Guide to Decoupage Furniture with Wallpaper Easily

Decoupage is an art form that breathes new life into worn-out or out-of-date furniture pieces. It is more than just a craft. This time-tested method is elevated to a whole new level by the addition of wallpaper. This manual will teach you how to decoupage wallpaper onto furniture, turning plain objects into striking works of art. So let’s get going!

What is Decoupage?

In the creative art form of decoupage, paper designs are cut out and glued on an object after which many coats of varnish or lacquer are applied. This method, which gets its name from the French term “découper,” which means to cut out, lets you add elaborate patterns and designs to practically any surface, even furniture.

What is Mod Podge Used For?

Mod Podge has adhesive properties in addition to serving as a finisher and sealant. Depending on the type used, it dries clear after application and offers a protective, glossy, or matte finish. 

Your products will be more durable and long-lasting because of their sealing capabilities, which also help shield them from moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear. When used as a decoupage medium, Mod Podge enables you to apply paper or fabric designs to various objects and then create a smooth, bubble-free surface on top of it. 

Mod Podge is a flexible and necessary product for adding a creative touch to your DIY projects, whether you’re adorning Turkish furniture, embellishing picture frames, or personalizing jewelry.

How to Decoupage Furniture with Wallpaper (Or Tissue, Napkins, Posters, or my favorite, Wrapping Paper)

• Material Requirements:
• Furniture item
• Posters, napkins, tissue paper, wallpaper, or wrapping paper
• Mod Podge (glossy or matte, depending on the finish you choose)
• A paintbrush or foam brush
• Sandpaper, if desired
• Craft knife or scissors
• An optional clear acrylic sealant

Step 1: Prepare the Furniture Surface

Start by giving your piece of furniture a thorough cleaning. Any sanding dust should be removed.

Step 2: Mod Podge to the Furniture

Apply a thin, even layer of Mod Podge to the part of the furniture where you wish to attach the paper using a foam brush or paintbrush. Be sure to completely enclose the area where the paper will be placed. If your furniture piece is large, like wardrobes, or 6 or 7-seater corner sofas, you can work in more manageable chunks.

Step 3: Apply the Paper

Place your selected paper material—whether it be wrapping paper, tissue paper, wallpaper, napkins, or posters—carefully on the wet Mod Podge surface. Using your hands or a brayer, gently press the paper down to remove any creases or air bubbles. A straight edge or ruler can be used to help align a larger piece of paper if you’re working with one.

Step 4: Seal the Paper

Apply a second layer of Mod Podge over the paper once you are comfortable with how it is positioned and the paper is in place. This protects the furniture by sealing the paper to it. Make sure to properly spread the Mod Podge across the entire paper surface. Give it time to dry.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

For any more pieces of furniture that you want to decoupage, repeat steps 2 through 4. For a more complex design, you can layer several sheets or add additional layers of the same paper.

Step 6: Finish and Protect

You can use a transparent acrylic sealer to give extra protection and get the desired level of gloss after all of the Mod Podge layers have dried. Although this step is optional, it aids in preventing damage to the decoupaged surface.

Step 7: Final Touches

After everything has dried, you can put back any hardware or fittings that you had taken off the piece of furniture and give it one more lookover to make sure everything is as you had hoped.

You can turn plain furniture into individualized, one-of-a-kind items that reflect your style and taste by decoupaging it using paper materials. It’s a fun and creative DIY project.

Why Use Wallpaper?

Wallpaper is no longer simply for walls. In actuality, there are various advantages to using wallpaper for decoupage projects:

Diverse Patterns: Wallpapers are available in a wide range of designs, giving you countless customization options.

Durability: Superior wallpapers are more resistant to wear and tear than regular paper.

Usefulness: The wallpaper’s durability makes it simpler to manipulate, resulting in cleaner edges and a smoother finish.

Tools You’ll Need

You will require the following supplies to begin your decoupage project:

• A piece of furniture (woodwork best)
• Whichever wallpaper you want
• Decoupage adhesive (such as Mod Podge)
• Knife or scissors for crafts
• Tape measure or a rule
• Sponge brush

Mod Podge Substitute

There are a few alternatives you can take into consideration if you’re seeking Mod Podge alternatives for your craft projects. It’s important to select the option that best fits your project and tastes because, even though these choices may have comparable functions, they may have a few minor differences. Here are a few common alternatives to Mod Podge:

White Glue and Water Mixture:

 A mixture of white glue and water A DIY decoupage medium can be made by combining equal quantities of water and white craft glue, such as Elmer’s. Similar to Mod Podge, this homemade concoction can be used to adhere and seal paper, fabric, and other objects. To get the required thickness and consistency, adjust the glue-to-water ratio.

Clear Craft Varnish

Clear craft varnish can serve as a finisher and sealant for your crafts, similar to a water-based polyurethane or acrylic varnish. To provide a protective, glossy, or matte finish to your paper or cloth that has been glued, apply it over the top. To prevent any potential compatibility difficulties, just make sure to use a water-based varnish.

Decoupage Gel Medium

Decoupage gel mediums are available in many craft stores and are made specifically for decoupage projects. These substances have a similar effect to Mod Podge and are available in matte, glossy, and satin finishes.

Spray Adhesive

You can use a spray adhesive to attach paper or cloth to surfaces. Spray the material and the surface with a thin, even coat, then place the material precisely and smooth it down. When utilizing spray adhesives, make sure the space where you are working is sufficiently ventilated.

Acrylic Medium

Materials in collage and mixed-media projects can be sealed and adhered to using acrylic mediums, such as acrylic matte or gloss medium. They offer a transparent, bendable finish and can be blended with acrylic paints for further adaptability.

Step-By-Step Guide to Decoupage Furniture with Wallpaper

Measure and Cut 

When cutting your wallpaper, take into account the size of the furniture area you intend to decoupage. Always allow for changes by adding a few additional inches on each side.

Apply the Glue

Apply a layer of decoupage adhesive to the surface of the furniture using a foam brush. Be kind, but try not to make glue puddles.

Place the Wallpaper

Place the wallpaper over the glued area with caution, smoothing it evenly to prevent air bubbles. To assist with this, use a soft cloth.

Trim Excess

After the wallpaper is installed, tidy up the edges by trimming any extras with a craft knife.

Seal It

Decoupage glue should be liberally applied over the wallpaper. Use fine-grit sandpaper to softly sand the surface after it has dried. At least twice, repeat this process.

Add Varnish

Add a coat of clear varnish or lacquer for a durable finish. Give drying time to complete.

Expert Tips for a Successful Project

To make sure the decoupage adhesive doesn’t fade the wallpaper’s colors, always try a small area first.

• For a more polished appearance, use a high-resolution wallpaper.
• Consider choosing wallpaper with some stretch for curved or complicated sections.

How to Ensure a Long-Lasting Finish

The sealant you select has a huge impact on how long your decoupage job lasts. To shield your artwork from fading and wear, choose a high-quality, UV-resistant varnish or lacquer.

Conclusion

An innovative technique for transforming plain furniture into works of beauty is decoupage using wallpaper. You can master decoupage with the correct supplies, a little perseverance, and by following our step-by-step instructions. So why not get that metamorphosis going right now? Your furniture is a blank canvas just begging for your personal touch!

You may create beautiful, individualized furniture with a decoupage that tells a tale for your home. This book will put you on the right track to bringing out your inner artist, whether you’re a DIY aficionado or a making novice.

FAQS

Can I Use Wallpaper as a Decoupage?

Yes, you can use wallpaper as decoupage material. Simply cut out the desired patterns or designs from the wallpaper and adhere them to your chosen surface with decoupage glue for a decorative effect.

How Do You Cover Furniture With Wallpaper?

To cover furniture with wallpaper, first clean and prep the surface. Measure and cut the wallpaper to fit, then apply adhesive and carefully smooth the wallpaper onto the furniture. Trim excess and let it dry.

Can I Wrap Furniture in Wallpaper?

Yes, you can wrap furniture in wallpaper as a creative and cost-effective way to give it a new look. Ensure the surface is clean and smooth before applying the wallpaper for best results.