Hello mixed media explorers! Ramona here, and I wanted to share a few little pointers for you on creating an easy but interesting way to add layers and color to your journal pages by sharing some journaling tip-in inspiration and basic pointers. Tip-ins give you a way to add color, texture, photos, or even a few private notes you’d rather save from first glance. You will notice them in the world of journalers and memory keepers, and they give you chance to add more visual elements to your pages. I love the way they thicken up a book and add to that “chunky” feel of a well-loved journal! Here are a few basic tip-in ideas, using the gorgeous Fairy Journaling paper tape from the Rita Barakat line.
Fairy Journaling Tape
The Fairy Journaling tape is so pretty, with details that are just waiting for your colorful touch! I really love having the freedom to make these fit into any color palette you are working with. The flat sheets they come on also add to the ease of the coloring, and they are so easy to peel off and stick!
Tip-ins were traditionally pages or illustrations of a book that were added after the book binding process. They were literally glued in, or ‘tipped in’ to the book in addition to what was printed. Now they have become a fun way to add extra elements in journaling and are used by crafters everywhere.
You know me, I am always looking for ways to use every little scrap and make the most of my supplies. I swabbed a bit of water color on the edges of the sheets with a few scrawled words.
It’s a small piece of personalized washi painted to match my fairies. These edges will be perfect for my journal and mixed media projects.
I used watercolor to fill the my journal tape. It always leaves such a soft look, I really like the way it reacts to this tape. Not a lot of color or water is needed, so start sparingly. You can add more color as you go.
Adding your tip -in
Next, find a journal card or photo of your choice for your tip-in. As a collector of journaling and craft supplies for years, this is the fun part for me. Grabbing things from my stash to compliment something new that I have just purchased is something I love to do. I ended up with a journaling card that also has a watercolor look, but you can use a piece or card stock, printed scrapbook paper, note card or even a blank index card decorated how you like.
Using the Fairy Journaling tape, cut a piece (or tear for a more tattered look) to fit the edge of your tip-in. You can place the tip-in anywhere on the page you like. Traditionally tip-ins were added deep in the spine, so they flipped like another page of the book. You can tape yours in anywhere that you feel will add interest. If you have painted your journal pages make sure they are completely dry before adding your tip-in.
I love how this little fairy face just peeks at me on the top of the page. I also cut the ends of the tape for a banner style look and placed the rest of this strip down at the bottom of the page. This way, the beautiful colors and design act as a frame for the journal page. I added a text sticker and doodled around it to frame it on the washi tape addition. You can leave it plain, or add any sticker or words that you feel will add to the page.
On the flip side of my tip-in, I added a simple photo ( I just printed this on regular printing paper, but you can add any type of photo or ephemera you like). I also used some of the extra washi bits I made on the edge of the Journaling Tape sheet to reinforce the back side of the tip-in. Be sure to use tape on both sides of your insert so it stays in place.
The Fairy Journaling tape is the perfect touch for adding color, beauty and whimsical interest to your pages. I am a firm believer in our journals representing our colorful and expressive personality. What extra touches can you add to your pages by inserting a tip-in? I hope this little tip-in tutorial inspires you to add some color and extra pieces of prettiness to your journal pages.
Have fun and happy creating!
XOXO
Ramona
(Click here for a step-by step peek at altering a plain kraft journal into a vintage place for memories.)
Ramona is a mother to 3 boys (well, men at this point!) who craves creative time to express herself and make pretty things. You can stop by her blog for a peek into her life, or check out her artistic journey on Instagram.
So so pretty, pretty, Ramona!!