Welcome to the world of decoupage, where everyday items transform into stunning works of art with just a little Mod Podge and some Paper. If you’ve ever wondered how to decoupage or wanted to try your hand at a fun and versatile DIY project, you’re in the right place. This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through creating your very first Mod Podge project, whether you’re decorating furniture, jazzing up home decor, or crafting personalized gifts.
Supplies
First, you need to get some supplies.
- Mod Podge (Amazon link)
- A paint brush
- Scissors
- Box cutter knife
- Decoupage paper (Thinner paper works better but thick paper can also be used)
- A small wooden chest or any other wooden item. (Amazon link)
When it comes to paper, thinner paper is always better but it can be difficult to find tissue paper with a nice print on it. So in some cases, you have to use thicker paper, as I do in this tutorial.
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
First, we have to prepare the surface for the decoupage.
Clean the surface to ensure that there is no dust or dirt left on the surface. This can be done with a damp towel.
Next, remove any handles, keyhole covers, locks, or similar.
Step 2: Apply Glue to the Surface
Next, we will apply some glue to the surface with the paintbrush. I used Mod Podge as it is readily available, easy to use, and non-toxic.
Spread the glue with the paintbrush as evenly as possible.
Step 3: Apply the Paper
Then, line the paper up with the surface and press it down firmly. Press the paper down in the middle or in the top first and then move towards the edges of the surfaces. This way, you will remove any air bubbles trapped under the paper and ensure a smooth finish.
I then flipped the chest around and cut off the access paper with a box cutter.
Finally, I used some fine-grit sandpaper to sand the corners of the paper down.
Step 4: Seal the Paper with Another Layer of Glue
With thinner paper, you would normally rip the paper around the design and then apply the paper to a surface, and then cover it with a thin layer of glue right away.
In my case, however, I was working with thicker paper. So I´m only sealing the paper with the glue now.
To seal the paper, simply apply a thin layer of glue over the paper. Don´t worry, Mod Podge dries transparent! So even though the whole surface is white when you apply the glue, it will turn transparent as soon as it dries.
Step 5: Repeat for the Other Sides
Now simply repeat the process for the other sides.
I applied the paper over the opening of the box and simply cut the opening open again with the box cutter knife once the glue had dried.
Step 6: Fix Corners and Edges
One little problem that sometimes arises when using thicker paper for decoupage is that the edges can have white trims. This can easily be fixed by applying some paint to them.
I mixed some acrylic paint to get about the same color as the box and then simply painted over the edges and corners to get rid of the white.
Finally, put the lock mechanism back in its place and the box is done!
