How to Make Decoupage Glue

The art of decorating an object by sticking colored paper and other accessories on it is known as decoupage or découpage. Normally, the base used for the same are old shoe boxes or furniture items. They are covered with different cutouts or craft items.

A number of layers of paper may be used for the same. After sticking every layer, it is sealed with varnish, so that it does not look 'stuck on' anymore. The finished product looks like painting or inlay work. Traditionally, as many as 30 to 40 layers of varnish were used, and later finished off with sandpaper to get a polished look.

This art has been in use in England since the 18th century, where it is known as art of Japanning. This art is said have originated in Japan, hence the name. Among the other elements required to make a decoupage, the most important is decoupage glue.

There are a number of brands available in the market. The commercially manufactured ones are often very expensive. So, if you do not want to waste a lot of money just on the glue, then you can make the glue at home itself.

If you are working on smaller projects, you can use diluted white glue as well. But, if you are working on larger projects, then it is best to use diluted wallpaper paste for the same. Often, for decoupaging on wood, a thicker glue is used.

There is no rocket science involved in making decoupage glue. It is extremely easy and cheaper than the commercially available glue. This glue can be used in arts and crafts activities as well. Get hold of the items mentioned here and follow the steps to make the perfect decoupage glue.

● Add flour, alum, and rosin to a large pan.
● Add warm water to the mixture and stir well to ensure no lumps are formed.
● Once you get rid of the lumps, add hot water, and continue stirring while adding water. (Since you are using hot water, there are chances of lump formation.)

● Now place the pan on low heat and let the mixture come to a boil, but don't stop stirring.
● When the glue is thin, add cold water to the glue and keep stirring. If you feel the glue is still too thick, add some more water to it, until you feel it has reached the right consistency.

● Add clove oil to the glue and store it in a sealed container.
● Remember, to not store the glue in the refrigerator.
If, after a few days, you find that the glue has thickened, add warm water to it and use it.

To make the glue look attractive, you can add color or glitter to it. If it takes your fancy, you can take to decoupaging yourself and create a whole lot of 'new' items for your house. Your house will not look the same anymore.