Summer has very much arrived here in North Carolina. The fireflies are out, the temperatures are up and cantaloupe and strawberries are getting cheaper in the grocery store.
I have an obvious affinity for patterned papers and with a little more time hanging out inside to escape the early summer heat I’ve been thinking about other things to do with them besides wrapping gifts. Turns out, high-quality wrapping paper is a handy thing to have around! All of these ideas work best with a heavier weight patterned sheet rather than the lightweight rolls of wrapping paper.
1. Table Runner
I’ve been having fun dressing up my tablescapes using two matching pattern sheets. Here I’ve used the Floral Scatter pattern sheet. It’s such a nice, quick way to make your everyday table look perky for a party or just because! If you prefer a skinnier runner just cut one sheet in half lengthwise.
2. Bookmarks
Bookmarks are a simple way to get to see patterns more often and to use up scraps from wrapping gifts, making envelopes or other projects. When your bookmark begins to look too worn it’s easy to make another!
3. Storage Boxes
I folded one side of an origami box with the Mayhen Press Scallop Stripe sheet to store some of my office supplies in. Check out the origami box tutorial here!
4. Journaling
Journaling with patterned papers is a lovely way to document your days and to use up paper scraps. I’ve loved following @paperofthepast on Instagram- so many meaningful and creative historic ideas for journaling!
5. Envelopes
Don’t you love getting mail that’s intriguing? Fold a patterned envelope out of wrapping paper- I’d bet your recipient would be just a little extra excited to open it! These are made with the Abundantly Above and Scallop Stripe pattern sheets.
These ideas are just the beginning! I’m looking forward to publishing another blog post with more!
Happy Making!
