Using Rub-Ons for Scrapbooking
At first glance, rub-ons may not look much different than stickers. However, these simple scrapbooking embellishments are amazingly versatile. Unlike stickers, rub-ons leave no visible border when applied to your scrapbook layout. Rub-ons can also be used on fabric, wood, glass, plastic, and metal to create a number of fun looks.
How to Apply Rub-Ons
Using rub-ons for scrapbooking is a fairly easy process.
- If necessary, cut out the design from the sheet.
- Remove the plastic backing that covers the sticky side of your rub-on.
- Place the rub-on with the sticky side down onto your scrapbook layout.
- Use the Popsicle stick that came with your rub-on package to apply gentle yet even pressure to the entire design. If you’ve accidentally misplaced the stick, however, the hard surface of a pencil will work just fine.
- Slowly peel the backing off your rub-on sheet to reveal the design.
- If part of your design didn’t transfer, try filling in the missing details with a fine-tipped pen or marker.
Ideas for Using Rub-Ons for Scrapbooking
Rub-ons are available in a variety of themes and styles, making them a great choice for beginning as well as experienced scrapbookers. Rub-ons can be used to accent scrapbooking layouts in a number of different ways. For example:
- Add rub-ons directly to your favorite photo.
- Fake the look of sewing by using stitching rub-ons along the side of your layout.
- Embellish a clear acrylic frame to help draw attention to a special photo.
- Use rub-ons to jazz up a plain metal rimmed tag.
- Spell out a simple photo caption by using alphabet rub-ons on a strip of ribbon.
- Apply rub-ons over plain chipboard for a touch of pizzazz.
- Substitute small rub-on flowers for bullet points in a journaling list.
- Combine rub-on alphabets with stickers, brads, and chipboard letters to create a title with a fun “ransom note” effect.
- Decorate the cover of a plain album with the rub-ons of your choice.
- Use leftover alphabet rub-ons to make your own customized patterned paper for a page about your child learning his ABCs.
Beyond Scrapbooking
While rub-ons are great for decorating your scrapbooking layouts, they also make lovely accents for your home décor. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Decorate a plastic trash can with the rub-ons of your choice to make a fun and functional piece of art for your craft room.
- Add a favorite quote to a plain mirror to be greeted by words of wisdom each morning.
- Accent a plain votive candle holder with a simple flourish to create a sophisticated look.
- Use rub-on alphabets to spell names, dates, or your favorite sayings on thrift store picture frames.
- Give outdated furniture new appeal with a fresh coat of paint and some strategically placed rub-on accents.
- Design your own wall art with large rub-on letters or images.
- Make an inexpensive gift for a friend or family member by adding seasonal rub-ons to a plain candy dish.
