5 Common Color Mistakes in Paper Crafting and How to Correct Them

For paper crafters, color is everything! Whether creating beautiful handmade cards, scrapbook layouts, or other paper projects, achieving the perfect color palette is essential for a stunning result. However, we all know that color mishaps can happen even to the most experienced crafters. So, let's explore common color challenges and provide practical troubleshooting tips to help you create eye-catching, harmonious paper crafts.

Are These Color Mishaps Troubling You?

Crafting is about expressing your creativity, but we've all been there—those frustrating moments when your chosen colors don't quite cooperate. Don't worry; you're not alone! Let's uncover the secrets to turning these challenges into opportunities for creating even more dazzling projects.

Inconsistent Ink Coverage

When stamping or using ink in your paper crafting, inconsistent ink coverage can ruin the overall look of your project. Uneven or splotchy ink can make your images appear messy and unfinished.

Crafty Tip: 

Ensure even ink coverage using high-quality stamping pads and inks. Always test your stamps on scrap paper before stamping on your project. Invest in a stamp positioner tool like the Stampwheel to achieve precise placement and a clean, consistent impression every time!

Choosing Clashing Colors

One of the most common color mishaps in paper crafting is inadvertently selecting colors that clash rather than complement each other. Nothing disrupts the visual harmony of your project more than jarring color combinations.

Crafty Tip: 

Consider using color theory as your guiding light. Explore the color wheel to discover complementary, analogous, or triadic color schemes that work well together. Online color palette generators can also help you experiment with different combinations before making a final choice.

If you still need more confidence in your picks, consult Altenew's Color Swatches! This free guide gives you an idea of how our different types of inks, markers, watercolors, and more blend together. There are also project inspirations to help you visualize how these combinations work in a card or project.

Free Color Swatches

Limited Color Options

Sometimes, you might find yourself stuck with a limited color selection, especially if you have a small collection of markers, inks, or papers.

Crafty Tip: 

Get creative with your limited color palette by learning to blend and shade effectively. Invest in blending markers or colored pencils to create the illusion of more colors. Additionally, consider strategically using white or black accents to add depth and contrast to your projects.

4. Color Bleeding

Color bleeding occurs when ink or markers seep through the paper, causing streaks, smudges, and unsightly marks on your crafting masterpiece. This can be especially problematic when working with water-based markers or ink.

Crafty Tip: 

Choose the right paper for your project. Use papers specifically designed for your chosen coloring medium, such as alcohol markers, watercolor, or colored pencils. Test your coloring tools on a small, inconspicuous area of your paper to ensure they won't bleed through.

5. Poor Color Photography

Capturing the true colors of your paper crafts in photographs can be challenging. The colors may appear washed out or inaccurate, which can be frustrating when you want to showcase your work online or in a portfolio.

Crafty Tip: 

You might be surprised, but expensive equipment is NOT the only answer to capturing amazing project photos! Altenew's Design Team members show not one but nine tips to get that perfect shot without spending an extra dime!

Home Studio Hacks! Shooting Professional Card Photos on a Budget

Crafting with Confidence: Turning Color Mishaps into Masterpieces!

As a paper crafter, your projects reflect your creativity and passion. Troubleshooting color mishaps is an integral part of the crafting journey, and with the tips provided in this guide, you'll be better equipped to navigate these challenges. Remember that practice makes perfect, and don't be discouraged by occasional color whoopsies. 

Color Wheel Die

Embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow as a paper crafter, and soon you'll be crafting with confidence, producing beautiful cards, and scrapbook layouts that truly shine. If you need inspiration or beautiful project ideas, visit the Altenew Blog today. Happy crafting!