Ten tips for grounding paper dolls

When I first started using Tim Holtz paper dolls I wish someone had told me that they look better if you visually ground them into the background their placed upon, here are my ten quick and easy tips for grounding your paper dolls.
This is the process video for how I made the background tags. • Journal tag background...
Happy Crafting
Ceri
Etsy shop, Ceri The Crafter www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CeriTheC...
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[@robinsutton4952]

I can hear my paper dolls that have been living in a quart size baggie for several years, “let us out and use us”. Thanks for the inspiration. Safe travels.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Lol…….let those dolls out and let them find new homes on your ephemera.

[@terryfrank3107]

Robin: Love your comment! I think like that too - maybe I’m not crazy!😅

[@robinsutton4952]

@@terryfrank3107 we’re all crazy on this crafting bus. I retired a year ago and had such grandiose plans. Use what I have, step out of my comfort zone, craft everyday. My husband sez I have enough stuff still in packaging to open my own store. Isn’t life good?

[@terryfrank3107]

@robinsutton4952. Amen! Ditto! But “ain’t it fun?” It keeps us going and we could be into a lot worse lol!

[@juliejohnson497]

(Your paper dolls) ... I think we think alike because mine get on my conscience!!!

[@donadeam2313]

I’ve never realized why some of the paper dolls look great and others not so much. Thanks for the tips

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome

[@SheriM3]

Thank you so much!!! I’ve had those paper dolls for several years but never used them because I didn’t know how to make them look right. I’m excited to try the techniques you’ve shown! Have a fun and safe trip to Chicago. Thanks again.🤗

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous news.

[@jeansalzman2.012]

Thank you!!! I could not figure out how to make these inanimate people come more to life. Very well explained!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news thank you

[@patriciawalker9470]

I am so grateful for this video! I never knew what to do with people except for them to float ☺️ You have such great ideas. Thank you Thank you 😘

[@CeriGriffiths]

You are so welcome Patricia

[@vickymargiotta425]

Thank you for showing us this. I normally don’t like paper dolls because most people just stick them down on the tag and they look weird. This has been very helpful.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news Vicky

[@carolew994]

Your video popped up on my KZbin suggestions today. I've been doing this type of paper art crafting for a lot of years, but I still learned some things. Thanks for sharing.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You are so welcome

[@sandikalin636]

Great tips!!!! Nothing worse than “floating people”. Lol. The girl on the swing,. Wow. I never would have figured that out. The other dolls that need grounding are the ones that are leaning. They need something to lean on!!! Hey, have a great trip. Gonna be in the 80*’s. No rain, no storms. I’ll wave to you from here in St Joseph, Michigan. 🌞🕶 I’m so happy for you that you get to see your friends

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Sandi, yup I’ve packed sunscreen for the 4th July parade and I’ll be staying in the aircon as much as I can……I don’t do heat.

[@cindytartt4048]

2 minutes in and I know this will be SO helpful! Thank you so very much. I bought some just this week and I wasn’t sure how to make a tag so neatly.❤ from Brisbane. 🇦🇺

[@oldcrowslanding]

Thank you, Ceri, for your great tips! I have a little tip to share that I learned many years ago in an art teacher workshop: When spreading glue or paste with your finger, wipe the excess glue onto the back of your other hand, where it will be out of the way while you work. Then, when you are finished working, just wash the glue off your hand. Easy!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wow what a great tip thank you.

[@juliejohnson497]

Wiping glue on the back of your hand. Excellent! My tip: I have found that letting fabric ( such as lace) dry until crisp before cutting gives a perfect line.

[@mariannespmmissouri1913]

now my "floors" will have a bit of variety! Thank you, Ceri!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fun

[@katiejosmith246]

You are an excellent teacher! Who knew about paper doll guidelines for making them look very authentic on tags. Thanks! 👩‍🦰👱🏻‍♀️🧔🏻👵🏾🧑🏻‍🦰 ❤️

[@CeriGriffiths]

Katie they’re just the way I find they work best for me and I’m happy to share.

[@JuanettesCraftingCorner]

What a brilliant video Ceri. I'm the one who interviewed Gayle A. at her retreat. She was the one that brought me over to your channel.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous, I love our little community.

[@estellacampos1]

I love to see all different ideas on how to use my beautiful people, but I’m not going to deny I couldn’t think out of the box on this one 🤨 and it seems like you the only one sharing your idea that I love ! And to star with I did the lady on the swing!😍

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous I’m please you found them useful.

[@joycebergthold3170]

I have these dolls but didn't know how to use them so they looked right. Your ideas have given me inspiration and now my dolls can be used. Thank you for sharing!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome Joyce.

[@ann-zj9vn]

Thank you for sharing this. I have never used paper dolls due to not knowing what to do with them. Have a nice break away

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you, I hope this has helped.

[@molliesmomma]

I’ve always been too nervous to use paper dolls as I could never get them “right”. Thank you, you’ve shown me how to use them properly and make them look wonderful

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous news Alison.

[@aliciagarrido7087]

You are a genius...I started watching your videos about a month ago and it's like you answer all my questions and give solutions to all my problems 😊 Please keep sharing, you are so clear, neat and creative, I truly enjoy watching you work. Thank you so much for all your contibutions to us rookies. Regards from Virginia, US ❤

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Alicia and I’m so please you find them useful.

[@michellenowacki8673]

Great tips….nothing worse than floating people. You always come up with good ideas. Have a fabulous holiday & safe travels 😀

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Michelle

[@marthahenrich1185]

I’m not a beginner but I enjoyed this video and it was helpful. Have a safe, fun trip to Chicago!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Martha

[@Princess_karen]

I have put off buying paper dolls because I never knew how to use them. I will be purchasing them now. Thank you so much

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news, thank you Karen

[@gm2mx]

Thank you I have had paper dolls for awhile and this gives me the confidence to use them. I appreciate your desire to share you creative knowledge with us. Greeting from Northeastern Missouri.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@dmariebella6309]

Loved this, and before this video I didn't know what paper dolls were. So thank you for this video.

[@stefmakesallthethings]

I'm so glad to have come across this video of yours. I'm currently trying out the paper dolls for a thank you card. You have great ideas in here. Thank you for this tutorial.

[@lorileyba5636]

I especially love the linen tip! I have several worn out antique linen pillow cases. I used them and wore them out - so sorry to the little lady who saved them for nearly a century. I have been looking for ways to incorporate the fabric in my makes. I also have some antique linen yardage. Thanks so much for this.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re so welcome

[@leahlane5437]

Great tutorial. I often wondered why my dolls seemed to be floating. Thank you for these great tips. Look forward to seeing more tips.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great, thank you

[@alisonmartin6101]

Thank goodness for this video. I have Tim Holtz paper dolls, and I’ve had no idea on how to use them in an artistic way. Thank you!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful Alison

[@nancydcurrystudio]

Ceri, I love your artist eye and attention to detail. These dolls look dramatically different than if they were just stuck on, which in my slap-dash style I might have been tempted to do. I learn so many new things from you each time I watch a video. Most especially I learn from your commitment to excellence. Thanks Ceri! Cheers.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Nancy.

[@barbara-dj1uo]

Thank you very much for telling us WHY you chose the grounding techniques. I learned a lot from you. Thanks!

[@CeriGriffiths]

That’s great news.

[@vickiturpitt7142]

Gayle, talked about grounding the paper dolls, so had to come watch your video, love it !!! Plus the girl on the swing was awesome...

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank glorious, love Gayle.

[@1busybetty]

I always ground my paper dolls and you’ve given me a few new ideas for grounding. TFS

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news

[@anntowle1706]

Your methods make the paper dolls make sense instead of just looking random! Thank you for sharing. Have a good trip to Chicago and be careful while you're there.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you and I’ll be careful.

[@devinemsm05]

Thank you Ceri. This was most helpful information on the placement of paper dolls. I would love to see how you made the card backgrounds you used for the demonstration. They are beautiful. Safe travels to The Windy City!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Mary, I’ve made another video on how I created that type of background tag it will launch July 10th.

[@vandanasenthil]

Thank you for being my saviour of the day.

[@CeriGriffiths]

So happy to have helped, thank you

[@tuthillg]

Great tips, Ceri! The dolls certainly do look more realistic with grounding! TFS the inspiration!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news.

[@amberteitsworthhummel7407]

Thank you so much, Ceri. This was very helpful. I have always tried to ground my little people but this gave me even more instruction . I will be using your tips for sure.

[@mayaholthuizen5307]

Helpfull. What I like very much, is your way to tell a story. Like: the bussines man in the cloth industrie. You are realy pleasent to listen to. Much love !

[@CeriGriffiths]

I appreciate that thank you

[@darleneferree5829]

I buy used books at my library that has drawings of women/men wearing vintage clothing. wow! your technique really makes them pop when I'm "grounding"! thx u! it does make a difference!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome Darlene

[@darlenesmith7154]

These ideas are wonderful !!! I love working with these paper dolls.....

[@suerussell497]

Great techniques to make the dolls look more natural. Thank you very much for your tips.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome Sue

[@thegypsy1968]

Nods and smiles affectionately at you!!! Ceri!!!! Thank you Thank you Thank you!! Fantastic tips,Hugs GinaB😍🥰

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Gina.

[@sharonbaxter1362]

This is just the video I needed to watch. Now I can use the paper dolls in my stash!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous

[@eileenthirling3676]

Thank you Ceri for this tutorial . I'm of up to my craft room after your video to go and play. Enjoy your trip to America.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Have fun.

[@janbrad1]

Thank you for these tips! I have those paper dolls but didn't know how to "ground them" - I actually like the sunshine!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@LauraMe...]

Oh dear Ceri, Thank You! It does drive me crazy 🤪 a lot of really talented creator's miss this step. It was one if the first things I learned in mixed media along with not putting separate elements hanging out alone unless it's for emphasis if you can make them touch in any way do it! A wonderful video! YES!!!! The girl on the swing!!!! 🥴 Have a safe and wonderful trip. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous, thank you

[@odrade99]

Thank you. Some of the paper dolls are really tricky. This is very helpful. Have a fabulous trip to Chicago.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you I’ll try.

[@ludmilaschicchi8278]

Thank you so much for all these hints. I will not only use them for paper dolls but grounding other items I use in my journals. Have a safe and fun trip.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Have fun Ludmila.

[@DBeamW]

This came at the most perfect time! just purchases Tracy's peculiar peeps! Thank you so much. for these fabulous suggestions!!! 🤩

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news, thank you.

[@jennieadamsMM]

OMGosh Cert❣️ Thank you so much❣️ I can now use my paper doors with confidence❣️ Yes, when I used them, their arms were on a ledge of some sort or sitting on something but with your instruction they will look so much better❣️BTW I grew up about 45 miles North of Chicago, n Waukegan. Now I live about six hours away by Des Moines, Iowa, and it’s wonderful here. 🤗 Hugs, 💕 Love, and 🦋Blessings for a safe round trip❣️🤗💕🦋

[@CeriGriffiths]

So pleased it helped Jennie, i used to live in Glenview so I’m very familiar with the places you mention.

[@jennieadamsMM]

@@CeriGriffiths it truly is a small world, isn’t it?💖

[@susanjane4784]

The second time I watched this one so I could take notes.Great topic and one I've always struggled with. I have a whole collection of grey pencils, graphite, and chalk to create "floors" and shadows, and now I'll finally be better able to use them!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful news.

[@stonechops]

I’ve lots to learn. This is the first time I’ve heard glue stick called Print Stick. And I love it! That’s what imma call them from this day forward. 3:16

[@CeriGriffiths]

Pritt actually is the brand name I use and it just happens that I now call all glue sticks Pritt sticks out of habit.

[@kathrynwiller2840]

Very helpful hints! Your stripe stamp ended up looking like steps I thought, which was perfect!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you and yes they did look like steps.

[@lindadeconcini3678]

Yes thank you for these ideas for the paper dolls. I felt when I tried to use them they didn't look right. I only use the tickets for sitting down ones. I knew they weren't grounded but didn't know how to do it. With no art classes I didn't know how but knew that they didn't look correctly. .

[@CeriGriffiths]

So pleased i could help.

[@janetvisochi-baum7572]

thank you for going thru them again at the end - it was upsetting not being able to see you create when it got dark - but these were wonderful tips - thanks again !!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Sorry about the light I just had no other time to do it.

[@cherrydulaney6572]

I just found your channel and am really wowed by your artistic eye and easy directions. I’ve been guilty a few times of just sticking them on and couldn’t figure out why they looked “off.” And then I quit using them. Thanks to you, I now know how to ground my paper dolls. Just subscribed, too. Now I want to go search out your other videos to see how you made those luscious, richly colored backgrounds! They are fabulous.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you and welcome to my channel.

[@debbiepeysen9419]

Awesome tags. This is the best video I've ever seen about paper dolls. Thank you so much.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wow, that’s high praise, thank you

[@joannwhite6726]

Thank so much Ceri. I just ran acrooss this video that I needed, i been had my paper doll out for two month,, to use them, and had no idea,😊😊😊

[@LynsAlteredArts]

Thank you so much, I knew about grounding things already but I would’ve stuck their feet on top of the line instead of bringing them down so that the line was behind their ankles, that one tip is worth the price of admission.

[@CeriGriffiths]

I’m so pleased that what I filmed has helped. Thank you

[@laracraft82]

Never tried the paper dolls but after watching your video is a lot of fun thanks for sharing 👍 😀 💓 have a lovely time in Chicago 😀

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Lara

[@KathyWolf]

This is a great video, thank you for sharing this. I have seen others talk about grounding the paper dolls, but I haven't seen an explanation like this. VERY Helpful!!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@user-nm7tp5kx8t]

Thank you so much!!!!! I have those paper dolls and didn't know how to use them. Your tutorials are perfect.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful

[@suebrown7882]

So useful -thanks. I gave up using mine as they never looked right - now I know what to do with them!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Hopefully this will help you use them again Sue

[@violetverhoog9350]

I just bought my first package of Paper Dolls. Thanks for all the good tips. I will be using them. Crafty Violet

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous news.

[@annelawver2703]

Fabulous information for beginners and experienced people. These examples can work for a variety of pieces. Thank you!

[@CeriGriffiths]

They certainly can.

[@bettymcmenamin]

Very constructive tips for the dolls, Ceri! I especially liked the little girl on the swing - that was genius... I have just now figured out who you sound like (to me) - JUDE LAW. God Bless you my friend, Betty :)

[@CeriGriffiths]

lol……Jude law, wow I’ve never had that one before. Glad you liked the video.

[@juliejohnson497]

I am going to make my swinging girl at an angle as though in motion.

[@juliejohnson497]

Thank you very much for the paper doll ideas - I have so many but did not know what to do with them.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You are so welcome

[@janicewilliams1535]

Wow my paper dolls has been sitting in there bags now I no what to do. Thank you for the wonderful tips😊😊😊

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful Janice.

[@sallymorch2076]

Thanks Ceri, I love your videos but this is really useful. She was on a swing, who ever knew.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Sally I was a surprised that verify few people knew, maybe it’s just the way we look at things sometimes.

[@ericastannard2635]

I can’t say anything more than others have said, so thank you! A brilliant analysis & tutorial! Erica❤

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Erica

[@bibistaufi2653]

Hello, it was an amazing tutorial with the nice paper puppets! Thank you very much!! Many greets from Germany near Cologne 🙋🏼‍♀️😃!! Have a good journey to Chicago 😊!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@terrydonald6149]

Thank you for these wonderful ideas 💡 You combated the sun very well.

[@CeriGriffiths]

So nice of you Terry. Thank you

[@bettylongshore9594]

Super ideas! You ALWAYS have super ideas and that's one of the reasons I adore your videos!!!!!! Have a great trip!!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Betty

[@annwoleben5439]

1This is quite helpful. Thank you so much. I know you are excited about your trip. Safe travels! Welcome to the states

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you, I think I’ll only relax when I’ve safely arrived.

[@joannelloyd9542]

Beginner here & new subscriber " HI " I'm probably abit late to the 'paper doll party' 😂 I have just bought the tim holtz paper dolls & was looking for inspiration , I too thought they would look like they were floating in space ! Your videos has inspired me , thankyou

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Joanne and welcome to my channel.

[@brookerohleder6769]

Thank you, again, for your most clever and useful ideas.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome

[@jnordfors]

I thought the last girl was jumping rope, but the swing makes more sense. I’d like to see a tutorial on your tag backgrounds. Thanks for sharing! ❤️

[@CeriGriffiths]

Janet, I’ve filmed a process video for the background tags and it will launch July 10th, not long to wait.

[@winniethepoodle]

I haven't watched this yet but I'm so excited for this vid. Thanks Ceri

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful news.

[@sherryvanderpool8644]

great ideas and tips enjoy your trip

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@thepaperdrawer4651]

Great tips…. And that last little girl… I have been avoiding her … LOL. I will use her now… Thank you for sharing.. Dee

[@CeriGriffiths]

Lol…so many people didn’t know about that last little girl.

[@vanessabroad4051]

Thanks for the practical hints! Hope you have a magical time in Chicago.

[@CeriGriffiths]

I hope so too, thank you

[@helenjohnson9066]

Thank you so much for these great tips Ceri, have a wonderful time in Chicago!

[@CeriGriffiths]

I wil, thank you

[@catherineskis]

Dear Sir, Thank you ever so much for this video and for sharing your talent.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome

[@luannwilliams8689]

Brilliant, I used to stand it on top of label, didn't like it. Now I know what I was doing wrong. Thank you for the ideas

[@CeriGriffiths]

Fabulous news.

[@heatherrowell3008]

Thanks for the tips. Enjoy your holiday in Chicago, stay safe 😊

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Heather.

[@JudyPsInMyMindsEyeMixedMedia]

I have these and get stuck with using, shouldn't I always have tons of ideas for most everything, so I like to think, lol. However that is why we have so many other talented artists such as yourself to help us out. Love watching you, love your voice, very calming. Have a nice day, and thank you for your inspiration on these. I know how you feel with lighting, my craft room has natural light, but I also have florescent lighting which doesn't help me in videos, but I do the best I can 😁.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Judy, I do have filming lights but natural light is so much better.

[@suzannepaladeau6721]

Love them never used the people before but certainly will now! Thank you

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news

[@jesseb5112]

I hope you are enjoying Chicago. If it is Chicago Illinois, it is a city I love. These are great tips!! I think I have used 3 of my paper dolls. I have had my pack for 3 or 4 years. I love you pointing out that the ankles need to be at the line, not the feet.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Jesse, yes it’s Chicago IL.

[@kathyanstine4472]

Haven’t really used my paper dolls because of this issue… thanks for the great tips!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Happy to help.

[@charlottemarek3045]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I so needed this. I love having the paper dolls but don't quite get the hang of using them. I knew I had to put the seated dolls =on= something but they never looked quite right. And the standing figures...all of mine were Mary Poppins, floating in the air. Now I can make them look good on my cards.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful news.

[@lorrainedurgee1761]

What a fun video - it’s so detailed & so much information on paper dolls - this was really needed for something different ..thanks .

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful Lorraine.

[@christineluzader3236]

I’m so glad you shared this! I’m starting a project with paper dolls and this will improve the results so very much.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful

[@shawnajones2038]

Thank you for your great tips. I will be looking at my oaper dolls with a new eye.

[@49Nutmeg]

I loved your tips, especially the painting shadow......all very useful tips. TFS!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@mims503]

Thanks for the great tips Ceri! - all useful~ and really I don't mind the sunshine! 💕Hope your trip to Chi-Town is fun!

[@CeriGriffiths]

I hope so too, thank you

[@ForTheLoveOfMike]

Thank you so much for sharing! You've inspired me to use my paper dolls and now they'll look grounded proper 💙

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful.

[@juliewurf7506]

I have only recently discovered your channel and am thoroughly enjoying watching your crafting videos. I'm not sure if anyone in this thread has mentioned this already..... But I also hate laying lines/washi tape crookedly on my work. To counteract that I use the lines on my cutting board to help me lay things straight. Looking forward to future videos - I've already learnt a lot from you about gelli prints. You take the time to explain the process. Long live watching paint dry!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@jennifershaw4756]

A very helpful tutorial. Thank you Ceri. Have a wonderful trip to Chicago!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you I will, fingers crossed.

[@jodimartin4250]

Thanks Ceri, I found this video very helpful. 🙂

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news

[@juliamclaren107]

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and ideas. I saved this video so I can reference it again.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great news, so pleased you found it helpful.

[@suzannelanglois8153]

Amazing creative and easy tips. What a difference placement makes! TFS

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you