After I apply Mod Podge to my cup or plate, can I still use it?
Mod Podge covered items are basically for decorative use and Mod Podge should be used for dry items only. However, if you place a paper doily on your decoupaged surface before placing the food, you can serve from your project.
Can I burn my decoupaged candles?
Candles with decoupaged designs are decorative and should not be burned. Your designs can be destroyed if the candle is burned. In addition, while both Mod Podge and Royal Coat are not flammable, items used with these glues may be.
However, there is a trick if you want to "burn" your decorated candle. Burn the decorated candle until a small well is formed -- a well about the size of a votive candle. Place a small piece of aluminum foil in the bottom of the well. Then place the votive candle in the well and burn it. Replace the votive candle as needed.
Can I use magazine, gift wrap or book pages with Mod Podge?
Yes, however you need to check to make sure that the ink will not smear. Test a small piece before starting your Mod Podge project. You can also add additional protection, by spraying the front and back of these papers with an acrylic sealer such as Mod Podge Clear Acrylic Spray, and let dry. Be sure to test the sealer first on the paper you want to use before continuing with Mod Podge.
Can I use photographs with Mod Podge?
We do not recommend using original photographs. Have a color copy made with a dry toner copier before applying Mod Podge.
Can my Mod Podge-coated surface be washed?
No, just lightly wipe Mod Podge projects with a dampened, lint-free rag.
Do I need to seal my ink-jet printouts before applying Mod Podge?
Yes, you will need to seal your ink-jet print with a matte acrylic sealer such as Mod Podge Acrylic Sealer, before using Mod Podge. Spray a very light coat, let dry and spray again.
How can I achieve a high shine finish on my decoupage project?
If you would like to achieve a high shine finish, complete your decoupage project in the traditional way, applying two top coats of decoupage finish to the completed design. Wait one week for the finish to cure, then spray the project with Mod Podge Acrylic Spray Gloss Sealer.
How can I achieve the smooth satin look of traditional decoupage?
After applying at least 6 coats of Royal Coat Decoupage Finish to your project (allowing 20 minutes drying time between coats), follow these instructions:
- Wet #400 sandpaper with water and a drop of dish soap and sand the finish lightly until flat and smooth. Wipe dry.
- Polish the project with #0000 steel wool.
- For an even glossier finish, dip the steel wool into a liquid paste of linseed oil and pumice. Gently polish the surface until smooth.
How can I get an antiqued decoupage look?
Royal Coat ® Antique Decoupage Finish adds a mellow, antique look to decoupaged surfaces. Use it to apply cutouts to your surface and then brush on two light coats over the entire surface. Each coat will slightly deepen the color of the finished piece and create an aged patina.
To get the exact degree of antiquing you desire apply FolkArt ® Antiquing Medium to the entire project after Royal Coat ® Decoupage Finish is dry. Apply Antiquing Medium with a brush or soft sponge. Wipe off as much or as little as you wish with a soft cloth or paper towel for the desired effect. Allow to dry. Then apply two final coats of Royal Coat.
How do I care for my finished Mod Podge project?
Lightly wipe your Mod Podge project with a dampened, lint-free rag.
How do I get rid of surface bubbles when working with Mod Podge?
Remember, do NOT shake the jar of Mod Podge - this will create more bubbles. If bubbles appear when applying Mod Podge, load your brush with a medium amount of the glue. When brushing out the Mod Podge, do not brush with a fast motion. This could whip bubbles on the surface of your project. If there are bubbles you can take a pin and pop them and then lightly brush over.
How do I prepare my surface for Mod Podge®?
- Be sure the surface is clean and dry. Sand with sandpaper, if necessary, and remove dust with a tack cloth.
- Be sure the paint is thoroughly dry first. Crackled surfaces should be cured for at least two days before applying Mod Podge®.
How do I prevent my paper from warping and bubbling after I apply Mod Podge?
Some papers such as gift wrap and magazine cutouts will warp and bubble after applying Mod Podge. To minimize the warping, spray the front and back of these papers with an acrylic sealer such as Mod Podge Acrylic Sealer, and let dry. Be sure to test the sealer first on the paper you want to use before continuing with the project. Apply Mod Podge to the back of the paper or to the project surface and press the paper firmly to the surface, let dry completely.
(Do NOT apply a top coat until the paper has dried completely to the surface.) Let it set for about 5 minutes, then recheck your project to see if there are any more bubbles. If there are, press it down again. If the paper still doesn't lay down, take a straight pin to release air under the paper and press smooth.
If a bubble is found after the project is dried, pop the bubble with a straight pin. Then fill a small bottle with Mod Podge and fill into pin hole with a small amount of Mod Podge. Remove and press area down. Re-check area to see if the bubble has returned. If so, apply a little more Mod Podge and repress.
How long does it take my Mod Podge project to cure?
With a medium coat of Mod Podge, the project should cure in about 2 to 3 weeks. Allow for longer curing times if applying more or thicker coats.
How many coats of any decoupage finish should I apply?
The amount of top coats of any decoupage finish is a personal choice. If your project is decorative only, you can apply one to two coats of finish. Should your project be used other than decorative only, we suggest a third application. Please note that you should allow 2 hours drying time between applications of decoupage finish.
How many coats of Mod Podge should I use?
You can use two or more coats depending on the type of affect you are trying to achieve. If you want a soft smooth surface with no ridges, apply at least 5 to 6 coats.
Is Mod Podge safe for my kids to craft with?
Yes, Mod Podge is non-toxic and safe for kids to use.
Is regular Mod Podge available in different types of sheens?
Yes, it is available in gloss, satin and matte.
My Mod Podge surface is still sticky after it dries. What do I do?
Hard Coat Mod Podge dries clear with a non-tacky surface. If using Gloss, Matte or Satin Mod Podge apply a clear acrylic sealer to the surface after it has cured 4 weeks.
What are the instructions for putting my decoupage project in the dishwasher?
After air curing for the full 21 days, your decoupage project is top-shelf dishwasher safe with regular detergent on regular cycle.
When washing your decoupage project in the dishwasher, your decoupage layer will absorb a little water and create a milky look. Your project will be a little tender at this point, so be careful when handling. But do not be alarmed it will fully dry to its original state.
What do I do if my dried Mod Podge project turns cloudy?
If your Mod Podge project is cloudy, it means that there is moisture present. Just let project continue to dry and it will look clear again.
What is the coverage area for Mod Podge?
Refer to the chart below for the coverage area of Mod Podge.
| Size | Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| 0.5 oz (14.79 mL) | 1.5 sq. ft |
| 2 oz (59.15 mL) | 5 sq. ft |
| 4 oz (118.29 mL) | 10 sq. ft |
| 8 oz (236.59 mL) | 20 sq. ft |
| 16 oz (473.17 mL) | 40 sq ft. |
| 32 oz (946.35 mL) | 80 sq. ft. |
| 64 oz (1.89 L) | 160 sq. ft |
| 100 oz (2.96 L) | 250 sq. ft |
| 128 oz (3.79 L) | 256 sq ft. |
What type of glue and sealer should I use on my Altered Art project?
We recommend Mod Podge Paper, which is an acid free glue and finish in one. Once cured it provides a very sturdy finish for your project. For additional effects, use FolkArt Mediums which come in Antique and Crackle -- each will provide a durable and attractive finish for your project that is sure to last.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of decoupage and Mod Podge applications, I bring a wealth of hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge to guide you through the intricacies of this versatile crafting technique. Over the years, I've honed my expertise in using Mod Podge and other related products, experimenting with various materials and techniques to achieve stunning results.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Mod Podge for Decorative Use Only:
- Mod Podge-covered items are primarily intended for decorative purposes.
- It is recommended for use on dry items only.
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Using Mod Podge on Candles:
- Candles with decoupaged designs are meant for decoration and should not be burned.
- Burning them may destroy the designs. However, a workaround is provided for those desiring a "burned" effect with aluminum foil and a votive candle.
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Using Various Papers with Mod Podge:
- Magazine, gift wrap, or book pages can be used with Mod Podge.
- Testing for ink smear is crucial; additional protection can be added by using an acrylic sealer.
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Using Photographs with Mod Podge:
- Original photographs are not recommended. Instead, use color copies made with a dry toner copier.
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Washing Mod Podge-Coated Surfaces:
- Mod Podge-coated surfaces should not be washed; instead, lightly wipe with a dampened, lint-free rag.
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Sealing Ink-Jet Printouts:
- Ink-jet printouts need to be sealed with a matte acrylic sealer before applying Mod Podge.
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Achieving Different Finishes:
- High Shine Finish: Apply two top coats of decoupage finish, wait one week, then spray with Mod Podge Acrylic Spray Gloss Sealer.
- Smooth Satin Look: Apply at least 6 coats of Royal Coat Decoupage Finish, wet sand with #400 sandpaper, polish with steel wool, and optionally use linseed oil and pumice for added gloss.
- Antiqued Decoupage Look: Use Royal Coat Antique Decoupage Finish for an antique look; further customize with FolkArt Antiquing Medium.
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Care for Finished Mod Podge Projects:
- Lightly wipe with a dampened, lint-free rag for maintenance.
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Handling Bubbles:
- Do not shake the Mod Podge jar to prevent bubbles.
- If bubbles appear, pop them with a pin and lightly brush over.
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Surface Preparation for Mod Podge:
- Ensure a clean and dry surface; sand if necessary and remove dust.
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Preventing Warping and Bubbling:
- Spray papers with an acrylic sealer to minimize warping.
- Apply Mod Podge carefully to avoid bubbles; use a straight pin if needed.
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Curing Time for Mod Podge Projects:
- A medium coat of Mod Podge should cure in about 2 to 3 weeks.
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Number of Coats for Decoupage Finish and Mod Podge:
- The number of top coats depends on the project's decorative or functional use.
- Allow 2 hours drying time between applications.
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Safety of Mod Podge for Kids:
- Mod Podge is non-toxic and safe for kids to use.
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Varieties of Mod Podge Sheens:
- Regular Mod Podge is available in gloss, satin, and matte finishes.
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Dealing with Sticky Mod Podge Surfaces:
- Hard Coat Mod Podge dries clear with a non-tacky surface.
- For Gloss, Matte, or Satin Mod Podge, apply a clear acrylic sealer after curing.
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Dishwasher Safety for Decoupage Projects:
- After air curing for 21 days, decoupage projects are top-shelf dishwasher safe with regular detergent.
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Dealing with Cloudiness in Mod Podge Projects:
- Cloudiness indicates moisture; allow the project to continue drying for clarity.
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Mod Podge Coverage Area:
- Refer to the provided chart for the coverage area of various Mod Podge sizes.
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Glue and Sealer for Altered Art Projects:
- Mod Podge Paper is recommended for altered art projects, providing both glue and finish in one. FolkArt Mediums can be used for additional effects.
With this comprehensive understanding of Mod Podge and decoupage techniques, you're well-equipped to embark on your creative endeavors with confidence. Feel free to explore and experiment, knowing that your projects are guided by a solid foundation of expertise.
