Today I’m sharing a mixed media art journal page that came together through layers, texture, and a little creative problem-solving.
This page started with a gel press print where I used packing material to create an organic, imperfect pattern. I love using unexpected textures on the gel plate because they instantly add depth and visual interest. Once the print was dry, I layered in printed tissue postcards to begin building the background.
To soften and unify the layers, I worked through a butterfly stencil using white gesso. After that dried, I went back through the same stencil with embossing ink and added embossing powder in soft vintage tones. That touch of heat-set shine brought subtle sparkle and helped the stencil design pop without overpowering the background.
Next came the details. I added hand-drawn accents with acrylic pens and tucked in a few tiny punched hearts made from embossed paper. These small elements may seem simple, but they make the page feel finished and intentional.
After stepping back, I realized the page needed one more layer to balance everything out. I added pieces of printed paper to selected areas and tinted them with a soft pink matte finish. Then I stamped a bold floral image, heat-embossed it, and added color using a rosy spray from my stash. That final pop of color pulled the whole page together.
To finish the page, I added a few motivational ephemera sentiments. They grounded the design and gave the page a clear focal point without cluttering the layout.
This is one of those art journal pages that reminds me why I love mixed media so much. You can layer, experiment, step back, and adjust until it feels right. No rules. Just creativity.
Thanks so much for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderfully crafty weekend!
Want to find the supplies I used? I have listed them below. (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you.) Thank you for your support!
 PaperArtsy – Francis Papillon 378 Shop at: TP |
 WOW! Embossing – Clear Embossing Pad Shop at: WOW US | TP |
 WOW! Embossing – Jo Firth Young Petalicious Shop at: TP |
 WOW! Embossing – Tracy Scott Gold Vintage Lace Shop at: TP |
 AALL & Create – Motivation Station Shop at: TP |
 Tsukineko – Versafine Clair – Twilight Shop at: TP |
 PaperArtsy – Printed Tissue Postcards Shop at: TP |
 Lindy’s Gang – Magical Shakers – Boho Dreams Shop at: Lindys | TP |
 Gel Press – Reusable Gel Printing Plate Shop at: AZ | TP | Misc | |