A: Lignin is a natural part of plant cells in paper that becomes acidic as it deteriorates. If this is not removed in the paper-making process, the acid will cause the paper to break down more quickly. It may also react with photos or adhesives to break them down or cause them to yellow. People who are working with or making anything archival will want to use acid-free papers to preserve their work. Some acid-free archival papers can last over 1000 years!

A: Darkening is more likely to happen when the papers are dyed rather than printed (like solid core cardstock or construction papers). Those papers are made more absorbent in order to soak up and hold the dye. They will absorb the sealant too, which causes them to darken. Printed papers are usually coated, so they hold the ink on the surface and the coating prevents the glaze from permeating the paper.

A: You can. The result will be very bold strokes that will be difficult to blend out. If your intention is to blend the color out evenly, wait until the paper is completely dry to apply the pencil.

A: I usually leave them blank inside when I make them. Sometimes I'll even leave a sentiment off the front. That way when I need a card, I can customize it to the recipient and the occasion. If I have a sentiment that's appropriate for the inside I'll add it when it's ready to send.

A: Instead of buying embellishments like enamel dots or rhinestones in every color, look for white or clear ones. These can be colored with alcohol markers to match your project.