Option #1: Scribble!!
Option #2: Background Options
Focus on Words or Text: Fill the background will various colors of text from magazines. Be sure to unify it by the way you lay them out or the size of the words/letters you use.
Create Pattern: Use the magazines to create some sort of pattern. This can add movement to your background. (Try to think of similar colors within your pattern to unify the piece. | Monochromatic or Ombre magazine background: Use the same color throughout your background OR go from one value of that color to another. |
Take your magazine collage a step further by putting a layer of Gesso overtop. This will be translucent and have enough of a tooth that you can do a watercolor wash overtop to unify your color scheme.
Create a 3D textured effect with design or pattern using colored paper strips and paper quilling techniques in the background.
Coffee Filter + Magic Marker + water= Bleeding magic!! This is awesome, you should totally try it! | Tissue Paper Patterns: Cut tissue paper into similar shapes to create background patterns. This works best if you stick with a similar color scheme throughout. |
Recycled Plastic Bags: Scrounge up some plastic bags in various colors for a beautiful textured background. | Map Collage: Use maps to create a collage in the background. |