Some step-by-step directions on how-to from familycrafts.about.com
Page 1: Basic Techniques 101
Decoupage is one of those crafts where the finished product is sometimes deceptive. Depending on what you make, the finished product can be so stunning that it appears to be professionally painted. By looking at the finished product, you would think decoupage would be complicated, but it isn't. Decoupage is actually quite simple! If you can cut and paste, you already know most of the techniques involved. Basically, you cut out pictures; you glue the pictures onto an object; and then cover the object and pictures with a few coats of glue/decoupage medium to protect it.
Of course, you can buy supplies and other items that are made specifically for decoupage. One of the nice things about this craft, however, is that you can also use supplies that you probably have laying around the house right now.
Page 2: Gathering Supplies
You probably have enough supplies lying around the house to try decoupage right now. First, you need something to decoupage a picture onto. You can decoupage pictures to almost anything: furniture, photo albums, shelving, frames, boxes, vases, mirrors, and so on! Find the item you want to decoupage onto and make sure it is free of dust and dirt. You might want to seal it first; what you use to seal it will depend on what it is made out of. You might also want to paint the item.
Next, you need the pictures to decoupage. The pictures can be cut out of magazines, catalogs, or books. You can print out clip art and poems and verses. The options are endless: cut out pictures from wrapping paper, wallpaper, packages, greeting cards, fabric, etc. You can also buy designed paper made especially for decoupage.
Get creative! (NOTE: You can use photos; however, I would suggest getting high-quality copies made because photos don't always cooperate!)
Once you have your pictures and an item to decoupage, you will need to gather a few more supplies. As I said previously, you can use items you probably have laying around your house.
- White Glue - Use this as your decoupage medium! Glue your pictures down and seal them. I prefer to dilute my glue with a bit of water.
- Popsicle Stick - Used to help smooth out wrinkles and removed excess glue.
- Cotton Swab - Used like a paintbrush the spread around glue.
- Damp Rag - To wipe up excess glue and other clean up.
Of course, you can buy items to use; some are made especially for decoupage.
- Decoupage Medium - You can find this in pretty much any craft store. Used to glue the picture to your item and seal it.
- Brayer - This is like a miniature rolling pin designed to help remove wrinkles, remove excess glue, and stick your picture down better.
- Foam or Small Paint Brush - Used to apply and spread decoupage medium.
- Craft Knife - Used to cut out detailed pictures.
- Sealer - You can use your decou
