Mixed Media Art Journal Ideas [Card Download]

This process is works well in concert with others. It’s a layer that plays with whatever precedes it. For example, if you try the string dipped in paint (Idea #2), you can mask parts of your design out with white paint. 

This is a fun technique to play with when you want to add depth and layers to your work.

Shown here, the paper was originally filled with charcoal and gel crayon patterns, and then white was loosely brushed over it to blend and semi-hide this layer. More charcoal was added on top of the white, and then more white was added to mask out parts of the charcoal. 

What I really liked about the gel crayons shown here is that they bleed when paint is added on top, which adds more color to the page. Look at the blue circles, for example, to see how the white paint smears the blue into the background. 

Tips for young children: After your child has created a collage or drawing, offer a small pot of white paint and a brush, and invite them to paint however they like. Try this with washable tempera paint. Our favorite is Crayola Artista washable white tempera.

Favorite high flow white paint for this project: Artist’s Loft Flow Acrylic Paint

Favorite Gel Crayons for this project: Noyo 36 Color Gel Crayons