Quiz Katie - Paper Tearing

Quiz Katie Challenge

This months question came from a woman at one of the beginner’s scrapbooking classes I taught recently. I have been asked this question a lot so here is the answer.

Question:

How do you tear paper for scrapbooks and cards?

I find that this question can be best answered by showing you an example of how it looks. Check out this card and these two scrapbook pages...

The last double page layout is the perfect example of how paper tearing can be used in your scrapbooks. You’ll notice that the background papers, title box, and page elements have been torn to create more texture and interest. Even the little flowers have been quickly torn from scraps of paper to create adorable little embellishments. To make your own hand torn flowers, simply cut the paper roughly into the shape you want and then tear around the edges.

Use your fingers or a straight edge ruler to guide the paper as you tear. Using your fingers will provide a wider tear with more edge on it. Using a ruler will give you a very lightly torn edge.

Six Tips to Remember:

1. When paper tearing, pull the torn edge towards you in small controlled motions to keep the line where you want it to be.
2. Don’t tear too fast, you will simple rip the paper without any consistency to the tear.
3. Try placing the edge of the paper along the edge of the counter or table so you can easily grasp the paper and guide the tear line.
4. Not all paper tears the same. Practice on a little scrap piece so you can see how that particular sheet will act before going all out on your page pieces.
5. For best results, use color core paper. It will tear more easily and provide you with the perfect color on your torn edge.
6. Ink and paper tearing are a great combination for rough and distressed effects. Simply tear the paper in the way you want and then use an applicator pad or sponge to rub the distress ink into the torn edge.

 Next time you get stuck on a page and don’t know what to do, try tearing a few of the edges. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to do with just a little bit of practice. The best part is, this technique doesn’t require any extra tools to do.