How to Create Stunning Crackle Papers for Your Collage

Click here to watch!

I’m so excited to share one of my favorite paper techniques with you: crackle collage papers! Whether you’re a fan of mixed media or just love creating unique art pieces, this technique is sure to inspire you.

In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to make crackle papers using two different crackle products: Tri-Art and Kroma. These products can transform plain, lackluster papers into stunning, textured pieces for your next collage. I’ll also share my tips for getting the best results, from applying the crackle to flattening the finished papers.

Tri-Art Crackle

First, we’ll work with Tri-Art Crackle. This product is incredibly versatile and works beautifully with both heavy and light applications. I’ll show you how to apply it thickly for bold, dramatic cracks and thinly for more delicate, subtle textures. Once the Tri-Art crackle dries—it takes about a day—I’ll demonstrate how to seal and flatten your papers using matte medium. This step is essential to ensure your papers are easy to handle and adhere seamlessly in your collages.

Kroma Crackle

While Kroma Crackle requires a bit more patience—it can take several days to dry completely—the results are absolutely worth the wait. Kroma crackle creates stunning textures and allows you to mix paint color directly into the product for vibrant, colorful effects. I’ll guide you through the process and share tips for achieving the best results.

Bonus Tips and Tricks

Be sure to watch the video linked above for additional tips and tricks I’ve picked up over the years. From applying the crackle to perfecting the final look, I’ll share all my favorite techniques to help you get the most out of these products.

By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have a beautiful collection of crackle collage papers that will add a unique touch to your art projects. The process is so much fun, and the results are always magical.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel to get notified when I post new art demos!

Supplies to make these papers:

Kroma Crackle
Tri-Art Crackle Ground
Mixed Media paper, 108 lbs 
Old collage papers you want to enhance
Golden Iridescent Gold Fluid Acrylic 
Blue shop towel 
Liquitex Acrylic Ink
Soft flat brush
Water spray bottle
Palette knife
Matte medium
Alcohol ink 
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.

Sign up for my FREE Studio Insider Newsletter

. . . and receive a weekly email full of art demos and open hearted inspiration, subscriber only discounts, and early access to new collections.

Plus, I'll also send you the ...

33 Art Resources

I Can't Live Without

holding brushes home page

Leave a Comment

All artwork is the sole property of Catherine Rains and is held under copyright, even after purchase.The images, artwork, and contents of this website may not be copied, collected, or used for personal or professional gain without the written permission from Catherine Rains. Images on this website taken by Laura Thompkins or Catherine Rains.