Paper Basics

If you are new to scrapbooking don't head to the store and purchase paper without considering a few pointers.  Paper is the functional foundational supply for your photos and journaling, and it is also a decorative element for other crafting projects.

• COLORFAST: If your project is intended to hang on the wall make sure the paper is colorfast so the color will not fade onto your wall or other surface
• DOUBLE-SIDED: To simply the process of selecting coordinating patterns find a patterned paper you like and purchase two.  You use the patterend side for one and the solid side for the contrast, You can match your cardstock accordingly
• FINISH: If you leave your paper as it is any finish will do. ( matte, glossy, etc).  If you want to chalk, ink, paint, or alter the surface be sure your paper will accept the artisitc mediums you intend to use.
• WEIGHT: If patterned paper typically is what you select for your background then selelct cardstock weight papers for extra stability. If you use patterned paper for accents, use a lighter weight paper.

It may seem to you that all cardstock is the same, that is not true. There are so many variables to consider like texture, core, wieght, backing. Cardstock can help you achieve a different result each time. Some things to consider.

• BACKING: Save yourself some time of adding adhesive by purchasing adhesive backed cardsock.  This feature is especially helpful if you like to punch out shapes and use a cutter.  If children like to work beside you it is a fabulous item so they can create without the adhesives.
• CORE: If you are going to distress any of your papers then you must select a paper with white cores.  They help the distressed look pop even more.  One brand is Die Cuts With a View.
• TEXTURE: A simple texture can add an eye catching dimension to your pages. Textures like dots, stripes, or cross hatch will add a different feel and look.  Example of one style is the new Ki Memories Lace Paper
• WEIGHT: Paper weight numbers can be confusing because they are based on several factors including ( paper type, text weight, cover weight, and more). All you need to know is that your PAPER IS CARDSTOCK WEIGHT OR PAPER WEIGHT.  Cardstock can be patterend and patterned papers can be solid. Don't judge the weight strictly on appearence. Weight is important when running your paper through printers and cutters.

Examples of different papers

Colormates: Monochromatic pages are a snap to put together with the their light, medium and dark tones that come in each package

Prism Papers: Add soft, subtle dimension to your pages with watercolor or textured Prism papers

Embossed Cardstock: Doodlebug has an elegant embossed cardstock that you can chalk, ink, or paint on. Many brands offer an embossed line in addition to other textures and weights

Bazzill Bling: This paper features a shimmer and metallic finish that will add a little pizazz to your pages.

Lace Paper: New by KI Memories

White Core Texture Paper and Adhesive backed paper: Die Cuts with a View

Basic Grey: Slightly distressed looking cardstock in a fashionable design

C-Thru Ruler: Versatile, Strong designs on the front, subtle designs on the back

Elegant Papers: Popular Brand Daisy D

Embossed or Flocked Papers: A brand you can look for is K & Company. Add a subtle touch of texture to your pages. Many of their papers are also Matte or Flat with out texture.

Urban Inspired Papers: A company to see is Tinkering Ink. Their papers have an edgy, stunning design that will proudly display your adventurous side.

Paintables: Prima Marketing has came out eh a watercolor paper that allows you to customize the designs with your paint, chalk, or markers.

Cardstock Papers: My Minds Eye is just one brand of cardstock that is versatile and is printed on both sides. Many of the Designing Companies feature cardstock. Some recommendations are 3 Bugs In a Rug, Dream Street, SEI, Fancy Pants, Paper Trunk, American Crafts, Junkitz, Imaginisce, Prima,  to name a few.

Glitter & Shimmer: SEI has new lines that feature a glitter accent along with a beautiful shimmer to their paper.

Let this guide help you when you are considering paper or cardstock along with the weights and texures.