One element to consider when making a paper craft project is texture, that is, some aspect of the project that adds dimension to the artwork. There are many ways to add texture to a paper craft project, including simply pasting objects into the project. Objects such as twigs, leaves, or buttons may be appropriate. Fabric swatches and puffy paint and salt dough are other options. But if the project is a greeting card or scrapbook page, the craftsman is also interested in the actual thickness of the added item. One way to add a 3D effect without adding too much thickness is to use your kitchen grater to create a paper fluff.
There are many good reasons to try lint out of shredded paper. First of all, it’s easy to do and it’s a great way to use up waste. Just roll a few pieces of your favorite craft paper into a “carrot” shape and use your kitchen grater. CAUTION: It will produce some dust, so be careful not to inhale it. When you’re done, your grater is easy to clean – a little water and a brush and you’re ready to put back in the kitchen. Another advantage is that you only earn what you need, so there is no need to find a place to store it. There are commercial products available that serve the same purpose, but why buy something that is so quick and easy to make at home?
There are so many ideal uses for your shredded paper lint. It’s easy to attach to your project, just dab on some white glue and tap on the lint. White fluff makes the perfect lamb’s wool or snow. In autumnal hues, it makes beautiful tree foliage. Make some fluff in green for an evergreen and in bold colors or pastels it will make beautiful flowers. Besides cost savings, you also have the advantage that the colors you use in your project will be a perfect color combination for the base paper you use on your card or scrapbook page. So grab a few chunks and give this “grid” idea a try.