How to Easily Make Cheap Decoupage Paste

Beautifully decoupaged bangle bracelets.

Decoupage is the art of permanently affixing paper or fabric onto a solid surface using a clear, glossy paste. There is no end to the results that can be achieved through decoupage. You can decorate a table in childhood photographs, cover a wooden chair with images of Elvis or adorn wooden bangles with delicate origami paper. Decoupage is a fun craft; the glue is inexpensive and simple to make.

Things You'll Need

• Container with lid
• White glue

Instructions

1. Remove the lid of the container and confirm that the inside is clean. The container can be anything from an old jelly jar to a margarine tub, as long as it is relatively airtight.

2. Mix equal parts ordinary white glue and water to make the decoupage paste. Start by filling one-third of your container with white glue. You can use less or more depending on how much paste you think you need.

3. Pour in an equal amount of water. If you filled one-third of your container with glue, fill another one-third with water.

4. Stir the paste until it is uniformly smooth. Put the lid on the container until you need the paste.

Tips & Warnings

• To apply your decoupage paste, paint a thin layer on the object to be decoupaged and lay your image on top. Smooth out any air bubbles and then paint a thin layer of paste over the image. Layer images for best results.

• A sponge-tip craft brush is ideal for decoupage because it leaves no brush lines or bristles behind.

• Don't be afraid to vary the proportions of glue to water for your project.

References

• Elmer's: FAQs: How Do I Make Decoupage Medium?

Resources

• 5 Recipes for Life: 7 Easy Steps for Decoupage Projects