Decoupage

Decoupage is the art of decorating objects by applying paper cutouts or printed designs to a surface and sealing them with varnish or another protective finish. The name derives from the French decouper, to cut out. The technique has historical roots in East Asian lacquerwork and European craft traditions and achieved particular popularity in Europe from the 17th century onward as a method of embellishing furniture, household objects, and artwork.

Materials commonly used include decorative paper such as napkins, tissue paper, or images printed on lightweight stock; an adhesive or decoupage medium (glue size or PVA-based medium); brushes or sponges; and a finishing sealant such as varnish, lacquer, or acrylic sealer. Surfaces may be wood, ceramic, glass, metal, or canvas.

Process typically involves preparing and smoothing the surface, cutting or tearing designs, arranging them on the object, and adhering them with a thin layer of glue. After the initial bond dries, additional layers of adhesive and a final protective coating are applied. Some practitioners use a glaze or varnish between layers to reduce the visibility of seams, and sanding between coats can yield a smoother finish.

Applications range from furniture restoration and decoration to picture frames, jewelry boxes, ceramics, and home décor. A related practice is serviettage, which uses napkins with printed patterns; modern forms include digitally printed papers and mixed-media collages incorporated into decoupage.

Properly sealed and protected, decoupage can be durable, though repeated moisture exposure or flexing can cause the paper to lift. Restoration and conservation emphasize gentle cleaning and avoiding overly aggressive solvents.