Friday, November 13, 2009

GIVE Decoupaged Letters Tutorial

These just went up on the mantle, and while there are lots of tutorials on how to decoupage letters out there, why not do my own too. These techniques can be applied to many of the decoupage projects I do, like covering wooden picture frames.
For a change I used pressed cardboard letters, these are slightly larger than the wooden ones I normally use. Plus I liked the unfinished kraft look of them, it seemed appropriate for fall themed letters. I also found after finishing the project that I liked these even better than the wooden ones. The paper decoupaged on like a dream and got a really good bond.
Trace each letter in reverse on the backside of the paper you've chosen. I happen to be using two sided paper. For the letter E the green is the backside and the pumpkin side is the one I want showing. Cut out letter.
Apply mod podge to letter. Carefully line up paper on top of letter and press out any bubbles.If part of the paper hangs over the edge, that's fine.
Because you can sand off the excess and make a smooth edge. It's possible to go very slowly and get a smooth edge without distressing the edges very much. Likewise, a cutting knife can help you get in close too, if you don't want a distressed edge.
I already knew I was going to cover up the edges. You can also leave each letter like this, it gives it a kind of shabby chic look.
I chose to ink my edges, to give them more definition. Run the ink pad along the edges and use the sponge to get into places the pad can't get too. A Q-tip works well for corners and tight spots. Let ink dry completely, because rushing can lead to the ink smearing when sealing. Apply a coat of mod podge to further seal the paper to the letter and protect the surface. Go over the edges of the paper and smooth them down during this step. Repeat steps for each letter. Then have fun embellishing each letter. I used gold tone jewels for some sparkle and cool puffy sticker letters. The other letters are covered in paper with busy patterns so I didn't add anything, but think the I still looks a little bare. Any suggestions?
Part of...

Makingand DIY Day @ ASPTLand


24 Friends Said:

Anonymous said...

These are really cute, Katie! I've never seen those type of letters- only the wooden kind. ♥

Missy said...

These are great, Katie! I'm a sucker for mod podged letters. They look good on your mantel.

Crystal said...

I love them! Also thanks for the suggestion on using the cardboard letters I'm going to have to try those next time.

Susana said...

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this Katie!!

Bran said...

These letters turned out so pretty, now I really wanna make some.

Kelli said...

I really love the letters. I want to do letters for the kids' bathroom that spell CLEAN.

Rebecca said...

Easier than i thought, cool!

Jaedyn said...

Oh my goodness, I LOVE this! You are so talented! :-)

RoS said...

Looks great! Any hope of your bringing simple holiday favors over for the Thanksgiving table?

Cassie said...

Those look so good! Great job!

Cassie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Nicole said...

Those turned out great! I have been thinking of trying something like that. Does ER help with that type of project or is it not kid friendly? I though LC might like it.

Vickie said...

Super easy!!

I think the I looks fine. I kind of like it that way.

Jennifer said...

Very cute. And so easy! Thanks for the tutorial, Katie. =)

Anonymous said...

This are so cute and what a great reminder to have up. I need them up all year!

blessings
mary

Maryann @ Domestically-Speaking said...

That is ADORABLE!

Terry said...

I don't think your letters look bare - I think they look darn cute! I never thought to add words to the initial before - great project!

Unknown said...

Loving them! Great job!

heidi @ wonder woman wannabe said...

Looks great! I'm just getting started using Mod Podge - such fun! Thanks for all the 'finishing touches' tips.

Unknown said...

Those came out really cute. :) I did something similar with chipboard letters using my daughters' initials. They seem a little blah and I think inking the edges will give it just the "pick me up" it needs. :) Thanks for the tip!

Kim @ Cheap Chic Home said...

The idea of finishing off the edges is genius! Thanks for sharing.

Jenny said...

These turned out really cute!

Katy Campbell @ A Starter House said...

those look great- I would never have thought to use scrapbook paper - I've passed those letters a million times at hobby lobby and loved the idea of using them but couldn't figure out how, thanks for the inspiration!

Anonymous said...

Cute!....I'm hosting a tutorial contest this month and you should enter if you're in the USA...there are some lovely prizes. :)

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