Explore 26 wonderful mixed-media background ideas and create unique compositions by mixing and matching these inspiring techniques. And, get inspiration on how to play with colors and use different techniques of textures and layering. So, whether you choose to work on canvas or on paper, here are some wonderful ideas.
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Mixed media backgrounds can be a great way to express your creativity and have fun by creating layers of different textures and colors.
To get started your mixed media art journal journey, it’s important to understand the different means and categorize them into large groups like paints, paper, fabric, and items.
1
Build up layers of acrylic paint, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next the layer.
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2
Use ink sprays for a quick and colorful background.
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3
Create soft, blended backgrounds with watercolor washes.
4
Create vibrant, flowing backgrounds with alcohol inks.
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5
Use metallic paints for a shiny, reflective background.
6
Use fabric dye to create colorful, abstract background.
7
Use spray paint for bold, colorful backgrounds.
8
Draw with crayons and then paint over with watercolors for a resist effect.
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Depth and texture are important in creating full pages of mixed media artworks. Any medium from gesso and embossing to stencils and stamping will help create rich layers of texture and incorporate points of interest in different depths.
9
Create texture with gesso and texture paste before adding color.
10
Add patterns, motifs, and shapes using stencils and paint.
11
Add hand-drawn doodles and patterns for a personal touch.
12
Add handwritten text or quotes and experiment with different lettering to create various points of interest.
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13
Add raised designs with embossing powders and a heat gun.
14
Use bubble wrap to create interesting textures with paint.
15
Use a gel plate to create unique prints that can be layered for depth.
16
Use stamps to add interesting textures and designs.
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Gluing paper on art journal pages is another wonderful way to make a background for you mixed media art instantly. And, there are different types of paper to achieve this.
17
Use different colors and patterns of tissue paper to create a vibrant, textured background.
18
Combine various scrapbook papers for a cohesive yet dynamic look.
19
Use pages from old books to add a vintage feel.
20
Use images and text from magazines to create a collage.
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21
Apply decoupage techniques with napkins or thin papers.
22
Print digital designs and incorporate them into your mixed media work.
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Finally, mixed-media art is about using familiar and discarded items in new ways with enthusiasm and ingenuity. So, any material from nature or even your household can help you create unique backgrounds and make unusual effects with bleach, water, or Vaseline.
23
Incorporate fabric scraps for added texture and interest.
24
Create aged, vintage backgrounds with coffee stains.
25
Add texture with sand and glue before painting over.
26
Incorporate leaves, flowers, and other natural elements.
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Online lessons help you build new skills and open your eyes to new possibilities in your art journal. Plus, they introduce you to a whole host of materials that you may have never considered and transform uncommon things from trash into treasure.
So, invigorate your art practice and enhance your artworks by joining an online class of mixed media exploration like the Creativebug online class with designer and Faber-Castell creative Mou Saha.
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