How to Make a Collage Using Newspaper

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Things You'll Need

  • Newspaper

  • Spray adhesive

  • Scissors

  • Cardboard

  • Duct tape

  • Plain paper

  • Decoupage medium

  • Sponge applicator

  • Permanent marker

Quick Newspaper Collage

Rather than recycling the newspapers that magically multiply in the recycling bin when you're not looking, try making a collage. This example is a dog portrait, but you can use the technique to create any design that appeals to you.

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Simple Supplies

Step 1

Things you'll need for a newspaper collage.

Collect a supply of newspapers with a good mix of text as well as black-and-white and color photographs. Any cardboard will work, but the top of a pizza box is free and close to ideal for the project. Please see the last slide for an itemized list of tools and materials.

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Step 2

Apply a base of newsprint.

Reinforce the corners of the inside of the box with duct tape. Apply a light coat of spray adhesive to the top and sides of the box. Tear strips of newspaper text and press them into the adhesive. Cover the top and sides of the box, adding adhesive where the paper overlaps.

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Step 3

Trace your pattern.

Print out a photograph on plain paper. Using a light box or a bright window, trace the major lines of the photo onto plain paper, creating a pattern.

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Step 4

Apply colored pieces with decoupage medium.

Search through your supply of newspaper, identifying colors and textures that work for your design. Using the pattern as a guide, cut out the major pieces of the design -- the body, face, ears and muzzle in this case. Assemble the pieces to create the image and use decoupage medium to adhere them to the background.

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Step 5

Cover entire image with decoupage medium.

Tear smaller pieces in a variety of colors and layer them over the main pieces to create texture where desired. Coat the entire collage with decoupage medium and set aside to dry.

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Step 6

Outline the perimeter.

Trace around the edges of the design pieces with a permanent marker and add details, such as eyes and a mouth. Draw lines around the perimeter of the box, about 1 1/2 inches from the edge.

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Step 7

Frame with colored tape.

Align duct tape with the line drawn in Step 6 and fold down the side of the box, creating a "frame" for the collage.

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