How to Decoupage Fabric
Paper is typically used to decoupage, or create a decorative surface. You can easily swap the paper for fabric, particularly lightweight fabric such as cotton or polyester, to decoupage a piece of furniture. If you choose a heavier fabric, be prepared to use more decoupage glue. Smooth the fabric over a bookshelf or tabletop to spruce up a plain piece of furniture. Decoupage several pieces of fabric on the same surface to make a collage.
Things You'll Need
- Piece of furniture, such as a table, chair or bookcase
- Sandpaper
- Brush
- Damp rag
- Decoupage glue
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Paintbrushes
Instructions
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1
Sand the surface of the furniture to remove any bumps or roughness. Brush the dust off the furniture and wipe clean with a damp rag. Let it dry completely.
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2
Cut a piece of fabric so that it is the same size as the furniture surface.
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3
Coat the surface of the furniture with a layer of decoupage glue.
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4
Press the fabric on the surface of the furniture. Use a paint brush to smooth it down and push out any air bubbles. Let the glue dry for about one hour.
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5
Dip a paintbrush into the glue and apply a coat of decoupage over the fabric. Let it dry for two hours, then apply another coat. The glue should dry completely between coats. Apply additional coats, allowing to dry in between, until there are four to six layers on top of the the fabric. Lightly sand the dried decoupage between coats if needed to remove any roughness. Let the final coat of glue dry overnight.
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6
Rub the surface with sandpaper to smooth it completely the next day. Brush away any dust from sanding the decoupaged fabric and wipe the surface clean with a damp rag.
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