Recoloring paper is a great way to customize your supplies, update them or just to have a little bit of fun! I used paint, glimmer mist, chalk, alcohol ink, glaze, dye, and whitewash to change the color of my scrapbook papers. Read on for the how-tos as well as performance of each on several variables.
NOTE: While its easiest to start with predominently white or light colored background, some of these techniques with higher opacity ratings can accent or even re-color darker backgrounds.
use PAINT to change paper color
All you need is some acrylic paint and a paint brush to get this effect. The more coats you apply the less of the original background you will see and the more saturated the paper will become. This technique can work with lighter and darker backgrounds and is best suited for medium to heavyweight papers.
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This paper was painted blue -- with a crown used for masking.
use ALCOHOL INK to change paper color
In order to get this effect you will need alcohol inks, blending solution and an applicator. This method is highly saturating and creates rich even colors. It is suited for most paper colors and weights.
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use GLIMMER MIST to change paper color
Using glimmer mists can bring rich colors, a fun texture and a little bit of sparkle to your papers. The more applications that are applied the more saturated the paper becomes, and the richer and more even the color will be. While the color is very permanent, the glittery finish does have a tendency to wear off with time.
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Green glimmer mist gives the page a light coloring.
use CHALK to change paper color
To get this look, use chalk and a dauber to blend the color into your paper. This will give a soft subtle color. This finish is typically not very permanent, but can be if you follow up with a clear coat or fixative after application.
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Blue chalk is applied in varying intensities for a soft and dreamy tone.
use GLAZE to change paper color
Tinted glaze can be created a number of different ways, each one yielding slightly different results. The above glaze was made by mixing a small amount of acrylic paint with decoupage. For a glossier look and more even coverage you can add a small amount of paint to a glaze medium, or you can purchase a pre-colored glaze medium. Of all the techniques this one will take the longest to dry.
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use DYE to change paper color
I have come across two techniques for applying dyes to paper, one of which is to brush the dye across the paper like watercolors, the second is to submerge it in a pan of dye. I personally prefer the latter, as there is less pilling of the paper and it provides for a more even color.
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use a “WHITEWASH” technique to change paper color
Whitewashing can bring a hint of color, while adding a bit of distessing. You can get this look by adding a thin layer of gesso to the paper and letting it dry. Then apply a watered down acrylic ofer the top and then brushing it away with a paper towel. This effect will mute the background pattern and should be reserved for medium to heavyweight papers.
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[akingsford]
