|
Surfaces to Decoupage
Author: Karen Le Blanc
Almost any surface can be used for decoupage,
but different surfaces will require different treatment. Traditionally, wooden
objects are used, especially furniture. But any smooth surface can be
decoupaged. Trays, boxes, and picture frames are ideal for the beginner. Before
you begin, make sure that the item is clean and free from dust or flaking paint.
Unfinished wood must be painted, stained, or sealed before decoupaging. If the
item needs to be painted, use the appropriate paint and let it dry for
twenty-four hours. It will also need to be lightly sanded so that the glue
adheres better. We'll discuss preparing surfaces for decoupage in further detail
in the section on techniques.
Wood
New wood is easily available and it requires little preparation. Most suppliers
have a large range of items. Varnished wood needs a light sanding before use to
help the water based glues and varnishes to adhere properly. Old wood may take
more preparation, but has a lot of character.
Metal
Old metal items also often have a lot of character. Local second-hand shops can
be a great source.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is increasing in popularity and can now be obtained from craft
shops. These items are delicate in appearance with intricate, scalloped lines.
Some preparation is required to ensure proper adhesion. These items are
extremely delicate and will chip if used roughly and regularly and so should be
kept for decorative purposes. Try not to get water on the steel, especially if
you are using it as a flower holder. Use another container inside the steel
item.
Ceramics
Unglazed, bisque-fired ceramics are best for decoupage and come in a wide
variety of shapes. These items are purely decorative. Hot food shouldn't be
served in them, only use them as containers for dry items such as potpourri or
nuts. Wipe clean with a damp cloth, but don't immerse in water or put in the
dishwasher.
Porcelain
Once complete, you can use the item for what it was originally intended for.
Serviettes are good to use as they are extremely thin and melt into the
porcelain. Try to keep to lighter colours in porcelain, as serviettes will
disappear altogether into a darker background.
Enamel
Enamel needs a light sanding and a coat of steel primer followed by a coat of
universal undercoat. It can then be treated the same as porcelain.
Glass
Glass needs a through clean with warm soapy water and a good rinse before being
used. These items are usually for decorative use, but if you want to use your
glass item, try using serviettes and porcelain medium on an ovenproof glass item
that can be heated. Baking your item dry will seal and harden your artwork,
making it more useable. Don't immerse the item in water.
Candles
It's best to use thicker candles as a thin one will burn too quickly, as well as
being difficult to work with. They tend to burn down in the centre, leaving a
safe zone on the edge.
Soap
Any soap can be decoupaged, provided it isn't too oily. The soap can be used
although the picture will eventually come off. Decoupaged soap makes great
gifts.
Once you've found an item you want to decoupage onto, you need to make sure that
it's free from dust and dirt. The surface may need sealing and you may need to
paint the item first. Some surfaces will need sanding first. Don't begin to
decoupage until the item is clean and dry.
With the amount of work you've put in, you'll want to keep your piece beautiful.
Waxing periodically provides good protection. Wipe all spills immediately with a
soft cloth. Don't use furniture polish as it can cause a build-up and over time
ruin the surface. A damp sponge or cloth works well for cleaning. Don't place a
piece of decoupage in direct sunlight, as it will fade over time.
Remember that varnish takes about a year to fully cure. Don't put heavy objects
on a flat decoupaged surface for at least a year or they will cause dents in the
surface. Once the surface has hardened, this isn't so important. Varnish dries
from the top down, so although it may feel hard and dry on the surface it can
still be soft further down.
Any small chips that occur over time should be repaired as soon as possible. If
the varnish is chipped but the decoupage has no damage, sand the surface. Apply
a drop of varnish and allow to dry. Repeat until the chip is filled. Decoupage
is not hard to care for and with proper care it will last forever.
Karen's website has a Step by Step guide on Decoupage.
Please visit the site for info on
decoupage
Article Source:
http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/31582.html
|
|