Decoupage is an easy way to decorate any object, it is a craft pasting cut-outs (typically paper) to an object and then covering them with several coats of varnish or lacquer. The process gives flat cut-outs an appearance of depth and makes patterns and pictures look as though they are actually painted on the decoupaged object.

This is the tutorial to apply decoupage on 3D print objects.

Step 1: Prepare the Materials and Tools

Bill of material:

Decoupage glue (search ebay keywords: Decoupage glue)
Container and small brush
Spongy
3D print object (Lets try on simple object i.e Vase, I download the object pattern from http://www.thingiverse.com/)
Paper napkin with your favorite pattern (I bought it from IKEA FÖRVÄNTAD Paper napkin. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/eating/20561/)
Scissor

Step 2: Extract the Pattern From Paper Napkin

We extract the flower from IKEA paper napkin and remove all the middle layer of the paper napkin.

Step 3: Stick Pattern on Object

First of all, prepare the diluted decoupage glue with the ratio of 50% glue and 50% water.

Then Apply the glue on the 3D print object surface, it is recommend to use a paintbrush to brush a thin layer of glue onto surface and place the cut-out pattern on surface carefully.

Use spongy to press on cut-out pattern to surface, this is important step to make patterns look as though they are actually painted on the object.

Repeat this step on each cut-out pattern.

Step 4: Apply Multiple Layer of Decoupage Glue

After sticking the cut-out pattern on the 3D print object, it is necessary to apply multiple layer of decoupage glue (no diluted) to give extra protection of cut-out pattern and keep it glossy after dry.

Depending on the decoupage glue you are using, you may need as few as 4 or 5. Remember to let each coat dry before applying the next.

Finally, check carefully the pattern are stick very well on the surface of 3D print object.