(Project, styling and photography: Geneva Vanderzeil)
Decoupage has had a resurgence in recent years as people (like me!) have got busy thrifting and upcycling. The art of gluing paper onto surfaces to make intricate patterns began in 18th-century Europe and it became incredibly popular in the Victorian period. Well-to-do ladies decorated boxes and screens with a collage of images, then applied clear lacquer to protect the design.
This project uses pretty prints from floral napkins to revive an old vase. You can use household paper napkins, like I did, to create your floral vase or buy napkins or rice paper especially for decoupage at craft stores and online. (Go to etsy.com.au and search for “floral decoupage paper” and you’ll find lots to choose from.)
Cutting and pasting is a relaxing pastime for anyone, even if you’re an absolute beginner. You’ll be amazed at how it draws you in. And it’s your opportunity to make an everyday item truly beautiful.
Geneva’s tip
I love that you can transform everyday crockery into statement pieces thanksto simple napkins.
Easy steps to decoupage a vase
Gather your supplies
• Old vase
• Decorative paper napkins
• Mod Podge Dishwasher-Safe Gloss
• Small paintbrush or foam brush
• Clear water-based sealer such as Liquitex Matte Gel, or Krylon Triple Thick Crystal Clear Glaze spray (optional)
You’ll also need
Paper scissors and small, sharp, curved scissors to cut around details, drop sheet, plastic wrap (optional).
Steps to make the vase
Step 1
Wash the vase with dishwashing liquid and water, then leave to dry. Protect your work surface with paper or a drop sheet. Gently separate the layers of the napkin and keep only the top printed layer.
Step 2
Cut or tear out the floral motifs from the napkins.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to a small section of the vase using a paintbrush or foam brush.
Step 4
Carefully place the napkin piece onto the glued area, then smooth it gently from the centre outwards with your fingers or a ball of plastic wrap to remove wrinkles and air bubbles.
Step 5
Continue applying the napkin pieces around the vase, overlapping designs as needed until you’re happy with the look.
Step 6
Brush a light coat of Mod Podge over the top of the napkin pieces to seal them.
Step 7
This layer of Mod Podge may be enough to protect your decoupage. But for more protection, finish with a clear water-based sealant such as Liquitex Matte Gel or use Krylon Triple Thick Crystal Clear Glaze for a shinier, glass-like finish. Leave the vase to dry completely.
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