Paper Layering & Backgrounds

5 tutorials · 5 videos

The Art of Paper Layering

Paper layering is the foundation of almost every scrapbook layout. It's how you create depth, frame your photos, and make a flat 12x12 page feel dynamic. The simplest version — matting a photo on a coordinating piece of cardstock — is something every scrapbooker does instinctively. But deliberate layering techniques can transform a good layout into a showstopper.

How to Use Busy Patterned Paper as a Background White Gesso Technique for Christmas Scrapbook Layouts

One technique our design team loves is paper strip backgrounds. Take 4-5 strips of different patterned papers from your Hip Kit, arrange them horizontally or diagonally across your base, and you've got an instant coordinated background that took 2 minutes to create. Elisa Fornezza and Desiree Lamar both demonstrate this technique regularly.

The real skill in paper layering is knowing how to combine busy and quiet patterns. A general rule: pair one bold patterned paper with one subtle pattern and one solid cardstock. Hip Kit Club's papers are designed to coordinate, so mixing patterns from the same month's kit is almost foolproof.

"Layered Paper Strip Tutorial: Create Stunning Scrapbook Pages with March 2025 Hip Kits!"

How many layers of paper should I use?

A typical layout has 2-4 paper layers beneath the photos. Start with a base cardstock, add a large patterned paper panel, then mat your photos on a contrasting solid. Add small pattern accents as needed. More isn't always better — white space is just as important as layering.

How do I mix patterned papers without it looking busy?

Stick to one dominant pattern (florals, geometrics) and support it with a more subtle pattern (tiny dots, tone-on-tone). Add a solid cardstock layer to give the eye a resting place. Papers from the same Hip Kit collection are already designed to work together.

What adhesive works best for paper layering?

Tape runner for flat layering, foam tape or foam dots for dimensional layers. Use liquid adhesive sparingly — it can warp thin papers. For large panels, a Xyron machine gives the most even coverage.

Explore all scrapbook techniques