How to start a mixed media art journal

Staring at the blank page is intimidating for anyone. Many are interested in mixed media art, but are unsure of how to incorporate these techniques into their art journals. This is a very basic introduction to mixed media art journaling using mixed papers, stickers, stamping and sharpies.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• art journal (this can be any blank book that inspires you)
• adhesive (I prefer glue sticks most often)
• magazines
• decorative paper
• rubber stamps
• sharpies
• old book pages
• stickers

1. Pages from my art journal before I get started in my studio. Open your book to the first two-page spread. (The very first page, often used as a title page, can be left blank and returned to on another occasion.) Rip apart your magazine pages, old book pages and decorative papers. Place these elements on both sides of the page spread to act as your first layer. Reserve one or two areas where you have either a blank space on the page or a blank area on the decorative paper.
2. A page spread from my art journal. This layer is where the stickers and rubber stamping comes in. You may see smudges if you stamp over glossy areas, so keep the stamping to the sections of the spread where there are decorative papers and old book pages. Continue layering on the stamped images and stickers until the pages look balanced and you're happy with the lay-out.
3. A page spread from my art journal. On the blank area where you reserved either directly on the page or on the decorative paper, add journaling using the sharpies. You may also wish to add drawings and other doodles throughout the page. Adding a doodled border also finishes off the page spread well.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to add too many layers.
• When selecting magazine images, don't forget to find interesting text to include.
• If you'd like a more finished or polished look, opt to use scissors rather than ripping apart your papers.
• When choosing your adhesive, be sure not to select something that is too wet or it'll cause the pages to wave or curl.
• You may want to let each layer dry completely before manipulating the next.