Transparencies or overlays have been a long-time favorite crafting product of mine. The shine, the patterns, and the way they add an extra layer of dimension without hiding what's underneath all play into making them intriguing to design with.
I love the new Cards Overlay sheet by Alison Kreft for Webster's Pages. It's a 12x12 transparency sheet that can be used on a layout as is, or cut up to make ATC sized accent transparencies. I chose to do the latter and have designed three cards so show different and easy ways to adhere transparencies. Some crafters find them intimidating to use as they are not sure how to adhere them, but it's really so simple.
Obviously, you can't use regular adhesive when adhering clear items as the adhesive can be seen right through them. This first card layers a chevron printed transparency over layers of patterned paper. It gives a fun look because you can see the different prints through the transparency.
For this card I used my favorite, and the easiest way I know to attach the transparency to the card. A couple staples at opposite corners is fast and holds it on perfectly.
For the second card I wanted to try something a little different. The beautiful birds inspired a more simple and dreamy look.
An experiment seemed to be in order so I went searching through my crafting stash.
Two colors of Distress Stickles were squirted onto the reverse side of the transparency...
...and then smeared together with my finger to cover the entire reverse side of the transparency. Make sure you get right to the edges and then flip over and adhere to a card front. Lay it flat to dry so that the transparency doesn't slide.
Once dry, your transparency will be adhered and you'll be left with a beautiful glittered background.
Another quick way to adhere a transparency is with washi tape or fabric tape. I've used Maya Road Fabric Tape here to add this fun journaling style transparency. To keep it extra secure you can add a little adhesive on the reverse side of the overlay where you plan to add the fabric tape as it will cover it.
Here's the detailed view. Transparencies are very easy to adhere embellishments over the top of. I like to use a hot glue gun for the heavier embellishments but stickers work fun on their own.
Finally, I'm sure I've shared this trick before but it's worth repeating. One sheet of Fabric Thickers can be changed into any color you want with Copic Markers. It's as simple as coloring them in.
Have a fabulous weekend and thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom!
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