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Collage on a Bathroom Wall

How to Place a Collage on a Wall

How to Collage a Bathroom Wall

Putting a collage on a bathroom wall is possible, but is it a good idea?

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Hello.

I would like to make bathroom wall collage using a range of different materials, not just paper. Is this possible?

Not all of the materials that I want to use are porous (i.e. plastic sweet wrappers, laminated card, plastic flower petals) so I’m not sure if any of the adhesives already suggested will stick!

I would also like to know, is it possible to work straight on to a wall? I assume for this I would need some kind of fast drying adhesive to prevent the materials I’m using from sliding down the wall?

Can I simply use wall paint to prime a wall for collage? This would be bathroom wall paint, so probably non porous (water proof or resistant)!

And finally, as it is a bathroom wall, I’m wondering if it is possible to waterproof the finished collage?

Hannah

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Hi Hannah,

Well, as they say, anything is possible.

Before you proceed, think about what happens when you tire of the collage or a new owner moves in.

How can the collage be removed without destroying the wall and requiring extensive repairs? If you own your home, it may make selling more difficult. If you rent, you will probably lose part of your security deposit.

That said, yes a collage can be applied directly to a wall. You will need a variety of glues selected for the different ephemera you want to use.

For fabrics and paper, you want acid-free glue.

For any transparent items, you need glue that dries clear. For metal objects, avoid water-based glues which could cause the metal to rust.

I don’t think you want to get involved with contact cement like woodworkers use. There is no margin for error in the placement and the wall would definitely be ruined when someone wanted to chisel the collage off.

Use glues just strong enough to secure the items.

Use tape, stick pins or tacks to hold the items in place while the glues dry. Then remove.

You might also use decorative pins or upholstery tacks and just leave them as a part of the design.

Many types of glue will not adhere well to enamel or high gloss paints.

Since you want to add a waterproof finish coat anyway, why not use a flat paint underneath? Use a brush-on clear floor sealer to waterproof your work.

Regards,

Eileen

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Recommended Reading

If you're interested in collage, these books give you tips, techniques, themes and artwork to use in your own project.

Collage for the Soul: Expressing Hopes and Dreams Through Art
By: Holly Harrison

Lenore Tawney: Signs on the Wind--Postcard Collages
By: Lenore Tawney

The Illustrated Discovery Journal : Creating a Visual Autobiography of Your Authentic Self
By: Sarah Ban Breathnach

Collage Techniques: A Guide for Artists and Illustrators By: Gerald F. Brommer

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