Yupo is a unique alternative to traditional art papers. It's a synthetic, pulp-free (tree-free) paper, made in the USA from 100% polypropylene. It has several unique properties:
Super-smooth
Durable
Waterproof
Tear-proof
Bright White
Club members received two 12x12 sheets of Yupo paper in their Deluxe kit. If you're not a member, both 8.5x11" and 12x12" sheets are available in our online store.
Since Yupo is so unique, I wanted to share a few fun techniques to try.
WATERCOLOR RESIST TECHNIQUE
Because of the waterproof nature of Yupo, watercolor paints rest on the surface, rather than absorbing into the paper. When dry, you get much more brilliant color than you would with something more absorbent.
Trace stencil with white crayon. (Oil pastels will also work.)
Use a wet brush to apply watercolors.
Don't worry about staying in the lines.
Avoid handling the Yupo Paper with greasy fingertips. (Don't ask me how I know this.)
I believe the white blobs are my fingerprints, which also "resist" the watercolor paint. (Sigh.)
To add texture, remove excess watercolor from the surface by dabbing with a cloth.
Create additional interest by adding water from a spray bottle.
Let air-dry overnight. Speeding the process along with a heat tool is NOT recommended--because Yupo is synthetic, heat will melt and curl the paper.
If you apply too much color, or you want a softer look, remove excess paint with a clean "water-only" brush.
Once artwork is completely dry, stamp sentiment with white acrylic paint.
In this case, white acrylic paint was more opaque than pigment ink on the watercolored surface.
ALCOHOL INK
Yupo's waterproof surface also makes it ideal for use with alcohol inks.
Apply a small amount of each color of alcohol ink to dauber. (Choose three to four coordinating colors for best results.)
Dab applicator onto Yupo paper, rotating the applicator as you go.
Once alcohol inks are completely dry, trim inked panel into 1" squares. Stamp images on individual squares with either White Pigment or Earth Ink.
GELATO WASH
Apply color card panel with Gelatos.
Mist with water.
Blend color with a wet brush.
Remove excess color with a cloth, if desired.
Allow to dry overnight. Stamp sentiment with Black India Ink. Stamp dragonfly image twice onto plain card stock. Color with Gelatos. Fussy cut and adhere to card.
COLOR BURST
Tricia used Yupo paper to make these unique photo mats.
To duplicate the look, sprinkle Yupo with ColorBurst, mist with water and dab with a paper towel. (Remember to allow the paper to dry completely before using!)
These techniques on Yupo paper make stunning backgrounds for cards, pages and other projects. Try pairing Yupo with watercolors, paints, alcohol inks, and more. If you’re not happy with the outcome of your creative efforts, simply wash it off and try again!
Kay
