Collect diverse objects for the collage. Gather objects of different sizes, shapes, colors and textures for a dynamic and assorted collage. For instance, use beads, nails, old jewelry, keys, buttons, magnets, rocks, seashells, coins, ribbons and other scraps.
Collect assorted kinds of paper and flat materials. Gather pages of newspaper, magazine pages, photographs, ticket stubs, postage stamps, envelopes, aluminum foil and other paper pieces. Cut scraps of fabric to use as well, if desired.
Promote a theme with objects, if desired. For instance, for a natural theme use only objects or materials found in nature like sticks, leaves or rocks . Use trash or recyclables, such as plastic bottles and cans, for an eco-friendly theme. Use shells, bottles and sand for a beach or ocean theme.
Use a flat, sturdy base as the back of the collage. For instance, use a piece of wood, heavy canvas, cupboard door, picture frame, box lid or heavyweight art paper, depending on the weight of the objects you plan to attach.
Cover the base with a collage of papers to create a background. Tear papers into different sizes and shapes and glue to the base. Paint over papers, if desired.
Paste or nail the objects onto the base. Hammer nails into the base to hang heavy objects. Use carpenter’s glue or hot glue to paste lighter objects, including papers.
Accent the collage. Splatter paint on the collage by flicking a wet paint brush over objects. Sprinkle glitter on the collage to add extra sparkle.