
Does the idea of creating a grunge background make you feel a little like a rebel?
For me, the idea of being able to create a grunge background that is raw, textured and industrial looking really turns my crank. I love it because it’s so random, yet planned. Rarely can I replicate the look because it’s created out of a feeling. When I create a project like this on camera, the look is different than a grunge background created off camera. On camera, I”m focused on technique and not the feeling…except now.
The background I created here has got to be one of my favourites because it can be used for so many different things. Here is a very small list of what you can use this grunge background for:
- for a painted portrait of people or even animals
- as a base for artist trading cards (atcs), postcards or art mini’s
- backing for mixed media art
- a formal background for stenciled or handpainted quotes or inspiration messages
Grunge Background
Background Type:
- Anything that will accept acrylic paint that is sturdy.
- Gesso demo is on plain cardboard
Palette: DecoArt Dazzling Metallics
- Worn Penny – DA287
- Dark Patina – DA248
- Black Pearl – DA127
Prep and Mediums
- DecoArt Media White Gesso – DMM18
- DecoArt Media White Modeling Paste – DMM21
Accessories
- DecoArt Application and Texture Tools – DAS221
Found Items
- Rubber or Cling Stamps
- Bubble Wrap
- Paper Towel/Wax Paper Inner Core Tube
- Fun Foam
Brushes: Royal Aqualon
- 1/2″ & 3/4″ Glaze Wash – R2700
- #10 Shader – R2150
General Supplies:
- Royal Brush Square Brush Basin – RD325
- Royal Essentials Palette Paper – RD358
- Unstick Reusable Arts and Crafts Sheet
- Mister Bottle Filled with Water
- Paper Towels
- Baby Wipes, Kitchen Wipes or Kitchen cloths (for dry rub application)
- Heat Gun
Manufacturers
- DecoArt – DecoArt.com
- Royal Brush – RoyalBrush.com
- Unstick – Unstick.ca
Think you might try this?
If you’ve never tried creating a grunge background before, do you think this project might give you some ideas on how you and use it with your currently style of art? If you’ve creating a grunge background before, what’s your favourite colour combination. Either way, please share your comments below.