You may have already learned how to use our Image Transfer Medium to transfer graphics to your painted furniture, but did you know you can also use it for decoupaging?

All the products used in this tutorial can be found on our website or at your local retailer.

Step 1: Prepare Your Surface

If you decide to apply a base coat of paint first, make sure you let it dry for at least 12 hours before decoupaging it. If you’re decoupaging directly over raw wood, all you have to do it make sure it’s clean and smooth! Sand down any rough edges before you continue.

Step 2: Cut Your Material to Size

In this case we’re using pretty floral napkins on the wooden slats of a crate. Make sure you cut your napkins, tissue paper, or fabric to size so it’s ready to apply.

If you’re using napkins, be sure to remove any extra layers that do not have printing on them. Usually napkins have 1-2 layers of plain white paper underneath that you’ll need to peel off.

Step 3: Apply Image Transfer Medium

Using a synthetic bristle paint brush, apply one coat of Image Transfer Medium. It doesn’t have to be very thick but you want to make sure you have good coverage. It will start to dry fairly quickly so work in small areas at a time.

Step 4: Lay Your Material Down

As soon as your Image Transfer Medium has been applied, lay your material down while it’s still wet. Use your fingers to gently smooth it out and remove any air bubbles that might be trapped underneath.

Step 5: Distress the Edges

If you’re going for a rustic, aged look you can use a sanding block to distress the edges once your Image Transfer Medium is completely dry. However, if you’re going for a more modern finish, you can skip this step.

Step 6: Seal Your Work

Now that everything is dry, it’s time to seal your work. Apply another coat of Image Transfer Medium, or you can use Tough Coat for this step if you prefer. The Image Transfer Medium will dry clear so don’t worry about dulling the colors.