Tutorial - One Colour Collage

miliyakerr64
Apr 1
2 min read

Updated: Apr 24

This activity explores how simple materials can be transformed into a cohesive composition using a single colour. By limiting your palette, the focus shifts from perfection to arrangement, shape, and balance.

Using found materials, this exercise encourages a more sustainable and accessible approach to creativity.

You will need:

Old magazines, newspapers, or packaging
Paper (as a base)
Scissors (or tear by hand)
Glue
Choose one colour (e.g. green, blue, neutral tones)

Step-by-step process:

Step 1: Choose a colour

Select one colour to focus on. This will guide your choices and keep the composition cohesive.

Step 2: Collect materials

Search for materials that match your chosen colour. Look for variation in tone, texture, and shade.

Step 3: Cut or tear

Cut or tear out shapes from your materials. Experiment with both clean edges and more organic, torn forms.

Step 4: Arrange your composition

Place your shapes onto the page without gluing at first. Try different arrangements, layering, and spacing.\

Step 5: Finalise

Once you are happy with the composition, glue the pieces down.

Top Tips

Experiment with a variety of textures, from smooth magazine pages to rough packaging materials
Mix different sizes and shapes to create contrast and visual interest
Try tearing as well as cutting for a more organic, less controlled look
Layer elements to build depth rather than keeping everything flat
Don’t aim for symmetry - uneven compositions often feel more natural
If you have them, incorporate stickers or found materials to add detail
Step back and view your composition before sticking to adjust balance

What to do with your collage:

Use as a background for images in frames.
Make it your phone lockscreen
Photograph and develop digitally
Combine with drawing or printmaking
Keep as part of a sketchbook

Inspiration for collages

Hannah Höch, Cut with the Dada Kitchen Knife through the Last Weimar Beer-Belly Cultural Epoch in Germany, 1919. Collage. 44 9/10 × 35 2/5 in | 114 × 90 cm.