I've been getting more into digital collage lately and thought I'd share a little bit about it here today. Collage has always interested me. I love that it doesn't have to be cohesive or matchy matchy. And in fact I feel like a good collage has some surprise element in it that doesn't necessarily feel like it belongs.

A layout without photos frees me up to use whatever catches my eye. Often I see elements I love, but don't feel right placed on my regular, daily life layouts. Anything belongs on a collage page. And since there's no photo, you can't distract from the photo by including too much stuff. So if you're a maximalist list me, it's a great practice. Put everything on the page, it will be alright!

I also like how it's a meditative process. There's no right or wrong place for anything. It's just how you're feeling in the moment. No rules, just whatever pretty thing catches my eye.

To make your own digital collage, here are a few steps to get your started.

First, choose your background paper. I like something a little messy, but without a lot going on. I like to place all the paint and elements, so I tend to prefer to start with a fairly blank canvas. You can check out some good interesting but plain papers in these kits:

Next choose a kit that has lots of interesting elements that appeal to you. I've been creating collage specific kits, but any kit that's interesting to you will work.

When I titled this kit Collage Faves, I didn't mean it halfheartedly. I use the pieces in this kit on almost every layout I make. If these pieces don't appeal to you, start keeping a folder of elements you love that you can go to over and over again.

Now just put as much stuff on the page as you can. Create a few areas of interest and add some paint in the background. Stop when you get tired. If you're using Photoshop, check out this tutorial to help blend your paint into the background and make it feel more realistic.

Let me know how it goes!