Decoupage is a fun and easy craft medium, and projects can be completed in an afternoon. With just a few tools required, decoupage is also less expensive than other kinds of craft projects.
Simply defined, decoupage is the art of cutting out designs from paper or other flat material, then applying in a decorative pattern to a surface and coating with lacquer or glue.
Required Tools and Materials
Decoupage medium or PVA glue
One of the most well-known decoupage mediums is Mod Podge brand. Several formulas are available including matte, glossy, satin, hardcoat, outdoor, and more. Visit your craft store for more decoupage brands and choices.
PVA glue can be used. Also known as white glue, it must be watered down for use in decoupage. Three parts glue to one part water is a good formula to start with.
Brush
A regular craft brush works well for decoupage. To diminish brush strokes, use a foam brush, or do what Rosie O'Donnell does and just use your fingers.
Cutting Tool
Traditional decoupage requires small sharp scissors for very fine cutting. A craft knife can be used to cut inside images, but be sure to use a cutting mat underneath so you do not damage your work surface. Some use embroidery scissors.
Images
Some companies produce paper especially for decoupage use, but other sources work as well. Try scrapbook paper, wrapping paper, magazines, old textbooks, maps, doilies, ticket stubs, and anything other source you can think of.
Object or surface
Decoupage can be applied to nearly any type of object or surface. Some ideas are picture frames, wooden boxes, tables, bookcases, dressers, egg shells, jewelry, flower pots, doors, scrapbook covers, countertops, stones, candle holders, plates, magazine holders, metal lunchboxes, masks, wooden dolls, holiday ornaments, and more.
Additional Tools and Materials
Acrylic Paints
Certain items such as furniture, wooden boxes or picture frames may need a coat of acrylic paint prior to decoupaging.
Tweezers
Small decoupage cutouts can be difficult to pick up with fingers and sometimes require precise placement on the item you are decoupaging.
Brayer
A brayer is simply a roller with a handle that can be used to flatten an image or to remove air bubbles.
Fine Grit Sandpaper
For the most professional results, lightly sand item between each layer of dried medium and wipe clean.
Varnish or Lacquer
For the most professional result, complete your decoupage project with several coats of varnish, especially if it will receive lots of use such as furniture. Varnish comes in water based and oil based formulas.
Lacquer comes in a spray can and may be preferable for furniture or other large items.
Decoupage is easy, enjoyable, and requires only a few tools to get started.
If you love to make crafts, but can't seem to find time, find your craft supplies, find your budget, or find your way to crafty fulfillment, read Melody Jones' "The Craft Lover's Success Guide: Simple Ways to Nurture Your Creativity and Actually Finish Your Projects" available at http://www.mycraftebooks.com. All customers receive her free bonus ebook "Simple Craft Projects to Get You Started."
Not only will you learn key steps for finding time, you'll also learn how to organize your craft supplies and stay organized even if you are a pack rat, how to craft on a budget, ways to find new craft project ideas and inspiration, and resources and ideas for learning new crafts.
No comments:
Post a Comment