Search
Social Media
Anastasiia Tysevych – Czech Republic
Tamara Morton – United Kingdom
We’re excited to introduce Janus Zate, one of our newest Graphic 45 Brand Ambassadors for 2025–2026! To mark the occasion, Janus has created a striking red and black mixed media journal spread using our Curiouser & Curiouser paper collection. Starting with a blank page, she layers textures, rub-on transfers, paints, and papers to transform it into a bold design full of depth and personality. If you’ve ever wondered how to take your mixed media spreads from simple to show-stopping, Janus’s tutorial is packed with step-by-step techniques, tips for using rub-ons on textured paper, and ideas for balancing color and contrast. This project is proof that with the right layers, your pages can tell a powerful story.
“Janus is a mixed media artist who finds joy in creating with her hands and heart. Crafting has always been her happy place, whether it’s layering textures on a journal spread, playing with paints and paper, or simply embracing the messiness of handmade art. She also illustrates characters who love reading, planning, and journaling — a little reflection of the things that bring her peace. Through her work, she hopes to connect with kindred spirits who find magic in the details and beauty in the creative process.
This mixed media journal spread was a bit of an experiment for me, and I ended up loving the results! I tried out using rub-on transfers for the first time. I used the Curiouser and Curiouser Rub-On Transfers by Graphic 45, and they were surprisingly easy to work with even on textured watercolor paper!
I used a 300gsm watercolor paper base. I like using watercolor papers because they hold up well to paint, water, and layering. I started building the background with stamps, metallic acrylics through a stencil, and a bit of shimmer using water soluble pigment powders. I like leaving some white space so the textures can really shine without overwhelming the page.
To finish it off, I added some layered paper bits, black lace, and used black-and-white photos to match the aesthetic. This marks a special little moment, getting to be a part of the Graphic 45 Design Team!
Tip: If you’re working with textured paper, just press a bit harder when using rub-on transfers, they still transfer beautifully with the right pressure as long as your rub ons are tacky and well-kept.” ~Janus
Create a Mixed Media Spread with Rub-Ons with Janus
300gsm Watercolor Paper
Graphic 45 Curiouser and Curiouser Rub on Transfers
Graphic 45 Curiouser and Curiouser 8×8 Paper
Water-Soluble Pigment Powder
Stencil
Metallic Acrylic Paint
Black Lace
Silicon Stamp
Red Permanent Ink Stamp
Paint Brush
Water
Journal
Janus’s journal spread is a reminder that every project begins with a blank page—but with the right papers, rub-ons, and a little creative play, you can turn it into a bold design that reflects your style. Now it’s your turn to experiment: pull out your Curiouser & Curiouser papers, add a few layers of texture, and see where your creativity takes you.
👉 Watch Janus’s 60-second tutorial to follow along step by step.
👉 Shop the Curiouser & Curiouser collection to start your own spread.
👉 Share your projects with us by tagging @Graphic45—we can’t wait to feature your bold designs!
