A collage piece I created a while back... No scissors used. Just painted some paper different shades and tore.
The reference photo was one that I found on deviantArt but I do not remember what it was as it was about two or three years ago. If anyone knows, please do tell me!
I did it over a course of a few days, so I would guess about 6-8 hours. It would've taken half that time if I hadn't chosen to tear such small pieces for large areas, but I think that would've looked less beautiful in comparison.
I have to agree. It made an absolute difference and am happy you took that extra time to make your piece it's best! It seems to have been well worth the time.