Decoupage. This is one of those words that sounds so much more exclusive, and complicated than it really is. Though the end results can look very expensive and high end, decoupage is actually very simple. If you can cut and paste paper, congrats, you can decoupage my friend.
A few days ago I started experimenting with this very exciting craft. I must say that I am so happy I tried it. It is so very easy to do....even therapeutic and relaxing. I didn't even use a scissors to cut the paper, I just ripped them up by hand. Oh, and I did it all while watching a movie. Ahhh.....good times.
The first two images are collages I made from magazine pages. More to come!
To Try this, all you need to do is:
1. Glue your choice of decorative paper to a flat surface or object. Could be a piece of furniture, mirror, plate, vase, old suit case, a mannequin and so much more......think outside the box and have fun!
2. You then follow with a coat of glue/decoupage medium to protect the images you glued down. You can use white glue or a decoupage medium like mod podge.
3. When its dry, follow with a coat or two of clear varnish.
Decoupage Tips
Use a Popsicle Stick to help smooth out wrinkles and removed excess glue.
Use a Foam Brush to spread glue onto the item you will decoupage. If you don't have a foam brush, you can use an ordinary paint brush or a cotton swab.
Use Scissors to cut out pictures and other images you will be decoupaging. When cutting pictures with small details, use a utility knife.
Rip paper free hand for a more organic look.
Use Tweezers to help when positioning small pictures.
Keep a Damp Rag/towel nearby to wipe up excess glue and for clean up.
Check for bubbles as your decoupage dries. If one forms, pop it with a pin or utility knife and then smooth it down with your fingers.
Where can I find pictures and images to decoupage?
What I like most about decoupage is that you can actually recycle all of those old magazines and damaged books into something beautiful and meaningful. From your kids doodles....ahem...I mean Art, to perhaps love letters from the husband, this is a great way to preserve and showcase them.
You can also decoupage with:
Catalogs, wrapping paper, wall paper fabric, fabric napkins, greeting cards, post cards, photographs, travel brochures, handbills, programs, garden seed packages, foil covered paper, paper doilies, ribbon, posters, dried flowers, tissue paper, and more. And, as if this isn't enough, you can buy paper specifically made for decoupage. The options are endless.
Here some fabulous decoupage pieces for inspiration. Enjoy!
Photo source unknown
Well, thats all for now. Am off to tear tear up some paper. Cherio!
