Handmade Paper Buttons: From Scraps To Art

A Step-by-Step Journey to transform papers into tiny works of Art with Layers, Texture, and Stitching

What you'll learn

Learn to transform scraps of paper into textured, layered art pieces by mastering collaging, color application, and composition techniques.

Experiment with different mediums and tools like gesso, acrylics, watercolors, and inks to create depth and visual interest.

Discover the mindful joy of cutting, layering, and stitching to craft paper buttons in a variety of sizes and styles.

Create polished, functional art pieces that can be used in journals, mixed media projects, or as standalone embellishments.

Requirements

No prior experience is needed—this course is beginner-friendly!

A basic set of supplies: book pages, scraps, paints, gesso, scissors, ink/paint for edges, a hole puncher, thread, and needles.

An open mind to experiment and a love for creative play.

Optional: Old paintings or textured papers if available.

Description

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 artworks2. Mixed media papers3. Old book pages / ephemeras4. Tissue paper - White & brown (bamboo tissue)5. Glue / mod podge / gel medium6. Acrylic colors (colors of your choice)7. A basic set of watercolor cakes8. Gesso9. Some paint brushes10. Distress ink pads for stamping - just one or 2 colors - forest moss, vintage photo, brush corduroy.11. Rubber stamps12. Thread & needleWhat You’ll Learn:Collaging Your Base – "Building Stories on Paper"Layer book pages, ephemera, and gesso to create textured foundations.Add an umber wash to unify and bring depth to your collages.Playing with Color – "The Freedom to Experiment"Reimagine old paintings by adding tissue textures.Play with acrylics and watercolors to create vibrant or subtle backgrounds.Cutting Circles – "The Joy of Mindful Cutting"Cut circles in three sizes (1.5", 1.25", and 1").Find patterns and textures within your pages as you cut.Inking the Edges – "Details That Add Depth"Ink around the edges of your cutouts for definition and contrast.Create polished, professional-looking pieces.Mixing and Matching – "Balancing Layers and Textures"Combine circles of different sizes and patterns.Layer them to design unique, harmonious paper buttons.Adding Holes and Stitching – "Bringing Buttons to Life"Punch holes (two or four) to mimic real buttons.Stitch through the holes to add texture and charm.What You’ll Create:A collection of unique paper buttons crafted from your scraps and creative play.Finished buttons ready to use in art journals, mixed media pieces, fabric projects, or as embellishments.Why You’ll Love This Class:It’s a creative and mindful process from start to finish.You’ll learn six versatile techniques that can be applied to other projects.It’s a fun way to reuse materials and turn scraps into artful treasures.Let’s begin and turn your paper scraps into beautiful, tiny works of art!

Overview

Section 1: Introduction

Lecture 1 Introduction

Lecture 2 Collage

Lecture 3 Acrylic play

Lecture 4 Watercolor Play

Lecture 5 Embellishing the papers

Lecture 6 Cut the circles

Lecture 7 Inking the edges

Lecture 8 Mix & Match

Lecture 9 Holes & Stitching

Mixed media artists looking for new embellishment techniques.,Journal lovers and scrapbookers who want to add handmade elements to their projects.,Crafters and creatives searching for a fun, relaxing project.,Anyone who enjoys exploring art processes, textures, and mindful creativity.