If you’ve ever sat down with a pile of paper, glue on your fingers, and a big creative grin on your face—this episode is for you! 💕 In Episode 79 of Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast, I’m sharing some of my all-time favorite collage techniques and why collage continues to be one of my favorite ways to play, experiment, and tell stories through art.
Collage is one of those magical art forms where there are truly no rules. You can layer, rip, stitch, paint, scribble, and glue your way into something totally unexpected—and that’s the fun of it. In this episode, I talk about how collage helps us let go of perfection, trust our intuition, and enjoy the creative process without pressure.
Why I Love Collage So Much
Collage has always felt accessible and freeing to me. You don’t need fancy supplies or years of experience—just curiosity and a willingness to try. I share how collage became part of my creative practice and why I keep coming back to it when I need inspiration, grounding, or a little creative joy boost.
Favorite Techniques I Keep Coming Back To
In this episode, I walk through some of my favorite collage techniques, including:
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Layering papers to create depth and movement
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Playing with texture using found papers and mixed media
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Letting color guide the composition instead of planning it out
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Using intuitive placement and trusting what feels right
These are techniques you can use in art journals, mixed media pieces, or standalone collage work—and they’re perfect for both beginners and seasoned makers.
Letting Go of “Doing It Right”
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is a reminder that collage doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. I talk about releasing expectations, embracing happy accidents, and allowing your art to evolve naturally. Sometimes the most magical moments happen when we stop trying to control the outcome.
A Little Creative Encouragement 💫
If you’ve been feeling stuck, uninspired, or unsure where to start, collage can be a gentle way back into your creative flow. This episode is meant to encourage you to play, explore, and give yourself permission to create just for the joy of it.
PS: 🎥 Watch the full episode below:
Guest Bio
No guest today — just our favorite creative spirit, Joleen Emery, owner of Big Raven Yoga and Big Raven Farm, a visionary artist, crafter, and joyful teacher who believes that creativity is self-care.
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Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[00:00 – 02:09] — Welcome & Happy Time Happenings
[02:10 – 05:39] — Sneak Peek: Holiday Craft Retreat
[05:40 – 10:59] — Craft Prototypes: Buttons, Felt, Paper, and Pom-Poms
[11:00 – 14:24] — Joleen’s Collage Formula Explained
[14:25 – 17:59] — Adhesives That Work (and Why)
[18:00 – 24:29] — Hands-On Demo: Layering Backgrounds & Balancing Color
[24:30 – 29:59] — Creative Mindset: “Don’t Be Precious!”
[30:00 – End] — Live Chat + Community Craft Love
Quotes from the Episode
“Don’t be precious — being precious slows you down!” — Joleen Emery
“If you overthink your collage, you miss the joy in the mess.” — Joleen Emery
“Old receipts and handwritten notes are my favorite ingredients — they tell a story.” — Joleen Emery
“You don’t need perfect — you need play.” — Joleen Emery
Resources and Links
🌲 Retreat Info: Holiday Craft Retreat at Big Raven Farm – November 2026 (details coming soon!)
🧴 Supplies Mentioned:
✨ Pritt Glue Sticks (Joleen’s fave!)
📜 Salvaged Paper, Old Books, Felt Sheets
🕯️ Candlesticks, Buttons, Crystals for embellishments
💫 Join the Community: Subscribe to Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast on YouTube 🎥
🎁 Share Your Art: Tag Joleen on social with your collage creations! 💖
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