Let's Make Collage Papers Together

How to Make Your Own Collage Papers for Mixed Media Art

 

Have you ever sat down to create and realized you don’t have the right paper for your project? That happened to me recently when I started a new painting in softer, more neutral tones. I wanted collage papers to match—but most of what I had were bright and colorful. So instead of running to the store, I decided to make my own collage papers right here in my studio.

In this post, I’ll share exactly how I did it, step by step. If you’d like to watch the process, you can see the full video here:
👉 Watch on YouTube

Why Make Your Own Collage Papers?

You can always buy scrapbook or decorative papers, but creating your own adds something special to your art. When you paint and mark-make on old book pages, ledger sheets, or even scraps of ruled paper, you get:

  • Unique textures that can’t be replicated.

  • Harmonized colors that fit your palette perfectly.

  • Personal meaning when you use papers from vintage books, journals, or even your own handwriting.

  • Creative freedom to experiment with washes, marks, and colors.

For me, collage papers aren’t just background elements—they add interest, depth, and storytelling to my mixed media art.

Supplies I Used

Here’s what I gathered for this project (use what you have on hand):

  • Old book pages, ledger sheets, or journal paper

  • Acrylic paints (Titan Buff, Carbon Black, Titanium White, Iridescent Graphite)

  • Golden Gloss Glazing Liquid (optional, for transparency)

  • Large brush + spray bottle of water

  • A flat brush or pen for mark-making

Step 1: Apply Washes

I started by applying thin washes of Titan Buff and Titanium White over the papers. This toned down the yellows and browns of the old pages while still letting the original lines and handwriting peek through. The glazing liquid kept everything transparent, so the history of the paper wasn’t lost.

This step immediately unified the papers—they all began to look like they belonged together, even though they came from different sources.

Step 2: Add Simple Mark-Making

Once the papers were dry enough, I began adding marks. This is where the fun really begins! You don’t need to be exact—just let your hand move and enjoy the process.

Some marks I used:

  • Looping swirls in graphite paint

  • Short tick marks in black

  • Bold circles using Carbon Black

  • Asemic writing (scribbles that look like writing but don’t mean anything—so freeing!)

  • Stripes and squares in Titanium White

Each paper became more interesting with just a few strokes, and together they looked like a beautiful, neutral set of collage papers ready to be torn and layered.

Step 3: Embrace Imperfection

The best part about making collage papers is that nothing has to be perfect. In fact, a torn edge, uneven stripe, or scribbly circle often makes the paper more interesting. Remember, most of these papers will be ripped into pieces before they end up in your artwork—so don’t overthink it.

This is a great activity to do when you’re not sure what you want to paint but still want to spend time in your studio. It’s relaxing, meditative, and gives you a stack of beautiful handmade supplies for future projects.

Why Art Changed Everything for Me

As I was working on these papers, I couldn’t help but think about how much art has transformed my life. I didn’t start painting until I was around 50, and for years I believed I wasn’t “talented.” But once I began, I discovered how creative expression can shift the way you see the world—suddenly colors, textures, and little details jump out everywhere.

Making art isn’t just about the final piece. It’s about stress relief, mindfulness, and reconnecting with yourself. And exercises like making collage papers are the perfect place to start if you’re just beginning your own creative journey.

Ready to Try?

I encourage you to gather a few old papers, grab some paint, and try this process for yourself. Don’t aim for perfection—just play. Tear, paint, scribble, and see what emerges. Before long, you’ll have a collection of one-of-a-kind collage papers that are uniquely yours.

👉 Want to see the full demonstration? Click here to watch my YouTube video on making collage papers.

Wishing love to you and yours,



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