Collage Frame - How to do Collages

Making a craft work collage frame for your pictures can be achieved in a number of different ways.   Collage frames are interesting because it is possible to make a frame to suit the picture you want to put into it.  For instance, a holiday snap taken on the beach could look great in a collage frame decorated with shells and a picture of the country side may have pressed flowers and grasses surrounding it.

Originally the Victorians used decoupage to make frames and pictures were printed in bright colours on sheets specifically for young ladies to spend their days cutting out and glueing them to create original frames, screens or craft boxes. These pieces were then given a clear coat of lacquer which protected them and made them more serviceable.  In contemporary art circles, collage is known as mixed media and ‘anything goes’.   Found objects may be used to make a totally original piece of work from things which otherwise might well be in the garbage bin. 

Paper collage frame

To make your own frame from paper collage it is important that you know what you are going to put into it, otherwise it should be made in relatively neutral colors so that it will suit anything you may wish to exhibit. Start your frame by determining the size you want to make and get a piece of mounting board cut to the appropriate size. It is possible to buy these readymade and cut to different sizes, from any good art supply shop.

Best Collage Glue to use

The choice of glue to use is a personal one, but I find that repositionable spray glue or a solid glue stick work very well. Try to avoid wet glues that may cause your paper to wrinkle and tear and are hard to apply well. If you are using spray glue, ensure the area is well ventilated or spray outside.

Choosing Collage Images

If you want to use figurative images on your collage frame then take any magazine or paper stock you may have collected and cut or tear out pictures that capture your imagination. Try to concentrate on one subject so that the collage doesn’t appear to be too busy. Look at the colors and separate them into groups that work well together. Lay them onto your cardboard frame until the arrangement is pleasing to you.

Don't be afraid to experiment with this work as you will improve with practice. In time, you will be able to sell your work at local art shows. Who knows, but someday your work could be selling for thousands of dollars.

Abstract

If your collage frame is to be an abstract piece then do the same thing with the magazine but concentrate on colors and structure, patterns and shape. Torn paper makes a soft pleasing edge to each piece and merges one element into the next. Intersperse colors with strong structural forms try out variations before sticking anything down. Interesting words and letters are another option to look at in magazines they can provide an exciting alternative for your collage frame. Use a sharp paper knife to cut out letters or words and tear background pieces.

Finishing

When you are satisfied with your arrangement of images, words, colors or whatever, it is time to stick them into position. Take your time and work in an organised fashion, apply the glue to each individual piece sticking the background first and then applying the foreground pieces. Set aside to dry for twenty four hours and then neaten the edges with a paper trimmer. Cover with two coats of clear lacquer to protect the frame against damp or dirt.

Stick a backing of heavy card onto your frame and slip your picture between the two. Make a stand from another one inch wide three inch long rectangle of card, scored and bent one inch from the top and stuck firmly into place onto the backing card and your collage frame is complete.