Tutorials

Decoupage is a centuries-old craft that involves decorating objects by gluing paper cutouts onto them and then sealing them with layers of varnish or adhesive. One popular and versatile paper used for decoupage is Mint by Michelle paper. When combined with Fusion Decoupage Gel, it allows for stunning creations that can be applied to furniture and used to make unique home decor items. In this blog post, we will explore the art of decoupage using Mint by Michelle paper and Fusion Decoupage Gel, as well as delve into the fascinating history of this timeless craft.

What is Decoupage?

Decoupage originated in East Siberia in the 12th century and has since spread across the globe, evolving into various styles and techniques. The word "decoupage" comes from the French word "decouper," which means "to cut out." It gained popularity during the Renaissance, when it was used to decorate furniture, household items, and even walls.

Transforming Furniture with Mint by Michelle Paper

Mint by Michelle paper offers a wide range of beautiful designs, from vintage patterns to modern motifs. When using Mint by Michelle paper for decoupage, it's important to choose a design that complements the furniture piece you're working on. Whether you're revamping an old dresser or adding a touch of elegance to a plain table, Mint by Michelle paper can breathe new life into your furniture.

Using Fusion Decoupage Gel

Fusion Decoupage Gel is a high-quality adhesive specifically formulated for decoupage projects. It provides a strong bond between the paper and the surface, ensuring longevity and durability. The gel is easy to apply, dries clear, and creates a smooth finish that enhances the beauty of the Mint by Michelle paper design.

Blending with Paint

One of the unique aspects of decoupage is the ability to blend the paper design seamlessly with the surrounding surface using paint. After applying the Mint by Michelle paper and Fusion Decoupage Gel, you can use acrylic or chalk paint to create a cohesive look. By carefully selecting colors that complement the paper design, you can achieve a harmonious and professional finish.

Creating Home Decor Items

Decoupage isn't limited to furniture alone. With Mint by Michelle paper and Fusion Decoupage Gel, you can create a wide range of home decor items, such as decorative trays, picture frames, vases, and more. Let your creativity soar as you transform ordinary objects into personalized works of art.

The History of Decoupage

As mentioned earlier, decoupage has a rich history that spans centuries. It gained popularity in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, with aristocrats and royalty using it to adorn their homes with intricate designs. In the 19th century, decoupage became a popular pastime for women, who would create beautiful objects using scraps of paper and varnish.

Today, decoupage continues to captivate artists and crafters alike. It allows for self-expression, creativity, and the opportunity to breathe new life into old or plain objects. With Mint by Michelle paper and Fusion Decoupage Gel, you can embark on your own decoupage journey and create stunning pieces that reflect your personal style.

So why not give decoupage a try? Explore the world of Mint by Michelle paper, experiment with Fusion Decoupage Gel, and let your imagination run wild. Transform your furniture, create unique home decor items, and become a part of the rich history of this timeless craft.

This dresser was refinished with bright coral paint and all sorts of Iron Orchid Designs transfers, stamps, and inks. 

Here is a list of what I used.( some items are discontinued,they will be noted with a *)

The paint is a mix of Coral colors I had around the workshop. The Coral from Fusion Mineral Paint would work too. Coral Fusion Mineral Paint 

I added the wording with the Typesetting Stamp 

The flowers are the Wander transfer

There are bits of handwriting from the Kindest Regards stamp. This stamp is a must have for your stash!

I used the trim area with diamond shapes from the Prim and Trim transfer *

I used Iron Orchid Designs Black, and China Blue Inks for the stamping and to put smudges of color on the drawers and here and there.  TIP: When using the IOD inks let them dry a full 24 hours before brushing on top coat. I use a heat gun or blow dryer to make sure it's dry and set. Spray water based sealers like MinWax PolyCrylic work great to seal first and then let you brush or roll on a liquid sealer without smearing the ink. 

I used an IOD brayer with a very light coat of IOD Mixing White ink and rolled it around to make highlighted areas. 

The knobs were highlighted with Plaid Liquid Gold Leaf paint* but you can use Fusion Mineral Paint metallic paint in any of the gold shades, rose gold would be beautiful 

I sealed it with a coat of Fusion Mineral Tough Coat in Matte finish. Lightly coated and let dry two to three times. 

No two works are going to look the same so embrace what you like and change others. If you have any questions just email us at bluebirdmercantile@gmail.com