The Comprehensive Guide to Modern Mod Podge — It's Not Your Granny's Decoupage!

Sometimes you just want to mix it up a little.

A simple and effective way to give an upcycling project a little extra
"oomph" is with decoupage — also called Mod Podge.

Gone are the days of marching ducks
​decoupaged across kitchen canisters.
Modern decoupage is everything from fun and funky, to elegant and chic.

Considering the countless options of paper,  pattern, prints and themes,
the door is wide open to endless ideas and inspiration
​in a style that speaks to you.
​

Inexpensive paper napkins from Ikea were used on these cupboard doors

From gift wrap and serviettes, to newspapers, maps, fabric, etc...
various mediums provide diverse effects.

Sheet music decoupaged onto a gorgeous MMS Milk Painted dresser

Add backgrounds to bookcases, 
Mod Podge all drawer fronts or only a couple,
it's easy to create interest with paper placement
or mixing and matching patterns.
​
You are limited only by your imagination!

Check out Boho Upcycle in Los Angeles for exciting and eclectic combinations

Mix and match it up with a bit of whimsy like this piece from Tattered Elegance

I'm a big fan of decoupage inside drawers
​for an unexpected punch. . .

A patchwork of colour inside drawers using gift wrap

Coordinating scrap book prints add a welcome surprise inside this antique trunk

One drawer...a whole lot of style! This was decoupaged with the pages of a calendar

---

Now that we've covered all the possibilities,
​let's get down to the how-tos!
​

What do I use to decoupage?

Isn't it nice when there are options? Most craft stores carry Mod Podge which is purpose designed and comes in gloss or matte finishes.

However, I like when a product has multiple uses and most upcyclers and diy-ers should have either Old World Aqua Sealer or Fusion Tough Coat Sealer already on the shelf. Designed for wear-and-tear so they do the job well using less product which makes it more cost-effective! Win-Win!

​What type of paper do I use?

The short answer is — just about anything!

Gift wrap, wallpaper, serviettes, fabric, foil, tissue paper etc... 

IMPORTANT TIP:​
Paper that is very thick can be difficult to
negotiate bends, curves or edges.
Very thin paper is prone to tearing or wrinkling.

File folders were used to create this mod-podged beauty

A Thing For Roses decoupaged this gorgeousness with vintage wallpaper

Now What? The Details!

A mock layout helps ensure you're happy with the look before you start sticking the paper to the surface.
​
Crease or measure as necessary with a ruler and a pencil if you prefer, and trim to fit. ​ Rough edges can be cleaned up after with a light sanding.

If using thicker paper you may need to remove a layer of backing to give you better adhesion. And when planning to distress, this is also important as you don't want to sand back to reveal white backing.
​ 

The Steps...

1. Brush the surface liberally as well as the back of the paper.
2. Fix one edge to the surface — you have limited time to get it straight and make corrections before it grabs.
3. Attach the full piece. With thicker paper you can sometimes adjust by sliding. 
4. Use a tool like a credit card or piece of cardboard to pull bubbles or wrinkles out, working from the inside out

Any last words???

• Allow to dry — an hour, overnight, don't force it. 

• For a time-worn vintage look, leave the topcoat off and sand to distress. You can leave as-is or add topcoat sealer once happy with the effect.

• For a clean edge or corner, cut away excess and/or sand lightly once dry.

• If you are after a silky smooth finish, once topcoat has dried, wet-sand lightly with fine-grade sandpaper (400grit), wipe clean and buff. 

Highlight an area with funky patterned paper

Maps are a classic way to add interest

Faux tile paper works perfectly on this wooden crate

It's all here...for the love...
Sada