HOW TO MAKE PAPER NETTING LACE

November 8, 2024 Francisca Nunes

Welcome to my latest video tutorial where I dive into one of my favorite embellishments for junk journals, art journals, and mixed media projects—paper netting lace!

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through how to create intricate and textured netting from paper, adding an organic, vintage touch to your artwork. Whether you're a seasoned junk journal artist or just starting to explore the world of mixed media, this tutorial will open up endless creative possibilities for you.

Paper netting lace is a delicate, textured lace effect created using simple materials like tissue paper, paper towels, or specialty papers like rice paper. It’s perfect for adding depth, texture, and a vintage vibe to junk journals or mixed media projects. Think of it as a lightweight, ethereal layer that can enhance the look of your pages or artwork.

Incorporating paper netting lace into your journals or art is not only visually striking but also functional. Here’s why:

To follow along with the tutorial, gather the following materials:

Step 1: Prep Your Paper Begin by selecting the type of paper you want to use. Tissue paper is a great choice for its flexibility, but if you’re aiming for a more structured look, try using rice paper. Gently tear or cut the paper into strips or shapes depending on your desired look.

Step 2: Apply Glue Using your craft mat, lay your paper down and lightly brush a layer of diluted glue over the surface. This will help reinforce the paper and give it a bit of structure as you work.

Step 3: Create the Netting Effect Now for the fun part! Carefully use your fingers or a craft knife to poke small holes in the paper, creating a "netting" effect. You can experiment with different shapes and hole sizes to create unique lace patterns.

Step 4: Let It Dry Once your paper netting lace is complete, set it aside to dry. You can speed this process up with a heat gun if you’re impatient like me!

Step 5: Customize It After drying, feel free to dye, ink, or paint your lace to complement your junk journal theme. You can also use distress ink to give it an aged look—perfect for vintage junk journals.

If you're ready to dive in, check out my full video tutorial on how to make paper netting lace, where I’ll walk you through each step with visual examples. You’ll also see how I incorporate it into my junk journals and art journal layouts.

Paper netting lace is one of those versatile, budget-friendly techniques that can be used in countless ways. I hope this tutorial inspires you to try it in your next junk journal, art journal, or mixed media art project. Have fun experimenting with colors, layers, and textures—there’s no limit to what you can create!

Let me know in the comments how you plan to use your paper netting lace.

FRANCISCA NUNES

HOW TO MAKE PAPER NETTING LACE

Welcome to my latest video tutorial where I dive into one of my favorite embellishments for junk journals, art journals, and mixed media projects—paper netting lace!

Incorporating paper netting lace into your journals or art is not only visually striking but also functional. Here’s why:

Texture: It adds a tactile element to your pages, creating a layered look that enhances the visual depth of your project.

Vintage Feel: The handmade quality of paper lace gives your art that perfect distressed, old-world charm.

Customizable: You can dye, paint, or ink your paper netting lace to match your journal’s theme.

Eco-Friendly: It’s a great way to repurpose paper scraps, keeping your projects sustainable.

To follow along with the tutorial, gather the following materials:

Tissue paper or rice paper

Water

Glue (mod podge or diluted PVA glue works great)

Scissors or craft knife

Craft mat

Paint or ink (optional)

Step 1: Prep Your Paper Begin by selecting the type of paper you want to use. Tissue paper is a great choice for its flexibility, but if you’re aiming for a more structured look, try using rice paper. Gently tear or cut the paper into strips or shapes depending on your desired look.

Step 2: Apply Glue Using your craft mat, lay your paper down and lightly brush a layer of diluted glue over the surface. This will help reinforce the paper and give it a bit of structure as you work.

Step 3: Create the Netting Effect Now for the fun part! Carefully use your fingers or a craft knife to poke small holes in the paper, creating a "netting" effect. You can experiment with different shapes and hole sizes to create unique lace patterns.

Step 4: Let It Dry Once your paper netting lace is complete, set it aside to dry. You can speed this process up with a heat gun if you’re impatient like me!

Step 5: Customize It After drying, feel free to dye, ink, or paint your lace to complement your junk journal theme. You can also use distress ink to give it an aged look—perfect for vintage junk journals.

Layering: Place it over patterned paper or collage elements for a dimensional effect.

Borders and Edges: Use it as a decorative border for your journal pages or mixed media canvases.

Tuck Spots: Create pockets or tuck spots for your ephemera using paper netting lace for an extra special touch.

Backgrounds: Glue it to a background for texture and depth.

If you're ready to dive in, check out my full video tutorial on how to make paper netting lace, where I’ll walk you through each step with visual examples. You’ll also see how I incorporate it into my junk journals and art journal layouts.

Let me know in the comments how you plan to use your paper netting lace.