Examples of how this activity can help me:

I want to be more aware of what I can do to boost my mood.

Length:

30 minutes - 1 hour. How long it'll take depends on how many 'ingredients' will be illustrated, and if unique collage papers are being created or not.  Remember it’s a good idea when doing a creative exercise to have a break from it and come back to it with fresh eyes.

Who can I do this activity with?


On my own or with others.


Where can I do this activity?



Indoors - at a table.

How often can I do this activity?

Create a Recipe For a Good Mood collage for myself or loved ones. This can make a great card for any occasion (That's if an excuse is needed!)

What do I need?

Steps 1-4:

• Written recipe
• Plain blank paper
• Pencil or pen
• A colour magazine
• Coloured pencils – Optional
• Glue – A glue stick is adequate for the early steps, but later a stronger glue such as PVA or a contact adhesive is needed
• Scissors

For the collage – Steps 5-8:

• Glue – PVA is a good one to use or a contact adhesive
• Glue spreader
• Thin card for templates
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Baby wipes/damp cloth
• Cling film – Optional
• A heavy book
• Stiff coloured card for a background (A4 or A3)
• A selection of collage materials. 
Some of these collage materials could be hand-decorated papers. Read about ways of creating unique collage papers here. Special craft papers and materials can be bought online or in local craft shops.
  Collect and use recycled materials such as magazines, newspapers, flyers, junk mail

Did you know?

Colours are often associated with certain feelings or moods.
  We all experience moods in our own way and we all see colours differently and feel their effects differently too. By surrounding ourselves with colours that we know make us feel good, we can improve our wellbeing.

Send the above images as e-cards to friends or family.