Decoupage is a special technique for applying a pattern, a pattern printed on a different texture - most often on a napkin. That is why decoupage is often called "napkin technique". She came to us from Germany. With the help of decoupage, you can both revive old furniture, and make decor for new items, create your own design.
Preparation for work
Decoupage on wood is the most common way of decorating. First of all, it is worth preparing the surface of the furniture. It should be flat, sanded, without burrs and bumps. Old furniture should be sanded. After that, the furniture should be completely primed with paint or glue. Water-based paint is ideal for decoupage. You can use PVA glue diluted with water in a ratio of one to one as a primer. The surface must be thoroughly dried before decorating.
The set of materials for decoupage is quite simple - it is glue, brushes, patterns, varnish. It is advisable to have a roller or sponge at hand - in case of air bubbles, it will be most convenient to smooth the surface with them. Most often, napkins are used for decoupage. They are perfectly thin and do not create a level drop. If the desired pattern is not on sale, you can print it yourself.
Decoupage process
When using napkins, special attention should be paid to cutting the pattern. This must be done very carefully, with sharp scissors, without damaging the pattern or cutting off the edges. This is a delicate and elaborate work. After the pattern is cut out, the top layer of the napkin should be separated, as a rule, they are three-layer.
When the surface and drawing are ready, you can start working. Apply PVA glue or special decoupage glue to the surface of furniture or to a napkin. One decoupage technique is to completely dip the napkin in glue, soak it, and then gently apply it to the surface. For beginners, it will be easiest to apply a dry napkin to the glue-coated surface.
Then you need to gently smooth out the pattern on the surface. This should be done slowly so as not to damage the drawing with a sharp movement. When a composition or a separate drawing has already been applied, you should make sure that there are no air bubbles. If there are any, you need to squeeze them out with a sponge or roller, it all depends on the size of the picture. After the glue dries, you need to fix the result with varnish. You will have to process the entire surface of the furniture completely. After the varnish has dried, you will need to apply another coat. In total, at least three layers must be made.
The choice of decor depends only on the personal preferences of the furniture owners. The pattern can be combined with textile ideas and motifs in the room, or it can be made a bright accent, adding variety to the interior.
