Decoupage Tools And Equipment

One of the advantages of decoupage is that it requires very little equipment, and it’s likely that you already possess the tools that you need to get started. However, there are items that can be helpful in your decoupage, if not strictly necessary. These will vary according to the exact work you plan to do. Let’s first look at the tools you can’t manage without.

Scissors

It’s best to have a pair of scissors put aside solely for decoupage. Certain things can gradually blunt scissors, and you want to keep yours as sharp and clean as possible. Embroidery scissors, which come to a very sharp point, are good for this sort of work. You can also buy curved scissors, which can be helpful in cutting out awkward shapes. You can keep your scissors sharp by cutting fine sandpaper.

Glue

White PVA glue makes an excellent medium, although you may want to dilute it a little with water before using it. This will give you a similar product to specially made decoupage medium. There are many brands of glues available, some made specifically for decoupage. They will have instructions for use on the bottle. For simple projects, you can mix two parts clear drying craft glue with one part water. Some glues may need to be diluted further. Wallpaper paste can be used for large areas. Decoupage mediums or glues may be used full strength, except on glass where they should be diluted. Decoupage glue has a slower drying time, which is useful if you’re inexperienced as it allows you to reposition items. There are a number of recipes available for making your own glue if you find it difficult to obtain decoupage glue.

Glaze

Mix together three parts PVA glue with one part water. Add more water if necessary. Add two tablespoons of varnish, for shine. Put into a screw top container.

Glue

¼ cup of sugar
¼ cup of flour
½ teaspoon of powdered alum
1¾ cups of water
¼ teaspoon of oil of cinnamon

Mix the sugar, flour, and alum in a medium sized saucepan.

Gradually add the one cup of water, stirring vigorously to break up any lumps. Boil until clear and smooth. Stir constantly. Remove from heat and add the remaining water and oil, stirring until thoroughly mixed. Put into a screw top container.

Slow Drying Glue

Add one part glycerin to four parts glue.

Varnish

The type of varnish you choose will depend on the use to which the item is to be put and how you want it to look. You can use a water-based varnish, which won't yellow, or oil based varnish to give a yellow tint for an aged look. Lacquer, which comes in spray-on cans, is easy to use for large objects.

Water based varnish is less likely to run and dries quickly. It’s also heat resistant to a point and scuff resistant. Although it has a milky appearance, it dries clear. This varnish works well on wood and glass because it is thin and easy to apply. It’s available in gloss, matt and satin. You need to apply it smoothly and evenly and wash your brushes and applicators in soapy water immediately after use. As it dries clear, it works well on bright colors. Water based varnish is the best to use if you’re working in a small space owing to the fumes produced by oil based varnish.

Remember that the final coat defines the finish so is you decide that you’d rather have a matte than gloss finish; use a matte varnish for your final coat.

Cotton Swabs

These are used to spread the glue around. They are a very inexpensive alternative to paint brushes.

Damp Rag

This will help you to wipe up any excess glue that leaks out, as you don't want the residue to lie on top.