The paper used to wrap reams of plain white paper can be used in paper crafts. Sometimes colorful, usually matte, it can counterbalance the glossy effects of magazine pages or wrapping paper. Use a light hand when applying water-based glue to prevent water spots and ripples. If the paper in the ream is acid-free, the wrapper may [...]
Like magazine pages, this is a “found” craft paper. The glossy variety can be used like magazine pages: slick colorful pieces to use as needed. The catalog pages like newsprint should be used as such. Some very pricey catalogs are printed on thicker paper. All are subject to water ripples and spots if too much water-based glue is used. [...]
The pages of a magazine are “found” paper for crafts. The pictures can by used for school projects. I keep images of interesting products or interiors for reference. Photo, ad or print pages can be used to make beads: cut into thin strips, roll around bar straws (small, available at liquor stores) cut to the width of [...]
Ever notice the inside of the envelopes bills come in? Sometimes these have interesting blue or black patterns to prevent reading through the envelope. These same patterns can be incorporated into your paper craft. Remove the flap and anywhere the glue original is placed, and the cellophane window, before using this paper. If you are doing [...]
Teabag folding is a kind of origami. Originally developed using actual teabags, special craft papers are now printed that have small squares with patterns, usually in sets of eight. Using these squares, folded in specific ways, stars and circles are formed. The small patterns on the papers make the resulting form kaleidoscopic, hence the alternative name “miniature [...]
This is a form of craft paper I have little experience with. It would seem to be a good substitute for corn husk in the creation of corn husk dolls. Otherwise, I cannot say how paper twist can be used in paper crafts. Ideas? Click to return to the top of the Craft Paper Guide.
Papier mache is strips of paper soaked in a water/glue solution and formed into the shape desired. For example, paper wads or a inflated balloon can provide round shapes on which papier mache is laid. When enough layers are applied and the object has dried, the papier mache becomes rigid. Allow to air dry. Once the figure [...]
The core of paper towel rolls and toilet paper can provide excellent cylinders for paper crafts. Usually brown or gray, some brands use white cores. These can by used as the body for figures like toy soldiers or pilgrims for seasonal decorations. These cores are not acid-free and will eventually deteriorate. If you make something fabulous using them, [...]
Paper plates are useful as paint palettes and brush rests during your crafting sessions. But they can also form the body of your project. Use them to create masks or sun visors for children or stuffed animals. Add a stick and you have a fan. Use one as the back and frame for a small collage. Make a (thankfully) [...]
How could this guide about craft papers be complete without an entry about hand-made paper? You can make your own or buy it from others. Paper making pulp is available for crafters who want to give making their own paper a try. The hallmark of hand-made paper is texture. These craft papers will have a lot of [...]
The opposite of plain, white paper, scrapbooking paper is full of color and pattern. Enormous numbers of colors and patterns. As a craft paper, it offers endless opportunities. This craft paper is usually smooth, and fairly limp. It is good for adornment but will probably not form the body of your project without some outside support if your [...]
By plain white paper, I mean printer or copier paper. White 8 1/2 by 11 inch smooth paper. “Craft paper?” you say. Yes, craft paper. Some beautiful white on white sculptures have been created using this paper, scissors and glue. Using stilts to separate the layers and provide shadows to give the forms depth, scenery and figures [...]
Quilling paper is usually a nice-bodied, matte-finish, smooth craft paper sold in 12 inch strips. It is available in white and maybe 20 strong colors. It can be 1/8 inch or 1/4 inch wide, and there may be other widths available from specialty suppliers. You can cut your own from sheets of paper, but the strips must be [...]
Sketching paper usually comes in a pad or bound book form. The weight and surface of the paper varies, and it is usually white (more or less). I have not used it for anything but sketching, but it is available from most art or craft stores and not all that expensive. It might be a useful craft paper [...]
Watercolor paper comes in a number of textures and weights. It is usually more expensive than a lot of craft papers, but it does not have any surface coating and is usually somewhat stiff. It resists rippling when wet and usually resumes a flat state when it dries. When torn, it usually provides a nice deckled edge, [...]