How to Make a Digital Collage (Free & Online)
The art of digital collage is creative, fun, and requires relatively less skills compared to other types of digital art – here’s a guide to how you can create digital collages for free.
Creating a digital collage basically means combining various images into a single, cohesive artwork. The process really has two steps – first sourcing the images, then combining them in a creative way.
“Anyone who’s ever put a stamp on an envelope or a note on the refrigerator knows what it’s like to make a collage,” says the artist Elliott Hundley, “there’s no esoteric technique.”
In this tutorial, we'll guide you through the process, using free online resources and tools so you can start creating your own digital collage without any barriers!
In this tutorial we’ll go through the process of creating a digital collage using only free tools online.
Step 1: Sourcing Images
Sourcing is a crucial element of creating stunning digital collage art — keep a photo library of all your inspirations and visuals you like. Old magazines, Pinterest, illustration books will become your best friends. Sourcing images for free is essential for creating digital collages without breaking the bank.
PNGtree
Visit PNGtree: PNGtree is one of the websites that offer a vast array of high-quality images and PNGs that you can download and use for free.
Search for PNGs: Use the search bar to find specific images or browse through categories.
Download: Select the image you like, click on it, and download the free version. Make sure you have an account to access free downloads.
If you’re interested in the PNGtree paid subscription, you can use our coupon code “UE4YZZZX8” for an extra $10 off for the lifetime plan.
Pexels
Visit Pexels: It’s a great website for free stock photos, royalty free images and videos
Search for Photos: Enter keywords related to your collage theme in the search bar.
Download: Click on the photo you want, then click the download button.
AI Images
Use AI Image Generators: Use word-to-image generators to create unique images.
Generate Images: Follow the website's instructions to generate images based on your prompts.
Download: Save the generated images to your computer.
Your Own Photos
Select Photos: Choose the photos you want to include in your collage from your personal collection.
Scan Photos: If you’re interested in using old family photos or postcard collections in your collages, you can use a service like ScanMyPhotos for bulk digitizing of files.
Upload to Your Computer: Transfer the photos to your computer if they are not already there.
If you’re interested in ScanMyPhotos services, you can use our coupon code “SMP25” for 25% off.
Remove Background
To remove the unwanted background in your images, this website is my favorite – it’s free and easy to use.
Step 2: Collaging with Pixlr
Pixlr is a great option for those who’d like to experiment with digital collage without becoming a paid subscriber of a software. Pixlr is a free photo editing and design tool that uses AI. Creatives can edit photos and create stunning designs in their browsers, on their phones, or desktops for free.
Setting Up Pixlr
Visit Pixlr
Click on "Create New" and set your canvas size.
Adding Images
Upload Images: Click on "Layer" > "Add Image as Layer" and select your images.
Arrange Images: Drag and drop the images to position them on the canvas. Use the transform tools to resize and rotate as needed.
Editing and Enhancing
Adjustments: Use the adjustment tools (brightness, contrast, saturation) to enhance your images.
Filters and Effects: Apply filters and effects to give your collage a unique look.
Layer Masking: Use layer masks to blend images seamlessly.
Tip: Make use of the digital — play with layers, colors, and textures of the images. You simply can’t make an object double or transparent when you work analog, so make use of what’s available via digital tools!
Finalizing Your Collage
Review and Adjust: Make any final adjustments to your collage.
Save Your Work: Click on "File" > "Save" and choose your preferred format (JPEG, PNG).
Alternatively, Collaging with Canva
Canva offers one of the best free online graphic design tools around, and digital collage artists make use of Canva's enormous selection of effects, filters, fonts, shapes and more. The basic package is free, but there are paid plans available for those who want access to more features, templates, and stock images and illustrations.
Setting Up Canva
Visit Canva
Create an Account: Sign up for a free account if you don't have one.
Create a Design: Click on "Create a design" and choose "Custom size" to set your canvas dimensions.
Adding Images
Upload Images: Click on "Uploads" > "Upload media" and select your images.
Canva also offers free background images, elements, and AI images (“Magic Media”) that you can include in your collages
Arrange Images: Drag and drop the images onto the canvas. Use the handles to resize and rotate.
Editing and Enhancing
Adjustments: Click on an image and use the adjustment sliders (brightness, contrast, saturation) to enhance it.
Filters and Effects: Apply filters and effects from the "Edit image" menu.
Elements and Text: Add shapes, lines, and text to enhance your collage.
Finalizing Your Collage
Review and Adjust: Make any final tweaks to your collage.
Download: Click on the "Download" button and choose your preferred format (JPEG, PNG).
By following these steps, you can create beautiful digital collages using free online resources and tools. Be sure to experiment with different images and effects to make your collage unique. And, share your digital collages with us for a chance to get featured in Digital Arts Blog. Happy collaging!
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