Paper Transformed by Julia Andrus

Reported by Heather Strenzwilk

Several months ago, I discovered Paper Transformed: A Handbook of Surface-Design Recipes and Creative Paper Projects at a chain bookstore. Written by hybrid artist Julia Andrus, this book is filled with techniques for paper based projects. Most of the projects require 3-6 ingredients and many have under 7 steps and can be completed in 20 minutes or less. I was attracted to the vibrant samples and the easy to follow instructions with supplies I had on hand.

The 176 page softbound book has 8 chapters. Each chapter with a sampler of finished techniques and each sub technique in a chapter gets a brief overview including an extensive tool discussion. More experienced artists might be more inclined to skim some of this background material if they are familiar with the technique. The chapters start with the most basic technique and build on it in subsequent samples.

Here is a list of chapter titles:
Old favorites and new variations: marbling, watercolors, paste paper and pastels
Original designer papers
Metal look-alikes
Special paper treatments: alcohol ink, beeswax, dry embossing
Stamping techniques: inks, embossing powder
Stippling, sponging, and stenciling
Paper finales: finishing, aging techniques, dyeing and staining

The last chapter in the book is called "Sparkling Paper Projects" and unlike the previous chapters which focus on specific techniques, this section highlights completed projects utilizing multiple recipes and techniques. These are very inspirational and offer some ideas for unique embellishments and 3-D items. For the sample below I combined the following techniques: stamped watercolor effects, painted tin and dry embossing (with glaze).



As a long time paper crafter, I can often "figure it out" if I look at a sample or see a supply list. I looked at this book as a springboard to add new twists to time honored techniques such as watercoloring or resist. Andrus offers many tips to help achieve the desired results- for example, a meat tenderizer can make great pitted surfaces. She also notes variations for many of the projects for a different look. When possible, she mentions substitutions that can be made for certain supplies. I found her advice to be sound and some suggestions for using ordinary objects as tools helpful.

Pros:

• The techniques feature readily available supplies such as Ranger products and many basic supplies that many artists already own. Many techniques can be completed in under 10 minutes.
• Many unique insider tips and ways to use common household objects as creative tools.
• Andrus incorporates a wide variety of styles (altered, grunge, collage, etc) and project types (cards, journals, boxes, vases, etc) to appeal to a wide audience.

Cons:

• The instructions are brief and while adequate for a more seasoned artist, less experienced artists might need additional instructions.
• Many of the techniques in the book have been around for years such as waxed paper resist, marbling, bleaching and polished stone. While there are some new and unique twists on the techniques, more experienced artists might not be as inspired.
• The book should be spiral bound so it will open and stay flat.

The suggested retail price of the book is $24.99 and is available at chain bookstores but is available online at Amazon and straight from her website.

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