About Decoupage

What is Decoupage

The word itself comes from the French “decoupeur”, ‘to cut out.’ In the 18th century, in an attempt to imitate expensive lacquered furniture, paper cutouts were glued onto a prepared surface, then given a heavy shellac finish.

The art of decoupage flourished throughout Europe for more than two hundred years, but reached a crescendo in the 19th century when, especially in Victorian England, it descended into mawkishness- which is how most still think of decoupage today.

That was then, this is now. To the traditional art, add 21st century advances in craft technology, state of the art color reproductions and Janna Howell’s personal talent for design (uniquely incorporating rich fabric, polymer clay and glass gems): you have an art that, while rooted in tradition, is yet wholly new.

How is it done?

Decoupage is meticulous and labor-intensive. A single box can take weeks to produce. Janna starts by poring over her extensive collection of books, paper and images. Ideas begin to crystallize in her fervid little imagination.

The box surface is prepared with paint, gilding or stain. The paper images are hand-cut, using scalpel as well as scissors. The paper images are then arranged and glued onto the surface.

There are two kinds of finish: varnish or epoxy resin. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Both give the appearance of molten glass. With varnish, many layers are applied, 20-30 coats, each one is brushed on and allowed to dry before applying the other. This is very time-consuming, and because of that Janna no longer uses it for custom orders.

All three-dimensional ornaments are made entirely by hand, using polymer clay and glass jewels.

Decoupage under glass, also called "reverse decoupage", is done by gluing paper images on the underside of a clear glass plate. The back is finished with a layer of paper and a few coats of varnish.

Care & Feeding of your Decoupage

To prevent fading, keep out of direct sunlight.

Treat your decoupaged item as you would fine furniture. Always use coasters. Clean up any spills and wipe dry immediately. Never let water or any liquid sit directly on the finish.

Most of the time, all it needs is a dry dusting. Do not use any sprays or cleaners. If need be, you can clean it with a damp cloth. However, people do tend to want to touch it, so if it gets really dirty, clean it with diluted soapy water, rinse-wipe it with clean water and then dry thoroughly.

Plates: They are food-safe, however they must be washed very carefully. Hand wash the front side only and dry immediately. Do not immerse in water or put in dishwasher.

If you have any problems or questions, I will be happy to help you.

Cutting

Lining a Box

Making Ornaments

Varnishing

Varnishing