Hibernating with Mixed Media Art

mixed media book with printed and coffee dyed papers

This winter, I’ve been in full hibernation mode – not in the “hibernate and binge-watch every TV series known to humankind” kind of way (though, let’s be honest, there may have been a few cosy movie nights curled up with the dog in there), but in the creative, cocooning kind of way with mixed media art.

Paint and Paper

While the world outside shivered, I curled up in my creative cave with paint, paper and glue. Winter became my excuse to slow down, layer textures, splash colours, and get delightfully messy with mixed media. My little corner became my happy place. Jars of brushes ready to go, scraps of paper waiting to be collaged, paint-splattered pages drying in uneven piles. Once I sat down, the rest of the world faded away.

New journal with beaded spine and fabric cover

Diving into Mixed Media Magic

This season was all about mixed media magic – layering paints, tearing and gluing papers, stamping, stencilling, and letting a bit of vintage charm creep in with old book pages, lace trims, and coffee-dyed paper. Every so often, a bead or button would sneak in for a surprise sparkle.

There’s something about winter that seems to make creativity feel deeper. The slower pace gives me permission to linger over a piece without rushing to finish. I can build up layers over days, letting paint dry naturally, watching colours shift as they settle. Some projects have been full of bold, bright energy – little rebellions against grey skies – while others have been softer and moodier, reflecting the quiet, introspective nature of the season.

Playing with New Techniques and Happy Accidents

Hibernating has also given me time to explore new techniques. I’ve tried gel prints, playing with texture pastes, and creating layered backgrounds. I’ve rediscovered the joy of making “happy accidents” – those unplanned moments where paint runs in the wrong direction, or glue leaves an unexpected mark, but somehow it makes the piece even better.

I found a love of grids, watercolour backgrounds with black and white pens, creating Zentology tangles

Ready to Emerge: Spring is on Its Way

Now spring is tiptoeing in. Tiny buds on branches, a little warmth in the breeze – and I’m ready to step out of my creative cave. I’ve got a stack of finished work, including three new journals and a head full of ideas, and (let’s be real) paint permanently under my nails.

Ai backgrounds, collage, hidden pockets and a belly band with tags

The best part? I’m carrying that slow, easy creative rhythm into the new season. Winter wasn’t just about keeping warm – it gave me the space to play, experiment, and let my art grow naturally. Here’s to winter for the quiet magic, and to spring for the chance to share it all.

Watercolour, over gesso with texture paste and collage

MixedMediaArt #ArtJournaling #CreativeLife #HandmadeArt #CollageArt #ArtOfTheDay #CreateEveryday #ArtIsTherapy

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© Bevlea Ross