Saturday, December 17, 2011

Tutorial: DIY Deco Tape

Do you ever have a great idea, then wonder if it's just too simple and obvious to bother telling people about?

But then you think, this is just too neat not to mention!

That happened to me last night when I had a brainstorm for creating custom decorative tape.  Everyone (including me!) is so crazy for washi tape, paper tape, fabric tape, etc. to use in art journals, mixed media art, and mail art.  The more sizes and styles to play with, the better!

Last night, I walked by a pretty roll of bright ribbon that I recently bought at the craft store.
Suddenly, I thought, I wonder what would happen if I just ran it through my small Xyron sticker maker to give a sticky backing that will turn it into decorative tape?
Simple, simple!
Presto!  Deco tape from whatever ribbon suits your fancy!
I immediately put it to use on an art journal page, and really love the results!

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On a different note, Traci Bautista is offering a FREE online workshop beginning January 1, 2012, as part of the Strathmore Online Workshop Series.  I signed up for her "Doodles Unleashed:  Mixed Media Techniques" yesterday, and it looks like she will cover lots of fun techniques with paints, inks, pencils, and markers.  Join me, and sign up for four weeks of FREE art-y fun!

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"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. 
To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy,
is to have the real spirit of Christmas."
Calvin Coolidge

18 comments:

Anne said...

I have one of those Xyron sticker makers -- definitely going to try this for my legacy journal! Bet it would be a good way to make stickers for the girls also. Great idea.

Adriann said...

Great aha moment...now you've got me thinking about what else I can put in my Xyron! :0 Followed you from the Strathmore forum. Will add you to my blog roll. Look forward to getting to know you better. Adriann

lee said...

i would love to have some washi tape, but cant find it here, so am going to order 2 on line, but i am going to try your idea as well, I have been scouring the internet for making washi tape videos, But i like your idea

Andria said...

This would be great for your legacy journal, Mom, since you could choose ribbons with coordinating colors, or even ones that related to the specific project documented on that page!

Hi Adriann, I'm glad you found me! I was trying to come up with all kinds of other Xyron projects to try, too. Looking forward to working with you in Traci's workshop!

I never thought of looking for videos, Lee...very smart! There are so many ways to make different kinds of tape, but it has to be pretty great to just unwrap a couple rolls of brand new washi tape from a package in the mail!

aprilmariecole.blogspot.com said...

So clever... thank you for sharing!
I have many times thought of purchasing the Xyron sticker maker, just wasn't sure how useful it would be... till now! There are several on the market, which one did you use for this project?
Talk soon. *hugs*

Carin Winkelman said...

A wonderful idea. I don't have one of those sticker makers, but I can see how handy it can be. I've entered Traci's online class too!

Carol Creech said...

What a great idea! I just discovered your blog through your comment on The Creative Place. I'm following now! I also have two young daughters and have been dabbling in lots of different arts and crafts. Stop by if you get a chance! Have a great holiday season.
Carol

Andria said...

April, I don't know about all the different types. The one I used here was the small model; it has the number 150 on it. Hope that helps!

Caatje, I'll be glad to "see" you in Traci's class, too!

Carol, I'm so glad you found me! I will definitely check out your blog, too!

aprilmariecole.blogspot.com said...

Thanks for letting me know, will investigate.
There is so many wonderful things out there to create with... love it! :]

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