by Betty Carew

Created on: June 18, 2009   Last Updated: June 28, 2009

Transparent overlays are sheets of clear, flexible plastic that can be used in scrapbooks. It has been on the market for several years and became popular due to the fact that sheets can be laid under or over anything you may be working on in your scrapbook. You can purchase preprinted overlays and they come in sheet sizes of 12x12. You can cut these plastic sheets to any size you require once you know how to use transparent overlays for scrapbooking. If you're working on a project here are some ideas that may help.

Using a full sheet

Your first step is to choose a proper cardstock or a patterned paper you like. Place the full sheet of transparent overlay over your paper and add your photographs, some journaling and /or some decorative work to the layout you have in mind. This is a quick and easy way to make your page pop with the overlay adding shine to your layout.

Mix your elements on top and underneath

You don't have to limit the position your work just on top or underneath your overlay. The clear nature of the overlay gives you lots of options. You can move things on top as well as under the overlay and when you move it around you can get different ideas on how you want your layout. Get creative and add elements to both top and underneath to give your page distinction.

Changing the overlay

Don't limit yourself when you are using overlay, remember overlay can be drawn on, written on or painted. By cutting your overlay into several pieces it can give you the option of moving things around on your page, with freedom. The possibilities are endless. You can change the look of your photo by adding writing to the top of your page pertaining to your focal point or add a lovely poem. The overlay can have a great impact to your page making it stand out.

Layer overlays and scraps

Overlays can be mixed together which gives you more options than ever. If you use two overlays placed together they provide your page with an awesome look. An alternative to this is using made up portions of several cut up overlays. If you have scraps of material left over don't throw them away. These can be used in a different layout such as a journaling section or photographs. Cut them into complimentary shapes and use them on another page.

Digital overlays

Digital overlays can produce some very impressive pages in your scrapbook. You can use the digital overlay on your photos before printing them or do the printing yourself on a transparent sheet, then use them as you would any other overlay. Overlays can be attached in many ways such as using spray adhesive, stapling, brads, sewing, page corners or even paper clips.

Summary

Only your imagination can limit what you can do once you get the hang of how to use transparent overlays for scrapbooking. You are in for a treat at the wonderful embellishments that you can make with this product. Transparent overlays are very versatile and will do wonders for your scrapbook.

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