BARGELLO

Bargello Technique

by Joan Ervin

Use a technique borrowed from needlepoint to create an interesting background with thin strips of paper.

Supplies

• Paper cutter
• Three or four sheets of different patterned papers at least six inches long
• One 5" x 6" piece of thin white cardstock, or copy paper
• Adhesive
• Ink, stamps and embellishments to finish your card

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Cut several 3/4" strips of patterned paper, at least two from each pattern.
   

2. Step 2

   Adhere the strips on the thin paper in a consistent design with sides touching and the edges even.
   
   Hint:
   Use at least one dark paper for a dramatic design look.
   

3. Step 3

   Cut several strips in various widths.
   

4. Step 4

   Play with the strips to create a design.
   
   They can be arranges in a zig zag pattern
   
5. or a wave.
   

6. Step 5

   Or create a pyramid design,
   
7. or rick rack pattern.
   

8. Step 6

   Adhere the strips in the pattern of your choice directly onto the card base or another sheet of thin paper to make a layer. 
   
   The Bargello background can also be cut with a die for a shaped background layer,
   
9. or trim the sides for a larger layer.
   

10. Step 7

    Finish your project.
    

Video!

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Bargello Technique. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!