Collage Basics

The first "rule" is... there are no rules! Feel free to make mistakes, tear and crumple paper, or even set your damp bottomed coffee cup down on your project! It's all acceptable and experiments can lead to amazing things!

Collage is about juxtaposition of materials; soft vs. hard, stiff vs. flexible, or light vs. dark. For example; if you are finding that your design is becoming to heavy with metals and dark colors, soften it up with twill tape, ribbon, vellum or Soft Subtle colors.

Found objects are the root of collage. Ephemera can be created from old papers and memorabilia. Use items that make sense. For example, if you are creating a design about your new baby, use things like the hospital bracelet or the hospital bill in the design. If the piece is about your grandmother, use a note with her handwriting, maybe an old recipe card. Copies may be used instead. Be sure to age with inks and crinkling. I keep a box of Ephemera; interesting pictures or paper scraps that I have come across.

Turn it upside down! A predictable element can become unpredictable when turned upside down. This is especially helpful when it is very obvious the item is upside down like a face, words, or a flower.

Go 3D! Make things stick out and stick to other things. Use office items like paperclips and rubber bands. Or create 3D items out of paper%u2026 pop up elements, tags and pockets or even another mini book within a book, or card within a card.

Attempt to surprise the viewer. Add hidden elements, items that can be removed or turned over to reveal a new image. Use humor and whimsy to enhance the surprise.

It's ok to be dark or radical! Frequently, Altered Art seems dark and gothic. This is a reflection on a modern twist collage took in the 40's. The "Dada" movement was one of dark humor and often contained elements that were even vulgar or politically radical. Create what you are inspired to create. You don't have to show your art to anyone if you don't want to. Just don't limit yourself creatively. Releasing thoughts or feelings like this can help enhance your creative self.

Watch your "balance". A sense of Artistic Composition is not always a given trait. It can be learned! Visualize your project in 3rds, and try to keep an even balance in each 3rd. This rule of 3's is helpful in other ways. 3 of something typically looks better that 2 or 4. When it doubt; make it three.