Making Collage Paper with Stencils

This week, I demonstrate how I’ve been using stencils to make my own collage paper for use in my paintings.

I find that I achieve a different, looser feel by painting onto tissue paper and gluing it down than if I had just painted directly onto the board. I love seeing the contrast between the stencil designs and the hand painted bits.

Let me know if you try incorporating stencils into your paintings and how they turn out!

Each week, I share tips, tricks, advice, and inspiration to help you take your art to the next level.

You can also find me:

[artjourney]

I'm dealing with grief and finding your youtube videos has inspired me to paint! Thank you so very much.

[joeylong]

Better late than never! This video is 2 years old and yet as neat as the day it started! Thanks, Louise

[i_do_notconsent]

This French tissue paper "hack" is revolutionary! It costs 3 or 4 times more on US Amazon, but being able to make exactly what one wants and needs for any particular piece is game-changing. Thank you a million times, dear Louise! Love your work and your fabulous tips!

[suzannesanger]

I’m addicted to your videos! Thank you for sharing so freely. Have you ever tried using a stencil brush? It would make paler patterns, I imagine from using them on walls. This may not work for you, but I keep collage papers of various kinds in 3-ring binders with clear plastic pocket pages. Easy to flip through. I use one pocket for all of a certain category, not a pocket per sheet. Keeps them together and I just remove the bundle and flip through when I’m looking for something.

[joanrenou]

I have watched many, many art videos this year and you are by FAR the best. Your work resonates with me, but I also appreciate how well you inform us. I hope you do many more.

[PeterFisher]

It's 1am in the morning and I've been watching you since 9pm - loved it all and so inspiring.

[mandigrant]

Your generosity of spirit and your helpful tips is so nourishing - thank you Louise

[vidyashyamsundar]

Recently, one of my artist friends sent me your link, and I am in love with your videos! You are so generous in sharing your ideas and I am so inspired by them! Thank you so much!

[Kayenne]

I used the left over paint, mopped it up with a piece of open weave lace curtain, and "splotched" it onto my paper. By changing how I had folded or scrunched up the lace piece, it changed what happened onto my paper. Kind of like "block" printing, but with fabric with a pattern in it. Rather than laying the lace down flat all covered in paint, which is also an option. (I don't have anywhere near as many interesting stencils that you have, so I had to come up with something). I love how you've used the tissue paper too, brilliant idea. Adds so much more texturally. Thank you for sharing your techniques, so very helpful.

[diannelacourciere]

Thank you so much for showing me a wonderful, creative way to make my own collage papers. Love the fact that they are translucent.

[yogasaraswati]

Thank you for generously sharing your many skills Louise.
Busting to try this!!!

[ChristineGroh]

I have just watch this for the second time, after I went in search of tissue paper and a selection of stencils. Thank you for all your great tips and ideas. I live in Brisbane, Australia and found the tissue paper at Officeworks.

[windacollins]

Had no idea there was a wet strength tissue paper! Must have me some of that...thanks for sharing your talent and your wisdom with the masses.

[ilikefrogs]

I just took your free week course. Loved it. I wasn't fond of collage until this video. Like so much making my own patterns.

[TraceyFowler-swxl]

Enjoyed that one. I really have to try some. Took your taster course- very helpful. Let go & create!

[deborahbaker]

I absolutely love watching your process! Thank you for sharing!!

[lizzieb.]

What a great lesson on collagen papers! I love the new words you have given me. Smushed, nothing is precious, and messing about. You and I are kindred spirits. Thank you so much.

[karenbrown]

Love these tips. Many thanks. I also make a lot of painted papers of all kinds and always looking for a new way to organize. I’ll look and see if you’ve had time to publish a video on organizing collage papers, but if not, that would be so valuable.thanks again for all.

[joanwhitney]

I love your painted hands...that's me, too especially after using my gelli plate. Love your videos, Louise!

[winnielarsen]

I love your willingness to experiment and share ideas and practice. I am looking forward to your free sessions in June. Thank you for sharing.