just patchy.

DECOUPAGING is an art form that dates back to the 12th century. It is most simplistically characterized as the cutting and pasting of assorted paper to a hard surface. Used by many famous figures, including Marie Antoinette and Pablo Picasso, decoupage has become more popular throughout the past decade. Follow these steps to create you very own masterpiece. Once you get your supplies you can use whatever paper you want (from magazines, to newspapers, to napkins) to resurface any object that you want--even try old wine bottles! Here I have made a really fun picture frame in a patchwork type of pattern. I was pretty exact with my measurements, but you don't have to be.

Get your Supplies
1. Flat surfaced object (it can be wooden, metal, glass) that you don't mind getting glue on
2. Disposable brush, they are a pain to get the glue out of so you'll just want to toss it
3. Pretty paper
4. Mod Podge glue-- you can find it at Michael's here for all surfaces
5. Ruler and pencil for exact measurements (if you want them)
6. To make exact shapes: get a paper cutter from a craft store--this is an easy way to make numerous, identical pieces at one time by punching out in groups of 4 sheets
7. If you're not using a paper cutter, then you'll need a good scissor for precise cutting

supplies.
Here we go...there is no rhyme or reason to the magic. Just use the following as a guideline for your own project.

1. Using a paper cutter, the sheets of colorful paper went from:

            

        this... 

...to this!

2. If you want to be exact, measure out the half way point on each of the edges of the frame.
3. Apply a thin layer of glue onto the surface of your object and press down the paper onto the glue. Lightly brush another layer of glue on top of the paper. Continue to do this along the entire edge of the object and do the same onto the other side.
4. Fold the paper over the edge so that there is a clean line, bring it to the back of the piece and glue it down so that it sticks firmly.  It will look something like this:

keep the edges crisp!

5. Continue to move around the entire piece of wood. In the corners, keep it easy with one piece of paper  and fold it over as if you were wrapping a gift. It will give a sharp edge:

easy easy easy.

6. The finished product, no matter how straight or even your lines are, will look fabulous. Think shabby chic. It does not need to be perfect, but it looks pretty close when you have it all done. Fill up your new piece of art with whatever you want. I even did a tin pencil holder to put on my desk! 

Be creative and enjoy!

If you want to: seal your piece with a spray on polyacryllic finish. You can choose a shiny finish or a matte finish. I accidentally left my pieces out in the rain to dry, and it kept the paper relatively protected. At least I know for next time!