After all the work we put into our handmade cards and paper craft projects, the least we can do is make sure they're protected against dust, sticky fingers and every day wear and tear. I like to add a light layer of matt sealer to some of the items I make - mostly over loose mediums such as glitter or the Flowersoft on this donkey card. I also tend to apply a sealer to images coloured with pencil so that the pencil doesn't rub and smudge when placed in an envelope or handled by the recipient.
Don't be tempted to seal your work with hair spray, which was a big trend a few years ago. Hair spray will yellow with time and in humid conditions you'll find that it leaves a sticky residue that actually attracts and holds the dirt!
What are some of your favourite papercrafting tips?
Share in the comments section below.
12 comments:
Thank you...great tip, hugs, Lori m
Wow that's a great tip thank you for sharing this
Yes, I did use hairspray a few years back it was good to use on chalk projects....
The only tip I have is too less than too much especially on glue..
Thanks Beccy for sharing your tips.
I take process photos of in-progress paper layering / collage. I'll arrange everything "dry" (not glued down). Take pics and then look at them on my 24" computer monitor. You can easily spot errors in design balance, coloring, fussy cutting, whatever. Plus, it serves as a guide when I'm gluing it down. xox
I use Gamsol with my colored pencil work. Does one still need to spray it? I used to do that with my work but had issues with the spray nozzel clogging so I quit doing that as I could not afford to buy spray and have it not be used. And I do not work with chalks anymore so that was what it was used for anyway.
I've never tried this. On my Distress Oxide or Distress Ink backgrounds, I like using Distress Micro Glaze to protect them (whenever I remember!). It makes them waterproof, smudgeproof, etc. Please tell me... does the product you use have a strong odour?
That's a great tip Aimeslee, thanks for sharing!
Cheers,
Beccy
Hi Verna. I don't use Gamsol or mineral spirits with my pencil work so I'm not very familiar with the longevity of the finished piece. I do know that the Gamsol breaks down the binder (usually wax) that holds the pigment together in the pencil, and as such, the colour is able to "melt" into the surface of the paper. Based on that, I would say you'd be less likely to lose colour compared to a piece that has not been blended. If you don't have any problem with colour transfer or smudging, then I'd say don't worry about sealing it.
Cheers,
Beccy
Yes it does Kitty, but only until it dries. I use it outside and usually by the time I come back in and put the can away, it's almost dry.
Cheers,
Beccy
Thanks for your answer. I have not noticed any smudging when using it so I hope I am okay.
Dear Beccy,
I finally taken the time to sit still, relax and absorb what you and your readers share. I have been absolutely blessed and I'm truly enjoying what I have and am learning. Thanks so much for being a blessing to so many people.
Blessings
Jeannine
What a lovely message! Thank you Jeannine, I appreciate your kind words.
Cheers,
Beccy
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