Creating Texture with Structure Paste and Collage

Choosing the Right Collage Paper for Texture Creation

Selecting the appropriate collage paper is crucial for achieving desired texture in your artwork. Opt for papers with varying thickness, such as handmade paper, tissue paper, or textured cardstock, to create depth and dimension.

Look for papers with interesting patterns, textures, or motifs that complement the theme or subject of your artwork. Experiment with different materials like torn pieces of newspaper, magazine cutouts, or fabric scraps to add visual interest and complexity to your collage.

Consider the color palette and overall aesthetic of your piece when choosing collage materials, ensuring they enhance the composition and evoke the desired mood or atmosphere.

Different types of collage paper provide a varied collage layer with different textures and colors.

Using and Fixating Collage for Texture on the Canvas/Paper

Once you’ve selected your collage materials, adhere them to your canvas or paper using a suitable adhesive such as gel medium or Mod Podge. Apply the adhesive evenly to the surface using a brush or palette knife, then carefully place the collage materials, overlapping and layering them as desired.

Press down gently to ensure they adhere securely to the surface, smoothing out any wrinkles or air bubbles. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. To fixate the collage and prevent it from shifting or peeling, apply a thin layer of clear gesso or acrylic medium over the entire surface. This will seal the collage and provide a stable base for further layers of texture or paint.

The collage layer should be sealed with acrylic medium/varnish to protect it in the subsequent steps.

Using Structure Paste Over Collaged Paper/Materials

Structure paste is an excellent medium for adding tactile texture and dimension to collaged artworks. Apply the structure paste directly over the collage materials using a palette knife or texture tool, building up layers to create depth and interest.

Experiment with different application techniques, such as stippling, scraping, or swirling, to achieve various effects and textures. Allow the structure paste to dry thoroughly before proceeding with painting or further embellishments.

Once dry, the paste can be sanded or carved to refine the texture and create intricate details. Structure paste can also be tinted with acrylic paints or mixed-media pigments to add color and enhance the overall composition of your artwork.

There are no limits to creativity when applying texture paste (here with a silicone spatula). Patterns and shapes can be applied, carved or shaped with tools.

Using Structure Paste with Stencils

Stencils are a versatile tool for creating intricate patterns and designs with structure paste. Place the stencil over the collaged surface and secure it in place with masking tape or weights to prevent shifting.

Using a palette knife or spatula, apply the structure paste evenly over the stencil, taking care to fill in all the openings. Remove the stencil carefully to reveal the textured design underneath. Rinse the stencil immediately to prevent the paste from drying and clogging the openings.

Experiment with different stencil designs and placements to add visual interest and complexity to your collage. Structure paste can also be used in combination with other techniques such as stamping, embossing, or freehand drawing to further enhance the texture and dimension of your artwork.

Stencils are a simple and effective method of using texture paste to conjure up exciting details and patterns in the artwork.

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