Decoupage Paper For Furniture Uk? Top 23 Best Answers

The fancy French word decoupage refers to simply sticking paper or fabric cut-outs onto an object. The results can be magical; Once painted, the glued-on design looks as if it has been inlaid. People have been experimenting with decoupage for hundreds of years, and in skilled hands it is truly an art form. But with just a few inexpensive, easy-to-obtain materials—and a willingness to be patient—even a beginner can create a masterpiece.

Step 1

The first step of any decoupage project is to prepare the object you want to transform. Repair any surface imperfections – be they scratches, dents, or real holes – and sand the object to a smooth surface, if applicable for the material you are working with. Then clean thoroughly and allow to dry completely.

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step 2

Gather the paper or fabric you will be using in your decoupage. Choose anything as long as it’s flat and flexible: tickets to places you love, theater tickets with sentimental value, or even pieces of a beloved old dress. You don’t have to use scissors or a dull knife—snapping is fine—but cutting is recommended for a seamless look. The same goes for dry fitting the cutouts to see where they work best on the object’s surface.

step 3

Using a brush, apply a thin layer of decoupage medium (e.g. Mod Podge) to the object to be covered. Next, place the first piece of paper on top of the object and gently smooth it out with your fingers to remove any creases or air bubbles. When finished, apply another thin layer of decoupage medium to the paper and allow both layers to dry completely and undisturbed.

step 4

In order to preserve the work, especially if you expect the object to get wet, it is advisable to seal it with either varnish or polyurethane. Before doing this, gently polish the decoupage surface with steel wool and then clean it with a damp cloth. Once it has dried, proceed to applying the sealer. If you want your design to look like it was painted on, repeat the buffing, cleaning and sealing process as many times as necessary to achieve the look you want.

Almost any piece of furniture or interior accent can be updated with decoupage. A glass vase decoupled with tissue paper suddenly shimmers ethereally, while clay pots covered in fun Sunday papers become delightfully playful. Fair warning, once you master this technique, you might love it so much you’ll want to decoupage EVERYTHING!

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Would you like to learn how to decoupage properly? This tutorial shows you the seven most important steps to correct mod podging!

Don’t forget to scroll to the bottom of the post for a video showing you the basics of applying paper to wood. It will help you start your decoupage journey on the right foot.

Do you want to be a perfect mod podger? Who doesn’t want to learn decoupage and be great at it, I ask! I’ve been into decoupage for a long time and have a tried and true method that I want to share with you.

Here are the seven steps I always take to achieve perfect mod podging every time. If you want to learn how to decoupage properly, read on. . . and scroll down for a great video!

What is decoupage?

Before you begin, you may be wondering – what is decoupage? I use the word in two ways. I use it as a noun with the Wikipedia definition: “is the art of decorating an object by sticking colored paper cut-outs on it, in combination with special color effects, gold leaf and so on.” Mod Podge is a glue that you use to decoupage be able!

And I also use “decoupage” as a verb. . . like “decoupage paper onto a surface”. With the Podge of course!

Like decoupage

STEP ONE: Prepare your surface

Before you begin, you should make sure your project surface is ready. Clean your items or sand them down with a damp cloth.

Almost any surface can be used to create a decoupage project. Suitable surfaces include wood, paper mache, terracotta, pewter, cardboard and glass.

Only SOME plastics are suitable for decoupage – I recommend testing a small area before completing your entire project to ensure the Mod Podge will adhere.

Optional: Prime your surface with acrylic paint. Many items will need to be primed before decoupage if your surface is not finished. I recommend FolkArt, Apple Barrel, or Martha Stewart acrylic paints.

STEP TWO: Select your Mod Podge formula

If you’re unsure of what to pick, that’s totally understandable – that’s why I wrote this Mod Podge formula guide for you to check out. It explains everything.

STEP THREE: Prepare project surfaces

Here are a few tips to know before you start:

Fabric – Wash and dry fabric (do not use fabric softener). Iron (if necessary) and then lay out on a covered work surface. Wax paper is preferable for covering your table. Using a brush, paint a thin coat of Fabric Mod Podge onto your fabric. Let dry. This allows you to cut the fabric like paper without frayed edges.

– Wash and dry fabric (do not use fabric softener). Iron (if necessary) and then lay out on a covered work surface. Wax paper is preferable for covering your table. Using a brush, paint a thin coat of Fabric Mod Podge onto your fabric. Let dry. This allows you to cut the fabric like paper without frayed edges. Paper – Most items, especially thicker papers and scrapbook papers, are ready to use with Mod Podge. When working with thinner sheets of scrapbook paper or inkjet prints, it can be helpful to spray your paper with a clear acrylic sealer before mod podging. Spray on both sides and let dry before use.

– Most items, especially thicker papers and scrapbook papers, are ready to use with Mod Podge. When working with thinner sheets of scrapbook paper or inkjet prints, it can be helpful to spray your paper with a clear acrylic sealer before mod podging. Spray on both sides and let dry before use. Tissue Paper – There is nothing you need to do to prepare tissue paper, but just know that making mod podge without wrinkles is very difficult because the tissue is so thin. The good news is that creases are typically part of the charm of using tissue paper and add a bit of character to your surface. Mod Podge tissue paper carefully so as not to tear it.

Cut out your paper or whatever you want to decoupage. Experiment with design elements to determine the layout of your piece.

Add interest to your design by using large and small pieces, layering and overlapping elements, and coordinating colors.

STEP FOUR: Cut items to fit your surface

Measure with a ruler and pencil as needed and trim your items to fit. You’ll be much happier if you trim everything to fit before mod podging rather than after.

STEP FIVE: Glue each element with decoupage medium

Always start with the underlying design elements and work your way up (when layering). Apply a thin to medium layer of decoupage medium to the surface.

Mod Podge dries

Too little Mod Podge and you’ll wrinkle – and you can always wipe away excess Mod Podge. Place your item(s) on the Mod Podge for decoupage and proceed to step six.

STEP SIX: Smooth, smooth, smooth

Keep smoothing until all the bubbles are gone. Then, AND THIS IS IMPORTANT, allow your project to dry for 15-20 minutes. Don’t apply a top coat right away.

Tip for working with large pieces: smooth out from the center. Air bubbles can be removed with the Mod Podge Tool Set. Use the squeegee on smaller items like trays – it’s specially designed to get into corners. Use a brayer for larger items like furniture.

STEP SEVEN: Add a protective layer to the project using a flat or foam brush

Let dry and then repeat. The number of coats you are done with is up to you, but we recommend at least two.

When you’re done, if you notice any stickiness or just want to add durability, add a clear spray or sealer to apply to the top. Let it dry and you’re done!

ADDITIONAL FINISHIPP: For a very smooth finish, dampen a piece of 400 grit sandpaper with water and sand lightly between coats. Wipe dry and buff with #0000 steel wool on the last coat.

More information about decoupage and frequently asked questions can be found here! And if you want to try over 400 decoupage projects, here is my project gallery.

Skip to content Yield: 1 project Printing Decoupage Want to learn how to decoupage the right way? This tutorial shows you the seven most important steps to correct mod podging! Prep Time 10 minutes Active Time 20 minutes Total Time 30 minutes Difficulty Easy Estimated Cost $5 Materials Surface

Mod Podge

scrapbook paper or fabric

Acrylic paint (optional) Tools Brush

scissors

ruler

pencil

Craft knife and mat (optional) Instructions Prepare your surface. Almost any surface can be used to create a decoupage project. Suitable surfaces include wood, paper mache, terracotta, pewter, cardboard and glass. Optional: Prime your surface with acrylic paint. Choose your Mod Podge formula. Prepare items to be mod poded. Cut out the paper or whatever you want to decoupage. Experiment with design elements to determine the layout of the piece. Cut items to fit the surface. Measure with a ruler and pencil as needed and trim the pieces to fit. Glue each element with your Mod Podge. Always start with the underlying design elements and work your way up (when layering). Apply a medium coat of Mod Podge to the surface. Smooth, smooth, smooth. Continue smoothing until all bubbles are removed. Then, AND THIS IS IMPORTANT, allow the project to dry for 15-20 minutes. Do not immediately apply a top coat. Using a sponge or flat brush, add a protective layer of Mod Podge to the project. Let dry and then repeat. Allow to dry before use. Notes Only SOME plastics are suitable for decoupage – I recommend testing a small area before completing your entire project to ensure the Mod Podge will adhere. Did you do this project? Please leave a review or share a photo on Pinterest!

Ready to get your head around decoupage? Here are the basic steps for applying paper to wood with Mod Podge. Listen! Just press “PLAY” in the middle of the video.

× Expand 1 of 2 photo of Sarah Walor After × Expand 2 of 2 photo of Sarah Walor Before Previous Next

If you love dramatic “before and afters,” then this project is for you. Adding decorative paper to a piece of furniture is a great way to bring bold colors and patterns into your home without a lot of commitment.

Accessories you will need:

• Piece of furniture made of wood

• Sandpaper

• Primer

• Colour

• Paint brush

• X-acto knife

• Metal ruler

• Scissors

• Decorative paper (wrapping paper, wallpaper or old maps)

• Mod Podge

• Foam brush

• Polyurethane

Instructions:

1. Choose a piece of furniture The easiest way is to add paper in a defined place with straight edges. Door panels are a good beginner project.

2. Prepare the furniture You will probably need to paint your furniture to match your paper. Sand the wood and fill in any nicks or holes with wood spatula. Next, apply a coat of primer, then two to three coats of your chosen paint color. Also paint the sections you want to add paper to. Note that when using light paper and dark paint, some of the paint may show through the paper when applied.

3. Measure the Paper You can use a ruler to measure the size of your paper panels, but I find it easier to place the paper directly on my piece of furniture and run your finger over the sharp edges of the furniture to make an impression to make the paper on it. I slide my finger all the way around the rectangle and then I have an indented line showing exactly where I need to cut.

4. Cut the paper. You can use an X-Acto knife with a metal ruler or scissors – whichever you’re more comfortable with. If you want a super straight line, an X-Acto knife will make for a more precise cut.

5. Attach the paper to the furniture. Using a foam brush, brush an even coat of Mod Podge onto your furniture. Then quickly place the paper on top. You’ll need to buff the paper to ensure it adheres well – do this by rubbing the edge of a credit card all over the paper while applying pressure. Consider the thickness of your paper. The thinner it is, the more sensitive it becomes.

6. Seal the paper and protect your furniture. Brush a layer of polyurethane over the entire piece of furniture, paper and everything to protect your piece.

If your furniture still isn’t fancy enough, consider adding new hardware. New drawer handles can make all the difference. I also added feet to my closet to raise it off the floor. And don’t forget to take a “before” photo so you can see the dramatic transformation you’ve created!

Karen Guard is the blogger behind Darling Octopus (darlingoctopus.com). In every issue she tackles a new do-it-yourself project for R•Home.

Would you like to learn how to decoupage on wood with perfect results every time? This tutorial provides expert tips for using Mod Podge on wood using a real-world example.

Join me as I show you how to decorate a plain wooden tissue box with decoupage! Are you feeling fancy yet?

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Please see my information for more information.

Decoupage on wood – video tutorial

For a quick start guide to a simple decoupage project, click the image above to watch my YouTube tutorial.

What does “decoupage” mean on wood?

Decoupage comes from the French word “decouper” which means “to cut out”. In the 1600s, French artists began applying images to furniture as a decorative adornment.

Even today you can find a beautiful piece of furniture or a table top decorated with a decoupage technique. It’s one of the easiest ways to personalize a raw piece of wood or enhance a finished piece. Also, you can find almost all of the materials at your local craft store.

Decoupage is not just for wood as you will see in my other decoupage projects, but the preparation steps differ due to the texture and grain of the surface.

Decoupage on wood compared to other surfaces

There are a few things to keep in mind when using a decoupage medium (aka glue) for woodcrafts.

Sanding: Before decoupage, you need to sand the surface lightly to make it as smooth as possible and avoid air bubbles. For larger objects like a piece of furniture, use a hand sander to strip down the surface. Otherwise, say au revoir to your decoupage masterpiece as it will chip over time. Painting: Most crafters paint their wood pieces before applying a decoupage medium like Mod Podge. I recommend using an acrylic paint or primer to coat the surface.

Phew, now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s talk about choosing the decorative part of your decoupage project.

Decoupage materials for wooden surfaces

In my video tutorial and written instructions below, I show how to create decoupage using napkins and scrapbook paper. If that’s not your thing, try these other lovely options.

fabrics

Special decoupage paper

Handkerchief

Laser printed photos (no inkjet printers as they bleed)

Wrapping paper

newspaper

Grades

Pressed petals

Types of decoupage glue for use on wood

In most of my tutorials I stick with the matte Mod Podge as the decoupage glue because I like its versatility. However, there is a decoupage medium for every man, woman and child out there.

Matte: Flat finish perfect for decoupage on wood with napkins or scrapbook paper

Flat Finish Perfect for Decoupage on Wood with Napkin or Scrapbook Paper Hard Coat or Furniture: Ideal for furniture projects or heavy use items that require a strong and durable finish

Ideal for furniture projects or heavy-duty items that require a strong and durable finish. Satin: Similar to a matte finish, a great option for furniture projects to achieve the “painted” effect

Similar to matte finish, great option for furniture projects to get the “painted” effect Glossy: Glossy finish, good option for photo transfer decoupage

Glossy finish, good option for photo transfer decoupage. Outdoor: Perfect for any project that will be exposed to the elements (think clay pots).

Perfect for any project that will be exposed to the elements (think clay pots).

There are a number of other types of sheen, sheen, and color that I’ll cover in a future post. In the following tutorial, I keep it simple with Matte Mod Podge.

Tutorial: DIY wooden tissue box

deliveries

Step 1. Prepare wood for decoupage

Use light to medium grit sandpaper to smooth the wood surface. Contrary to popular belief, it is better to wipe the wood down with a clean, dry cloth after sanding. (A damp cloth will sometimes cause the wood grain to rise or split.)

For heavy projects, I recommend using a loosely woven cheesecloth (tack cloth) after sanding.

After sanding, brush the wood in the direction of the grain for best results.

Step 2. Cut decoupage material

Before or after cutting the napkins, separate the layers to reveal only the top layer. (Most napkins have three layers or plies.) You can sand down any long edges after applying Mod Podge as the paper is thin enough.

For fabric and thicker paper, cut squares slightly smaller than the area as thicker materials will be more difficult to sand down later.

Step 3. Apply mod podge and decoupage material

Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge to the wood using a foam brush or bristle brush.

For napkins, carefully lay down a square, starting in one corner and working your way to the opposite corner. Use cling film (see video) to flatten the napkin and avoid wrinkles.

For scrapbook paper, apply a more generous coat to the wood and spread some glue on the back of the paper before applying.

You can also use a brayer and/or squeegee to squeeze out air bubbles on larger wooden items.

Step 4. Apply additional coats of Mod Podge and optional sealer

Apply up to three coats of Mod Podge to all sides of the tissue box cover, waiting 15-20 minutes between coats. Once the box is completely dry, you can use a fine grit sandpaper with water to “wet sand” (smooth) the surface.

Apply a sealer for a more protective top coat. (If using a spray sealer, always do so in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.)

10 tips for perfect results on wood every time

Don’t skip the grind. While it’s tempting to take some shortcuts, you’ll thank yourself for having a smooth surface to decoupage. Throw away the old bottle of Mod Podge. If you see lumps, lumps, or bumps, it could be a sign that you need a new bottle. Do not use brushes with loose bristles. ’nuff said. Quick and easy brush strokes in the same direction prevent wrinkles and tears. Hands off! Do not use your bare hands to spread Mod Podge on thin paper as this may cause tears. Use a clear plastic storage sheet to make the paper smoother. Apply more than one layer. There’s a chance you’ve missed some spots and this will extend the life of your project. Wait for it! If you don’t wait for each coat to dry before applying another, you could tear the paper. You can “wet sand” projects with thicker coats for a smooth finish, then buff with steel wool. Allow your project to cure for 1-2 days before use. For the most durable finish, use a clear sealer.

Besides wood, what other materials can you decoupage?

If you’re a decoupage beginner, you might not know that you can decoupage almost any surface!

Here are just a few examples:

Terracotta flower pots

Glass (wine bottles, vases, mirrors)

metal (cans, watering cans, frames)

paper mache

material

rigid foam

cardboard (puzzles, signs)

Cardboard

scrapbooks/albums

canvas

magnets

candles

Foam pumpkins

you get the picture There are so many ways to decorate an object with decoupage!

More Mod Podge Crafts!

If you’re only interested in decoupage crafts now, be sure to check out my other tutorials. This is part of a series of posts on the art of decorating using decoupage techniques.

Photo transfer on wood Decoupage wooden sign Decoupage wooden spoon

Decoupage flower pots Decoupage eggs Decoupage magnetic frames

was very helpful. Although it takes patience for the drying time between coats, the results are worth it. Thank you for all the great tips.”

…”

“I found the information about applying additional coats of paint, then sanding, wiping and repeating over and over again

A beautiful 18lb weight decoupage paper for all your creative needs.

The weight feels thicker than tissue paper and thinner than printer paper.

Roycycled decoupage paper is an easy way to add a special touch to your craft projects. The 18-pound decoupage fabric weight makes it both durable and thin enough to practically disappear. The 20″ x 30″ sheets make it easy to work on large format creations such as furniture decoupage projects. If you have used decoupage napkins before, you will love this product. This versatile product works with any decoupage medium or decoupage glue. You can use it to decoupage wood, glass, marble, the possibilities are almost endless.

Applications:

Basic/Traditional Method: https://youtu.be/5tq8NOac4Vo

Iron-on method: https://fb.watch/8Bq6fE4tYo/

My friend Wendy’s dining table is not only used for eating, she and her sons also paint and do crafts on it. The table is well used and therefore full of scratches, stains and even a big dirty iron burn. It was time to rework a decoupage tabletop.

Wendy wanted a bright and colorful look for the table with a mid-century modern vibe that would complement the rest of her decor. The best way to achieve this was to decoupage the tabletop with designer wallpaper.

Get a designer look: decoupage furniture with wallpaper

Upcycling wallpaper is a great alternative to painting a tabletop. Many wallpapers are provided with a special wiping coating. There are many fantastic bright and colorful designs to choose from to give you a unique piece of furniture.

Even if you are tired of the decoupage tabletop, it is so easy to peel off the wallpaper and change the design.

We have used wallpaper to decoupage many things around the house. From wallpapered mirror frames, to the kitchen waste bin, a kitchen back wall to our stairs are wallpapered with a Marimekko design.

We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What you need to decoupage a tabletop with wallpaper

How to decoupage a tabletop with wallpaper

1. First, make sure the table top is clean, dry and free of dust.

2. The next part is the trickiest part of wallpapering a tabletop, measuring the wallpaper. Unless you have a particularly narrow table, the tabletop is more than the width of a roll of wallpaper.

The table was actually 2 widths of wallpaper wide. However, due to the way the wallpaper was patterned, we cut 3 strips of wallpaper. To make sure you don’t notice a difference in the way the pattern matches.

Which patterned wallpaper you use will affect how you cut the paper to fit the table. I find that a smaller, busier print fits the pattern more easily.

Top tip: Center your roll of wallpaper in the middle of the tabletop and measure the length. Cut the wallpaper with a rotary cutter and a passe-partout.

3. For the next step you need to find out the measurements of the 2 strips of wallpaper on either side of the center strip. Be careful to match the pattern of the wallpaper with both sides of the center strip.

These 2 strips would be as wide as the center piece. Be sure to allow an overlap over the edge of the table. The wallpaper can be trimmed at the end. Better too much wallpaper than too little.

4. When you are happy with the 3 strips of wallpaper you have for the tabletop. Prepare wallpaper paste according to package instructions.

Then use a wallpaper brush to paste the back of your wallpaper. Fold over and set aside for a few minutes.

5. In the meantime, also paste the table and let it work for a few minutes. This provides an additional key for the background image.

6. Next, place the center strip of wallpaper on the tabletop and gently slide it into the center. Smooth the wallpaper with a smoothing brush and remove air bubbles.

7. Then take the second strip of pasted wallpaper and lay it on the table next to the center piece, carefully lining up the patterns. Cut off the excess width with wallpaper scissors and wrap the wallpaper around the side edge of the table.

Smooth out air bubbles again with a wallpaper brush.

8. Then repeat with the last strip of wallpaper on the other side.

Leave the wallpaper to dry for a few hours. Then, to give your table extra protection, coat the decoupage table top with 2 coats of crystal clear lacquer.

Top tip: Make sure you use crystal clear coat and not just clear coat. B. clear coat can leave a yellow cast. In fact, I recommend testing the varnish on a piece of wallpaper first to make sure it doesn’t yellow the wallpaper decoupage tabletop.

Wendy’s battered old table looks brand new with its fresh decoupage tabletop. The wallpaper she chose really compliments her mid-century modern interior style. It still amazes me what a difference a little wallpaper can make.

She has enough wallpaper left over to make a matching wallpaper lampshade.

I also used wallpaper from an IKEA Hemnes hack to give a plain dresser a tropical update.

Wallpaper isn’t the only material that can be used to upcycle tabletops. I created a piece of Marimekko wall art by decoupling a table top with paper napkins. I also turned a boring IKEA table into a card table with gift wrapping decoupage.

I’ve also used paint for tabletops and countertops, including finishing my kitchen countertops.

Would you like to learn how to decoupage on wood with perfect results every time? This tutorial provides expert tips for using Mod Podge on wood using a real-world example.

Join me as I show you how to decorate a plain wooden tissue box with decoupage! Are you feeling fancy yet?

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Please see my information for more information.

Decoupage on wood – video tutorial

For a quick start guide to a simple decoupage project, click the image above to watch my YouTube tutorial.

What does “decoupage” mean on wood?

Decoupage comes from the French word “decouper” which means “to cut out”. In the 1600s, French artists began applying images to furniture as a decorative adornment.

Even today you can find a beautiful piece of furniture or a table top decorated with a decoupage technique. It’s one of the easiest ways to personalize a raw piece of wood or enhance a finished piece. Also, you can find almost all of the materials at your local craft store.

Decoupage is not just for wood as you will see in my other decoupage projects, but the preparation steps differ due to the texture and grain of the surface.

Decoupage on wood compared to other surfaces

There are a few things to keep in mind when using a decoupage medium (aka glue) for woodcrafts.

Sanding: Before decoupage, you need to sand the surface lightly to make it as smooth as possible and avoid air bubbles. For larger objects like a piece of furniture, use a hand sander to strip down the surface. Otherwise, say au revoir to your decoupage masterpiece as it will chip over time. Painting: Most crafters paint their wood pieces before applying a decoupage medium like Mod Podge. I recommend using an acrylic paint or primer to coat the surface.

Phew, now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s talk about choosing the decorative part of your decoupage project.

Decoupage materials for wooden surfaces

In my video tutorial and written instructions below, I show how to create decoupage using napkins and scrapbook paper. If that’s not your thing, try these other lovely options.

fabrics

Special decoupage paper

Handkerchief

Laser printed photos (no inkjet printers as they bleed)

Wrapping paper

newspaper

Grades

Pressed petals

Types of decoupage glue for use on wood

In most of my tutorials I stick with the matte Mod Podge as the decoupage glue because I like its versatility. However, there is a decoupage medium for every man, woman and child out there.

Matte: Flat finish perfect for decoupage on wood with napkins or scrapbook paper

Flat Finish Perfect for Decoupage on Wood with Napkin or Scrapbook Paper Hard Coat or Furniture: Ideal for furniture projects or heavy use items that require a strong and durable finish

Ideal for furniture projects or heavy-duty items that require a strong and durable finish. Satin: Similar to a matte finish, a great option for furniture projects to achieve the “painted” effect

Similar to matte finish, great option for furniture projects to get the “painted” effect Glossy: Glossy finish, good option for photo transfer decoupage

Glossy finish, good option for photo transfer decoupage. Outdoor: Perfect for any project that will be exposed to the elements (think clay pots).

Perfect for any project that will be exposed to the elements (think clay pots).

There are a number of other types of sheen, sheen, and color that I’ll cover in a future post. In the following tutorial, I keep it simple with Matte Mod Podge.

Tutorial: DIY wooden tissue box

deliveries

Step 1. Prepare wood for decoupage

Use light to medium grit sandpaper to smooth the wood surface. Contrary to popular belief, it is better to wipe the wood down with a clean, dry cloth after sanding. (A damp cloth will sometimes cause the wood grain to rise or split.)

For heavy projects, I recommend using a loosely woven cheesecloth (tack cloth) after sanding.

After sanding, brush the wood in the direction of the grain for best results.

Step 2. Cut decoupage material

Before or after cutting the napkins, separate the layers to reveal only the top layer. (Most napkins have three layers or plies.) You can sand down any long edges after applying Mod Podge as the paper is thin enough.

For fabric and thicker paper, cut squares slightly smaller than the area as thicker materials will be more difficult to sand down later.

Step 3. Apply mod podge and decoupage material

Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge to the wood using a foam brush or bristle brush.

For napkins, carefully lay down a square, starting in one corner and working your way to the opposite corner. Use cling film (see video) to flatten the napkin and avoid wrinkles.

For scrapbook paper, apply a more generous coat to the wood and spread some glue on the back of the paper before applying.

You can also use a brayer and/or squeegee to squeeze out air bubbles on larger wooden items.

Step 4. Apply additional coats of Mod Podge and optional sealer

Apply up to three coats of Mod Podge to all sides of the tissue box cover, waiting 15-20 minutes between coats. Once the box is completely dry, you can use a fine grit sandpaper with water to “wet sand” (smooth) the surface.

Apply a sealer for a more protective top coat. (If using a spray sealer, always do so in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.)

10 tips for perfect results on wood every time

Don’t skip the grind. While it’s tempting to take some shortcuts, you’ll thank yourself for having a smooth surface to decoupage. Throw away the old bottle of Mod Podge. If you see lumps, lumps, or bumps, it could be a sign that you need a new bottle. Do not use brushes with loose bristles. ’nuff said. Quick and easy brush strokes in the same direction prevent wrinkles and tears. Hands off! Do not use your bare hands to spread Mod Podge on thin paper as this may cause tears. Use a clear plastic storage sheet to make the paper smoother. Apply more than one layer. There’s a chance you’ve missed some spots and this will extend the life of your project. Wait for it! If you don’t wait for each coat to dry before applying another, you could tear the paper. You can “wet sand” projects with thicker coats for a smooth finish, then buff with steel wool. Allow your project to cure for 1-2 days before use. For the most durable finish, use a clear sealer.

Besides wood, what other materials can you decoupage?

If you’re a decoupage beginner, you might not know that you can decoupage almost any surface!

Here are just a few examples:

Terracotta flower pots

Glass (wine bottles, vases, mirrors)

metal (cans, watering cans, frames)

paper mache

material

rigid foam

cardboard (puzzles, signs)

Cardboard

scrapbooks/albums

canvas

magnets

candles

Foam pumpkins

you get the picture There are so many ways to decorate an object with decoupage!

More Mod Podge Crafts!

If you’re only interested in decoupage crafts now, be sure to check out my other tutorials. This is part of a series of posts on the art of decorating using decoupage techniques.

Photo transfer on wood Decoupage wooden sign Decoupage wooden spoon

Decoupage flower pots Decoupage eggs Decoupage magnetic frames

A little piece of history…

The story begins in 1993 in a small garage right in the heart of Lyon (France): an old wardrobe was covered in dust until the owner wanted to refurbish it by pasting colored paper. The idea was born!

A sheet of Décopatch paper, incredibly fine and resistant, a little glue, a brush and that’s all you need!

A fun way to breathe new life into obsolete, damaged or faded items. The success came immediately in France and became more and more popular. Décopatch is not limited to personalizing objects, but gradually starts a series of trends that are presented thanks to two annual collections.

With more than 20 years of experience, Décopatch has earned the trust of the most important members of the hobby craft sector: Cultura, Zôdio in France, Hobbycraft in England, Club in Belgium, El Corte Ingles in Spain… Décopatch is now present in more than 60 different countries around the world.

× Expand 1 of 2 photo of Sarah Walor After × Expand 2 of 2 photo of Sarah Walor Before Previous Next

If you love dramatic “before and afters,” then this project is for you. Adding decorative paper to a piece of furniture is a great way to bring bold colors and patterns into your home without a lot of commitment.

Accessories you will need:

• Piece of furniture made of wood

• Sandpaper

• Primer

• Colour

• Paint brush

• X-acto knife

• Metal ruler

• Scissors

• Decorative paper (wrapping paper, wallpaper or old maps)

• Mod Podge

• Foam brush

• Polyurethane

Instructions:

1. Choose a piece of furniture The easiest way is to add paper in a defined place with straight edges. Door panels are a good beginner project.

2. Prepare the furniture You will probably need to paint your furniture to match your paper. Sand the wood and fill in any nicks or holes with wood spatula. Next, apply a coat of primer, then two to three coats of your chosen paint color. Also paint the sections you want to add paper to. Note that when using light paper and dark paint, some of the paint may show through the paper when applied.

3. Measure the Paper You can use a ruler to measure the size of your paper panels, but I find it easier to place the paper directly on my piece of furniture and run your finger over the sharp edges of the furniture to make an impression to make the paper on it. I slide my finger all the way around the rectangle and then I have an indented line showing exactly where I need to cut.

4. Cut the paper. You can use an X-Acto knife with a metal ruler or scissors – whichever you’re more comfortable with. If you want a super straight line, an X-Acto knife will make for a more precise cut.

5. Attach the paper to the furniture. Using a foam brush, brush an even coat of Mod Podge onto your furniture. Then quickly place the paper on top. You’ll need to buff the paper to ensure it adheres well – do this by rubbing the edge of a credit card all over the paper while applying pressure. Consider the thickness of your paper. The thinner it is, the more sensitive it becomes.

6. Seal the paper and protect your furniture. Brush a layer of polyurethane over the entire piece of furniture, paper and everything to protect your piece.

If your furniture still isn’t fancy enough, consider adding new hardware. New drawer handles can make all the difference. I also added feet to my closet to raise it off the floor. And don’t forget to take a “before” photo so you can see the dramatic transformation you’ve created!

Karen Guard is the blogger behind Darling Octopus (darlingoctopus.com). In every issue she tackles a new do-it-yourself project for R•Home.