Adhesives and Longevity: How I Make My Original Collages Last

When I sell an original paper collage, the last thing I want to worry about is if it will last for the next 100 years in someone’s home. Once I began making serious, original collages, and selling in a professional way, I did as much research as I could to ensure I was creating archival, long-lasting pieces that remain vibrant and true over time.

For years, I used whatever adhesive I had on hand and thought Mod Podge was perfectly fine. And it is—if you’re crafting, or a hobbyist. But one day, when I was flipping through old collages, I noticed yellow streaks from the glue I had used and realized I had to make a change. Enter Yes! Paste—an all-purpose, acid-free, water-based adhesive designed for archival paper collage and craft projects. Since then, I’ve used this glue for all of my pieces, and it’s one less thing I have to worry about.

Years ago, during a phase of making small, painted, wooden boxes with fairy imagery (these sold out immediately!), I discovered a versatile, paint-on varnish that I’ve been using ever since. Varnish may not be glamorous, but it is essential. Before I ship a collage, I apply several, thin, clear coats of non-yellowing, matte polyurethane varnish, forming a tough, flexible finish that dries quickly and protects the work.

Even though my collages are mostly paper-based, I use quite a bit of paint when I blend imagery, and the varnish is key to preserving all the time and care I put into perfecting each composition. It’s these small steps—thoughtful adhesives, careful layering, and protective finishes—that ensure every piece arrives safely and maintains its original beauty for years to come.

I'm Libby Saylor, a Philadelphia-based collage artist specializing in small and mid-sized collage works on paper—available as prints and originals in the shop.