When Suz asked if I would be interested in writing a post for the ASS blog about a trend of 2010 I was totally flattered and a little surprised. After recovering from the shock, I knew immediately what trend I would like to post about … patterned papers.
Patterned papers have long been an addiction of mine. Even in the good old days of Creative Memories, I felt compelled to cover my stark white pages with patterned papers. Patterned papers are such an inexpensive way to add some zip to layouts. Today there are so many companies that manufacture patterned papers, enough to wallpaper an entire house I am sure. I love that many patterned papers are double sided and most companies release their new lines with mix and match patterned papers perfectly coordinated with embellishments and lettering. However, my favourite technique is to mix all the different brands together. And though this isn’t necessarily a brand new trend, it is an enduring and ever-changing one.
I have a GO TO pizza box that is filled with left over patterned paper … I love to use small strips of various patterned papers on a layout to give it an eclectic feel. Sometimes to spice up a layout I will use an entire piece of patterned paper as my background layering a variety of patterned papers on top.
In fact, the more patterned papers I can fit on a layout, the happier I feel. I particularly like to add strips along the borders of my layout.
I love the Cosmo Cricket Elements and Border papers, they are perfect for adding to embellishment clusters. I also like to cut out features from patterned papers, think flowers, stars, numbers, clouds, almost anything. Patterned papers are perfect for punching too, use the negative shape for something different.
I love how Mardi Winen has used a variety of pattern papers on her Welcome Home layout … the little heart outline is a cute touch.
Another fabulous example of mixing up patterned papers, this one from Maggie Holmes. Love the narrow strips of papers at the top and bottom of the layout.
Susan Weinroth’s layout is a gorgeous example of using a variety of patterned papers and a couple of different punches. The combination of circles and butterflies is just lovely.
Thanks to Mardi, Maggie and Susan - and Pip! for their layouts. We hope this post has inspired you to look at your patterned paper stash with new eyes. Happy scrapping.
