Creating Homemade Shiny Paper for Valentine's Day Crafts

Skill Level Required for Making Shiny Paper for Valentine's Day Crafts

The skill level required to make shiny paper for Valentine's Day crafts is low. However, younger children will need supervision because of the materials involved.

Materials Needed for Shiny Papermaking for Valentine's Day Crafts

1. Tissue Paper

The final quality of the shiny paper hinges on the quality of the tissue paper used in the process.

Some tissue paper colors to consider include white, red, pink, fuchsia, lilac, purple, or silver. For interesting undertones, also use a yellow or orange tissue paper.

Cut the tissue paper in half, or into smaller squares, depending on how many different color combinations you would like to make. Also cut the tissue paper so the sheets will accommodate your Valentine's Day craft.

2. Paint Brush

Use a hard-bristled synthetic paint brush intended for acrylic painting. Watercolor brushes may be too flimsy. A foam brush may cause bubbles on the paper. The paintbrush should be at least one and 1/2 inches wide at the brush or bigger.

Be sure the paintbrush is kept in water when not in used. Also clean the paintbrush immediately after the project is done to retain the brush's pliability.

3. Freezer Paper or Wax Paper

The freezer paper or wax paper serves as a non-stick work surface for making the shiny paper for Valentine's Day crafts.

4. A Water-filled Spray Bottle

The water-filled spray bottle will be used at the second stage of the process.

5. Acrylic Gloss Medium

Acrylic Gloss Medium is the essential product in this shiny papermaking process. Golden and Liquitex brands both make Acrylic Gloss Medium. Acrylic Gloss Medium can be purchased at stores like Michael's, Wal-mart, online at Dickblick.com and Jerry's Artarama, as well as the local art store in your area.

6. Liquid Acrylic Paints

Purchase a couple of bottles or a sampler set of liquid acrylic paints if you'd like. Or you can water down acrylic paints that you already own.

7. Palette or Paper plate

The palette or Paper plate is used for the paint and painting medium.

How to Make Shiny Papermaking for Valentine's Day Crafts