How to Create a Picture Collage

The art of decoupage can be used to create attractive picture collages. You can create your collage from photographs, magazines, your own artwork or other picture sources. When you decoupage them on with the proper glue, the collage will be protected and will have a finished appearance. Picture collages can be framed and hung, or you can create your collage on a book cover or other surface. Picking a theme for your collage will tie all the pictures in with one another and also add to the finished appearance.

Things You'll Need

• Collage base
• Pictures
• Scissors
• Decoupage glue
• Foam brush

Instructions

1. Cut your collage base down to your desired size. Collage bases can be made from card stock, cardboard, wood and other stiff materials.

2. Cut out the pictures you want to use in your collage. Cut each one a different size and shape to add visual interest to the collage.

3. Arrange the cutouts on the gluing surface, overlapping the pictures so that your base is no longer visible. Experiment with the arrangement until you find one that is pleasing.

4. Starting in one corner, brush a thin coat of decoupage glue on the back of each picture and glue it to the base. Smooth each picture down with your fingertips to remove air bubbles and wrinkles. Allow the glue to dry completely, approximately two hours.

5. Brush a thin coat of glue over the entire surface of your collage to seal and protect it. Allow this coat to dry overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also glue feathers, beads and other trinkets onto your collage.

• Cover your work surface before using decoupage glue.

References

• Collage-Making Tips From Artist Norma Kooi