Collage style cover for multi-functional journal

I promised a fellow blogger, Eva, I would show her how to do one of my art projects. She is a primary school teacher and I thought of a project she could do with the children.

I recycle magazine pages to create collages. Mostly, I paint on them. Occasionally, I use collages to personalise sketchbook covers. All I need are magazines, a book with a paper cover, glue and scissors. I tear out a story and glue away.

This is a croquis sketchbook. It is larger than a copy of Esquire or Bazaar (pictured). One book has 100 pages. If both sides are used, you can have 200 entries.

These sketchbook pages will have many functions, all rolled in one:

• guest book
• photo album
• scrap book
• notebook
• journal/day book
• sketch book

After selecting pictures and cutting out text, I arrange everything loosely.

I sometimes visit homes with official guest books, and I thought it would be fun to modify the idea. For example, you could ask house guests to pose for instant photos. Later, they can add notes for your album pages. Or, young siblings may enjoy updating a book as a yearlong project.

Need it —–> Glue; magazines; notebook or sketchbook with paper cover.

Opt it —–> Oil markers or acrylics; decorative masking tape; a friend to chat with.

All done and taped down. Work it —–>

• Find striking images, words or lettering.
• Try to tell a story as you search.
• Tear or cut around text or pictures.
• Arrange the cutouts for a quick look.
• Glue cutouts to the cover.
• Try to cover the entire space, the more overlaps the better.
• Do not try to be neat.
• Use decorative masking tape or clear tape to secure weak points.
• If you like, you could add a painting or drawing with oil markers.

Use it —–>  One entry page should be as crowded as possible. Share the fun with friends.

Thank you for viewing. I realised too late the camera automatically switched to the “hand held night scene” setting, hence the romantic ambience. (Palms forehead). Happy crafting until next time.