From the page: The tube that holds infinite possibilities
Idea 3
Layered relief wall art
The technique comes from layered collage, similar to what paper-mâché artists did to create depth without a single drop of expensive paint. It works because cardboard cut into strips of different heights casts natural shadows, and it's the light hitting those shadows that creates the relief effect.
What you need
- A cardboard tube (from toilet paper or paper towels)
- Scissors or craft knife
- White glue
- A firm base (a piece of thick cardboard or a box)
- Colored paper, fabric scraps or gouache paint for finishing
How to make it
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1
Cut the tube into strips of varying heights — some 1 centimeter, others 3 or 4 — because the difference in height is what will create the relief shadows.
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2
Flatten the strips into ellipses, circles or petals, shaping them with your fingers so each piece takes on curves of leaves, waves or flowers.
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3
Draw a light outline on the base (a flower, mountains, a heart) to serve as a guide when gluing.
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4
Glue the larger pieces first, at the back of the composition, and work up with the smaller ones on top — layers from back to front create the sense of depth.
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5
Wait for the glue to dry well and paint or cover the strips before assembling, if you prefer a more colorful and uniform look.
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6
Brush a thin layer of white glue on top (it dries glossy) to protect and finish the piece.
Finishing touches
Make a series of three small frames with matching compositions to hang as a group. Taller pieces of tube become borders or organic frames around the piece.
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