They're super easy to use and the quality today is much better than it was years ago. Rub Ons are a great addition to almost any layout and now come in a much wider variety of designs.

In this quick Blog Post I'll discuss everything you need to know about using scrapbook rub ons and incorporating them into your craft projects.

What are Rub Ons?

Unlike stickers, rub-ons usually do not have a peel off top and a sticky back, however. They are usually printed on the 'wrong side' of a piece of smooth, clear acetate.

I used Rub Ons on this vintage tags. Mainly to use my old ones up and they can be quite effective used like this.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Apply Rub Ons

The print in itself is a little sticky and Rub Ons will be resting on a non stick backing sheet when you buy them.

Keep them on this sheet till you are ready to use them, then carefully cut away the one you want to use at the time. Leave the backing sheet intact to continue protecting the other rub ons for you.

When you want to use one of the words or images, carefully cut around the image and remove it from the backing sheet. It is then very easy to apply pressure to the 'right' side of the acetate to encourage the words or graphics to adhere to another surface. By doing this you won't end up damaged the other Rub Ons.

What Surfaces can you apply Rub Ons to?

You can apply them to just about anything including flat paper, cardstock, plastic, smooth wood surfaces. Anywhere that is smooth, hard and non-porous.

I used some vintage bird rubon images on these Vintage Tags. The Rub ons I used were very old, but still worked. Because they were part of the background, it didn't really matter whether they were 100% perfect. However they did rub off fully intact.

 

What Kinds are available?

One of the most popular types of rub ons are letters. Letters commonly come in black, but you'll also find ones in color and even ones with little designs on them. There are also rub on pendants, borders, journal blocks, flowers, and so much more. Today there is a much wider variety and some of the designs are so pretty such as this set from 49 and Market 

 Dinsey - Spellbinders Mickey and Minnie Mouse Rubons

What Brands are Available?

49 and Market Rub Ons

Prima Rub-On Transfers

Prima Rub-On Transfers make it easy to add stunning artwork and decorative details to almost any surface. Designed for use on furniture, home décor, mixed media projects, journals, scrapbook layouts, canvas art and DIY crafts, these high-quality transfers feature beautiful florals, vintage imagery, botanicals, typography and artistic designs.

Simply apply, burnish and reveal a seamless, professional-looking finish. Whether you're upcycling furniture, creating home décor pieces or adding layered details to your papercraft projects, Prima transfers offer endless creative possibilities.

Vicki Boutin Rub-Ons

Bring colour, energy and creativity to your projects with Vicki Boutin Rub-Ons. Known for their vibrant colours, artistic designs and playful mixed media style, these high-quality transfers are perfect for scrapbook layouts, art journals, cards and creative mixed media projects.

Featuring bold patterns, paint-inspired elements, quirky icons, words and expressive designs, Vicki Boutin Rub-Ons make it easy to add layers, movement and personality to your creations. They're a favourite among scrapbookers and mixed media artists who love colourful, contemporary and artistic designs.

Shop Scrap of Your Life

We have plenty of different Rub Ons available over at Scrap of Your Life. However you can also purchase them from places such as Scrapbooking Stores, Bargain Stores, Amazon, Etsy and many other places.

Question?

Are you a lover or a hater of Rubons? Let me know in the comments

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Mixed Media Vintage Butterfly Tags using Rub Ons