Paper tearing is a technique that creates attractive feathered edges on pieces of paper. This turns a plain piece of paper into an attractive embellishment for handmade cards, scrapbook pages and other paper crafting projects.
When paper is cut with scissors the fibres are cut to the same length and this results in a completely straight and smooth edge. The process of paper tearing involves carefully pulling the paper apart, leaving the paper fibres at the edge of the paper exposed. This creates a less uniform feel and gives the paper an organic and natural look. The torn edges complement many styles and designs.
Types of Paper for Tearing
Any paper can be torn. However paper with long fibres gives the most dramatic results. This includes mulberry paper and other handmade papers. Many copier grade papers are made with recycled paper pulp and the fibres may be shorter which may be less obvious when torn.
How to Tear Paper
While paper tearing is very simple, if you want to tear paper evenly then it is best to prepare the paper for tearing first. Run a line of clean water along the paper where you want to tear it and let this soak in. This will help to loosen the fibres and will make the tearing process easier. When you tear paper, try to do so slowly and evenly. This will help to create relatively straight lines.
Paper Tearing Finishes
Torn paper pieces can be added to scrapbook pages and handmade cards as it is, with no further finishing. However if you really want the paper to stand out then you can consider coloring the edges using a colored marker pen or an ink pad. Simply rub the side of the nib of the pen or the ink pad along the torn edge. This will leave a trace of color down the edge of the paper. This will emphasize the torn edge as well as add color to your project.
The torn paper edges can be emphasized further by carefully brushing the edges of the paper with a hard brush. This will feather the edges and give a more 'fluffy' look.
Tear Bears
The paper tearing technique is used to create textured embellishments such as tear bears for projects. Tear bears are made from thick mulberry paper that is torn and then brushed to create a textured bear. The long mulberry fibres create a fluffy looking bear which appears to have been made from fabric and not paper. While bears and other creatures are popular for tearing projects, many other shapes and symbols can also be used.
Paper tearing is a great way to add interest to your projects without the need of expensive equipment or supplies.
Kate Pullen - Kate Pullen is a freelance writer specializing in arts and crafts , and is an accomplished craftsperson. As well as being a designer / ...
