Mixing Fabric and Paper

I've recently started to explore the art of sewing, and have quickly fallen in love with the vast array of fabrics available.  I've found myself with a stash of leftover scraps from my sewing projects, and have enjoyed incorporating them into my scrapbook pages and cards.  There are so many ways it can be used to bring color and texture to any project.

This layout uses fabric scraps to create a photo mat with a look reminiscent of a crazy quilt.  This technique can add a cozy, homey feel to any scrapbook page.  My Fiskars comfort grip rotary trimmer makes quick work of cutting the fabric, and it's so easy to switch out the blade and cut a scalloped border from patterned paper.

Use your Fiskars punches to create a template for a fabric embellishment.  The micro-tip scissors cut around any shape with ease.  A layer of flannel under the fabric gives this heart added dimension.

Fabric takes the place of patterned paper on this decorative canvas – what an easy way to add extra texture to an altered project! I used a classic brown polka dot on this piece, but you can experiment with different colors and patterns to bring a fun new look to the papers and stickers you already have.

Strips of fabric can be used in so many ways – from simple borders to cool embellishments. The Fiskars rotary trimmer makes cutting even the skinniest strips easy.  I've created a star and a flower in these examples, but the possibilities are endless.  Arrange your strips into whatever shape you like and then using stitching or brads to hold them in place.  The strips of fabric will fray a bit as you work with them – if this bothers you there are products you can get to stop the fraying at your local fabric store.

Fabric is a wonderful way to create your own accents for your paper projects.  I hope these ideas inspire you to give fabric scraps new life on your layouts and cards!

By Lisa Truesdell