Monday, 6 August 2012

More than just curtains and bedspreads - decoupage your world with fabric!



The world of fabric is not just about curtains and clothing anymore. This versatile medium is finding its way into our lives and our homes in a range of new, exciting and innovative ways. If you’re like us you’re always looking for new ways to bring attention to your favourite textiles and whilst you can’t upholster your dining room table or your cupboard door, you can still get your fabric finish with a bottle of modge podge and a paint brush or two.

We’re talking decoupage people! This nifty little technique can help you carry a theme through from the curtains to the wardrobe. It is also a great way to update old furniture or create unique pieces of wonder. If you are interested in using the decoupage technique to add a touch of fabulous to your furniture keep reading, we’ve got a basic how to guide to help navigate your way.

1.   Using a fine sander, sand down the piece of furniture you are planning to use. This will help remove and old paint or vanish still on the piece and create a clean, smooth surface.
2.    If you are going to paint or stain the piece now is the time to do it. If painting try to use even strokes so that you maintain a smooth finish. Leave to dry.
3.   Cut your chosen piece of fabric to size – we recommend using very sharp scissors to prevent fraying. If you have chosen to use voile or another thin fabric, dipping the blades of some stainless steel scissors into very hot water will not only reduce fraying, but help you to cut straight.
4.     Firstly, make sure that the surface you are about to cover with fabric is completely dry and smooth. If it is damp, first give it a bit more time. If the surface is not completely smooth give it a light sanding followed by a wipe down with a damp cloth. When the surface is ready paint a thin layer of modge podge over it. Tip: If you’re planning to cover more than one area with fabric, paint only one section at a time with glue, otherwise the glue will dry before you get to laying down the fabric.
5.    Carefully lay the fabric over the modge podge and smooth out any lumps and air bubbles using your finger or an ice-cream stick. Be careful when working at the edges of the fabric, you don’t want to pull the threads loose.
6.    Paint another thin layer of modge podge over the fabric and allow it to dry. Once dry, paint another layer over the first and allow it to dry.  You’ll want to keep repeating this step until you have about four to eight layers of modge podge covering the fabric. How many layers you have depends on what  you are covering. If it is a piece that is going to see a lot of wear and tear we recommend somewhere closer to eight. The modge podge acts as a varnish, helping to seal and protect the fabric.
7.     Softly sand the decoupaged surface with very fine sand paper or water paper. This will remove any air bubbles or globs of glue, but DO NOT sand too hard or you will sand straight through to the underlying fabric.    


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