By Troop Sunset
All of us have a bit of Barbie in us, and Barbie has a bit of us in her. Channel your inner Barbie—or Ken–with a portrait collage! Imagine yourself at the beach: the waves washing ashore to the surf tunes playing from the radio, the warmth of the sand beneath your feet, the sun kissing your skin, and the seagulls stealing your ice cre—wait no, not that. Picture your Barbiesona, happy and thriving in Barbieland!
SUPPLIES
- Cardstock or similar thick paper of the size of your choosing for base
- Scrap paper, magazines, and/or other craft supplies of your choice
- Scissors
- Glue/tape
- Photo of yourself! (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Think of your concept. You can use a photo of yourself or recreate your image in any other way. Want to do an abstract portrait? That’s your choice, too!
Once you have gathered the magazines and/or other materials you are going to use, go through them to find inspiration and collect the pictures and other elements you would like to use. At this stage, you might get new ideas: I decided to change my initial sketch of a ferris wheel when I found a photo of a lovely pink parasol. Also, if you don’t have a paper in the shade you’d like, you can always paint some watercolor paper like I did.
Choose the color and size of the cardstock you want to use for the base. Your collage might be a nice card to send a penpal or maybe a poster for your own wall! Alternatively, you can also try your hand at a digital collage.
You can first sketch your plan; or just start cutting if you feel like it! Enjoy fitting the cut pieces together before bringing out the glue! Tip: take a photo of your composition before taking it down to start gluing the pieces in place. Feel free to use any of your favourite tools.
Come share your Barbiesona with us! We’d love to see them all. Hope you have fun crafting!
