Technique Tuesday - Paper Napkin Background Paper

Making your own patterned paper for your card
 
I'm reaching really far back to an old technique for today's post.  I taught this class at my store at least ten years ago!!  It's using a paper napkin to create patterned paper.  Here's the card I made from mine, followed by how to do it:

Now for the tutorial:

• Start with a pretty party napkin.  I thought this one was a really great one to use for a background.

• Most decorative party napkins are two-ply.  You need to separate the layers, and you will be using the top layer (the part with the design). 

• Make a "sandwich" using the napkin, a piece of plastic wrap (any brand) cut to at least the size of the napkin, and finishing with a piece of card stock. 

• Using an iron on medium high setting, no steam, press the "sandwich" until the plastic melts, fusing the napkin to the card stock. 

Here's what it looks like from the back 

• Use the "patterned paper" you just made as a base for your card!  Just cut it to fit on whatever size card you are making.  This one is an A2 card.  That's it!  Here's what it looks like after mounting it to an A2 card, and before I finished making the card from it.

And here it is finished:

I cut a couple of the flowers from parts of the napkin I didn't use for the card front to overlap the verse panel.  I added highlights with the Stardust clear gel pen for a little sparkle (click the images to see closer).  A little distressing, and pretty bow finishes it off. 
The stamps are from Our Daily Bread.  The Spellbinder's template is exclusive to ODB, and can be purchased through their website individually, or as a bundle (bundled together with stamps).
I have entered this card in the Our Daily Bread challenge this week, which is to use a frame on your card.  Check out the challenge and other Design Team entries on the ODB blog here . 
Thanks for stopping by.
Blessings,

lynda