Make a collage vase

Simple but effective collaging activity to decorate your own unique vase using simple drawings and magazine cuttings.

2 finished collage vases, the left one is filled with colourful straws and the one on the right has some greenery and a red flower in it.

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.

Who is this for?

This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a creative activity that helps people explore and expand their creative choices while supporting independence in the activity.

How to do this activity

What you’ll need

  • A smooth-surfaced, clean jar (or large plastic yoghurt pot),
  • Plain and coloured paper, magazine or newspaper clippings
  • Scissors
  • PVA glue and glue spreader (or paintbrush)
  • Coloured pencils or pens.
Applying glue to the back of a leaf with brush

Step 1

Cut out and gather images you find interesting from old magazines, papers, gift-wrap or make simple shapes from coloured paper. You could also make some simple drawings, e.g., leaf shapes.

Step 2

Place the jar on your work surface in front of you. Take a paper image, turn it over and cover the back in craft glue.
Applying a leaf to the side of a jar

Step 3

Starting from the bottom up, adhere the paper image to the jar or large yoghurt pot making sure all the edges are smoothed down. Don’t worry if the glue is visible, it will dry clear. Repeat the process, slightly overlapping images as you build your design and smoothing the paper down as you go.
A finished jar on the left covered in black and white shapes and a blue leaf on the front. A piece of paper on the table also reads “To a young heart, everything is fun”

Step 4

Turn your jar upside down so it is resting on the opening. Check that all pieces of paper are securely adhered and then give the whole collaged section a coat of craft glue, ensuring the whole design is covered. The glue will act as a water-resistant varnish.
2 finished collage vases, the left one is filled with colourful straws and the one on the right has some greenery and a red flower in it.

Step 5

Leave the jar to dry in a warm place overnight. Should any pieces come away in the drying process, simply re-glue and leave to dry again. Take care when washing your jar as the outside will be water-resistant only but will not be able to be placed into water.

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