Seashell and Pebble Sprayed Stationery

Decorate stationery, postcards, or a travel journal using tokens collected on a recent trip.

Lay shells or stones on thick paper, and spray the area with watered-down paint. Abstract patterns emerge on the paper underneath, recalling a dappled sky.

Sprayed Stationery How-To
1. Cover your work surface.

2. Add 1 teaspoon acrylic paint to a small spray bottle. Fill halfway with water; shake to mix. (For a more translucent solution, add more water.)

3. Arrange shells or pebbles on note cards or another paper item.

4. Spray paint mixture over shells or pebbles. Let dry for about 30 minutes before lifting objects.

Tip: Card stock or other thick paper works best; it's less likely to warp.

Pretty Paper Bowl Gifts Ideas

Surprisingly easy, the papermaking process takes just minutes and can be fun for kids, too. Then form your paper into all kinds of paper crafts for your home or for gift giving.

Tear and press wet pieces of rolled pulp sheet onto a bowl placed upside down and covered with plastic wrap. Let the pulp dry, then remove a new molded bowl.

TIP: To strengthen finished paper projects, coat them with decoupage glue. (Papermaking instructions start on slide 7.)

Decorate Die-Cut Boxes

Create fun, festive mini gift boxes using die cuts or patterns. Many local scrapbook stores have die-cutting systems and large box dies that you can use. Or, use the same embellishments to dress up store-bought boxes. Glue decorative papers to the sides, then finish the look with a glittery initial in place of a gift tag.