Using Mandalas in Scrapbooking and Mixed Media
Using Mandalas in Scrapbooking and Mixed Media
Mandalas, or highly intricate geometric patterns that start from a central point, were used in cultures all over the globe for thousands of years to create meaning as symbols of unity, harmony, and balance. Recently, they have captured the imagination and craft kits of crafters particularly in scrapbooking and other mixed media projects. Mandalas can be used effectively to create depth, beauty, or provide that special uniqueness in your designs. Here is how you may practically use mandalas in your scrapbooking and mixed media projects step by step.
1. Stencil and Printing
On of the easiest ways to add mandalas into your project is to stencil. You can buy mandala stencils or make your own using cardstock or plastic sheets. Place the stencil on your scrapbook page or mixed media canvas and add ink, paint, or texture paste for a fantastic-looking mandala. This also ensures accuracy and can be done in any color scheme or with a theme to fit whatever you want.
Alternatively, you can create mandala prints by stamping or using a gel plate. Simply ink a mandala stamp or press a mandala design onto a gel plate, and then use it to transfer the image onto your paper or canvas. This method is perfect for creating unique backgrounds or focal points in your projects.
2. Hand-drawing Mandalas
If you love to draw, then design your own mandalas right onto your scrapbook pages or mixed media pieces. You can do very fine work using fine liners, colored pencils, or markers in detailing for your photos and other objects. The best thing about drawing is the freedom to express completely, and it is even a meditative process that gives it a personal feel.
3. Layers Using Paper and Fabrics
Mandala Introduction through Layering Mandalas can also be brought in by layering. Print or cut mandala designs on patterned paper, fabric, or even old book pages. Layer them for visual interest and texture. Richen the layers using tearing, distressing, or sewing, among others, to add more depth to your mandala pieces. This layering technique can be really functional in mixed media artistry that combines different material elements into a harmonious whole.
4. Coloring Mandalas
Yet another way you can apply mandalas to scrapbooking and mixed media uses coloring techniques. You can print the mandala designs on cardstock and go ahead with color pencils, markers, or watercolors to fill the patterns. Once colored, cut them out and use them as embellishments for your scrapbook pages or mixed media projects. That's how to give some color to your project but also personalize it, thus making it really unique indeed.
5. Applying with Other Elements
Lastly, you can merge other design elements with mandalas. There are photographs and quotes you can use to make your journal visually appealing. It's also possible to have them frame pictures or use it as a background journaling. Since flexibility is offered with these mandalas, they can automatically fall into any theme of style, be it bohemian or modern.
Conclusion
The intricacies of mandalas and incorporating them into scrapbook and mixed-media pages can simply bring creativity as well as develop endless new possibilities. Whether one achieves this through stenciling, hand-drawn, or layering, it's an intricate design that adds depth to a page but tells one's story on an entire different level. So let's get out the crafting supplies and discover the world of mandalas-it might just bring out a new well of creativity in your work!
Using Mandalas in Scrapbooking and Mixed Media
