Perhaps you have ever heard the term decoupage or someone told you what they did decoupage in cans. But, you may be wondering, what exactly is decoupage? Or what does it consist of?
If you are interested in the world of crafts and decoration, do not stop reading, because in this note we are going to tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful technique, easy, simple and environmentally friendly that allows us to give life and color to various objects in the house. We are ready?
vintage decoupage
Decoupage is a term that comes from a French word “découper” which means to cut out. And, in fact, there is no better way to define this technique that consists of decorating various surfaces (they can be furniture, drawers, wood, cans or even ceramics) with cloth, napkins or paper images that are adhered with a varnish. In fact, there are many decorative items that are made with this technique, but people cannot easily identify them because they look like hand-painted objects.
This technique is not new: it has its origins in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, although its true heyday was in the 70s in the United States, where patterned wallpaper was the star of homes. The avant-garde decided over time to implement this technique with new objectives and elements until, for example, reusing a printed paper napkin.
decoupage in cans
The way to carry out this decorative technique correctly is different in relation to the surface that is being used. In the case of wanting to apply it in aluminum cans, the materials that are needed are:
– Scissors.
– Glue.
– Water.
– A brush.
-The paper or fabric with which it will be decorated (this is known as decoupage with fabric).
– Spatula or some element with which to smooth.
– And the can.
STEP BY STEP: HOW TO DECOUPAGE
The process to start, once you have all the materials, is really simple. And in fact, here we leave you the step by step to execute this technique without complications:
1- The first step is clean the can completely. That is, remove the from the can and the remains of glue. For this, it is important to help yourself with a sponge or virulana and leave it for a few minutes in hot water. This step is one of the most important to ensure that the final finish will be optimal.
2- Once the can is clean it is recommended paint the can with a color that matches the design of the chosen fabric or napkin. It is important to give it two coats to cover the surface and give it an even base. Then all you have to do is let it dry.
3- One of the funniest steps arrives, the moment of prepare the fabric or napkin cutout. In this case, it is important to know the dimensions of the can to choose a design that suits the object and thus ensure that there will be no shortage of material when it comes to decorating.
4- Let’s get to work! Once the surface is clean and the image cut out you have to stick it all. In general, it is advisable to thin the water with the glue to adhere the image correctly and that there are no lumps or bubbles. When carrying out this step, it is important to use a brush or spatula to press the image. Finally, you have to let the glue dry for the time indicated on the product label.
5- To finish the decoration of a can you have to apply the varnish. This element is essential not only to give the painting a shine, but also to protect the illustration from future wear and tear.
In just 5 steps, beautiful vases, candle holders or even centerpieces can be obtained that, in addition to being 100% handmade, they serve to collaborate with recycling.
If you liked this technique and want to apply it to other surfaces, don’t hesitate to do furniture decoupage. In fact, Here we tell you how to recycle fruit crates with the decoupage technique
decoupage on fabric
In addition to decorating objects, decoupage can be done on fabric. This technique is very showy and useful to give a unique and personal touch to garments such as aprons, t-shirts, jackets or dresses. On this occasion, the necessary materials to decorate an apron, for example, are:
– Textile decoupage glue.
– Printed napkins.
– White cotton apron.
How do I decorate it?
1- Onceclean the apronthe first step is cut out the parts of the napkin or cloth that you want to use to apply the technique. It is important to check that the chosen design is proportional to the garment or the sector that you want to decorate.
2-Then, you have to apply the glue on the leta with the help of a brush and place the chosen napkin or fabric on top pressing with your fingers or gently with the help of a spatula.
3- After step two, you have to let dry for a couple of hours the glue to make sure the design adhered properly. And then it is recommended to give it a second layer of glue to prevent it from peeling off and that it is well protected.
4- When the apron has dried completely, the final tip is iron it inside out so that, with the heat, the fabric and the glue adhere perfectly to the napkin. In this way, the garment can be washed without any problem.