Decoupage is the fine art of cutting and pasting paper onto ordinary objects in order to create unique items for the home or as gifts. Anyone, from small children to the elderly, can enjoy this fun and creative pastime and nearly any object can serve as a medium for decoupage. These include picture frames, boxes, furniture, containers, ornaments, vases, lamp shades, birdhouses and many more.
Getting Started
Here are the supplies you will need to craft your very own do-it-yourself project:
? Paper (such as wrapping paper or custom decoupage paper), photographs from magazines, books, newspapers, or fabric
? Cutting implements such as an X-acto knife, utility knife and/or scissors
? Glue such as Elmer’s or specialty decoupage glue like Collage Pauge or Mod Pouge
? Brayer or popsicle sticks to smooth down your material as you are gluing everything together
? Varnish to make your project smooth and shiny
? Damp rag to keep your workstation and hands clean
*Remember to supervise children as they create their special projects, especially while they are using sharp cutting tools.
Deciding What To Decoupage
The best way to learn decoupage is by starting on simple projects and working your way up to more complex pieces. Items such as pencil boxes and inexpensive picture frames found at hobby and craft stores are a great way to learn the ins and outs of the craft. If you make a mistake you can simply start over or recycle it and start again until it looks the way you envisioned. Once you have mastered decorating little things, you can move on to big things like coffee tables or decorative lamp shades.
Whatever you decide to create, you can take great pleasure knowing that your items for the home, the office or friends were lovingly handmade using a few household items and your own imagination.
Blue Hills Design creates splendid
Do-It-Yourself Decoupage
