This is the first in a series of ideas for how to upcycle a furniture unit, this blog focuses on decoupage.

The word ‘upcycling’ immediately conjures images of chalk paint and a ‘distressed’ look, but there are many upcycling options that will give your unit a refreshed and updated look, without breaking the bank.

Decoupage, from the French word ‘decouper’, meaning to cut from something else. It is the art of sticking decorative paper onto an object to give it a new covering and can work beautifully with something like a side table or set of drawers. The most important aspect of course, is choosing your covering. Decoupage often uses a selection of paper, perhaps magazine cut outs or trimmings from wrapping paper but it doesn’t have to be wacky, it can be quite subtle or simple.

 

Step 1 – preparation.

Before you start anything, ensure that the unit is on a dust sheet and that you are working in a well ventilated room.

The next step depends entirely on what state your unit is currently in. If it’s old and stained and the wood is exposed, then you’ll need to start with sanding. If it has a top-coat of paint or varnish, use a medium-grit sandpaper, if it is entirely covered in paint use an electric drill with a sanding disc – a sanding and polishing kit will give you all the components you need. You can also use paint/varnish stripper to get the piece back to its original wood.

Step 2 – clean.

Ensure that the surface you are about to work with is clean of grime, grit and paint chipping, using sugar soap wipes.

Step 3. – Paint the areas that won’t be covered.

You may not want to decoupage the entire table, you may choose to do just the top and perhaps the insides of draws or cupboards, for instance. You may also want to paint a background for your decoupage. For this we recommend good quality paint brushes such as Hamilton or Harris, and ensure you have a range of sizes including a small brush for any detailed areas. You may also want masking tape, and paint brush cleaner.

Step 4. – Prepare your paper.

Cut everything out ready that you plan to use, lay it out beforehand so you can be sure you’re happy with the finished effect. For a large covering ensure that the material will reach over the edges to be trimmed.

Step 5 – Apply decoupage glue

Using a sponge brush, apply the glue only to the areas you will be putting the paper. Be generous with the glue. Apply the glue to the back on the paper, then place down in position. Work your way from the middle to the edges. Use a foam roller to smooth it down pushing out any air pockets.

Step 6 – Apply a top layer of glue

Let the paper dry for 30 minutes, then apply another layer of glue all over, working from the middle outwards.

Step 7 – The edges

Leave the paper to hang over the edges loosely. Once dry, use a sanding block on the edges, which will remove any excess paper.

Step 8 – Apply a second coat of glue

Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat, again working from inside outwards. This will start to build up a coating.

Step 9 – Finishing off

Apply an acrylic spray or polyurethane topcoat to seal and finish your work. It’ll need a few days to be completely sealed, so wait that little bit longer and then you won’t get any tackiness to the finish.