How to print digital designs on vellum | Scrapbook Tips

Hey everyone! Today I want to share how you can add texture and layers to a Project Life spread by printing your digital designs on vellum. Vellum is a translucent paper that you can find in most craft stores. You can run it through your printer just like any type of paper. Two things to note before you start:

Because vellum is translucent, the designs will not print as vibrantly as they would on opaque white.
And, allow a little extra time for the ink to fully dry or lightly pat the page with a paper towel so nothing smears.

Okay, now to the fun part!

1. With see-through pockets add a layered look

When I first started getting interested in Project Life, I was always so excited by see-through pockets because they add a layered, whimsical look to a page! It breaks up the monotony of paper on paper on paper. This time, I tried something different by putting copper sequins and wooden hearts behind the vellum card and I really like how fun and interactive it is. I stamped the date using Staz-On ink so it wouldn’t smear off the page.

2. Subdued colors & subtle embellishments

Like I mentioned before, printing on vellum will subdue the colors of the digital design you choose to print. For the flannel patterned ‘cozy day’ card, I printed on both card-stock and vellum to see which I preferred. The one on card-stock was a little too bright and commanding compared to my photos; I was happy to have another option! I matted the card on the white card-stock to make it more opaque (sounds like a crazy back and forth, I know) but it gave the card more dimension and it almost looks like fabric to me! I also printed the elements from Cozy Day collection on vellum and I love how subtle they are as embellishments because you can still see the image through the design.

3. Add texture with ripped paper

This is one of my favorite tricks for adding texture to a layout. You can see in the two pictures above that I cut out the designs with scissors and then tore one edge. It gives the page a ‘scrappy’ feel which is a good thing since we’re scrapbooking here! I love clean lines but imperfection keeps a page interesting and unique.
Tip: score the basic line that you want with scissors before you tear, it will make ripping easier and more controlled.