Decoupage tired and musty old furniture.
It looks easy but there is a certain amount of skill, patience and most importantly a creative flair in doing this old Victorian art.
It is all about layering and pasting pieces of paper to make an attractive piece but things can take a turn such as air bubbles, tears and wrinkles.
10 Top Tips:
1. Clean and dry the surface of item not forgetting to give it a little light sanding to help the application stick.
2. Arrange pieces before applying paste to form a pleasing creation.
3. Have two bowls ready 1) Full strength PVA and 2) Diluted PVA with water mixed into form a 'meringue consistency' - this is the modge-podge for finishing!
4. Use PVA glue in full strength to apply the paper to the surface of the item. You can get this cheaply from the pound store. If you plan to paint the item then do this first all over!!!
5. Some people apply the glue to the item but I prefer to apply it to the paper cut out and then fix it to the surface lightly so that I can whisk it off if need be and reapply.
6. Use a cloth or decorators tool to smooth over the surface and stop air bubbles but be careful to keep pressure firm but light to avoid wrinkles while the paper is moist. Best start from the centre of the cut out and wide out!
7. As you layer each cut out use the diluted PVA from bowl no 2 to brush over the cut outs.
8. As you build your picture keep checking for small drips especially around the edges of the table or chair you are working on. As these drip they dry and form unsightly lumps and bumps which are hard to get rid of when the work is dry.
9. Enjoy creating and relax enough to allow your ideas or vision to materialise in front of you.
10. Once the item has been finished you must brush layers of the diluted PVA allowing each layer to dry first. This gives a durable finish and you can then decide to varnish using satin clear varnish for a nice matt, durable and wipe clean finish.
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