How do you get a smooth finish with Modge podge?

For an ultra smooth surface, apply 4 to 5 coats of Mod Podge Hard Coat. When applying the coats, brush in one direction then the other and let dry between coats. Wet sand with #400 sandpaper and water. Sand finish lightly until ridges are flat and smooth.

How many layers 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.

What is the best brush to use to apply Mod Podge?

Mod Podge Topcoats are best brushed onto a project surface using a soft, Taklon bristle brush which will help eliminate brush stroke marks . Clear Chalkboard Topcoat enables you to turn any paper decoupaged surface or any painted surface into a chalkboard surface .

How to avoid brush strokes with Mod Podge?

I've used bristle brushes, foam... I always water down the Mod Podge when i use it, seems to make it easier to spread and of course dries faster. I use the matte kind and have never had a problem with the streaks. Good luck finding something that works for you!

Does Mod Podge really take 4 weeks to cure?

Most Mod Podge formulas dry completely within hours or overnight, but are not fully cured for 3 – 4 weeks. Curing is when solvents in a product evaporate and a product reaches its maximum strength. Curing is a chemical process. Even craft paint goes through this process, as does wall paint, etc.

Can Mod Podge go bad?

Yes, the hardener part of the Mod Podge Resin will yellow over time. The product has a shelf life of one year unopened and 6 months lifespan opened . Remember to always close the lid on the hardener right after each use and store in a dark area. Exposure to air and sunlight will make the hardener yellow faster.

Why is my Mod Podge not drying clear?

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.

Do you need to put sealer over Mod Podge?

You don't HAVE to use a sealer after Mod Podge (it's self-sealing), but I always do, just for extra protection. Plus sometimes Mod Podge stays tacky in certain climates, so I spray it to prevent that.

What is the best thing to apply Mod Podge with?

Use a (foam) brush to apply Mod Podge and then stick the paper and/or fabric to the surface.

How do you get a smooth Mod Podge finish?

For an ultra smooth surface, apply 4 to 5 coats of Mod Podge Hard Coat . When applying the coats, brush in one direction then the other and let dry between coats. Wet sand with #400 sandpaper and water. Sand finish lightly until ridges are flat and smooth.

How do you use Mod Podge instructions?

Apply a moderate coat to surface and paper. Apply paper to surface, glue-to-glue (wet-to-wet). Working from the center outward, smooth out all air bubbles and wrinkles. Allow each coat to dry 30 minutes.

How long should Mod Podge dry before sealing?

It feels dry within an hour, but I wouldn't hang up a project or use it until it's been dry for 24 hours. For Hard Coat, the recommended dry time is 72 hours. Since Hard Coat is typically used on furniture, wait for 72 hours before putting anything on the furniture.

How do you make Mod Podge dry smooth?

You can use a hair dryer ! Stay about 6″ back. Also if it's a glass item, you can bake it at the lowest oven temp; don't leave unattended and remove when it goes clear. Another lesser known option - put the item out in the sun.

How to Use Mod Podge Like a Pro - 6 Great Tips and Tricks! (2024)

Learn how to use Mod Podge like a pro with this 6 simple tips and tricks. This list will help you achieve great results on all of your Mod Podge projects!

Of all of my favorite crafting supplies, Mod Podge has to be close to the top of the list! Over time, I’ve developed a great “system” for working with Mod Podge to ensure great results on all of my Mod Podge craft projects, and today, I’m going to share my tips for how to use Mod Podge like a pro!

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Mod Podge is one of my favorite craft products! I love the versatility of the different formulas available. If you aren’t familiar with Mod Podge, it is a decoupage medium that can be used to affix decorative design elements to any number of surfaces: furniture pieces, wall art, wearable items, and more. My personal favorite Mod Podge formula is the Ultra Matte, which dries to a smooth, velvety finish that is virtually invisible! There is even a Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge that can be used to make all sorts of cool projects (like my Mod Podged Chargers), and a glitter formula that is great for fun seasonal projects.

There are a few very basic tips I have to ensure your Mod Podge projects turn out great every time.

How to Use Mod Podge Like a Pro

Tip 1:

Always apply an even layer of Mod Podge onto the back of the decorative piece you will be adhering, as well as to the surface you will be covering. For example, on my United States Map Bulletin Board, I applied a layer of Mod Podge to the back of each state piece, as well as to the surface of the bulletin board itself. Applying Mod Podge in this way ensures the decoupaged pieces are securely attached to prevent them from lifting up in the finished project.

Tip 2:

Always smooth out any bubbles right away with a brayer tool or a squeegee. This is probably the most important step of all! Bubbles are inevitable when bonding one surface to another with Mod Podge, so while the Mod Podge medium is still wet, go over the adhered pieces thoroughly with the brayer, working from the center of the pieces outward, as I did below when creating my Christmas List Photo Ornaments.

Tip 3:

When applying Mod Podge over a design, apply one layer of the Mod Podge with side-to-side brush strokes. Allow that coat to dry for 20 minutes or so before applying another even layer of Mod Podge in up-and-down strokes. I have found that this process results in the smoothest possible finished surface.

Tip 4:

Always allow the Mod Podge to cure completely before using the finished project. The curing time varies depending upon the formula of Mod Podge you are using, so be sure to consult the back of the bottle for the recommended time.

Tip 5:

Use Mod Podge brushes for the best results every time. These brushes have soft, smooth bristles that spread the Mod Podgeevenly, and the bristles don’t fall out of the brushes when working with the tacky medium.

Tip 6:

When creating Mod Podge projects with photos or other printed designs, try to use laser-printed items instead of those done with a standard inkjet printer. If you don’t have a laser printer handy, though, don’t worry! Simply spray the surface of the printed photo or design with acrylic spray sealer and allow to dry before Mod Podging with the process outlined in the steps above.

Looking for some fun projects to put your Mod Podge skills to good use? Be sure to check out these ideas!

United States Bulletin Board

Mod Podge Chargers

Mod Podge Can Vases

Tile Magnets

Amy @ Positively Splendid

Having grown up in a home brimming with sewing notions and paintbrushes, Amy has a deep love for all things creative. On any given day, you’ll find her knee-deep in her latest creative endeavor, with projects ranging from sewing and crafts to home decor and kid-friendly ideas. Amy believes that everyone, regardless of skill level or experience, possesses the ability to create something beautiful, and Positively Splendid was born of her passion for helping others harness their innate creative potential.