Marbling Christmas Wrapping Paper The Victorian Way

What is Marbling

Marbling is a specialised painting technique that imitates the characteristics of marble. This technique has been around for centuries and was mainly used in the past to augment interior and exterior decor of homes and buildings.

It waned in popularity during the first half of the 19th Century. It wasn’t until the middle part of the century that this type of medium of art saw a resurgence in popularity in home decor once again.

Back in Fashion

Victorians also found another use for marbling and was something they could easily make themselves at home during this time, with Christmas becoming more popular.

Christmas wrapping paper as we know it wasn’t invented until 1917.  The innovative Victorians came up with their own kind of wrapping paper using the marbling process.

 

My own Marbling

Equipment needed for Marbling

Coloured ink

Paper or card

Washing up bowl or large container

Water

Glitter (optional)

Place to dry

My Method

I used a clean washing up bowl and added water but kept it quite shallow, just enough of water to get an even coating on the bottom of the bowl.

After selecting my colours from my ink set which I bought from Baker Ross Marbling Ink – Baker Ross. 

I added my colours one at a time, after each colour I used a metal screwier and gently moved the ink about making careful attempt not to pierce the water.

I then placed my card very carefully on top on the ink. and leaving to stand for a few seconds, I then picked up the card, gently holding both ends.  Card & Paper Value Pack – Baker Ross

Then set to dry.

TIPS

You can use paper or card, I found card better and also thought coloured card looked more appealing.

Use paper or card that fits the bowl perfectly, this will ensure full coverage,

Start the process again for every sheet for best outcome,

You can customise by adding glitter at any stage of the process,

If you don’t have a screwier then you could try using a straw, and gentle blow into it moving the ink about.