The technique of surface painting onto paper with an acrylic paste mixture was given the name “paste papers” and was used in the binding of books for both cover papers and endpapers during the 16th through 18th centuries.  Paste papers had a resurgence in the mid 20th Century.

For PASTE PAPER RECIPE Click Here

The designs created from 2000-2007 have been compiled into 4 volumes of Limited Edition Books which are for sale. To purchase go to  Paste Paper Patterns BOOKS.

Marie Kelzer Designs are created by hand painting onto paper with an acrylic paint and paste mixture. The surface decoration is created using brushes, tools and household gadgets over the paint mixture.  The designs are created by manipulating the surface, layering patterns, pulling one paper over another and using tools to form the patterns in the paint mixture.  I use tools, stamps, pastry rollers and combs that I have purchased from kitchen and hardware stores as well as estate and garage sales.

The papers are used to create and make a variety of handmade useable products.  In addition to decorating onto paper I decorate directly onto canvas to create beautiful and functional floorcloths. 

My inspiration for the designs come from a love of repeated patterns in nature, woven materials and patchwork quilts.  The dimensional layered patterns emote the feelings of tranquility and wonderment.