This is a super quick and easy way to make very pretty and shimmery background papers. Experiment with your tools and supplies and you will never run out of pretty papers again!

Perfect Paper Adhesive (Matte or Glossy)

Mica Powders (PearlEx, Perfect Pearls, Cosmetic Grade Mica Powder) - Many different colors

Paint brushes (foam and bristle) --Optional-- Try with different sponges

Matte and Glossy cardstock

Small plate and/or bowl

Plastic knife or spoon

Water

Very small metal or plastic scoop/spoon

Place a large "dollop" (about the size of a silver dollar) of Perfect Paper Adhesive (PPA) onto your plate/bowl. Add a few drops of water and mix. Adjust mixture by adding water until you have the consistency of melted ice cream. Using your small scoop/spoon (OR carefully tap out of the jar) place the Mica Powder around the edges of your PPA mixture in small piles.

(Alternate Option: If you would like to work with 1 color of Mica Powder at a time, you may mix the Mica Powder directly into your entire PPA mixture)

Use your paintbrush and/or sponge and dip into the PPA mixture in the middle of the plate/bowl. Then dip into one or more piles of Mica Powder and then paint onto your cardstock. Apply until you have achieved the look you desire. Allow to dry completely before using as background paper. (If your cardstock curls during the drying process, simply use as is and glue firmly to base card OR you may flatten by placing under a large, heavy stack of books.)

Experiment by using different kinds of brushes, use a variety of different brush strokes, use sponges, foil, plastic wrap, wax paper, fabric, lace, or ??? to apply the wash to your paper for a unique look!!

Most of all… HAVE FUN!!

Sample Sheets:

Project Samples:

(Moon stamped directly onto Mica Powder Wash Background)

(Mica Powder Wash is the corner punched layer)