DIY Network

Rock Collage Michele Beschen goes 3-D with tips on making collages with rocks. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-104

It's easy to make fun, hip rock collages!

Who says a collage has to be flat? Not Michele Beschen. The B. Original host thinks outside the box—and off the page—with hip collages using rocks as a base.

This is a perfect project for packrats: The more interesting-looking papers you have around the house, the richer your collage options. Thin papers work best—especially tissue paper, newsprint, napkins or anything that will conform to the shape of your rocks. Keep an eye out for a variety of large stones that will give you an ample canvas for your creation.

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Materials:

rocks
thin papers
matte gel medium or white glue
sealer

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

• Water down your gel medium or glue slightly so it's easier to brush on.

• Choose a paper and tear it to fit the area of rock you want to cover. Michele prefers to tear the paper because torn edges conform better to the shape of the rock and have more visual interest.

  Note: Experiment with different papers (figure A). Cut out magazine lettering, ads, sheet music—whatever strikes your fancy. If you're using a paper napkin, separate the layers before using.

• Coat the area of the rock you're papering with gel medium or glue and brush on your torn paper. Be sure you brush out any air bubbles and work the paper into the texture of the rock (figure B).

• Brush gel medium over the top of your paper and keep layering until you achieve the look you want (figure C). You can cover the entire rock or leave areas uncovered.

• Once your gel medium or glue is completely dried, you can add another design element with stamps and ink. Seal with more gel medium (not watered down), or use a varnish or automotive lacquer. If the collage rocks will be exposed to the elements, make sure you use a sealer that will hold up in exterior conditions.

Let your imagination run free when displaying your rock collages. Here are some of the ways Michele Beschen lets her creative imagination flow:

Framing an outdoor pond...

showcased in a tabletop fountain...

and even served up under glass!