Tips for Creating Textured Mixed Media Collage

Hello, Altenew friends! It's Reiko here today and I have this dreamy door mixed media collage box to share with you! I used my favorite die set from the new release – Creative Cuts: Old City Doors Layering Die Set.

Welcome to Creativity Unlocked, where we highlight a new product from each month's collection or a fan favorite from past collections!

Mixed media allows us to experiment with a wide range of materials, such us fabric, paper, and found objects, creating unique textures and visual interest. We can build layers of different materials, adding depth and complexity to our artwork.

Let's enjoy creative freedom and versatility of mixed media collage!

I cut the door out from thin chipboard and adhered two layers of each door part to make it thick enough.

Here are some tips for creating textured mixed media collages:

• Use a variety of paper crafting materials like 3D embossed cardstock, die-cut flowers, and washi tapes to create visual interest and depth.
• Incorporate gems, buttons, or lace to add tactile elements.
• Use two to three colors from the Shimmer Relief Pastes to create contrast and a sense of depth.

To start, I picked up a plain box from my stash and painted it with white acrylic paint using the Artists' Watercolor Brushes – Round.

Design the Background

I combined paper crafting items such as stamped images, die cut flower, and 3D embossed cardstock.

The die cuts I used are from the Old City Doors Layering Die Set except the flowers that is from the Garden Picks 3D Die Set. The process often involves “happy accidents,” where unexpected outcomes lead to new ideas. I assembled a floral stamped image, 3D embossed white cardstock, and small die cut flowers from scraps of my past projects. (I might not use these elements on a clean and simple scrapbooking layout.)

Finalize and Seal

Glue all elements securely with adhesives to ensure they stay in place and apply the Shimmer Relief Pastes to protect your artwork while giving it a cohesive finish. (Before using the pastes, I painted the door and die cut flowers by using white acrylic paint)

To enhance the dreamlike quality of your collage using the Shimmer Relief Paste, use two to three colors together:

I used the Shimmer Relief Paste – Rose Gold to paint the entire box and then added the Shimmer Relief Paste – Pearl and Shimmer Relief Paste – Burnished Platinum to create contrast and a sense of depth.

This medium encourages experimentation and embracing happy accidents during the process.

Thank you so much for stopping by today! I hope this project inspires you to experiment with the Shimmer Relief Pastes. I can’t wait to see what you create with it!

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