The different types of decoupage projects include items to accent a home, give as gifts or sell for a profit. Decoupage can be done on just about any hard surface, including glass, tile, cardboard, paper, wood and metal. With proper preparation, rigid plastic can be used for decoupage as well. Soft, porous items do not make good decoupage surfaces, because the glue will not adhere properly.
Glass items such as plates, wine glasses and Christmas ornaments can be used for decoupage. One of the benefits of completing a decoupage glass item is that the glass creates a built-in protective finish for the piece. Glass decoupage projects can be completed on the front or the back side of the glass, depending on the type of piece and its intended purpose. Drinking glasses are decoupaged on the outside, and glass plates are decoupaged on the back so that the artwork does not come into contact with food.
Tile decoupage projects can be created on wall tiles that are in place or on tiles that have not yet been installed. Decoupage is one way to update dated bathroom tiles or to cover up a damaged tile in the kitchen. A set of coasters can be made by decoupaging colored paper cutouts onto 4-inch (10-cm) tiles. Projects such as these make excellent holiday gifts.
Decoupage projects for the home can be made from any small decorative home accessories, including trash cans, decorative boxes, tins and wood plaques. Basic decoupage supplies and paper cutouts can be used to complete home decor items; colors and images can be customized to match any decorating style. Wood furniture is an ideal surface for large-scale decoupage projects, provided that the original finish is prepared properly.
Even the walls of a home make ideal surfaces for decoupage projects. Decoupage can be used to cover up flaws or damage, to call attention to a design feature or to accent a mural. The same products and supplies used to make small-scale decoupage products can be used to decoupage on walls, though a mini paint roller or over-sized foam brush might be needed for large areas.
No matter what surfaces are used, decoupage projects are completed in the same way, using the same basic supplies. Specialty decoupage glue might be needed for projects that use metal or plastic as a design surface, but the same paper cutouts can be used on any hard, non-porous items. As with any craft, beginners should start with a simple decoupage project before tackling complex or over-sized designs.
