Collect decorative papers and photos to collage. Scrapbook and tissue papers come in an array of patterns and colors. Plan your design, and choose papers with coordinating patterns or colors. Use your own photos, or download vintage public domain photos from the Internet.
Cut your papers and photos with scissors into different sized rectangles, and plan your composition. Move the papers and photos around on the art board, turning and overlapping them, until you find the layout you like.
Brush decoupage medium on the art board, in small sections at a time, then press the papers on the board according to the design you planned. Brush decoupage medium on the back of thick papers, if necessary, to ensure coverage. Avoid brushing the glue directly onto thin, delicate papers such as tissue paper. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.
Glue other textures to the collage. Use items such as crumpled aluminum foil, pieces of metal screen and ribbons, or any other textured items.
Mix acrylic glaze with acrylic paint on a paint palette. Follow the instructions on the glaze can for mixing measurements. The paint will appear opaque to semi-transparent depending on the amount of glaze added. Start with at least two to three acrylic paint colors.
Brush the paint mixture on the piece in random patterns and textures. Paint to accent papers. Paint stripes, dots and various patterns throughout. Paint various textures to create a grungy look by blotching and splashing areas with paint. Building up layers with textures and patterns creates an effective mixed media piece. Allow to dry thoroughly.
Dry brush neutral paint colors such as gold, brown or beige over the entire piece. This will tone down areas that are too bright or too textured. Allow parts of your collage and under-painting to show through. Allow to dry thoroughly.
Paint an outline of a simple design over the entire composition using a contrasting color such as black or white. Paint with broad strokes and simple lines to create a tree, flowers, animals, portraits, or objects.
Paint your design by creating dark and light areas with the paint, and then paint the details. Paint with texture that coordinates with the rest of the piece to fill in your design.