Texture is all the rage for your scrapbook pages. Finding just the right color or pattern for your layout is sometimes a challenge. Why not make your own textured papers?

1. Choose the color of cardstock that will work with your layout.
2. Choose the texture sheet, embossing template, or surface that you want to use to texturize your cardstock.
3. Slightly moisten your cardstock with a spray mist bottle.
4. Use an embossing tool to gently rub the texture into the cardstock.

You can find texture sheets made by many different manufacturers. I have a set of texture templates from Fiskars that I use alot. There is actually a Fiskars Embossing System that goes with these templates as well. I use just the texture templates but I can see how the Embossing system might make it a little easier.

You can also create your own texture templates by gluing punches to a sheet of cardstock. Create a heart template with random heart punches everywhere. How about a confetti texture? The punches will be raised and when rubbed over will give you that embossed texture.

You can also create texture on your pages by distressing the papers. One of my favorite distressing techniques is paper tearing. It gives the layouts a nice textured look yet it is super simple. Paper tearing doesn't require any special tools, just your fingers! Hold the paper with your non dominant hand and tear toward you with your dominant hand.

Another favorite distressing technique that adds nice texture to a page is sanding. This can make a bit of a mess so you will want to have something under the paper you are sanding. Sanding works best with white cored paper.

Adding a little texture goes a long way. You don't have to have your entire background textured. A textured border or photo mat will give you a great look as will textured embellishments. Texture a diecut using you texture templates or distressing techniques.

Add a little texture to your next scrapbook page! Be careful! Once you start playing with texture you will find yourself wanting to use more and more texture on every page. Happy Scrapping!