We often ask our customers what they are going to do with the papers they are purchasing. It is always amazing to see the transformation. Here is an email we received recently. Thanks Kaarina!

Hi there,

I thought you might be interested to see what happens to some of your papers after they leave the shop. I’m attaching some photos of my ‘box’ purses, which are made almost exclusively from reclaimed materials. 

The basic structure is cut from corrugated cardboard boxes and lined with paper shopping bags; the strap is bicycle inner tube. The only new material I’m using is the exterior paper, almost all of which is from Paper-Ya. Although the basic materials are somewhat industrial, the fine papers give the purse a more elegant look. I normally sell my work at Circle Craft (just down the hall from you). I’ll be delivering these purses next week, and expect to be dropping in at Paper-Ya frequently.  photographer – Doug Williams 

Kaarina Talvila

Filed under  //   crafts   inspiration and tips   papers  
Posted December 1, 2010
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Fun for all ages (part 2): how to create Halloween ghost & spider web origami the easy way [videos]

Spider Web Origami:

You'll need:

  1. Origami papers* (golden paper for the spider web; white paper for the ghost)
  2. Scissor
  3. Hole puncher
  4. Pencil/pen

Ghost Origami:

For tutorials on pumpkin & bat origami from our previous posting, click here

Halloweenorigamiall

Thanks, Makiko!

* Paper-Ya has one of the largest selections of specialty origami papers in Vancouver

Filed under  //   crafts   diversions   inspiration and tips   on the shelves   papers  
Posted October 18, 2010
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Elegant & classy wax seal is a great way to make your letter/creation stand out. Here's how to make it [video]

The concept of using personal seals dates back to ancient Egypt, where seals were applied to documents using strips of material. Over the ages, seals have been composed of clay, bees wax, resin and more recently sealing wax.

Sealing an envelope with a wax seal is a great way to make your letter stand out from the rest as it adds a touch of elegance and class.

There are generally two methods to apply wax seals. In the first method, you can directly apply the melted wax to your document/envelope before applying the seal, as shown in the video below:

In the second method, you can choose to apply all your seals to non-stick craft paper (a.k.a. wax paper) first, as shown in the video below. After the seals hardens, peel off and apply to the original document or envelope with craft glue. This method ensures that every finished product has a perfect seal. We recommend practicing before applying your seals to your creations. 

The wax seal stamper should be oiled before each use. Baby, mineral & vegetable oil all work well.

Filed under  //   crafts   inspiration and tips   invitations   on the shelves   staff picks   stationery  
Posted September 5, 2010
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