How to Collage Something With Pre-Cut Shapes

Shapes can inspire creative ideas for crafts.

Parents and teachers can assist children in creating original pieces of art with the use of shapes. Making a collage with pre-cut shapes is a creative way to present a photo collection or a family tree. Another project could be a unique holiday calendar with a shamrock shape used for the month of March. Gather a few craft materials to create a long-lasting collage filled with unforgettable memories and art.

Things You'll Need

• Magazine
• Photo album
• Poster board or foam board
• Glitter
• Marker pens
• Cut-out shapes
• Construction paper
• Stencils
• Pencils
• Scissors
• Tape
• Glue

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of collage you would like to create. Find pictures in magazines or photo albums that coincide with your theme and concept.

2. Decorate a large poster board with glitter. Use marker pens to create a festive title on the top of the poster, leaving space for the collage.

3. Find pre-cut shapes or make your own. Create the shape of your choice on construction paper. If you cannot draw a steady heart or a circle, use shape stencils for better results. Make shapes that vary in sizes from small to large. Cut out shapes and lay them on the table.

4. Place each picture against a shape of the appropriate size. For example, if the photo contains two people, make sure there is enough room in the shape for both heads or other key portions of the picture.

5. Place the shape on top of the picture and outline the shape on the photo with a pencil.

6. Remove the shape and cut out the picture along the pencil outline.

7. Continue to measure the photos against the shapes. Be sure to keep in mind the size of the collage and the poster board as you pick different shape sizes and pictures.

8. Tape or glue the blank back of the photo against the poster board. Align the pictures according to your design.

Tips & Warnings

• Use tape on poster boards or pushpins on foam boards instead of glue to preserve the photographs.

References

• Scholastic: Creative Collage

Resources

• Shape Collage: Home