How do I arrange old love letters to a photograph?
by
Lisa
+6
Hello, I'm looking for some ideas on how to arrange my grandparents old love letters so that I can take photos and then have them transferred onto large canvases. Since I plan on making at least 6, I'm trying to be creative so they don't all look the same. I have literally over 100 love letters from the late 1930's when my grandfather was in WW2❤️. I've attached 2 collages I've already done to give an idea of what I mean. Many thanks!
What a nice idea. Your picture here looks good. Display their names, endearments, notable pictures, postage and other fun items. To create a difference, maybe add it photo or two (black and white) of them at a different age for each collage. Adding sepia or different, coordinating tones might help.
Hi Lisa - How blessed you are to have this wonderful collection of correspondence of your grandparents.
When I created my mother's family history, I took colored photocopies of my family and letters, post cards, obituaries, family business etc. I made a wood box with a lid and decoupaged the photocopies on the box. No originals were used. I also added cut outs of various trims, buttons, historical related items and attached under decoupaged or , if 3 dimensional, on top of the finished decoupage.
I would have the photos enlarged and off center in the collage. Have it done professionally so the photo doesn't get too pixalated. The photo should be square and have a small off white border as this is how it would have been.
I would not compose the entire piece and have it photocopied as you lose so much depth of character.
Even placing words which are, of course, larger than the writing on the letters would be wonderful, "LOVE" "COMMITTED" and on and on. These would be on "aged" looking paper, not bright white.
I would also let some of the background show of the fabric or whatever you are using for the background. It shouldn't all be filled, leave space.
Research the time period and you can even copy this. It can be places where your grandfather was stationed, picture of their home, pets, babies, etc. Close up of part of your grandfather's uniform, wow what meaning that would have. You simply enlarge the photo and then cut that part out. If he had any medals, please think how this could impact the meaning. Copy that part as it is a wonderful memento of their life.
Wallpaper was very popular during this period and even a wallpaper with florals on it.
You are on a wonderful historical journey.
Wonderful project!
Have a few printed on acetate so that you can see the picture through the love letter. That way the letters can be put into sheet protectors and saved. Or even better have them printed into a book for posterity.