Old books are one of my favorite sources for collage material, and they’re easy to find. Try used book sales, secondhand shops like Goodwill, or your own shelves at home.
I put together eight ways to use book pages in your collages and junk journals. You may know a lot of these already. I’m hoping to remind you of them so you can say, “Oh yeah, I can do that!”
To follow along, watch the full video here.
1. Use book pages as a background
Usually book pages are thin, so glue them to something sturdier, like a file folder. I like to use three pieces that contrast a little in color. In my example, I had two book pages and a piece of kraft paper. I stamped some text on the kraft so all three had different writing on them. Then I added a hero piece in the middle and made sure the other scraps I added complemented it.
I always ask myself what’s complementing and what’s competing. That question helps a lot.
2. Layer and tear
Next is the layering technique. I layer pages from the same source, then turn them back and forth so the lines run in different directions. They make a pattern all on their own. I am not sure what I want to do with this background quite yet, but I think it would make a great page.
Try saving your leftover scraps too. Tiny differences in color are all you need for an interesting background.
3. Incorporate found text
If a certain word matches the theme of your collage that could be fun to use. Pick a word or passage that fits your theme. You could even use a line from a favorite novel. Some people cut out single words, and others circle words or black out everything else. It makes the piece more thought provoking.
4. Cut out illustrations
Another creative way to use old book pages is to cut out the illustrations instead of just the text. Dictionaries and children’s encyclopedias have wonderful little drawings. My friend loves French dictionary pages which are great for this. Try searching Etsy or eBay for old ones.
5. Make a border or frame
This one is my pocket trick for junk journals. Put a book page on top of a contrasting paper, tear them together by hand, and then slide them apart. The two edges match like a puzzle. You can use multiple types of paper and tapes to get this. I show how to do this step by step in the video, so it’s easier to watch than to read.
6. Add mixed media
Mixed media is a great way to add more color or detail to a page. Use a stencil, a stippling brush, and a little acrylic paint to bring color onto a page. I tested a few pinks to match an old postcard. The brighter pink would have competed with it, so I went lighter. If it doesn’t work, it’s one page of text. You won’t feel too guilty tossing it.
7. Print on a book page
First, you have to know what you want to print on a book page. Print something on a page that isn’t too busy. A children’s book, a poem, or sheet music works well. The blank end pages of a book are great too. Glue the page to a piece of copy paper first so it goes through your printer safely. Dictionary pages are so busy that a print can get lost.
8. Ink and rubber stamping
This is my favorite. With ink and a stamp, I can match the exact color in my collage and then place it wherever I want. There are many combinations to experiment with when it comes to stamps. Try practicing on a scrap first to see what you like.
Takeaways
You don’t need a big supply of papers. One old book can give you backgrounds, text, images, and color. Pick one idea and try it this week. Turn the page and keep going.
Want to include something I did not cover here? Let me know in the comments!
If you are interested in more collage techniques, monthly projects, and inspiration to create, come sit with us inside my Vintage & Collage Club.
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