Abstract: A foamable aqueous composition can be used to form foamed, opacifying elements. These compositions have: (a) 0.5 to 20 weight % of porous particles having a continuous polymeric phase and discrete pores dispersed therein. The porous particles have a mode particle size of 2 to 50 ?m; (b) at least 20 weight % of a binder material; (c) 0.1 to 30 weight % of additives including dispersants, plasticizers, inorganic or organic pigments and dyes, thickeners, flame retardants, biocides, fungicides, optical brighteners, tinting colorants, metal flakes, and inorganic or organic fillers; (d) water; and (e) at least 0.001 weight % of an opacifying colorant different from (c). The foamable aqueous composition is suitably aerated, disposed on a porous substrate, dried, and crushed on the porous substrate. The method can be used to provide such elements with one or more dry foamed layers.