Decoupage on old furniture

Question

I have a couple of old tables, larger than end tables but not dining tables, that I'd like to try and do something creative with. I was thinking decoupage because the technique intrigues me and the only risk is the appeal of the outcome-if the tables are destroyed, no loss as they were dumpster finds. Your ideas are welcomed and any advice from those who have been successful!

Cindy · Answer

This is a decoupage project that I did recently. As you can see there was no saving it if not for decoupage! It had been used as a work bench and had equipment attached to the top. I used brown Kraft paper as the base of my decoupage. Torn into irregular pieces and attached with Mod Podge. After the first layer was dry I attached an 'antique' map print. First I tore the edges of the print so there was a rough and imperfect outer edge. Attached the map with Mod Podge also. After it was dry I applied 4 coats of polyacrylic.  I love the end result and so do the new owners!! Good luck.

Joy.schottenloher · Answer

one year I did this to the top of an old consol floor model tele.. I used paper bags.  I tore them up in odd pieces because I wantd a worn out leather affect..it took about two days to complete.  When it was dried I stained the bags with a light oak stain that had a sealer already in it.  Sorry no pictures my albums are in Cincinnati,and I am I San Antonio. I really loved it.

Joy.schottenloher · Answer

Ps.it costs practically nothing.i am going to do it again to a small end table.

Donnaleedesigns52 · Answer

I have painted a base coat on a table and decoupaged the top layer of a napkin. when dry cover with at least 3 coats of gloss water based varnish

Linda Daneau · Answer

go for it.. Use your imagination. Just make sure it is sealed if there will be anything wet near them..

Gail Salminen · Answer

@Terry if you could post some pics you get more detailed instructions and a lot more ideas. I searched decoupaged tables here and these are a few links you may want take notice of to make your decision. http://www.hometalk.com/diy/bedroom/furniture/decoupage-amp-chalk-paint-fun-little-project-975191 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/tips-for-decoupaging-paper-napkins-onto-furniture-5828087 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/bedroom/furniture/decoupage-napkins-milk-paint-side-table-5391104 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/living-room/furniture/decoupage-furniture-3134528 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/small-oak-country-style-table-w-heart-cutout-1640963 These are just a few examples many more on here as well.

Liliana Wells · Answer

If you don't care for the tables, go for it. Have fun doing it and post pictures when you are done.

Pat G · Answer

I used pictures from an old calendar on an antique card table top. Mine had humorous western pictures from a somewhat famous painter, but whatever calendars you have are probably to your taste. If not, this is an inexpensive time of year to buy. Used several coat of polyurethane, which gave it an antique look. Has lasted 20 years or so already, and is still a favorite project.

Joy.schottenloher · Answer

Pat G....I never thought of using calendar pages before.you could actually put every ones birthday on the table in your family.or maybe some news clip from a paper.  I guess this is good for our imagination huh?

Country Design Home · Answer

While we are speaking about decoupage...what brand does everyone use and like the best? I have tried many different ones and am looking for the perfect one that doesn't bubble the paper.

Kim |Exquisitely Unremarkable · Answer

Great idea. I suggest using rice paper it's so much easier to work with and I dislike Mod Podge so I use Dixie Belle Satin Sealer instead. Fabulous results.

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