How to Decorate Tables With Mod Podge

Sponge brushes work as Mod Podge applicators.

Mod Podge is a decoupage solution that can also be used as glue and a sealant. It's available in many formulas, including outdoor, paper, hard coat, glitter and glow-in-the dark. Depending on your project, select the formula that works best for you. The water-based Mod Podge is easy to work with and clean up. Decorating your table using Mod Podge can be an easy task that requires only a few supplies that are readily available at most large craft stores.

Things You'll Need

• Table
• Sandpaper, 400-grit
• Mod Podge
• Applicator sponge brush
• Flat paintbrush
• Magazines, fabric or photographs
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Wipe the surface of the table to be decorated with a damp cloth. Allow it to dry.

2. Paint a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the table using an applicator sponge brush. Paint only the area that you'll be covering with decoration. Allow the Mod Podge to thoroughly dry before touching. The dry times depend on your particular climate. It may take a few hours in humid climates.

3. Cut out your decorations from magazines, printed fabrics or photographs. Lay the decorations out on the dried table to make your design. Once you like a layout, paint a thin coat of Mod Podge onto the back side of the cutouts using a flat paintbrush. Stick the cutouts back into place on the table. Repeat until cutouts are glued down. Allow the Mod Podge to dry completely.

4. Paint another layer of Mod Podge onto the table’s surface using the sponge brush. This time, paint over the table as well as the cutouts. Allow the Mod Podge to dry.

5. Lightly sand the last coat of Mod Podge and wipe away any dust. Use 400-grit sandpaper and apply only a small amount of pressure. Don't sand through the Mod Podge; you should only be using the sandpaper to polish the top coat.

6. Apply a final topcoat of Mod Podge with the sponge brush. Allow to dry before using the table. Let the table sit overnight before using it.

Tips & Warnings

• When painting on Mod Podge, use only vertical brush strokes. Mixing vertical strokes with horizontal ones will give the Mod Podge a rough finish.

References

• Plaid; Child’s Artwork Table & Chair Set; Sherrie Ragsdale
• YouTube; D.I.Y./Decoupage Your Furniture/Storage; May 2011
• YouTube; How to Collage Furniture; January 2011