Vintage Journal: Easy Mixed Media Tutorial

Dynamic Analogous Color Scheme

This vintage journal that I found when antique shopping has become my go-to for quick art spreads! It is the perfect size for a warm-up exercise or when I want to get my creative juices flowing. I prepped this journal before I started working in it to prepare for the added bulk that mixed media techniques cause.

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Working with Neocolor II’s in this project was just what I needed – they're water soluble and an absolute dream to play with. I love the flexibility they offer; you can either scribble directly onto the page or pick up pigment with a wet paintbrush, and just watch as the colors meld beautifully. I used some white gesso too, which mixed a little with the pigments already on the page, and the effect is scrumptious.

The transparency of the deli paper that had art marks added depth but kept things quick and straightforward. I'm totally hooked on blues and greens right now – they're so yummy together. Working with analogous color schemes is my favorite! Mixing in different types of pencils, some water-soluble and some not, keeps things interesting. It's all about layering these elements and finding intriguing ways for them to integrate together. Every time I work on a spread like this, I'm reminded that art doesn't have to be a complex process to be captivating. It’s all about enjoying the colors and textures and seeing where they take you.