How to Make a Collage

A collage is a work of art that’s made from pieces of other things that are assembled into a new whole. It’s most commonly used in the visual arts, although some musical and literary works are called collages as well. If you’re thinking of making a collage, you’re in good company. Pablo Picasso was one of many great artists who made collages.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Canvas, cardboard, heavy paper, or a wooden surface
• Artists’ tools such as knives, paints, pens, or crayons.
• Newspaper clippings, other artwork, ribbons, colored paper, gift wrap, feathers, etc.
• Adhesives and sealants.
• Mats and frames

1. Study what others are doing. Visit the library to look at art books or visit an art gallery.

2. Become inspired. You may want to start with an idea for a collage and begin collecting items for it. Or you may start with a collection of items and decide to display them in a collage.

3. Arrange your items on the surface. Resist any impulse to place them in straight lines, make everything the same size, show all of every item or only use one kind of item in your collage.

4. Take a photo of the arrangement, then remove the items.

5. Using the photo as a reference, begin gluing the items to the surface. Ensure that the adhesive you’re using is easy to work with, doesn’t dry too quickly and is appropriate to the items you want to glue. It’s not necessary that every item be flat or contained completely on the surface.

6. Allow the glue to dry overnight.

7. If desired, use glue mixed with water or some other sealant to brush over the entire collage to protect it from contamination or damage.

8. Display your collage. Usually this requires matting, mounting, framing and hanging the collage. Some collages are meant to be displayed on a shelf or table and some become part of something that has another purpose.

Tips & Warnings

• Collages should appear random at first glance, but reveal a theme or meaning upon closer study.