Get Primitive With Collage Fodder
If you’re ready to branch out from your usual routine, this simple fall leaf design project offers a fresh way to use collage fodder as the foundation of a complete design system. Collage fodder typically consists of paper scraps fashioned into familiar shapes or clusters, which are later used as decorative elements. Usually, a batch is made in one sitting and then tucked away for future use. This project takes the concept further, using fodder not just as embellishment, but as inspiration to develop an entire structure for a journal, art piece, or even a commercial project—how far you take it is entirely up to you.
To begin, gather your choice of papers to create the basic leaf fodder along with some drawing tools, base paper, glue, and scissors. Start by cutting strips of varying heights and gluing them onto a base paper like stripes. Accent each edge with markers and add any additional details with a white gel pen or other mediums—there are no strict rules here. You’re essentially creating a kind of totem design. Next, draw leaf shapes onto these striped papers, remembering to include the center vein, and cut them out to form your basic fodder pieces.
Using the same papers, you can then build a larger composition by arranging patterns on a masterboard and incorporating your leaf fodder as a design motif. This masterboard can be cut apart and used to create different pieces of ephemera. If you’re happy with your design, you can scan and print it to make your own custom papers—or even sell the digital designs.
This process is a real time-saver and helps prevent creative frustration. You can reuse leftover papers in your project or scan them to create additional coordinated sets. By doing so, you’ll have a complete collection of matching papers, embellishments, and ephemera ready to use. Once you add your final touches, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind journal or paper project that’s entirely your own.
Happy paper crafting!