This article will explain how decoupage professionals and hobbyists use everyday tools and materials to perform the three basic tasks of their magical craft: cutting, pasting, and varnishing.
Cutting is one of the two decoupage fundamentals. And the basic tool for this is a good, sharp pair of scissors. Ideally you should have a pair of scissors devoted only to decoupage so that they will stay sharp and clean. (A seasoned hobbyist's trick of the trade is to keep your decoupage scissors sharp by letting them slice through a sheet of sand paper once and a while.)
Although scissors are the main cutting tool, most hobbyists also include a craft knife as part of their decoupage tool box. Craft knives can trim and shape the complicated boundaries and details where the dual blades of yours scissors run into trouble. To allow your craft knife to cut laser straight segments you'll also need a metal ruler, and whenever performing these and other cuts, use a cutting mat to protect the smooth surface of your decoupage work area.
Decoupage pros and hobbyists also use a group of tools for applying and cleaning glue and varnish. Although some decoupage practitioners prefer paintbrushes, most hobbyists find cotton swabs or buds the best and least expensive choice for applying glue in decoupage. Paint brushes--no matter how small or well made--lack precision, create messes and are a nightmare to wash off and maintain. Keep a small, wet square of cloth at your work area for removing the stray blobs and dribbles of glue that are the inevitable occupational hazard of decoupage.
An assortment of other tools also comes in handy when detailing your decoupage projects. Tweezers, for example, are essential for grasping miniature cuts. A craft roller is the professional's choice for eradicating air bubbles and flattening edges, although many amateurs swear by the more down to earth Popsicle stick for these tasks.
There is no great secret to choosing a good glue for decoupage, plain white glue (PVA or polyvinyl acetate) will do for most projects. But if you're just getting started you may want to choose a decoupage glue that sets more slowly so that you can position your cuttings with greater precision.
All varnishes, on the other hand, are not the same. You'll want get both a water and an oil based varnish. Ideal for complementing bright colors and for use on wood and glass surfaces, water-based varnishes dry quickly to form somewhat scratch and heat resistant coatings. Oil based varnishes tinge their surfaces yellow, endowing warm colors with that steadfast look of antique furniture. When using oil-based varnish you may want to go to the extra expense of a spray since this method of application goes on more easily and dries more quickly.
As you become a more sophisticated decoupage artist, you will develop your own set of preferences and idiosyncrasies when it comes to the tools of your craft, and these will help define and develop your unique and individualized style.
Karen
Decoupage Your Life
For more information on Decoupage including a free 10 day mini-course packed with tons of great tips, tricks and hint, Please visit http://www.decoupageyourlife.com
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