Decoupage is a very old and traditional paper craft. The history of decoupage stretches back as far as the 12th century, however it was in the 17th century that the craft reached its height of popularity with aristocrats and noble ladies practicing decoupage as well as the more humble practitioners. Today, decoupage remains a popular craft with far reaching variations. In addition to the decoupage of furniture and the creation of other works of art, many rubber stampers and paper crafters use decoupage to add dimension to their work.
What is Decoupage?
Decoupage is created by layering several images on top of each other to create three dimensional designs. The images can be raised using double sided pads or tape. Complex and intricate designs can be created by cutting out and layering different elements of an image. A floral scene, for instance, might be created with flowers layered to different heights.
Using Decoupage
Traditionally, one of the most popular ways that decoupage was used was to decorate items of furniture and home accessories. There are many other ways that this versatile technique can be used and it is increasingly popular with card makers and scrapbookers. The three dimensional images add depth and interest to projects.
Decoupage Supplies
Specialist decoupage papers are available from craft and art stores. These contain a number of images that have been selected because the images are perfect for decoupage. These papers include contemporary and traditional designs. In addition to decoupage papers, pre cut or die cut decoupage kits are available. These are a quick and convenient way to create decoupage designs.
Decoupage is given the three dimensional, raised effect by the use of a thick double sided tape or self adhesive pads. Different effects can be achieved by using different thicknesses of adhesive pad. When layers are built up using glue without the added depth of a glue pad or tape a more subtle effect is produced. This is similar to paper piecing.
Rubber Stamping and Decoupage
Rubber stamping and decoupage are complementary crafts. Decoupage can be used in rubber stamping projects, rubber stamping can be added to decoupage projects and rubber stamping can be used as the images for decoupage. This wide range of options makes the combination of rubber stamping and decoupage an exciting mix.
More Information
- Step by Step Guide to Decoupage - from About.com Family Crafts
- National Guild of Decoupeurs - Information and a gallery
- HGTV - a range of different projects
