How to Prepare Metal for Decoupage

Decoupage is the art of applying paper cutouts to almost any surface such as lamps, furniture, stone, or dishes. These cutouts are often recycled scrap papers grouped together on a surface and finished with a sealant.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wire Brush Or Sandpaper
• Magnets Magnets
• Vacuums Cleaner
• Tack Rags
• Metal Primer
• Metal Primer
• Rust Remover
• Vinegar
• Vinegar

Preparing New Metals

1. Wash galvanized metal with vinegar and diluted acetic acid.

2. Sand lightly.

3. Wash un-galvanized metal with alcohol.

4. Apply primer.

5. Allow to dry overnight.

Preparing Old Metals

6. Sand off rust

7. Remove excess rust with a magnet or vacuum cleaner.

8. Clean surface with a tack rag.

9. Apply metal primer.

10. Allow to dry overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean paint off metal with rust remover.
• Use acetic acid with caution.

[jewelrycat]

on 7/6/2009 Hi! I have a question. If you DON'T want to paint your metal...and would rather leave it..."rustic" looking...can you seal it with what...decoupage medium? or polyeurethane or acrylic spray..or something completely different? Thanks for any help!