Challenge 108: Tutorial - How to use up alphas

Every scrap-booker has packs of alphas containing only those odd letters and numbers that will never get used. And if you’re anything like me, every time you need a title you still look through them just in case, and you get more and more irritated with them - but you can’t throw them away because that would be wasteful, right? Here is a way of using those leftovers so that you can finally throw that packaging away (and buy some more!)

You will need:
• Enough alphas to create the title you want; short works better.
• Your leftover chipboard Thickers or raised alphas, any colours.
• Spray or dye ink(s) in contrasting colour(s) to the title alphas.
• Card-stock.
• Backing paper from double-sided tape or adhesive.
• If you’re using spray, a cardboard box to spray into.


1. Start by deciding your title. Cut each letter out, or stick each letter onto a different piece of the backing paper. This is so that you can remove them. Choose your alphas from a single coloured pack, or ink them all to match each other.

2. Arrange them on the card-stock, but don’t stick them down. You can use repositionable adhesive to hold them in place if you wish.

3. Randomly place your leftover alphas around the title, sticking them down. Aim for about 1½ to 2 rows of leftovers.

4. Remove the title alphas, and mist and/or ink the leftovers and the card-stock background until their original colours are mostly covered. You could use a cosmetic sponge to get into as many of the holes, nooks and crannies as you can. You may want to use several close colours in similar shades, but make sure that the title colour stands out. Allow to dry.

5. Tear the card-stock around the edges of the lettering.

6. Replace the title alphas, sticking them down permanently. Your dramatic title is finished and can be added to your LO.

For this tutorial I have used Thickers and other lettering that is raised, so that the outline of the alphas still shows. If you have flat, printed stickers, you could use the same method but with alcohol ink so that the printing shows through the ink without being obscured by it. The title could then be in raised lettering and/or a contrasting colour.

You could also use this method to create a striking card, or a name plaque for your child’s room, or a holiday greeting banner. You need never hang onto those annoying Qs, Js, Ks, Xs and Zs again!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for the Tutorial Rosey - its very inspiring!! >> Now it's over to you - our blog followers!! Give this tutorial a go for yourself then come back here and link us to your creation. If you do your name will be entered into our prize draw for November.

Still stuck for inspiration? Check out what our Design Team did with this tutorial:

Georgina

Rosey

Nilsa

Kelly