All three examples are using stickers from the Family collection. See the article end for more cardstock sticker themes.

Q. I’m new to scrapbooking and while I like the whole “altering” idea, I’m not really sure where to start. Can you help?

Susan says: The altered look is really just about changing the way something looks when you buy it. You can use chalk, ink or sandpaper (my three favorite techniques) to alter just about anything, from paper to metal.

Let’s look at cardstock stickers. Stickers are a terrific basic scrapbooking supply, and something most of us have in our stash. Test out your altering skills with these embellishments!

I chose cardstock stickers. Because they’re made of a heavier weight of paper, they can easily handle alterations. And because they’re cardstock instead of a glossy vinyl, they have a “tooth” so chalk and ink will stick. Now, let’s get out the chalk, the ink and the sandpaper and see what happens!

Click here for larger image.

Chalking:

A little brown chalk around the edges of this tag add instant shadow and depth, transforming the tag into a shabby-chic look perfect for a heritage layout. Use your finger, a small foam applicator or a cotton swab to apply chalk along all four edges. Start with a light application, then add more color to darken as you wish.

Direct-to-Paper Inking:

A little black inking around the edges of this definition sticker give it the definition to “pop” off the page. Here’s how I like to do it: cut the sticker from the sheet, keeping the backing on. Hold the backed sticker in one hand and run the inkpad along the edge of the paper. Place it on a scrap piece of paper and apply just the edge of the inkpad to the border of your sticker—about a 1/32” border. Peel the sticker from the backing and place as desired.

Sanding:

A piece of fine-grade sandpaper gives this sticker a vintage look. For best results, we suggest cutting the sticker from the sheet, keeping the backing on. Sand lightly at first, repeating as desired. Sand along all the edges and scuff the text. Peel the sticker from the backing and place where you wish.

Other Ideas:

Looking for even more ways to alter cardstock stickers?

• tearing an edge, corner or bottom of the sticker (a great look for tags)
• stamping with alphabet stamps
• spritzing with walnut ink
• layering a piece of vellum on top
• adding brads, fibers or ribbons
• using to accent a slide mount
• crumpling (remember to leave the backing on!), smoothing and distressing

Stylish cardstock stickers add a whole new look to scrapbook pages, cards and other papercrafts. This sticker line from Hot Off The Press is printed on alter-able adhesive cardstock—so you can sand, chalk, ink and distress the stickers…or simply use them as is.

Look for the following themes: Baby, Wedding, Boys, Girls, Family, Sports. Each sticker pack has two sheets and retails for just $2.49. See all of our cardstock stickers by clicking here.