This is a really simple, step by step guide on beginning with collage. It starts first with you and
connecting to YOUR creative spirit. An easy way to do this is to hold your hands over your heart,
take a few deep breaths, and allow yourself to play.

Collage is about exploring and experimenting. About getting messy and having fun. So let's begin!!

Be amazed with yourself! You created a beautiful collage that is an expression of you!! All the colors you used, the way you laid out each piece of paper, fabric, and tea bags, the colors and marks you chose to add on top of the layers, and the precious treasures from nature came from your creative spirit. You connected with that spirit in your heart that loves to create and that, my friend, is in every single one of us!!

Step 7

One of my favorite elements to add to my collage pieces are feathers. Many of my feathers I find as I am out for a morning run or afternoon walk. I also have a growing collection of beach feathers. To me, feathers represent birds, which I LOVE all kinds, and they hold a spiritual presence for me that speaks of freedom from an unencumbered life. To add feathers to my art is a way of self-expression and connection to nature. SO...add feathers or your own elements of nature that speak to who you are. Nature can give a beautiful final touch to your unique collage. 

Step 6

I felt as though my collage got a little "busy." Maybe this happens to you, too! It is easy to get carried away with all the fun adding of papers, etc. My solution? Add paint. I simply used watered down, white acrylic paint and applied a thin layer over parts of my collage (use a paintbrush or your fingers...which is my favorite way!). This softened the overall look of the collage. You can also use inks, pencils, pastels, paintpens, to add some fun marks or images to your piece. I didn't do that in mine as I felt more wasn't needed. Remember, to play and explore!  

Step 5

More layers! This is when you can begin to add some more 3D type elements. Thicker fabric scraps, string, and more papers. Having a craft glue that is good for more than just paper can really help keep things adhered. Continue to play as you add elements (or take away) and create!

Step 4

Once the edges are all covered, begin to fill in the rest of the blank canvas. Tear or cut more paper, tea bags, and fabric pieces continuing to layer as you collage. Add as many layers as you like, large and small pieces. You may start to think of balancing out the collage image at this point by where you place certain colors. For example, in my piece, I added a bit of orange and green at different spots to create a bit of balance. 

Step 3

You may find it easiest to start filling in the edges first. I LOVE to tear the paper as the rough edge gives it a more natural look. You can use scissors if you prefer. I do keep some edges straight to align along the edges of the canvas. It can help to lay out all the pieces onto the canvas first, take a picture of it so you remember where each piece goes, then apply the glue and start collaging! Layering is helpful to fill in empty spaces and add a connective element.

Step 2

Have all your supplies near by. This can help keep the flow of creating going. Some collage items you may want to try: colored/patterned papers, fabric pieces, dried teabags, magazine/newspaper images, old book pages, strings, and my favorite...feathers! Or anything else from nature such as sticks, dried flowers, shells, etc. There is no limit! For a base, try canvas or a piece of wood. You want something heavier than regular paper as that will warp with all the collage elements and glue. As for glue, a type of craft glue is good. My favorite is Liquitex Matte Medium. I apply it with a paintbrush. Other supplies could include paints, inks, pen, pencils, pastels.  

Step 1