Preparing a Painting Background

I've had a few questions about the painting backgrounds I prepare, so I thought I'd take some step-by-step photos as I play with a new one here. At first, I cut out papers I like (these are from scrapbook pads, but you can use anything you like) and sort of arrange them on the page.

Because I don't sketch out my image before I start, I don't plan where I adhere the paper. I just sort of arrange it as I like it. I took the picture above and then decided to add another couple of pieces.
Then, I put a large piece of cardboard over top of my watercolor block and flipped the papers over. That gives me an idea of how I had them arranged. The flip side looks interesting, too...
I then take the Golden Soft Gel (Matte) medium and cover the watercolor paper and start gluing on the different pieces of paper (watch out for air bubbles), making sure I also go over them with the glue so that everything is completely covered by the end. That gives this layer a nice protective cover and won't allow the paints to seep into the paper. That will help to preserve the color if I decide to let it come through later on.
When I had it all done, I added yet two more pieces of paper and then it looked balanced to me. I was thinking how funny it is that I take such joy in selecting and arranging the paper even though when the painting is all done, you may not see any of it anymore. But I guess I still know it's there...
After I let that dry thoroughly, I crumpled up tissue paper and applied a layer of that over the pretty papers. I love the muted look and also the texture I get from the tissue paper. This time, I had used up all my gel medium, so I used Matte Modge Podge, which is a sealant and glue and works quite well for this. It's a little more liquid and sometimes easier to handle, especially with delicate papers.
As I keep taking pictures, you'll see that I work additive as well as subtractive. Here, I decided to take a few corners of the tissue paper and tear it away to allow a nice contrast between the muted, covered papers and the brightly colored ones. I like that - it'll make for a nice effect and great texture when I start adding paint.
That's how far I got today. I hope you find this interesting. I should say that I don't have anything in mind for this painting, I'm simply going with the flow and doing what I feel inspired to do. Next, I'll apply some color. Stay tuned...