in the bottom. I filled the vase about half full with water and emptied the packet of flower perserver that came with the bouquet. This stuff really works -- the flowers lasted over a week before they started to wilt.

I picked up a fresh flower bouquet for $15 at Sam's Club. Starting with the most prominent flowers first (the sunflowers) I cut them to size and placed in the container. I use kitchen shears and cut the steams at an angle. Remember to remove any leaves that will lie below the level of the water in the vase as this will help to keep the flowers fresh. Next, I cut the filler flowers at shorter lengths and placed in the container. Since this arrangement was a centerpiece and viewed from all sides, the flowers must be placed all around at different angles for the best look. For a finishing touch I added some lengths of grapevine and leaves I had on hand from another floral arrangement.