Decoupage with postcards.
Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
Decoupage is an art form in which you adhere paper cutouts or paper-like materials to a flat surface and then coat them with layers of finish. When creating your own decoupage project, use a variety of media to make a one-of-a-kind art piece.
How-To
To make a decoupage mix, stir together three parts white glue with one part water. Then use a paintbrush to spread the glue mixture onto the back of your decorative papers and place them on the item to be decorated. Continue adding the papers until you've covered the object in a design that pleases you. Use the paintbrush to cover the entire surface with the glue mixture until you can't feel any of the paper edges rising up. Then spray the surface with a clear acrylic sealer.
Materials
Almost any paper-like material can be used to decoupage an item. Cut out pieces of scrapbook paper into decorative shapes to adhere to an object. Snip words and pictures from a magazine that has heavy quality paper. Photographs can also be used, as well as postcards, postage stamps, cutout pieces of calendars, pages from old books and maps. Consider the theme of the craft you're creating and use materials that will be the best match.
Objects
After selecting your decoupage materials, decide which object you want to decorate. Almost any flat surface to which glue will adhere can be decoupaged. Wooden furniture, such as a bookcase or a table, provides a good surface. Journals and book covers, as well as place mats can be covered. Picture frames, jars, containers and flowerpots are a few of the many other items you can decorate with decoupage.
Tips
When selecting your decoupage media, don't use an image printed from an inkjet printer. The ink will run when it gets wet with the glue. Instead, make a photocopy of the printed picture. Avoid using newspaper; it is also likely to bleed. Use a Popsicle or craft stick to smooth out the paper once it's been adhered to the surface of an item. This will get rid of any air bubbles and wrinkles and make your finished work look professional.
References
About the Author
Sarah Freeman has been writing professionally since 2005. She has written for publications around the world, including London's "Live Listings Magazine," "College Avenue Magazine" and "Fort Collins Weekly." Freeman works as the community reporter at the "Loveland Reporter-Herald" newspaper. She graduated from Colorado State University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism.
Photo Credits
- Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
