Scrapbooking with Glitter

Scrapbooking is like a religion to me. I love to do it and devote hours on end to making sure my children have all of their memories saved.

My scrapbook pages are my pride and joy. I love to make them unique and fun. I want them to be something that catches the observer's eye. I also love me some glitter. That is why I like to accent, not cover my pages, with glitter. Covering your page with glitter can look tacky, but a little glitter here, a little glitter there, and you have an eye-catching hint of glimmer.

My first rule for adding glitter to my scrapbook pages is to never, ever put glitter on my pictures. My pictures can be framed and glitter added to the frame, but actual glitter on a picture is just not classy.

I like to work with a finished scrapbook page and use the glitter to add an accent. I look at the design of the page and figure out where glitter would make sense. One of my favorite areas to add glitter is in the center of a flower, on top of dots, framing letters or around the picture frame.

When glittering use the less is more approach. I use fine glitter when I am crafting with glitter on my scrapbook pages. I find that the chucky glitter cheapens the look of my scrapbook pages.

For a precision look apply glue with a glue pen to the area you want glittered. Place your scrapbook page on top of plate or a large piece of kraft paper. Sprinkle the glitter generously on top of your glue. Lift the scrapbook page up and shake it over your surface. This way you can save your glitter by simply folding your paper plate or Kraft paper and shaking your glitter back into the bottle.

They sell 12X12 pieces of glittered paper. These are great to use when punching out designs with a custom star, circle, or other punches. Do not use a 12X12 piece of glitter paper for the background of your scrapbook page. It will overwhelm the eyes and detract from your project.

When working with glitter, whether in a scrapbook, or on an art project, allow proper dry time. Keep the glittered scrapbook page open and exposed to air for at least 24 hours. You want to make sure the glitter and glue have adequate drying time.