Bible Journaling | Creating Hybrid Clear Tip Ins in Canva

In this blog post (and the video, below!), I’ll show you how to use Canva and clear sticker paper to create stunning pages for your Bible. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to make unique tip-ins that will truly make your journaling Bible stand out. Let’s dive in!

Designing the Tip-In in Canva

To start, open Canva and create a new custom size design. Measure your sidebar space in your Bible — it may be different from mine– but I set the dimensions to two inches by seven inches. This will ensure that your tip-in fits perfectly. Now, it’s time to get creative! Choose a kit that you love, (I chose the Smitten kit from Traci Reed Designs) and start designing your tip-in. Use the alpha letters to spell out a meaningful word or phrase. Play around with the layout until you’re happy with the design. Don’t worry if it looks a bit small on the screen, we’ll take care of that in the next step.

Downloading and Preparing for Printing

Once you’re satisfied with your design, download it as a transparent background PNG file. Save it to your desktop. Now, it’s time to prepare the design for printing on clear sticker paper. Create an 8.5 x 11-inch document in Canva and name it Smitten Clear. Upload your previously designed tip-in and adjust its size to fit the page. Remember to leave a little margin to ensure nothing gets cut off. If you have multiple tip-ins, you can lay them out on the page and print them all at once.

Printing and Assembling the Tip-In

Now that your design is ready, it’s time to print it on clear sticker paper. If you don’t have clear sticker paper, you can use cardstock, but keep in mind that it won’t have the same transparent effect. Print the design on your home printer using the highest quality settings. Once printed, cut out the tip-in using scissors. Don’t worry about being too precise, as clear sticker paper is forgiving when adhering to thin journaling Bible pages. Peel off the backing and carefully place the tip-in in your Bible, aligning it with the desired page.

Adding Extra Elements (Optional)

To add more flair to your page, consider including additional elements. Print some artsy elements on the clear sticker paper to create the illusion of hand-painted designs. Resize and position them as desired. You can also use washi tape designs printed on clear sticker paper for a unique look. Get creative and experiment with different elements to achieve a personalized touch.

Finishing Touches

To complete your page, consider adding a meaningful verse or quote. Choose one that resonates with you and reflects the theme of your page. Write it by hand or print it on clear sticker paper to maintain a cohesive look. Play around with placement and remember that imperfections can add charm to your project.

Ta-da! You created a beautiful page using Canva and clear sticker paper! With these simple steps, you can unleash your creativity and make your Bible truly unique. Whether you’re a seasoned Bible journaler or just starting out, this technique is sure to elevate your experience. Remember, the possibilities are endless, so have fun exploring different designs and themes.