Starting with mixed media art doesn’t require expensive materials or advanced skills. Follow these simple steps to begin your journey:
1. Choose Your Base Surface
Mixed media art can be created on a variety of surfaces, such as:
✅ Canvas
✅ Watercolor or Mixed Media Paper
✅ Wood Panel
✅ Cardboard or Recycled Material
💡 Tip: If you’re a beginner, start with a sturdy mixed media sketchbook to practice layering different materials.
2. Select Your Primary Art Medium
Before adding layers, decide what medium will serve as the foundation of your artwork. You can use:
🎨 Acrylics (Best for bold colors and layering)
🎨 Watercolors (Great for soft backgrounds)
🖋️ Ink & Pens (Ideal for details and outlines)
3. Add Texture & Depth
Once your base is dry, layer other materials like:
📰 Collage Elements – Magazine cutouts, newspaper, old book pages
🎭 Stencils & Stamps – Adds pattern and repetition
🖌 Modeling Paste or Gesso – Creates raised textures
4. Experiment with Mixed Techniques
🔹 Layering – Build depth by adding multiple transparent layers
🔹 Scraping & Distressing – Use sandpaper or palette knives to create worn textures
🔹 Image Transfers – Transfer printed photos onto your artwork
🔹 Hand Lettering & Calligraphy – Add quotes, poetry, or personal messages
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix old and new—vintage ephemera with modern acrylic paint can create unique contrasts!
Essential Tools & Materials for Mixed Media Art
🎨 Acrylic or Watercolor Paints
🖊️ Pens, Markers, and Ink
📰 Magazines, Old Books, Newspapers (for collage)
✂️ Scissors, Glue, Mod Podge
🖌 Brushes, Sponges, Palette Knives
📄 Stencils, Washi Tape, Stamps
🖼 Mixed Media Paper, Canvas, or Wood
💡 Budget-Friendly Tip: Repurpose old materials like fabric scraps, buttons, or lace instead of buying new!
How to Make Money with Mixed Media Art?
Mixed media art isn’t just a hobby—it can also be a great source of income. Here’s how you can monetize your creativity:
1. Sell Your Artwork Online
📌 Platforms:
✅ Etsy – Sell original pieces, digital downloads, or prints
✅ Redbubble & Society6 – Convert your art into prints, T-shirts, stickers, and more
✅ Instagram & TikTok – Market your artwork through social media
💰 Pricing Tip: Offer both original artworks and affordable prints to attract different buyers.
2. Teach Mixed Media Art Online
🎥 Create tutorials on YouTube, Skillshare, or Udemy and earn passive income through views or course sales.
📌 Example: “Mixed Media Art for Beginners: Create Your First Layered Artwork”
3. Commissioned Artwork
Offer customized mixed media portraits, wedding gifts, or pet illustrations through your website or social media.
4. Host Local or Online Workshops
🎨 Conduct live art classes via Zoom or at local art studios.
5. License Your Art
📌 Websites like Printify, Spoonflower, and Zazzle let you license your mixed media art for:
✅ Fabric Designs
✅ Wallpaper Prints
✅ Greeting Cards & Stationery
Resources to Learn More
🎥 YouTube Tutorials:
🔹 How to Start Mixed Media Art for Beginners
🔹 5 Easy Mixed Media Art Techniques
🖼 Inspiring Artists & Websites:
🔹 Jane Davies – Mixed Media Art
🔹 Pinterest Board for Mixed Media Ideas
📚 Books:
🔹 The Complete Guide to Mixed Media Art by Jenny Doh
🔹 Layered: Mixed Media Techniques by Clare Youngs
Final Thoughts
Mixed Media Art is one of the most fun, versatile, and expressive ways to explore creativity. Whether you want to enjoy it as a relaxing hobby or turn it into a career, the possibilities are endless.
✨ Start today, experiment freely, and let your creativity flow!
💬 Are you excited to try Mixed Media Art? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts!