This mixed media floral page is all about experimentation, layered texture, and trusting your instincts. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a textured art journal background using Distress Oxide sprays and resist, then layer a bold, expressive flower using acrylic paint and archival ink. This project is ideal for beginners and experienced artists alike!
Prep your art journal page by taping off the edges with painter’s tape. Begin by placing a circular stencil over the page and spraying a resist medium through it. This creates areas that will repel color later. Dry with a heat tool.
Next, layer your Distress Oxide sprays directly over the page. Use a mix of greens, yellows, and teals for a vibrant, nature-inspired background. Let the colors overlap and blend naturally.
Blot lightly with a towel if needed to soften the intensity. The resist will reveal lighter shapes while the surrounding areas absorb color, creating depth and texture. Before moving forward, dry your page thoroughly using a heat tool or air dry.
Using a Sharpie or permanent pen, draw a large circle for the center of your flower and sketch out petal shapes around it.
The goal is to create a large, bold floral composition that works with the background rather than covering it completely.
Now bring your flower to life using highly pigmented acrylic paint. Fill in the petals with cobalt turquoise or similar shades. Allow some of the background to peek through for a layered effect.
You can mix in touches of gold or lighter tones for added variation. Focus on building texture with your brushstrokes rather than smoothing everything out.
Use archival ink and a stencil brush to add shading around the petals and especially near the center of the flower.
Start with teal tones, then deepen with black to create contrast and dimension. This step helps your flower stand out from the busy background.
Using a Pentel pen or liner brush, go back over your flower to define edges and add movement.
Vary your line weight by adjusting pressure. This creates a more dynamic, hand-drawn feel and enhances the overall composition.
Paint or draw a simple stem to ground your flower so it doesn’t appear to float. Then use archival ink around the edges of the page to create a soft vignette. This frames your artwork and enhances contrast without overwhelming the design.
Because Distress Oxide sprays are water-soluble, sealing is essential. First, apply a workable fixative spray in a well-ventilated area to lock in the background layers.
Once dry, brush on a satin varnish like DuraClear to protect the surface and add a subtle sheen without flattening the texture.
Finish your piece by adding small details like:
- Tiny red hearts
- Extra line work
- Subtle highlights
Remove your painter’s tape carefully at a 45-degree angle and sign your artwork.
Watch the replay below!
Thank you for joining in on the creative fun. Join us LIVE every Wednesday at 5:30 pm PST on Facebook at Tracy Weinzapfel Studios.
Join the waitlist for Your Artful Journey! This is my exclusive creative membership where you can explore the world of art journaling! Join a community of support and inspiration with interactive art sessions full of tips and tricks, conversation, Q & As, and most of all, FUN!
Supply List:
- Fabriano or Grumbacher 7 X 10 Watercolor Journal
- Painter’s Tape
- Stencil: Circle Duo
- Distress Oxide Spray: Peacock Feathers, Mustard Seed, Candied Apple
- Distress Resist Spray
- Archival Ink: Jet Black & Mermaid Lagoon
- Brushes: Tracy Weinzapfel Sets
- Pen: Pentel Brush Pen
- Twin Tip Sharpie
- Liner Brush: Micron 10/0 X Long Liner Brush
Check out Tracy’s Art Journal Starter Kit!
Tracy’s Resources Page and visit Tracy’s Shop