Mixed Media Collage for Beginners

 

Abstract Mixed Media Collages on Index Cards
by Marcy Coate

Lately I've been really enamored with abstract mixed media that is done on a collage background. There are lots of them on Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and I've been trying with a few, but just so frustrated. I could never get the background to turn out like anything except a muddy mess. 

However, the other day I was downloading something or other from Creative Fabrica, and I came across this shop that is full of beautiful collaged backgrounds in all different color palettes. So I thought...wait a minute! You could print those out on plain white cardstock and do your mixed media stuff on top of that!

So I tried it, and the photo above is the result. I printed the backgrounds 4 to a page so that they are about the size of index cards. Then I went crazy with my acrylic markers, Sharpie markers, water soluble pastel crayons and some watered down white acrylic paint for the splatters. I'm so pleased with the result.

At first I was a little timid, making small marks, but then I decided to make some bigger, really odd shapes to just experiment. After all, if it didn't turn out the way I wanted I could always print out the backgrounds again and start over. I mean...it's just paper!

I feel like the artist in me has finally been liberated! Stay tuned for a YouTube video where I'll show you some of the techniques that I am using.

Prizes for June 2022 Contest in Facebook Group

Here is a sneak peek at the prizes that I'm making for the June 2022 contest in my "Paper Crafts Club" Facebook group.

New Class! "Creating Scrappy Layered Journal Cards"

Expert junk journal designer Lindsey Zenor has this wonderful class

that teaches you how to make pretty layered journal cards using scraps!

In this class you will learn how to use different papers and textures to layer beautiful and durable journal cards that you can use in handmade journals, greeting cards, and lots more!

Lindsey shows you how to use the following tools and supplies to create gorgeous journal cards like the ones shown above.

• Paper
• Tear rulers
• Ink
• Blending sponge
• Glue

Here's a fun set of papers for journaling and scrapbooking!

(click image to view details)

Material: Paper and Parchment Paper 

SIZE: approx 1.5 x 1.9 inch / 4 x 5cm 

Quantity: Total 400 pieces with different pattern. 

Application: Vintage paper craft for scrapbook, bullet journal,

notebook, diary, bottle, cup, letter, gift box, photo album,

 cell phone case, photo frames, stationery, calendar, arts &crafts