How to Make Decorative Clips With Clothespins and Decoupage

Decoupage clothespins with decorative paper to match your home decor.

Decoupage is a technique in which cut pieces of paper are applied to a surface, using thin glue. Coats of the decoupage glue are brushed over the surface to seal the decorative paper to the object. The craft, which was invented in the 17th century, continues to help people renew outdated or plain items. Making decorative clips with clothespins and decoupage is an economical and fun craft for all ages.

Things You'll Need

• Scrapbook paper
• Pencil
• Clothespins with metal springs
• Scissors
• Decoupage glue
• 3/4-inch to 1-inch width flat paint brush
• Craft knife
• Cutting mat

Instructions

1. Trace around the clothespin, topside down, onto the back of the paper.

2. Cut the paper along the traced lines. It is OK if the cut piece is slightly larger than the clothespin.

3. Brush a thin layer of decoupage glue across the top of the clothespin.

4. Position the cut paper over the glue while pressing it firmly in place. Let it dry for 10 minutes.

5. Place the clothespin onto the cutting mat, topside down, and trim excess paper from the edges. Use the edge of the clothespin as a guide to ensure a straight edge on the paper.

6. Apply a layer of decoupage glue over the surface of the paper and along the edges, sealing it completely to the clothespin. Let it dry for 30 minutes or until fully dry.

7. Check for any loose edges and apply another coat of decoupage glue, if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Save scraps of scrapbook paper from other craft projects to use.

• Glue on artificial flowers or dimensional scrapbook embellishments to decorate the clothespins.

• Glue magnets to the back of the clothespin to use on your refrigerator.

References

• 4-H Member Manual: Standards of Quality in Crafts
• Pin and Paper: Paper Embellished Clothespins -- A Tutorial

Resources

• Punkie Pie's Place: Paper Covered Clothespin Tutorial