Leonardo da Vinci used it, and so did the medieval illuminators of the Book of Kells. Vellum, that is—one of the first papers in the world. Originally made from the very finest calfskin, modern vellum is a sturdy, translucent paper with a smooth surface. Because light and color pass through vellum like a stained glass window, it’s often used as a second layer over other papers. When you use vellum, you add an unexpected, elegant effect.
Vellum comes in a variety of weights, and the lighter the weight, the more light will pass through. It also comes in many different colors, both solid and patterned, so you can always find a style that matches the mood of your project. What’s more, vellum is easy to print on. You just load it into your printer just like regular paper.
Print black-and-white photos on heavyweight vellum for a vintage feel. Then incorporate the photos into scrapbooks or other photo projects.
Create tags for present-perfect gifts. Print the recipients’ names onto vellum, then cut them out and mount them onto heavyweight paper in festive colors.
Print journal entries on vellum and add them to scrapbooks. You can also trace a journal entry onto vellum and create a dual-layer effect.
Use a layer of vellum to add an elegant touch to wedding invitations or baby announcements. Print the text onto the vellum and use it as the top layer, or print the text on the bottom layer and lay the vellum on top.
Make votive candle wraps for parties or everyday ambience. Simply cut colored or printed vellum so that it’s big enough to wrap around a votive candle holder, then punch holes in each end of the piece of vellum and secure with ribbon.
Create “water elements” such as bubbles, ice, even shower curtains— and incorporate into your scrapbooks.
Create keepsake envelopes for scrapbooks. Then, fill the envelopes with photos, event tickets, or other memorabilia.
Vellum won’t absorb ink as much as other types of paper. Before you print on vellum, change your printer settings. Use “draft mode” and the transparency setting so that less ink is transferred to the paper.
Allow printed vellum extra time to completely dry before you handle it. Otherwise, you may smear the ink.
Vellum creases very easily, so be careful not to bend it. Creases will cause unsightly white marks.
Try laying white vellum over bright colors or patterned paper for a beautiful effect.
Wash your hands before you use vellum. The natural oils in your fingers can create visible smudges on the paper.
The edges of vellum can be sharp, so use care when handling them.
Vellum can be harder to cut than normal paper. Instead of scissors, use a metal-edge ruler and X-ACTO knife for cutting.
Because of its translucent nature, adhesives show through the paper. As an alternative to using glue or tape, attach vellum with ribbon or raffia woven through punched holes.
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