What to Use to Decoupage a Photo

Create a collage out of old photos and secure with a decoupage medium.

Decoupage is the art of pasting paper or photo cut outs onto furniture, keepsake boxes and picture frames. Use other photos to create a collage surrounding the main image of your existing photo, or use decoupage glue to paste your photo to a silver platter, table top or journal cover. Alternatively, secure copied photos together on paper to create original wrapping paper for holiday gifts.

Photo Copies

Use a copy of your photo to preserve the original in case of a mistake. Reproduce your photo as a photo copy instead of printing it from an inkjet printer because the colors will run when the wet glue touches it. Create as many copies of the photo as necessary to complete your decoupage art; for example, create gift wrap using multiple copies of one photo.

Backing

Arrange your photo on paper backing, solid wood furniture, cardboard or wooden boxes, dishware or decorative plates, and any other solid material you want to use. Prepare the object with mild cleanser or simply a wet rag; glue will adhere better to a clean surface. Lay out all of the photos or all of the copies of a single photo before you apply glue. Determine how the photo will wrap around any edges or corners and how it will overlap other photos.

Decoupage Medium

Decoupage glue is clear glue that adheres to most backing, including paper, wood and dishware. Spread the glue evenly on the back of your photo, then press the photo down on the backing of your choice. Alternatively, paste other photos on top of your enlarged photo copy to create a collage. Use a rag to wipe away excess glue. Once dry, cover the photo and backing object with clear decoupage glue until you can't feel any edges; the photo should blend seamlessly with the backing.

Acrylic Spray Sealer

Cover the photo and backing object with acrylic spray sealer once the decoupage medium is dry. The sealer makes the craft water repellent and gives it a shiny gloss finish. Once the sealer dries, use the decoupaged object like you would any piece of furniture or hang it as a decorative item.

References

• Home Made Simple: Crafting Techniques — Decoupage