How to Make a Mixed Media Postcard

Lots of people collect postcards, but wouldn't it be more fun to make them? Add a little bit of this, a little bit of that and before you know it, you have original art also known as a mixed media postcard. Mixed media means adding two or more artistic methods and materials to one single composition; in this case, postcards. It's kind of like a mini collage!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Postcards
• Scissors
• Glue
• Assorted decoration items (fabric, foil, felt, etc.)

1. Gather some postcards. These could be new ones or old ones you have laying around the house. If you plan on actually using them as postcards when finished, though, then new are best.
2. Look for things around the house you want to use to make your mixed media postcards. Unleash your imagination! Any left over bit of anything could be used. For example, fabric scraps can be used to make letters, flowers, textures and more. Just remember anything you use should be flat to slightly raised. Maybe your vision is more of a painting on a postcard instead of a collage of things. In that case, choose light-weight paints.
3. Start applying your mediums. Use glue for items you want to add, and use paintbrushes if you are using paint. Even when using paint, you can still add other items. The thing to keep in mind as you create is whether you will be keeping the postcard for a collection of your artwork or will you plan on using it in the mail? If you are making mixed media postcards to still use as a mailable postcard, then you should keep the decoration as light weight and flat as possible.
4. Experiment with each card. Spell a word, create mini scenes, embellish the original postcard theme or make up our own. If you create your own to the point where none of the original postcard is visible, then you have made what is called an "altered mixed media postcard."
5. Seal a card if needed. This is for some painted cards or cards with fabric or ribbon that could fray. Using a finishing sealant will keep your media postcard artwork fresh and beautiful. A craft store can show you which sealant to use for your needs.
6. Display your mini works of art! You can keep them in a collection frame or in mini photo frames and group them on the wall, or you can place them on mini collector-plate easels for a unique decorating idea! However you use your mixed media postcards, be it as a card to send to a friend or a way to show your skill and imagination, making them is a lot of fun!

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the items you use are not too heavy.
• When you are using paint, you can add texture to your postcard by crinkling up very tiny amounts of tissue and gluing them to the card. Then paint over the tissue to create textures.
• If you decide to use super glue for your crafting, be careful. Instead of using your fingers, consider using a pair of small craft tongs.