5 Easy Decoupage Projects for Beginners

5 Easy Decoupage Projects for Beginners

Have a sheet of decoupage paper you love but aren’t sure what to make with it? Start with a small project that gives the artwork room to shine.

These five ideas work well with simple shapes and flat surfaces, giving you a chance to practice before tackling furniture.

1. A decorative wooden plaque

A flat wooden plaque is a straightforward first project. Choose a floral arrangement, bird, or other focal point from your paper and position it where it will look best.

Paint the background a light color, let it dry, then apply your paper using decoupage medium. Once everything is dry, trim the excess and finish the surface.

Make it your own: Paint the edges in a color pulled from the design. Display the plaque on a small easel or add suitable hanging hardware.

2. A keepsake-box lid

Give a plain wooden box a personal touch by decorating its lid. Keep the paper on the flat top for your first attempt, and paint the sides in a coordinating shade.

Before applying adhesive, check where the paper will end. Keep it clear of hinges and the seam where the lid opens.

Gift idea: Choose a design that suits the recipient, then tuck a handwritten note or small gift inside.

3. Framed decoupage artwork

Turn a favorite section of paper into a small piece of wall art. Use a smooth, thin wooden panel that fits your frame, allowing room for the frame’s backing and fasteners.

Position the artwork with the frame opening in mind—some of the edges will be hidden. Apply and finish the paper, then let the panel dry and cure before assembling the frame.

Make it a set: Create two or three coordinating pieces using different sections of the same sheet.

4. A decorative tray

A tray with a flat center gives you a defined space to decorate. Paint the rim first, then plan your paper placement inside it.

For an easier first project, keep the paper on the flat base instead of wrapping it into the corners or up the sides.

Styling idea: Use the finished tray to display a small vase, a battery-operated candle, or decorative objects. Treat it as a decorative piece; don’t assume your paper and finish are suitable for direct food contact or standing water.

5. Wooden gift tags or ornaments

Small wooden blanks are a lovely way to use leftover paper. Choose designs with details that still look good at a smaller scale.

Lay each blank over the paper to plan your cut before adding adhesive. After attaching the paper and allowing it to dry, trim the edges and finish the surface. Keep the hanging hole clear, then add ribbon or twine.

Make it personal: Leave the back plain for a name, date, or short message.

Helpful supplies for these projects

Choose one adhesive medium according to the finish you prefer:

• Decoupage Gel Matte for a matte finish.
• Soft Gloss Gel for a glossy finish.

Our Craft Knife with 4 Blades is useful for trimming dried paper around project edges. Work over a protective cutting surface and keep your fingers clear of the blade.

You’ll also want a soft, flat brush, scissors, and paint for your base coat. Follow your paper and medium instructions for preparation, drying, and curing.

Start with one piece

Pick the project that makes you most excited to begin. A small finished piece can teach you plenty about positioning paper, applying medium, and creating neat edges.

Browse the decoupage papers and supplies at Canterbury Creative to find the starting point for your next handmade gift or home accent.

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