Creating unique collage papers doesn’t require fancy tools—in fact, some of the best materials are probably already in your home or yard. In this YouTube art demo, I’ll show you how to transform seven everyday items into creative mark-making tools. Although most of the supplies are things around your home, I’ve also provided a few additional supplies you find helpful at the end of this post.
Let’s dive in and experiment with items from around the house—and even from the trash—to see how they can be used to create beautiful collage papers. I started this project without knowing exactly how it would turn out, but that’s part of the fun. I’m so excited to bring you along for the ride!
Experimenting with Everyday Items
1. Toilet Paper Roll I cut a toilet paper roll in half, smashed it to create a simple shape, and dipped it in paint to make marks on paper. The result? A surprisingly cool pattern from such a basic item!
2. Plastic Straw I found a plastic straw in my studio, cut small slits along one end, and fanned them out. After dipping it in paint, I pressed it onto the paper to create a unique design. For variety, I used a paper straw with a smaller opening and repeated the process. Each one produced different effects, proving that creativity often comes from experimentation.
3. Corrugated Box with Packing String I repurposed a corrugated box by wrapping packing string around it to create a mark-making tool. Instead of dipping it in paint, I brushed paint directly onto the string, resulting in an elegant, textured pattern. I also wrapped another small box to create square-shaped marks.
4. Pine Needles Venturing into my backyard, I gathered some pine needles, secured them with a rubber band, and trimmed the tops to make them even. Dipping this makeshift brush into paint created magical marks that added an organic feel to the collage papers. Plus, it’s fun to craft your own DIY brushes!
5. Corrugated Board for Triangle Marks Using another IKEA corrugated board, I sealed the ends with masking tape and dipped it in paint to make interlocking triangle patterns. Switching up the paint colors added depth and intricacy to the designs.
6. Lemon Bag from the Grocery Store I took a mesh bag from a bag of lemons, laid it over a sheet of drawing paper, and rolled paint across it. After letting it dry overnight, I peeled it back to reveal beautiful textures—a simple yet striking effect.
The Joy of Discovery
During my free Collage Kickstart online workshop, I encourage students to use household items for mark making, but this project took that idea to a whole new level. Going on a “treasure hunt” for materials was half the fun, and the unexpected results were genuinely exciting.
So, I challenge you to explore your home, yard, or even recycling bin to find everyday objects that can be transformed into mark-making tools. Have fun experimenting with textures, patterns, and designs—you never know what amazing creations you might stumble upon. Enjoy the process and let your creativity run wild!
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Supplies to make these papers:
Mark makers from your home and yard
Straw, paper or plastic
Any type of paper:
Handmade watercolor paper 140 lbs
Black drawing paper 100 lbs
Rice
Sketch
Drawing
Copy
Mixed Media
Brayer
Flat Brush
Nova Acrylic Paint or any other brand
*Some links are affiliate links which pay a small commission to support the production of this art demo series, while not costing you anything more.
