Decoupage Crafts – Card Craft Basics

Decoupage crafts have enjoyed huge popularity these last few years and little wonder. Decoupage can be subtle or dramatic depending on your choice of papers. One of the attractions is the cost. Anyone can start with the basics of paper and scissors. But be warned; it is addictive!

I first came across Decoupage many years ago at a weekend Day School. Sadly the class was not well prepared or presented, which did little to inspire me. The lady may have been an enthusiast but she was no craft teacher.

I came away convinced the subject was dull and uninspiring. For may years I left it alone. What a shame, because I missed out of learning a new craft skill.

As you probably know, there is Flat Decoupage and 3D Decoupage.

Flat Decoupage is used on frames, trays, boxes etc. In fact you can use Flat Decoupage on any reasonably flat surface as you mould the cut motifs to your base shape.

You can use both gift-wrap or decorated napkins. Once the base has been prepared, your cut designs are then fixed on with a dilute glue and sealed with a varnish. There are various more expensive alternatives to this simple methods, but in essence, the ideas is the same.

- Choose and prepare your base

- – Cut your motifs

- – Paste on with glue

- – Varnish

The results can be dramatic. You can transform any humble tin or plate with appealing cut motifs. As long as you can carefully wield a pair of small pointed scissors – and fix it without tearing or damaging the delicate fibers, then you are in business!

There are 3 main skills to that you need to get your head – and your fingers around.

1. Choosing your designs

2. Cutting them out

3. Assembling them

3D Decoupage is favored by Craftsmen too. The idea is simple enough. It is the execution that demonstrates the skills.

Using the same design, various layers are built up on a base, separated by either Silicone Glue or Sticky Fixers. Skillfully applied, and with motifs cut to show spilling and feathering, it is possible to create tremendous works of art.

Both 3D or 2D Decoupage offer challenges. But with a little patience both product great results. The choice is up to you – flat or 3D. Decoupage crafts could be your next ‘must do’.

I am judging a County Craft Exhibition in a few days time and I expect to see some great examples of workmanship. I will be looking for all the basics plus some added flair. They know the Standards they are aiming for and I suspect there will be a number of Decoupage Crafts waiting for my expert eye.