One element to consider when doing a paper craft project is texture – some aspect of the project that adds dimension to the artwork. There are many ways to add texture to a paper craft project including simply gluing objects onto the project. Objects like twigs or leaves or buttons can be appropriate. Fabric swatches and puffy paint and salt dough are other options. But if the project is a greeting card or a scrapbook page then the crafter is also interested in the actual thickness of the added element. One way to add a 3D effect without adding too much thickness is to use your kitchen grater to create some paper fluff.There are lots of good reasons to try making grated paper fluff. First, it’s easy to make and it’s a great way to use up scraps. Just roll up some scraps of your favorite craft paper into a “carrot” shape and use your kitchen grater. Caution: It will make some dust so be careful not to breathe it in. When finished your grater is easy to clean – a little water and brush and its ready to put back in the kitchen. Another advantage is that you only make as much as you need so there’s no need to find a place to store it. There are commercial products available that serve the same purpose, but why buy something that is so quick and easy to make at home.

There are so many ideal uses for your grated paper fluff. It is simple to attach to your project, just smear on some white glue and pat on the fluff. White fluff makes the perfect lamb’s wool or snow.  In fall shades it makes lovely tree foliage. Make some fluff in green for an evergreen tree and in bold colors or pastels it makes beautiful flowers. Besides the cost savings it also has the advantage that the colors you use on your project will be a perfect color match for the base paper you use on your card or scrapbook page. So grab some scraps and try this “grate” idea.