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  • Writer's pictureJules

Creating Backgrounds and Paper Piecing

Happy Friday, everyone! Today I'm sharing a fun slimline card using two different techniques: stenciling when your stencil is smaller than your card and paper piecing! Another fun request by Unies was unique baby cards. Well, maybe this isn't super unique, but it was too cute to not share!



Unity Products Used:



Stenciling Tip: When you're using a stencil that is 6" x 6" on a slimline card, you may need to improvise. Here are some tips:

  • Layers: With the new Polka Dot Stencil it's pretty easy to continue the patter without it looking awkward. With scattered patterns like this, another way to hide edges is to layer the stencil so you have a dark layer and a light layer (as seen above) to hide the seam.

  • Flip it: Depending on the pattern, you may be able to flip the stencil over to create a mirrored look. Just make sure you clean and dry the side you just used before you flip it and lay it on your project.

  • Partial stenciling: If the image on your stencil is very detailed, try only using it on the corners or even randomly to create more of a grunge/distressed look.



The paper piecing was easy thanks to the fun patters of the Kindness is Magic paper pack that was included in the a previous Whit Kit, but can be purchased separately. Here are some helpful tips when paper piecing on your project:

  • Stamping in the right direction: Depending on the pattern, you may want to stamp your image in a certain direction, so make sure that you can fit the stamp without mixing up the pattern. For this paper, the pattern was mixed up enough that direction wasn't an issue.

  • Cut on the black line: When you're fussy cutting your stamped image, cut directly on the black line. This allows the image to be clearly defined.

  • Fill in the edges: When you're done fussy cutting, you'll likely see the white core of the patterned paper. Take a Memento black marker and slide the larger tip on the edge to color the core. ** Always have the tip face the same way the pattern so if your marker slides, it colors the back of your patterned paper, not the front.

  • Shading patterned paper: Yep, you can still do shading with your Copics on patterned paper. Either use greys or similar colors to make sure it matches, but shading the edges gives the fussy cut image more dimension.



To add a little fun to this card, I used string and mini clothesline pins to hang these onesies. This is a fun little twist on a baby card... more like twins with this one! Lastly, I added the simple and thoughtful sentiment die "Here's a Hug." By die cutting the sentiment a few times and stacking it, this just adds one more level of dimension to this cute card.


Thanks so much for stopping by today and I hope you found some helpful hits when using all your favorite Unity stamps, stencils, dies and papers! Until next time...


Happy Crafting!

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