Watercolour Wash Background with Torn Stamped Collage

A project from our live show BRAND SHOWCASE - THIRSTY BRUSH - Join us for this much loved event where the SMALL brands get to shout LOUDEST - Broadcast 4th Nov 22 · 04/11/2022 · watch it from 5:45

Create a vibrant multi-coloured watercolour background by layering washes, then stamp and tear decorative paper pieces to build a collage-style washi tape effect. The result is a bright, textured background perfect for cards or toppers.

You will need

100306 - HTCN - TV - Thirsty Brush Unltd - A5 Stamp - Sunflower and Blooms - 041021ESEE IT

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Step by step

1. Stamp the flower frenzy stamp onto white cardstock using brown archival ink, pressing firmly to create texture. ▶ watch 5:45
2. Spray the stamped panel with water to activate the watercolour. ▶ watch 6:00
3. Drop watercolour paint onto the wet surface in vibrant colours, allowing the pigment to spread naturally. ▶ watch 6:15
4. Allow the first panel to dry completely. ▶ watch 7:00
5. Stamp the sunflower and blooms stamp onto separate white cardstock pieces using the same brown ink. ▶ watch 8:00
6. Colour in the stamped flowers lightly with watercolour, leaving some areas uncoloured to keep them subtle. ▶ watch 8:15
7. Tear all the stamped and coloured pieces into various sizes and shapes, tearing freehand along the edges for an organic look. ▶ watch 9:00
8. Edge the torn pieces with brown ink using a brush to define and separate each piece. ▶ watch 9:30
9. Arrange and glue the torn pieces onto the watercolour background in a collage style, leaving some white space. ▶ watch 10:00
10. Allow all glue to dry completely before using the finished background paper. ▶ watch 10:45

Tips from the show

• Use only a tiny amount of watercolour as it is highly concentrated and pigmented.
• Don't be afraid of white space; it draws the eye to the centre of your design.
• Torn edges and imperfect placement add to the charm of the collage effect.

More from this show

• Layered Heart Die-Cut Card with Embellishments
• Teal and Blue Watercolour Background with Stamped Foliage
• Wish Die-Cut Card with Hand-Drawn Details
• Coloured Petal Power Flowers with Watercolour

Written up from the show itself. See every guide from our shows · free how-to guides · watch live on My Telly