ShareThisArtful canvases that have been collaged and altered with paints and bits of paper are all the rage at art festivals, handcraft shows and boutiques. They can be pocket-sized or large enough to hang over a sofa. Prices vary depending on artist and city.
In general, you can pick up a small piece of collage art for around $20. They are fun to collect and even more fun to make. So grab some paint and other supplies and begin creating your own design today.
The sky is the limit when it comes to designs. Scrapbook papers, magazine cutouts, clip art and quotes are a good place to start. You can design a canvas to hang in your home or as a gift for a friend. Many collages feature inspirational themes, making them perfect for hanging in a creative or office space.
There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to supplies for an artful collage; supplies can vary from design to design. For a basic collage, you will want paint and paintbrushes, paper collage materials, Mod Podge and ribbons. For more advanced designs, consider adding wood shapes, fabrics, glitter paint, rhinestones -- even silk flowers.
To begin a collaged canvas, you will want to paint a coat or two on the canvas. Look to your collage materials for color inspiration. Allow the paint to thoroughly dry. For additional texture, try using crackle or distressing mediums.
Next, trim the collage papers to fit the top of the canvas. Coat the back and front of the papers with Mod Podge, position on the canvas and plaque and smooth any air bubbles with your fingers. Using the paintbrush, smooth your brushstrokes. Allow to dry. Continue adding paper trims and quotes using Mod Podge. For more advanced designs, paint on glitter highlights and hot-glue rhinestones, wood plaques, lace or silk flowers to the design.
To create a finished look to the edge of the canvas, hot-glue velvet ribbon, textured trim or grosgrain ribbon around the outer edge. You can pass on the ribbon and opt for a frame around the canvas.
(Cathie Filian is a lifestyle expert, TV host and craft-book author. Learn more about her on her blog www.cathiefilian.com.)
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