Hello friends!

Nathalie with you today to share an idea on how to mix textures in memory-keeping layouts for an impactful look.

Today, we are going to use a selection of Altenew products and simple techniques to create a visual and tactile dashboard for a 6″x 8″ album.  The ideas in this project can easily be applied to all sorts of projects beyond paper crafting.

Let's take a look at the project.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

A bit of texture and dimension are always a great complement to your storytelling.  It is a way to bring the story to life through layers and a tactile (touch) feel on the page.  Let's take a closer look at the details of the page.

  1. Start with a clean base.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

One of the key steps in how to mix textures in memory keeping is to start with a smooth, clean background.

Whether you choose paper, cardstock, or –in this case– acetate, it is important that this surface is smooth. For this example, the clear acetate serves to give the layout an airy feel (it feels as if the page is floating in the album); and it also helps to accent the texture of the elements placed on it.

2. Work in Layers.

@altenew_mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D

Now that we have our base (acetate) in place, it is time to start building up the textural feel of the page.

Layering is a great way to maximize this effect on the page, especially if each of the layers adds a bit more interest and contrast to the spread.

In my spread, I am using a piece of kraft cardstock that has been embossed (Organic Linen 3D Embossing Folder) as the anchor piece for the spread.  I am then adding my flower die-cuts (Wavy Blooms Stamp & Die bundle), then finishing the spread with a heat embossed sentiment. Each layer brings a different texture to the spread.

3.  Mix your materials.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

Another key idea on how to mix textures in memory keeping is to consider the materials being used.

In this case, I am maximizing the textural effect by using acetate for the base, kraft cardstock, watercolor paper, smooth cardstock, embossing powder, and sequins in one spread.  Each of these has a different texture that just works together seamlessly.

4.  Add some color.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

A great way to mix textures in memory keeping is to bring color to each of the textures.

I am emphasizing the texture of the Organic Linen 3D Embossing Folder by rubbing a bit of white ink on the surface.  This accents the texture of the material and the embossed feel of the base.

I am adding a little bit of color to the Wavy Blooms die-cuts with watercolor (Artists' Watercolor 24 Pan Set); this brings forward the tooth -texture- of the watercolor paper (Altenew 9×12 Watercolor Paper Pad).

My final touch is a bit of metallic shine in the title and embellishments.

5.  Add a Pop Of Shine.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

My final tip on how to mix textures in memory-keeping projects is to add a pop of shine.  I used shine in three different ways in my spread, each adding a special something to the spread.

First, I heat embossed (Antique Gold Crisp Embossing Powder) the sentiment (Greatest Blessings Stamp & Die Bundle) to add texture and prominence to it. Then, I added a few sprinkles of Antique Gold Metallic Ink Spray to the spread, the small droplets helped draw the light to the different textures in the spread.

Finally, I added a few sequins (Make a Statement Sequins Bundle) as the last texture layer in the spread.

You can watch how this spread comes together here or in HD on Altenew's Youtube channel:

I hope this inspires you to use your Altenew products to mix textures in your next memory-keeping project.

@altenew_how to mix textures in memory keeping by Nathalie D,

I look forward to checking out your beautiful projects!

XO

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1 comment

Cindy C. November 6, 2022 - 6:50 pm

Beautiful!!

Reply

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