Have you ever wanted to create your own rust printed papers and fabrics for mixed media, collage, or art journaling? This beautiful process is surprisingly easy, super satisfying, and only takes a few basic supplies—most of which you probably already have lying around at home!
In this blog post, I’ll show you how I created a stash of rich, textured rust printed papers and fabrics using a few old book pages, some scraps of cotton and muslin fabric, and rusty hardware bits. Whether you’re into grungy textures, vintage-style papers, or just love experimenting with organic, natural dyeing techniques, this is for you!
What Are Rust Printed Papers and Fabrics?
Rust printing (also called rust dyeing) is a natural dyeing method where metal objects are used to stain and color paper or fabric using the natural oxidation process. The result is a beautifully unpredictable and earthy texture that’s perfect for collage, junk journals, and textile art.
Supplies You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy to make rust printed papers and fabrics. Here’s what I used, along with a few suggestions:
Papers:
Old book pages
Sketchbook paper
Printed paper scraps
Deli paper or tissue paper (adds a nice transparency layer)
Fabrics:
Scraps of cotton, muslin, or linen
Pieces from an old white dress (I used mine!)
Any vintage white fabric or leftover scraps (white or off-white works best to show the rust)
Rusty Elements:
Gathered from my home and the hardware store
Nuts, bolts, screws, key rings, keys, and other rusted metal bits
Tip: Look for aged items around your house or ask your local mechanic or hardware guy for rusty discards
Other Supplies:
A spray bottle filled with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water
A tray or flat container for layering the materials
Gloves if you don’t want orange fingers!
If you enjoy experimenting with mixed media techniques like me, I have a collection of creative projects for you! From abstract mark making to textured collages and art journaling, explore a variety of tutorials that will spark your creativity.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Rust Printed Papers and Fabrics
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Materials
Lay out all your papers, fabrics, and rusty items. Pre-cut your paper and fabric into sizes you like using for your art. Fill your spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water—this helps activate the rust.
Step 2: Start Layering
In your tray, begin with a layer of paper or fabric. Place a few rusted metal objects on top. Spray generously with the vinegar-water solution until it’s fully soaked. Then add another layer of paper or fabric on top, more rusty bits, and spray again.
Keep layering like this—paper, rusty item, spray, paper—until you run out of materials or space.
Step 3: Let It Rest
Leave the tray undisturbed for 1–2 days. I noticed that the rust stains started appearing after just one day, but letting it sit for two days gave me deeper, more vibrant rust colors.
After two days, gently peel apart each sheet and lay them out flat to dry naturally. Once they’re dry, your rust printed papers and fabrics are ready to use!
Ideas for Using Rust Printed Papers and Fabrics
Once you have your gorgeous stash of rust dyed goodies, the possibilities are endless:
Collage art
Mixed media journals
Mini zines
Textile embellishments
Handmade cards
Layering in abstract paintings
Art journal backgrounds
Tips for Better Rust Printing Results
Use white or light-colored materials to make the rust stains pop.
More rust = deeper color: Older, heavily rusted items leave stronger prints.
For more contrast, try adding tea-dyed or coffee-dyed layers between your rust prints.
After drying, you can seal the papers with matte medium or beeswax to preserve them.
Free Download: Printable Rust Printed Papers and Fabrics
To help you get started (or just to inspire your next project), I’ve created a free downloadable printable featuring high-resolution scans of my actual rust printed papers and fabrics. If you don’t have rusty elements on hand or want to skip the mess, this printable is perfect for collage, art journaling, and mixed media layers. Just download, print, and play—no rust required! It’s my little gift to keep your creativity flowing.
FAQs About Rust Printed Papers and Fabrics
Q: Can I reuse the rusty objects?
Yes! In fact, they get better over time. Just let them air dry between uses.
Q: Will the rust damage the paper or fabric long-term?
Rust can be corrosive, but if you’re using these for art purposes, they hold up well. Avoid washing the fabrics afterward.
Q: Is vinegar necessary?
Yes, vinegar helps activate the rusting process and ensures that the color transfers.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own rust printed papers and fabrics is such a simple and meditative process. I loved watching the colors bloom organically—no two pieces turned out the same. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best art comes from letting go and letting nature do its thing.
So go raid your toolbox, dig out some scrap fabrics, and give this process a try. Your mixed media stash will thank you!
