Use sand paper to scratch some texture onto your paper or frame.

Sand paper is a tool that I always keep on hand in my scrapbook bag. I tend to use it frequently. I like to use the extra gritty type because it scratches easiest!

You do not have to press very hard or rub very long to add some extra dimension to your pages with sand paper. All it takes is a little sanding and you have a nice textured look. Gently sand the edges or areas you want to look more antique. Add some chalking and it is a sure-fire eye-catcher! Direct to paper inking with your ink pad also looks great with your sanded edges.

The shabby chic look created by sanding is very eye appealing! Use this technique on frames, tags, and even your background paper. Sanding works best with white cored paper so that you get a different color showing through the scratches. Sand embellishments that you don't use or like the color of - like colored brads or eyelets - this exposes the metal underneath.

Another great way to get some texture is crinkling your white cored paper. Then smooth it out and rub your sand paper over the creases. The sand paper will give the creases a very shabby look.

I have even used sand paper to roughen up my letter stickers. Sometimes the stark perfect letter stickers just don't go with a page. Once you scratch them up a bit with the sand paper it is a whole new look that works remarkably well on that shabby layout!

I have even sanded the edges of my actual photos. This works well when you are putting your photos edge to edge on a page. It helps define each individual picture.

Some companies offer sanders especially for scrapbooking. However, any type of sandpaper will work. A nail file or emery board also works well. I usually pick up a packet of sandpaper at the dollar store. You can get variety packs of different grits at Walmart. It is fun to experiment with the different grits to find which appeals to you the most.

Tip: Make sure that you have a piece of paper or something under your project before sanding your edges so that you don't accidentally sand the table! (speaking from experience here!)

Sandpaper is a great way to add a little distress to your projects. Find a piece of sandpaper to stick in your stash and give this technique a try!