In this class, you’ll learn how to turn simple paper scraps into beautiful, handcrafted buttons that are both decorative and functional. Whether you’re a mixed media artist, a journal lover, or a creative soul looking for a mindful project, this step-by-step process will guide you through six creative phases. Each phase is designed to inspire, teach, and help you explore your artistic side with ease.
By the end of the class, you’ll have your own set of unique paper buttons ready to enhance journals, mixed media art, or any creative project!
Supplies:
1. Old paintings or printouts of old artworks 2. Mixed media papers 3. Old book pages / ephemeras 4. Tissue paper - White &amp; brown (bamboo tissue) 5. Glue / mod podge / gel medium 6. Acrylic colors (colors of your choice) 7. A basic set of watercolor cakes 8. Gesso 9. Some paint brushes 10. Distress ink pads for stamping - just one or 2 colors - forest moss, vintage photo, brush corduroy. 11. Rubber stamps 12. Thread &amp; needle
What You’ll Learn:
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<li>
Collaging Your Base – "Building Stories on Paper"
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<li>
Layer book pages, ephemera, and gesso to create textured foundations.
</li>
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Add an umber wash to unify and bring depth to your collages.
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</ul>
</li>
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Playing with Color – "The Freedom to Experiment"
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<li>
Reimagine old paintings by adding tissue textures.
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Play with acrylics and watercolors to create vibrant or subtle backgrounds.
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</ul>
</li>
<li>
Cutting Circles – "The Joy of Mindful Cutting"
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<li>
Cut circles in three sizes (1.5", 1.25", and 1").
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<li>
Find patterns and textures within your pages as you cut.
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</ul>
</li>
<li>
Inking the Edges – "Details That Add Depth"
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<li>
Ink around the edges of your cutouts for definition and contrast.
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<li>
Create polished, professional-looking pieces.
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</ul>
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Mixing and Matching – "Balancing Layers and Textures"
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<li>
Combine circles of different sizes and patterns.
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Layer them to design unique, harmonious paper buttons.
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</ul>
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Adding Holes and Stitching – "Bringing Buttons to Life"
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<li>
Punch holes (two or four) to mimic real buttons.
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<li>
Stitch through the holes to add texture and charm.
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
Who Is This Class For?
<ul>
<li>Mixed media artists looking for new embellishment ideas.</li>
<li>Journal lovers who enjoy adding handmade elements to their pages.</li>
<li>Crafters and creative explorers seeking a fun, mindful project.</li>
</ul>
What You’ll Create:
<ul>
<li>
A collection of unique paper buttons crafted from your scraps and creative play.
</li>
<li>
Finished buttons ready to use in art journals, mixed media pieces, fabric projects, or as embellishments.
</li>
</ul>
Why You’ll Love This Class:
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<li>
It’s a creative and mindful process from start to finish.
</li>
<li>
You’ll learn six versatile techniques that can be applied to other projects.
</li>
<li>
It’s a fun way to reuse materials and turn scraps into artful treasures.
</li>
</ul>
Let’s begin and turn your paper scraps into beautiful, tiny works of art!

Welcome!

Collage

Acrylic Play

Watercolor Play

Embellishing the papers

Cut Circles

Inking the edges

Mix & Match

Holes & Stitching

Handmade Paper Buttons

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Handmade Paper Buttons

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