Ripping paper to put behind a picture, etc.

[DebMcDonald]

I know this sounds like a stupid question, and I apologize for that, but is there a tool, or a method that I should use when trying to rip paper to put behind a picture, or something else for decorative purposes. When I just rip it, it doesn't look nice I have have seen picture in scrapbook magazines, etc. and it looks so nice. Is it the quality of the paper that I am using? Any suggestions.

Debbie

 

[piratesmate]

I've been experimenting with this & reading whatever I can find. There are a couple things...

If you want that "ragged" edge that reminds you of frayed cotton fabric, you need to use mulberry paper. I haven't tried it, but I believe handmade paper gives that effect as well.

To tear it in a line you like, use a wet Q-tip (or your finger) to trace the "line". Then tear up, not out to the side.

Does that help?

 

[Twigs]

What I do sometimes is cut down a length of cardboard with a deckle edge or similar scissor and then put the cardboard on top of the paper and tear it along that edge.

 

[Stephres]

Usually wetting provides great looking tears (I just lick my finger and run it down where I want to tear, I know, yuck!). They do sell a ruler at Mile's that has two different deckle patterns down the side. If I need something that is more straight than random I use it.

 

[FantasticDisFamily]

I won one of those rulers at a crop in January. It is pretty cool - but I usually just tear sort of carefully. Hadn't heard the wetting trick before - will have to give it a shot!

Deb

 

[American Scrapper]

Stampin' Up sells an item that looks like a ruler with jagged edges for paper tearing. It is very sharp, but does do the trick.

Kathy

 

[FantasticDisFamily]

That is the one I won. Haven't used it a lot yet but the little I have it seemed to work pretty well.

Deb

 

[pjlla]

I second the "wet q-tip" technique. Up until recently I just tore and hoped for the best... but wetting the paper just a bit helps the tear follow a straighter line. .............P

 

[disneyfreakjackie]

I second the "wet q-tip" technique. Up until recently I just tore and hoped for the best... but wetting the paper just a bit helps the tear follow a straighter line. .............P

Me TOO!!! I knew you had to wet the mulberry paper (which I LOVE), but didn't ever think to wet regular paper, DUH!!! See . . . you learn something new EVERY DAY!!!

 

[ek_disney]

Thanks for all of the great tips....I would never have thought to wet the paper!! Can't wait to try it!!!