How to Decoupage
Decoupage’s appeal is universal, especially if a high level of creativity is mixed with exceptional technique. Making a standard decoupaged structure is easy, but mastering the creation of visually striking and stunning items takes practice. If you know how to construct paper mache structures, you already have an advantage, since decoupage is much like its more complex version. You can even hone your paper mache skills first before proceeding with decoupaging.
The Tools
The number of paper-based items you can use is practically endless. From greeting cards to magazines, you can use any paper item that you can cut and design.
Other necessary items include:
varnish
glue
paintbrushes
scissors
thinner
sandpaper
Don’t forget to bring tons of imagination, since that’s the basis of your design!
What to Do:
Select a good material to decoupage. You can use any item, as long as you can wrap it with your supply of paper. Make sure that the paper and the adhesive will latch on well to your chosen material.
Think of a striking design that will suit the base material perfectly, including the shapes of the paper cutouts. Use your imagination and creativity.
Make cutouts from your supply of paper. Popular choices for cutouts are magazines, newspaper, greeting cards, gift wrappers and made illustrations, though you are free to deviate and experiment.
Arrange the cutouts on the base material according to your design. The arrangement gives you a chance to see how everything fits and if you can apply possible improvements to the design.
When you have settled on the cutouts and the design, apply glue on the base materials and then arrange the cutouts accordingly. Apply the glue using a paintbrush so it is evenly distributed on the surface.
Check for wrinkles and bubbles on the cutouts and then smooth them.
Once done, apply at least five layers of varnish on the cutouts. Let a layer of coating dry before applying the next one.
When the final layer of varnish dries, apply a generous coating of acrylic sealant for your creation’s finish. You can also use a file or sandpaper to completely smooth the finish. Remember, you should only apply light strokes when sanding. You must also sand in one direction so your design won’t get marred.
Aside from the acrylic sealant, you can also use other clear finishes. Just check your design and envision how the finished product will look.
Tear a Page for New Ornaments
Knowing how to decoupage items saves you a trip to the furniture store. Instead of purchasing new items, you can just decoupage your old furniture and give it stunning designs. You can even turn innocent objects into home or office ornaments, if you are quite creative. Clearly, decoupaging is one of your best options for cheap yet stylish decorating.