Craft paper – a simple yet versatile medium that has been a staple in the world of crafting for generations. From kindergarten classrooms to professional art studios, craft paper finds its way into various projects, serving as the foundation for creativity to flourish. 

But what exactly is craft paper, and why is it so essential in the realm of crafting?

Today, let’s explore what craft paper is, the different types of craft paper available, and how you can use them effectively in your crafting projects. From cardstock to construction paper, scrapbook paper to kraft paper, each type offers different possibilities and challenges, allowing you to experiment and innovate in your crafting project.

• Introduction
• What Is Craft Paper?
• Different Types of Craft Paper
• Cardstock
• A Guide to Different Variations of Cardstock
• Fun and Simple Activities for Cardstock
• Scrapbook Paper
• Tips and Tricks With Scrapbook Paper
• Construction Paper
• Kraft Paper
• Tissue Paper
• Watercolor Paper
• Other Specialty Papers
• Vellum Paper
• Origami Paper
• Crepe Paper
• How to Use Craft Paper Effectively
• Choosing the Right Type of Paper for Your Project
• Basic Tools and Materials Needed
• Techniques for Cutting, Folding, and Manipulating Craft Paper
• Project Inspirations for Different Types of Craft Paper
• Cardstock
• Scrapbook Paper
• Kraft Paper
• Watercolor Paper
• Vellum Paper
• Crafting Fun and Spreading Positivity With Craft Paper

What Is Craft Paper?

Craft paper is a collective term that commonly describes various paper types used in arts and crafts due to their versatility. It is often durable, thick, and suitable for various crafting techniques such as folding, cutting, gluing, and bending. Craft paper comes in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes, weights, textures, and styles, and can be used for a wide range of crafting purposes.

Different Types of Craft Paper

Various types of paper are available for your projects, ranging from cardstock and colored construction paper to scrapbook paper and crepe paper. Each type of paper serves a different purpose, so it's essential to understand the specific requirements of your craft project and how to use them effectively. Now, let's explore some of the most popular types of paper and some paper-based arts and crafts.

Cardstock

Cardstock paper is a fundamental item in every crafter’s collection.

It's the ideal choice for creating cards due to its versatility in handling techniques like folding, shaping, cutting, gluing, molding, sewing, and layering. Regular paper may warp or tear when exposed to excessive liquid or heavy embellishments, whereas the thickness and weight of cardstock make it a popular option for a wide range of arts and crafts involving paper.

Nowadays, a variety of textures, weights, and colors are readily accessible for various crafting projects. Some have a matte finish while others are glossy. Certain options are smooth, while others boast distinctive textures. Below are a few of Altenew’s well-loved cardstock choices for paper crafting.

A Guide to Different Variations of Cardstock 

Colored cardstock is a widely used type of crafting paper available in a diverse range of solid colors, with some even offering matching envelopes. When it comes to crafting with cardstock, colored cardstock is an essential item to have.

Fun and Simple Activities With Cardstock

If you need some enjoyable and simple activities to do with colored paper or cardstock, we have a couple of ideas for you!

1. Cut out floral layering dies to create a vibrant garden in your paper projects.
2. Craft quick decorations by die cutting shapes or stamped images from colorful cardstock.
3. Use it as a card foundation if your design feels too minimal and requires a burst of color!
4. Design a border for your scrapbook or journal pages with your preferred colored paper.
5. Fashion exclusive messages by cutting alphabet dies or word dies from colored cardstock.
6. Frame or accentuate focal elements in your handmade card or scrapbook design.

What Is Cardstock Paper? Learn More About It!

Scrapbook Paper

While cardstock is commonly used for scrapbooking, patterned paper (or designer paper) is essential. It is thicker and more durable than regular paper, yet not as heavy as cardstock. Scrapbook patterned paper offers a variety of colors, styles, designs, and sizes, making it enjoyable to work with.

Tips and Tricks With Scrapbook Paper

Before you embark on your scrapbook paper shopping trip, here are a few important points to keep in mind.

1. Scrapbook paper pads come in single-sided or double-sided pads.
2. Patterned papers can serve as both embellishments and backgrounds. Each beautiful pattern or design on scrapbook paper can be carefully cut out and used as decorative elements on a page!
3. When it comes to scrapbook paper weight, it can vary depending on the manufacturer, but the most common range is between 60-65lb.
4. Most patterned papers come in either 12” x 12” or 6” x 6” sizes. Select the right size for your scrapbook album.
5. Don’t hesitate to repurpose those paper scraps! You can get creative with arts and crafts by using them to create DIY embellishments or make confetti.

Construction Paper

Construction paper is a low-cost type of paper commonly used in kids' crafts. Since the late 1800s, it has been primarily employed as a drawing surface in classrooms. During the paper manufacturing process, the paper pulp is treated with aniline dye (imported from Germany), resulting in an even color distribution and producing construction paper or colored cardstock.

Recognized for its sturdy nature, coarse feel, and resilience, construction paper comes in a variety of colors but is not suitable for long-lasting cardstock crafts as the colors tend to fade rapidly

Kraft Paper

Brown paper bags commonly used in grocery stores are crafted from Kraft paper. This rough-textured paper comes in rolls or sheets and can be bleached to create lighter tones. 

Although not widely used in card making, it is an excellent option for scrapbooking and do-it-yourself projects such as gift wrapping and creating paper flowers.

If you want to have an enjoyable arts and crafts experience with added texture and appeal, consider using Kraft paper. While not completely lignin-free, Kraft paper has lower lignin content, making it ideal for scrapbooking, creating cards, and working on journaling projects.

Kraft paper is suitable for a wide range of paper crafts due to its properties, including card making, scrapbooking, DIY bookmarks, and boxes.

Tissue Paper

Tissue paper is known for its light, airy, and incredibly thin qualities. We're not talking about the tissue paper found in bathrooms, but rather the delicate crepe-like paper often used for decorating gift bags, boxes, and parcels. It can be printed on and folded and is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Out of all the various kinds of paper, tissue paper is likely the most fragile and thinnest. While many people use it for lining DIY gift bags, there are other uses for it as well.

• DIY home decor
• Lanterns
• Paper flowers
• Piñatas
• Pom-poms
• Tassels

Watercolor Paper

What sets watercolor paper apart from your run-of-the-mill printer paper? Watercolor paper is designed to withstand the wetness and fluidity of watercolor paints without warping or buckling. It's usually thicker and has a rougher surface (often referred to as the “tooth” side) compared to other types of paper, which helps the paint grip onto the surface and results in beautiful washes and blends.

There are different types of watercolor paper to choose from, each with its own characteristics:

• Hot-pressed paper – has a smoother tooth and is great for detailed work and illustrations. 
• Cold-pressed paper – has a slightly rougher texture on the tooth side and is perfect for dreamy, loose watercolor effects. 
• Rough watercolor paper – has the most texture and is ideal for creating expressive, textured paintings.

When working with watercolor paper, don't be afraid to let loose and embrace the fluidity of the medium. 

1. Play around with wet-on-wet techniques to create soft blends and gradients.
2. Use masking fluid to preserve white areas and add intricate details later on. 
3. Don't forget to embrace happy accidents - sometimes the most beautiful paintings come from unexpected splashes and splatters.

Other Kinds of Specialty Paper

• Vellum Paper

Extremely thin and see-through, vellum was previously crafted from calfskin but is now commonly produced from cellulose fibers found in plants or trees. Its simple yet sophisticated appearance makes it a popular choice for wedding invitations, and it has been creatively used on various crafting projects over time.

• Origami Paper

Often used for paper folding projects, origami paper is usually thinner than regular paper, easy to fold, and can hold multiple creases. Ideally, one side of this paper has designs or colors, while the other side is plain. Some paper types used for origami include washi paper, kami paper, and chiyogami.

• Crepe Paper

It closely resembles tissue paper, but crepe paper is a bit thicker, more durable, and has a wrinkled texture. It is commonly used in crafting and can be easily found in local arts and crafts stores. It is cost-effective, user-friendly, and comes in various colors and designs. It is often used for paper flowers, pom-poms, party streamers, costume accessories, and props

Where to Buy Craft Paper? We’ve Got You Covered!

How to Use Craft Paper Effectively

Craft paper is a versatile material that can elevate any crafting project, but using it effectively requires some know-how. Here’s a deeper dive into how you can make the most of craft paper in your creative endeavors:

Choosing the Right Type of Paper for Your Project

1. Consider the project requirements: Different types of craft paper offer varying textures, thicknesses, and finishes. For instance, if you're creating intricate paper-cut designs, you might opt for a thinner paper like tissue paper. On the other hand, if durability is key, cardstock or construction paper might be better suited.
2. Think about the color palette: Craft paper comes in a rainbow of colors, so choose hues that complement your project's theme or design. You can also mix and match colors to add visual interest and dimension.
3. Assess the paper's weight and texture: Depending on your crafting technique, you may prefer paper with a smooth finish or a textured surface for added depth and tactile appeal.

Basic Tools and Materials Needed

• Cutting tools

Invest in a good pair of scissors, craft knife, or die-cutting machine for precise cutting, especially when working with intricate designs or shapes.

Choose the right adhesive for your project, whether it's glue tape, double-sided tape, or liquid glue. Consider factors like drying time, transparency, and permanence.

Get creative with embellishments like enamel dots, craft gems, stickers, ribbons, beads, and sequins to add flair and personality to your craft projects.

Techniques for Cutting, Folding, and Manipulating Craft Paper

• Cutting

Practice different cutting techniques, such as straight cuts, curves, and angles, to achieve clean and precise edges. You can also experiment with decorative edge scissors or punches for added flair.

• Folding

Master basic folding techniques like accordion, fan, and origami folds to create dimensional elements and structures in your projects.

• Manipulating

Don't be afraid to get hands-on with your craft paper! Crumple, tear, fold, and distress paper to add texture and visual interest. You can also experiment with techniques like embossing, stamping, and heat embossing to elevate your designs further.

Project Inspirations for Different Types of Craft Paper

You will never run out of ideas and combinations when you use different types of craft paper. Check out some sample crafts made with various craft paper types:

Cardstock:

Bring the sparkle of glitter into your cards, without the mess, with this crafting project using Altenew’s Glitter Cardstock.

Create two brilliant cards with Brushed Metallic cardstock from Altenew.

Discover how to enhance your colored cardstock with alcohol markers in this blog/video tutorial!

Scrapbook Paper:

Layout your scrapbook page with these animal designs and colorful scrapbook paper!

Create three beautiful card designs with these patterned and scrapbook paper!

Check out these three crafty card designs created with scrapbook paper and other ephemera!

Kraft Paper:

Discover 5 wondrous White Pigment Ink techniques for floral cards on Kraft paper!

Want to see how soft stenciling works on Kraft paper? Check out this blog tutorial here!

Discover how to add wood-like textures and stunning floral die-cuts on your parchment cardstock.

Watercolor Paper:

The quality and durability of watercolor paper lend to the creation of fascinating DIY wedding gifts like this!

Create fun DIY envelopes with watercolor paper and watercolor paints.

Vellum:

Create unique tags with vellum paper, too! Learn how in this blog tutorial.

Level up your greeting cards with a unique and colorful vellum flap design!

Discover More Types of Paper Used in Paper Crafting Here!

Crafting Fun and Spreading Positivity With Craft Paper

Craft paper is more than just a humble material – it’s a gateway to endless creativity and expression. Today, we've uncovered the immense potential that craft paper holds for various crafting and DIY projects.

Regardless of your skill level or artistic background, craft paper offers something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned crafter looking for new inspiration or a beginner eager to dive into crafting, craft paper is your ally in bringing your ideas to life.

By choosing the right type of paper for your project, equipping yourself with the necessary tools and materials, and exploring different cutting, folding, and manipulation techniques, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities with craft paper.

So, the next time you embark on a crafting adventure, don't underestimate the power of craft paper. From creating handmade cards, to decorating your home, to adding a personal touch to your gifts, let craft paper be your canvas for self-expression and imagination.

And remember, the journey doesn't end here. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you can create with craft paper. Who knows what masterpieces you'll bring to life next?

So unleash your creativity and let craft paper be your partner in crafting magic. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination!