How to Make a Decoupage Brooch

If you want to make a special homemade brooch for a friend or family member, make a decoupage brooch using paper pictures. Decoupage is the process of cutting, pasting and varnishing paper objects to decorate items. Making a decoupage brooch from your loved one's favorite book or picture gives the brooch a personal feel and adds more sentimental value.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Magazines
• Old books
• Utility knife
• 2 x 2-inch cardboard piece
• 2 x 2-inch wooden sheet, 1/16-inch thick (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Decoupage glue
• Paintbrush
• Clothespin or large safety pin
• Super glue

Instructions

1. Locate the paper image or images for your decoupage brooch from newspapers, magazines or old books. Cut out the pieces of paper you plan to use using a utility knife.

2. Cut out a 2 x 2-inch cardboard sheet using a utility knife. A 1/16-inch thick wooden sheet can be used instead of cardboard if you want to make a sturdier brooch.

3. Place the paper pieces on a flat surface and flatten them using a rolling pin.

4. Apply a layer of decoupage glue to the surface of the cardboard or wooden square, using a paintbrush. Arrange the paper pieces on the surface of the square. Let the glue dry for 1 hour. Brush five coats of glue onto the outside surface of the paper pieces to give them a glossy look.

5. Glue the back surface of the cardboard or wooden square to the edge of a clothespin, using super glue. Let the glue dry for 20 seconds.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute the clothespin with a large safety pin if desired.

References

• Decoupage Artists Worldwide: Discover Decoupage