Behind the Mask

A popular technique which seems to be popping up everywhere nowadays in scrapbooking is masking. Masking is usually done by placing a chipboard shape, paper, or screen, and either spraying mist or painting over it. Once the medium dries and the mask is removed, you are left with a beautiful negative of the image. Some people leave it the way it is, and some like to highlight the negative space even more by stitching or drawing around it.

Take a look at how these scrappers created their own unique masking on their layouts. Now rummage through your scrap bin for a uniquely shaped piece of paper, chipboard, die-cut or lace paper. You might even try using found items in your home such as buttons or a toy to use as your own, one of a kind mask to step up your scrapbooking!

Dream Big by Leeann Pearce

Supplies: Paper: Pink Paislee, American Crafts, KI Memories, Cardstock: Bazzill Basics Paper, Sticker: Jenni Bowlin Studio, Specialty Ink: Tattered Angels, Alphabet: American Crafts, Paint: Making Memories, Other: buttons, plastic horse figurine, thread.

Design Notes: This was a challenge set by a friend to think outside the box of masking and to find something around the home to use as a mask. I went into my daughter's bedroom and got her plastic horse. I also used a paper doily and letter stickers to mist over. I love to personalize my layouts by always making a little something to go on it. So I used my "up up and away" doodles for this layout. I cut them out and used 3D tape to layer them up.

Journaling: Don't ever stop believing in yourself and always believe in your dreams. Love mummy.

Amour by Kristy Dalman

Supplies: Cardstock: Bazzill Basics Paper, Alpahebt: American Crafts, Pearls: BasicGrey, Hobby Lobby, Transparency: Colorbok, Rub-Ons: Hambly Studios, Specialty Ink: Tattered Angels, Ink: Ranger Industries, Staples: Making Memories, Tools: Punches (Martha Stewart Crafts, Creative Memories).

Design Notes: I love to use old and odd pieces of chipboard (that I no longer like) as masks, which is the case here. The butterfly one I got as my MIL was cleaning out her stash. I love to keep things around like that just for that reason. When I mist I'm not afraid to not get an even coat around my mask; it is just fun for a different effect. The pink transparency wasn't large enough for what I wanted, so I actually cut it in half to stretch it out. The pics are straight from the movie theater photo booth. My hubby and I.

I Love You by Nicole Martel

Supplies: Cardstock, Alphabet: American Crafts, Flower, Pearls: Prima Marketing, Rub-Ons: American Crafts, Lily Bee Designs, Stencils, Specialty Ink: Tattered Angels.

Design Notes: Spray Glimmer Mist on your white flowers for an exact shade needed.

Journaling: Love isn’t a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is. Right here and now. -Mister Roger