Decoupage Paper Weights Crafts
- Any small heavy object can be used in decoupage paper weight crafts as long as it has a smooth surface. Rough surfaces will rip the paper and must be either sanded down or avoided. Rice paper and fine papers are easier to use in decoupage than thicker papers, but almost all types of paper can be used. If using very thin paper, avoid weights with dark surfaces as the color will show through.
- The surface of the weight must be clean, smooth and free from grease. Cut out the paper shapes to be applied and dampen them with cold water (unless the paper is extremely thin, when dampening it will likely cause it to tear). Cover the weight with a layer of acrylic glue and carefully place the paper cut-outs on top. Smooth into place by gently brushing over the paper with a paint brush from center to edge. Leave it to dry; then finish with a coat of acrylic laquer.
- Decoupage can be adapted to an endless variety of paper weight craft projects. Metal, wood, ceramics and plastics of different sizes and shapes will inspire different designs. Decoupage has a long history. For old-fashioned looks, seek out original or imitation Victorian scrapbook pictures and use "crackle" paint, available from craft shops, for an antique-style cracked glaze finish. For a modern paperweight project, use computer or technology parts as the basic weight and decorate with metallic-colored paper. For a very personal paper weight, print photos of friends or yourself on standard paper and decorate a weight with these.
- If you intend to sell your finished paperweight, it is important to ensure the picture you have applied to it is not under copyright, which means the image belongs to someone else and cannot be reproduced or used for commercial purposes without the creator's or owner's permission. If you are cutting out an image from something you have bought and using it once for personal use, this is fine, but if you photocopy or intend to sell a copyright image you must seek permission.