Clear Overlays

Inking or Stamping

Applying ink is a great way to add definition or color to an overlay. It is important, though to be careful of which ink you use. StazOn ink pads are best, since overlays are non-porous surfaces-the ink dries quickly without the chance for smudging.

Inking or Stamping
Applying ink is a great way to add definition or color to an overlay. It is important, though to be careful of which ink you use. StazOn ink pads are best, since overlays are non-porous surfaces-the ink dries quickly without the chance for smudging.

For all-over inking, place the overlay on a piece of scratch paper and turn the ink pad face down. Press the ink pad to the overlay, increasing pressure for more coverage, pressing lightly for less. You can also press a stippling brush to an ink pad, then to an overlay for a different look.

Coloring with Paper and Pens

Adding a touch of color to an overlay is also a simple and fun way to alter it. Select your overlay, then pick cardstock or paper that coordinates with the overlay and project. Cut the cardstock or paper to fit behind the entire overlay piece or just a select portion-behind a letter, border or image. Another super simple way to add a touch of color to your overlays is with a permanent ink pen or liquid acrylic paint. To add the color, turn the overlay over and apply the ink or paint to the back. This way the color will show through the translucent portions while still allowing the darker printed portions on the overlay to show.

Attaching Overlays

Overlays can be attached with ribbon, brads, and hidden adhesive- glues do not work as well as tape.

Look for places on your layout where the transparency will be covered by other items such as photos mats and embellishments. These are the perfect places to hide your adhesive. It only takes a few small spots of adhesive to hold the transparency in place.

Brads are one of the easiest embellishments to use. Simply poke a small hole with a push pin, insert the brad, and open the prongs on the back.