What if we tell you that there is one art form in which anyone can create master pieces without being an artist. In fact this art has been around since the ancient world discovered paper and cloth. Earlier it was sticking colour cloth (also known as felt) to pieces of wood or woodwork. Later paper started being used. Decoupage is the art of pasting paper to any object and then covering it with glue.
What is decoupage
A decoupage kit consists of specially printed tissue papers, all purpose glue (also called decoupage glue), variety of colours and a basic art and craft tool kit. Decoupage artists use objects like ceramic plates, bottles, bowls, purses, furniture and even stones. Tissues papers are pasted on these objects using the all purpose glue. More effects can be added with paints like acrylic colours or chalk paint at the sides of tissue paper. Once ready the entire surface is covered with glue. In the end you get ordinary objects looking like new and beautiful.
Decoupage tissue paper
Before paper printing technology, tissue papers were hand drawn and then pasted on objects. Today we have easily available printed tissue papers with vibrant colours and design. You can purchase the design of your choice from art and craft stores. German made tissue papers are of good quality and versatile prints. The finished product looks as good as painted upon. You can print your own tissue papers. But for that you will need special type of printer. Most crafters purchase printed tissue papers.
Few years back people used to use pictures cut from magazines and newspapers. Newsprint decoupage is still being used today for dramatic effect of boxes and photo frames. Another technique used is image transfer or photo transfer.
Colours
Acrylic colours are by far the most popular choice for crafters doing decoupage. They dry fast, have vibrant colour and can be used directly from the bottle without the need to add water. Most important, once applied they cannot be removed easily with water and does not lose their lustre over time. Acrylic colours are available in a variety of shades. We also have gold, silver and fluorescent colours.
Gesso or artistic white is used to prepare the surface for decoupage or painting. Many surfaces like wood and glass are either too smooth or porous. That makes application of paper or paint difficult. Gesso is used to provide a smooth or matt finish to the surface and to bring out the colours.
Another popular category used is chalk paint. It gives a total matt finish to the surface which resembles rustic and vintage. It gives a dramatic look especially if applied on furniture. Chalk paint is acrylic paint with lots of heavy pigments. Along with the matt finish it gives a chalky appearance. Lime green or pastel green is a popular choice with furniture.
Finally we have distress ink which really enhances your level of work giving your decoart a realistic weathered look.
Magic of decoupage glue
For decoupage everyone used a three in one all purpose glue. It acts as a finisher, sealant and adhesive. Mod Podge by Plaid is most popular, while the brand Fevicryl has Modge Podge which is gaining popularity.
Decoupage is gaining immense popularity due to easy of use and dramatic effects. Crafters experiment with techniques to upscale old and used items and change them into beautiful art pieces. Home decor has changed due to decoupage. It is an excellent art form to create custom gifts. Crafters also used multiple techniques clubbed with decoupage to create custom gifts for any occasions. Can you spot decoupage from the pictures below by Kriti Chhabra.
