How to Use Torn Paper on a Scrapbook Page

Torn paper adds a fun and funky touch to your scrapbook pages. It can be rustic such as torn cardstock or elegant with torn vellum. A multiple torn background can appear like a sunset or you can tear specific shapes. The raw edge can be left natural or colored with ink or chalk for a contrast.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Ink
• Chalk
• Cardstock
• Cotton Swab
• Water Pen

1. Practice tearing on a few scrap sheets so you can see how paper will tear.
2. Choose a sheet of cardstock you want to tear.
3. Find the grain of the paper by bending the paper both directions. One direction will bend easily and the other direction will be stiffer. The direction that bends easily is with the grain. Tear with the grain for a straighter tear. Go against the grain for a jagged edge.
4. Pinch the top of the sheet with both index fingers and thumbs.
5. Tear the paper in one fluid motion.
6. For a special shape, outline the shape by using a water pen or a wet cotton swab. Tear along the wet line and it will tear the shape perfectly.
7. Leave the raw edge alone for a subtle look. Or ink or chalk the edge to make a contrasting edge.

Tips & Warnings

• Tearing towards you with your left hand will leave the exposed edge on the right. Tearing with your right hand will leave the exposed edge on the left.
• Some cardstock colors have a white core. When you tear these sheets, a white edge will appear.