All that pretty paper, and nowhere to go? That’s exactly the sentiment we had last weekend when we pulled out our craft stash.
Indeed, after months of crafting, purchasing and using cardstock paper, we found ourselves with bountiful bags and bits of beautiful paper scraps. And in various sizes, no less. Every crafter’s dilemma. That’s when the idea hit: let’s find a way to make something with this growing pile! Let’s see where are crafty brains take us.
Sorting through our paper scrap stash, we found cardstock, pieces of glitter paper, cutouts of scrapbook paper, and patterns from old calendar planners and inserts. One by one, we randomly (or not so randomly) pulled out various red, navy, black and patterned themes. The crafting brain wants what it wants, okay? 🙂
Next, we used scissors and a small paper cutter to trim the various papers into triangles, both slim and wide. Having a paper cutter is handy because you can get really straight edges. And it’s quick.
Starting on one corner, we slowly built our abstract art card by first choosing some larger triangle pieces that fit together like a puzzle. We glued these pieces to an off-white cardstock which was cut a bit smaller than the typical A6 size.
We continued to mix in other sizes and strips. One by one, we glued various patterns side by side: polka dots, stripes, flowered patterns, geometric patterns, and even textured glitter paper.
For this type of paper crafting, you go with the flow.
As we continued to make our way toward the center of the card, we realized we needed to cut smaller triangles to fill in any gaps. And when we were stuck trying to decide what pattern should be next, we just worked on filling in the opposite corners. We snipped off any paper that did not fit within the size of the card.
Using scissors, we continued to cut smaller triangles to fill in any gaps. This was probably the most challenging part of this project. There were so many angles to consider (and this was not geometry math class!) Anyway, we filled in as many gaps with smaller pieces and did our best to minimize any overlapping due to oddly shaped gaps. Eventually, we were able to complete it. And yes, it took longer than expected. But one can get lost in the world of crafting homemade cards when the brain is in the state of “flow”. A good meal was to be had after this!
We wanted to mention that we used foam tape to the back of the piece and affixed it to a blank Kraft card ( A6 size). This gave the card some perception of dimension and depth. We wanted this piece of art to slightly “pop” out on the front of the card.
Below is the final look. Our first homemade abstract art card. We had a fun time putting this together and enjoyed sorting through and picking out paper.
Every now and then, a card does not need to always be planned out. Art can unfold as the artist sees fit!
Upon further reflection, this card made us think of gift cards you pick up in museums. You know, the cards that show pictures of certain exhibits. An impressionist painting. Or a sculpture. In this case, the recipient will receive an actual one-of-a-kind piece. We love that! It’s the perfect card for writing a quick note to someone “just because” or to say “thank you”.
Do you have any beautiful paper lying around? Maybe it’s the envelope from a mailer, or inserts from an old but cute planner. Maybe it’s part of a stationary set that you need a reason to use. Take a look at your collection. Upcycle and create some abstract art to send to a friend (or keep and frame!)
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