How to Decoupage a Composition
Decoupage is defined as cutting out and pasting pictures. The craft of decoupage can be used to decorate many types of household objects, compositions and art. After drying and varnishing the decoupage, ordinary projects appear professionally crafted and vibrant. Decoupage can make a simple tin can into a pretty pencil holder or customize a picture frame or lampshade. You can jazz up a scrapbook or any artistic composition in a few simple steps by learning the art of decoupage.
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Things You'll Need
- Household or white craft glue
- Scissors
- Magazine or other types of pictures
- Acrylic varnish or similar sealer
- Paintbrushes
Instructions
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Plan out your composition or project ahead of time. Think about what you are trying to achieve with the decoupage, such as adding color to a lamp shade or picture frame. Scrapbooks usually have theme pages, or family photographs can be decoupaged to form a collage.
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Find pictures in magazines or on the Internet that fit your decoupage ideas. Print off any photos or artistic patterns that suit your project goals. Cut out pictures from magazines or newspapers that seem pretty and appropriate.
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Plan out your decoupage composition ahead of time by trying out various picture patterns before applying any glue. Once you have glued the pictures, they may rip if you try to move them.
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Thin out the craft glue by adding a few drops of water. Paint it on the back of the pictures you have cut out and place them upon the object or composition you are decoupaging. Pat lightly and allow to dry. Repeat this process until the desired result is achieved. Pictures may overlap, or be spaced out however you choose.
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Check the glued pictures after a few hours to make certain they are dry before applying the varnish. Any excess glue can be wiped up with a damp sponge.
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Paint over the pictures with acrylic or a spray varnish. Most compositions require several coats of varnish. Allow each coat to dry before applying another. Use older paintbrushes, as some varnishes are difficult to wash out and the brushes may be ruined afterward.
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Tips & Warnings
Any item that can be glued can be used for decoupage, so experiment with tissue paper, stamps and natural materials.
If you plan on making many objects using decoupage, set aside brushes specifically for this purpose. Make sure no bristles are loose, as they will fall out and show up in the varnish.
All types of varnish, liquid or sprays should be applied in well-ventilated areas or outdoors.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
