Using Bleach in Mixed Media Art Pieces

I've been experimenting with bleach and various art projects for a few months now, so I thought I would discuss my findings with others who might be interested in trying. I used black craft paper and black construction paper for each of my experiments, but I'm sure any dark colored paper would work well for these projects.

* Bleach pens: these were so much fun! I was able to draw and create details on art pieces with a lot more control that I thought. It was a lot like using markers. And, like with markers, they don't work as well when they start to get older and dryer. Using fresh bleach pens produces the best results in your art pieces.

* Rubber stamping: I loved this experiment because the results varied so much. I got out a saucer and a napkin, then added the bleach. This acted as my stamp pad. Each time I repeated the stamping process, the bleach reacted differently to the paper producing crisp images and faded images on various parts of the paper. For this experiment, I used block stamps.

* Roller stamps: Using the same bleach stamp pad, I rolled the stamp completely and then rolled it on to the paper. The beginning of the design was very stark and it worked its way into a lighter design. I used this to create patterned papers for other projects. I found that the bleach dripped and spattered a lot more than I expected, which lead to my next experiment.

* Mist bottles: Using a spray bottle, I filled it with some bleach that hadn't been diluted. I misted over paper up close, far away and in the middle. I loved the various effects this created and, again, I was able to create patterned paper for other projects. I found the best results when I sprayed, waited for the paper to react and then continued with the next spray. When I sprayed too quickly, I ended up with blotted out spots on the paper that I didn't really care for.

* Paint brush washes: I wanted to see how the paper would react with a paint brush was in certain areas. I created borders around the edges of papers using straight, curved and waved strokes. Because I was expecting the same effect as painting for some reason, I didn't expect the faded look at the end of the brush stroke. I like the overall look of the finished work, though, because it appeared to be sun bleached in some parts and painted in others. It was sort of a mixed media piece without adding the rest of the mixed media elements.

As you can see, there are a lot of opportunities for using bleach in your mixed media art pieces. Once you've achieved what you're looking for, add embellishments, cut the papers up, use them as bases and so on. There's really no limit to what you can do here. My next experiment will be how bleach reacts to book covers and altered books.