Simple Aging Techniques for Mixed Media & Collage

Applying Paint with a Rubber Stamp

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In this particular example I used a rubber stamp with a somewhat vintage pattern. I poured Golden Liquid Acrylics Paynes Gray and spread the paint over the stamp' surface with a brush. Next I stamped the impressions across the artwork applying uneven pressure in selected areas for color and texture variation. Acrylic paints are not recommended to be used with stamps as they dry fast. Therefore it is imperative to remove the paint form the surface using a brush and soapy water, that way the rubber part of your stamp will not endure permanent damage. On a side note, application of acrylic paints in rubber stamping gives you a wonderful opportunity to mix and experiment with a multitude of colors, while saving money on ink pads.

Pouring as Paint Application Strategy

This is a very fun technique, though can be quiet messy, especially if you choose to work with clear tar gel! In this particular example I mixed Golden Clear Tar Gel with a variety of liquid acrylics colors, unfortunately I don't have the exact 'recipe' because I continued to add and mix paint with gel until I liked what I saw. I encourage you to experiment and have a blast with this technique. Use a small plastic cup as a dish to mix together tar gel with paint, once the color is relatively uniform begin pouring this mixture down and across your artwork. Next, use your palette knife to spread this funny compound as you please. I placed the sheet of paper I worked with in a vertical position to let the gravity join in on some fun. Feel free to scrape off any excess of gel-paint to let the underlying images stay somewhat visible.

Next: Paint Removing Strategies »