The mixed media background techniques you use can add texture, interest and help set the tone for your art. Here are some ideas.
Corrugated cardboard, as seen in the photo above. Cut your cardboard to the size you want, and remove the paper from one side. If it doesn’t want to come off, spritz some water on it and let it set for a few minutes. Now you can paint it or leave it the way it is.
Collage. There are many things you can use to create a collaged background. Newspaper, magazine pages, paper napkins, wrapping paper, old hand written letters can all be used to create interesting backgrounds.
Modeling paste. You can create lots of cool, dimensional textures for your art by using modeling paste and stencils or other items such as plastic mesh. One of my favorite ways to add texture is by using a piece of screening material (taken from an old screen door). I lay the screen on my background, add the paste and then I scrape across the screen with an old credit card to push the paste into the screen. When I remove it, I have a wonderful textured background.
Crackle effect. This is another mixed media background technique to use when you want to add an aged, weathered effect to your art. There are many ways to do this depending on the products you want to use and the look you are going for. The basic idea is to apply paint to your surface and after it’s dry, put on a coat of white glue or crackling medium. While the glue is still tacky, cover it with a paint that contrasts the color of the first layer.
Watercolor. To create an interesting watercolor background, you can layer transparent colors over one another, allowing the bottom colors to show through. A transparent watercolor effect can be achieved by mixing the color with water before applying it to your surface. For extra interest, use a white crayon to create a design on your background before you paint. The crayon will resist the paint and your design will show through. Another idea is to add texture by sprinkling some regular table salt or sand on the paint while it’s still wet.
Aluminum foil background, crinkly effect. Another mixed media background technique is to crinkle a piece of aluminum foil and then smooth it out by hand, and color it with shoe polish, ink or paint. You can use a paper towel and wipe off the excess color, leaving color in the grooves.
Choosing a mixed media background technique to use is only the beginning. It sets the tone, adds texture and interest and guides you in the creative process. So go ahead and start adding more materials and layers. Happy creating.