How to Sand Decoupage

A light sanding between completely dried coats of varnish will give your decoupage project a smooth look. Apply varnish coats to your decoupage, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Things You'll Need

• Varnish Or Other Clear Finish
• Tack Cloths

Instructions

1. Rub your hand along the dried surface of your project. If you're unable to feel the edges of the overlapped paper cutouts through the varnish, you can begin to sand the surface. If you can still feel the edges, keep applying coats of varnish until the surface is smooth.

2. Make sure the varnish is completely dry, then lightly sand the surface of your project. Sand in one direction only.

3. Repeat the varnish/sanding process as often as needed to create a smooth surface. Make sure the varnish has dried completely before sanding.

4. End with a coat of varnish.

Tips & Warnings

• Use #400 sandpaper to smooth the surface of your project.

• Make sure that any dust or dirt has been removed from the sandpaper before you reuse it on your project. Wipe dirt from the sandpaper and from the decoupaged piece with a tack cloth.