What is Decoupage?

Decoupage (from the French word for cut) is a fun and easy craft where you cut out pictures, prints from documents, or other materials, and apply them to a surface such as a picture frame, shoe box, bowl, or something you wish to decorate.

Supplies

You'll need a few basic items to decoupage, including decorative paper, a surface, a brush, and store bought or homemade (three parts white glue and one part water mixed thoroughly) decoupage mixture.

• Scissors – Used for cutting the paper item. You can also use a sharp knife or utility knife for cutting detailed items such as words, or if you wish to cut shaped cutouts. For a rugged look, you can hand tear the pieces of paper as desired.
  
• Bank card – Used for flattening or removing air bubbles from the surface.
  
• Surface – A shoe box, vase, candle, glass, lamp–or anything that you've been intending to recycle will be perfect. If you choose a metal surface, you may need to slightly sand it so the cutouts and decoupage mixture adheres properly. If you intend to use a single piece of paper for round surfaces, make sure you have an ample amount to cover the surface.
  
• Foam Brush – Use it to spread glue onto the item you will decoupage, regular paint brushes work well, but make sure to clean them thoroughly after use.
  
• Moistened cloth – Used to clean glue spills, remove surplus glue from the surface, and keep your hands clean.
  
• Homemade or purchased decoupaging paste – It will be used to seal, glue, and finish your work of art.
  

Ideas for Your Decoupage Surface

Magazine or newspaper clippings, photos, computer prints (preferably from a laser jet printer so colors won't bleed), wallpaper, tissue paper, colorful napkins, menus, or any paper surface–in each case use thin paper since it adheres easier.

Instructions:

1. If necessary, prep your surface by lightly sanding or wiping it clean.

2. Cut the paper items then arrange them as desired onto your surface.

3. Using the foam brush, spread a thin coat of the decoupage mixture to the area where you will place the paper cutout.

4. Apply another small amount of the decoupage mixture to the back of the paper cutout.

5. Quickly place the paper cutout on top of the glued area using tweezers if necessary for precise placement.

6. Use a bank card to gently smooth the surface and remove any air bubbles.

7. Continue applying the remaining paper cutout items then allow the surface to dry completely.

8. To seal the paper cutouts to your surface, apply three coats of the decoupage mixture to the finished surface ensuring the surface is completely dry between coats.

9. For a final touch, use super glue to add decorative items to the surface.

Voila! You've just created decoupage, an enjoyable activity enjoyed both individually and with friends and family where everyone can decorate art. Decoupage celebrates each individual’s artistic side.