Learn how to create a layered mixed media art journal page featuring a torn opening that invites elements to spill out, creating depth and movement throughout the design. This project highlights 49 and Market’s Dye Ink Pads paired with the Whispering Way collection by Joanne Bain for a beautifully cohesive look.

Step 1: Trim the 6×8 white brick patterned paper to fit a page in the Dylusions Creative Journal and round the corners. Tear out the center and distress the inside edge with Tim Holtz Tools by Tonic Studios Paper Distresser. Lightly trace the oval opening on the journal page with a pencil.

Step 2: Using the barbed wire design from the Whispering Way Rub-On Transfers sheet, rub the image around the edges of the pencil-traced opening.

Step 3: Apply 49 and Market Dye Ink in Fossil to a piece of packaging plastic and mist it with the Tim Holtz Distress Sprayer. Press the diluted ink onto the page, concentrating around the Rub-On Transfer to build layered interest. Repeat this process one or two times ensuring that each layer is dry beforehand.

Step 4: With a Mini Dome Blending Tool and 49 and Market Dye Ink in Fossil, ink-blend the edges of the torn patterned paper. Adhere the paper to the journal page, leaving some flexibility around the opening so ephemera can be tucked inside.

Step 5: Flip the paper trimmed from the original 6×8 brick patterned sheet and tear the edges. Ink-blend with Fossil and adhere the pieces beneath the opening.

Step 6: Rub on the butterfly and mixed media designs over both the journal page and the brick patterned paper. This creates the illusion that the elements are flying out of the opening. Add additional Rub-On Transfers near the top of the page to visually balance the composition.

Step 7: Select a grouping of florals and critters from 49 and Market’s Laser Cut Wildflowers and Elements. Adhere them beneath the opening using Dina Wakley’s Media Glue.

Step 8: Using a palette knife, lightly scrape Dina Wakley’s Media White Gesso along the edges of the journal page. To finish, splatter Dina Wakley’s White Gloss Spray by removing the nozzle and tapping it across the page for subtle texture and shine.

Enjoy the depth and visual story created through intentional layering and texture. Discover the unique reactions of 49 and Market’s Dye Ink Pads and find inspiration in creating with Joanne Bain’s Whispering Way papers and elements.