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Mod Podge Basics

We all love it and use it for all kinds of papercraft. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is decoupage. In case you are not familiar with it, Decoupage is the application of paper to paper, wood, or other material permanently. Mod podge is one of the most popular glues and sealers for this kind of application. 

But Mod Podge goes a lot farther in the world of paper crafting. It is used on tags, in journals, on artist trading cards and coins, in scrapbooks, and a lot more. 

Getting familiar with the product and its options will help you to get the most out of it, no matter how you apply it.

People often confuse it with Elmer's Glue, One of the biggest mistakes people make is using Elmers Glue instead of Mod Podge. The fact of the matter is Mod Podge is actually stronger. Elmers Glue will not work as a sealant whereas Mod Podge does. 

There are also quite a few recipes on the internet for homemade Mod Podge. Most of them use flour or water, These recipes do not last the test of time. They are either diluted or thickened standard craft glue. If I am going to take the time to create something special as a gift or for my own use, I would rather use better products to make the end result last. 

Different Mod Podge Formulas have different finishes

Uses For Mod Podge

There are so many things that you can use the formulas of Mod Podge. Here are just a few

• Decoupage
• Collage
• Mixed media
• Paper mache
• Glue
• Varnish
• Fabric sealer (to prevent frayed edges)
• Puzzles
• Terra cotta
• Wood

What Is Mod Podge

Mod Podge is a product that essentially functions like three products in one bottle. It is of course a glue on porous surfaces. But it goes much farther than that. It is also a sealer that puts a protective coat on your projects. This coating makes the project last much longer. It is also a finish, depending on which formula you use.

It is primarily used in decoupage which is the art of applying paper or fabric to a surface, 

Mod Podge is a polymer containing polyvinyl acetate, a synthetic resin made by polymerizing vinyl acetate. That is what makes anything you apply it on so durable.

It works on paper, wood, fabric, glass, ceramic, terra cotta, tin, and even some plastics.

It is not considered waterproof. It is water-based and acrylic. So it cannot be considered waterproof. Some formulas like the outdoor Mod Podge is, however, considered water-resistant. You need to add a clear outdoor acrylic sealer to add that extra coat of protection after the project has dried and cured.

Curing Time

You should always allow 24 hours to allow the Mod Podge to dry or cure. If you are using a hard coat, allow 72 hours. 

If you use the Dishwasher Formula, you should allow a 28-day curing time before using,

Basic Mod Podge Decoupaging Guide

1. Gather all the supplies that you need to make the process easier
2. Begin by measuring the project surface. Then measure the paper that you are applying to fit the surface. You can use a ruler and a pencil to draw lines on the backside and then cut them with scissors. Or you can use a paper trimmer to measure and cut the paper.
3. If you are doing a project that requires a painted surface, chose a color of acrylic paint that coordinates with your paper color. Apply an even coat to the project with a foam brush. Allow the project to dry before decoupaging the surface.
4. Apply an even coat of the appropriate Mod Podge formula to both the backside of the paper as well as the front side of the project surface, ( use light pressure to get a more even coverage of the decoupage medium).
5. Carefully flip the paper over and position it on the project surface matching the edges.It is always better to apply glue to glue as you will get a better surface adherence, ( you may have a moment or two to reposition the paper if you are careful).
6. Smooth the paper in place with clean hands or a brayer. When smoothing the paper, start from the center and move outwards. If any of the media is squeezed out during the process, wipe the excess away with a damp paper towel.
7. Allow the project to dry for 15-20 minutes.
8. After 20 minutes, brush on a top coat of the Mod Podge over the applied paper on your project. This will seal and protect the paper and the design.
9. Allow drying time again.
10. Once the project is dried and cured, is stickiness remains, spray the project lightly with a clear acrylic sealer.

Tips For Basic Decoupaging

• When you are smoothing out the paper with the brayer, you can place a piece of waxed paper on top of the paper. Then use your hands or the brayer to smooth out the paper. The idea here is that the waxed paper will catch any leaking decoupage media. Carefully remove the waxed paper while it is still wet and discard. Again, give the paper 15-20 minutes to dry.
• Dry times can vary depending on the humidity, airflow, and the applications of the Mod Podge Formula. If you decide to add any additional topcoats, make sure to give enough time between the coats for the Mod Podge to dry.

Mod Podge Formulas

Classic Mod Podge

Classic Mod Podge comes in three finishes-Gloss, Matte and Satin The gloss finish is shiny. The matte is a flat (non shiny finish), The satin finish is between shiny and flat. Gloss offers a shiny effect. Matte is a simple nonshiny formula. Satin us a subtle soft to the touch finish;

This is your basic Mod Podge that can be used on most surfaces.

Brush Stroke

You get the look of a hand painted image with this formula, You paint it over your project for a highly textured finish. Comes in gloss or matte.

Ultra Matte Chalk

Less visible brush strokes make this formula popular. This is most often used with chalk paint finishes. There is no sheen difference between the chalk base color and the decoupaged design. 

The nice thing about this product is that it is formulated to be used with chalk-painted projects.

\The beautiful, smooth finish matches that of soft, ultra-matte chalk painted finishes. This makes decoupaging on a chalk painted surface a breeze, as there is no sheen difference between the chalk base color and decoupaged design

Extreme Glitter

This formula is like glitter on steroids. It contains a lot of fine glitter within the product. Being that heavy, you would not want to use it on fabric or paper. It dries to a glossy, glittery finish. 

Decoupage projects requiring that “extra” glitter and shimmer should incorporate Mod Podge Extreme Glitter as it contains three different sizes of holographic glitter particles. Perfect for everyday projects needing that glamourous touch or handmade decorations for special holidays

Sparkle

Hologram glitter pieces are embedded in the formula. The base is gloss. The more coats you add, the better the effect. Adds a little touch of glitz to any decoupaged project. It dries to a sparkly gloss sheen. It is perfect for holiday projects as well as fashion accessories or jewelry because it dries to a sparkly gloss sheen

Paper Mod Podge

This formula is archival so that makes it perfect for projects like scrapbooks. It keeps photos and paper from yellowing. It extends the life of a scrapbook. It comes in matte and gloss

Perfect to use when creating paper–to–paper decoupage projects, such as notecards and scrapbook layouts, this Mod Podge formula provides archival qualities as it is non-yellowing and acid-free. Paper Mod Podge is available in both Matte and Gloss finishes. Brushed on with a light application, this formula will dry with a smooth finish as it helps to eliminate wrinkles between the layers of paper. 

Dishwasher Safe

DISHWASHER-SAFE When using Mod Podge Dishwasher-Safe, decorative glassware, ceramics, and porcelains can now be permanently embellished with decoupage and still be washable! Once properly applied and cured to the surface, projects can either be hand washed or are top-shelf dishwasher safe. Like glassware, Mod Podge Dishwasher-Safe dries to a glossy sheen. www.PlaidOnline.com ©2017 Plaid Enterprises, Inc., N

Antique Matte

Antique matte adds a vintage style to any decoupaged project. It adds a slightly amber non shiny aged look to any decoupaged surface.

Pearl

This formula will give any project a pearlescent effect. Pearl can be used as glue as well as a sealer. It gives a pearl gloss sheen.

Furniture Mod Podge

This formula is very similar to the hard coat formula. It is used for furniture projects. It comes in matte, gloss, and satin. 

Ultra Matte Chalk Mod Podge

This is a very flat soft to the touch surface for furniture. Great to use on vintage furniture. 

Glow In The Dark

Yes, it actually does glow in the dark once several coats are applied. Brushing in multiple coats and charging the project with sun or indoor light will create that " glow in the dark effect"

Outdoor

This is one of my favorite formulas. It is the answer for any outdoor or patio decor. It seals surfaces with a glossy sheen. It can be used on wood, flower pots, metals. acrylics and more..

Everyone loves the outdoors, including this formula of Mod Podge. Perfect for outdoor decorations and patio living, Mod Podge Outdoor safely seals a variety of outdoor surfaces with a glossy sheen, such as wood birdhouses, terra cotta flower pots, metal garden signs, and more

Dimensional Magic 

This formula adds an epoxy-like finish to jewelry and papercrafts. It dries clear and you can add layers one on top of the other. It comes in clear and glitter. You can also use this media to add a clear, glossy, dimensional embellishment to a decoupaged surface. It adds an " epoxy" like accent and texture to any decoupaged project. It comes in a clear, sepia, and Glitter Gold formula. 

Hard Coat

This is the super-tough formula. It gives extra preve3ention for things that are handled most often.  It is used most often with furniture. It has a satin finish that is prone not scratching.

Mod Podge Hard Coat adds extra durability while providing added protection to a decoupaged surface. It’s perfect for well-loved and well-used project surfaces as it provides confidence in its sustainability and it dries to a gorgeous satin finish

Puzzle Saver 

This is the smallest container of Mod Podge at 2 ounces. Basic formula with a gloss finish used to seal puzzles. Leaves a shiny gloss finish. Use plastic wrap under the puzzle to protect the work surface, Always apply this product with the puzzle face up, Apply an even coat over the puzzle, including in the cracks. Allow drying time for about 15-20 minutes. Once the first application is dry, Place plastic wrap over the puzzle and flip it over. Repeat the same process on the backside and allow to dry.

Photo Transfer Medium

This one creates decals and appliques from actual photos. You can also transfer photos to wood or fabric. It can also be used to transfer a photocopy image to a surface like wood, canvas, tin and more

Dishwasher Safe

This formula is more dishwasher friendly, It is just like another formula in that it glues seals, and finishes your projects. However, You should not eat or drink off these projects.  That means there should be at least a 3/4 inch or more edge where there is no formula. 

Fabric

Developed for its use to adhere fabric to fabric, this Mod Podge formula provides a tight bond between fabrics while still being washable. Once applied to the backside of the fabric and allowed to thoroughly dry, it also can be used to prevent frayed fabric edges when cutting applique designs. If applied to the topside of fabrics, Mod Podge Fabric will dry to a gloss finish

This formula is especially useful for art journal and junk journal covers

Preparing Your Items

Preparing your items before giving them a coat of Mod Podge is important to get the best results. 

Fabric- Wash and dry the fabric ( no fabric softener) Iron if necessary to minimize wrinkles. Cover the work surface ( wax paper is best). Use a brush to paint a light coat of Fabric Mod Podge. Allow drying time. This will enable you to cut fabric without fraying.

Paper-Most paper especially thick paper and scrapbook cardstock are all ready to be used with Mod Podge. If you are working with thinner scrapbook paper or copy paper,  you may want to spray a coat of acrylic sealer before using the Mod Podge. Spray both sides.  Allow the sealer to dry before use.

Tissue Paper-There is no real preparation for this type of paper. Because tissue paper is thin, it is hard to use Mod Podge without getting wrinkles. 

General Mod Podge Tips

• If your surface is still tacky after the Mod Podge dries, use a clear acrylic spray or brush-on sealer to make sure the project is completely sealed.
• Mod Podge Glossy tends to be less tacky than other formulas.
• If you use a foam brush and wash it right away, it can be used again.
• Ensure that the surface you are applying the Mod Podge to is clean before you apply it.
• If you are using photos, make sure to use regular copy paper, not photo paper. Photo paper is too thick. The image will not transfer correctly. 
• Paint your item first and your paper second. Put a thin layer of Mod Podge on the item. Then, add a thin layer to the paper, focusing on the edges last. During the time you are working on the paper, the Mod Podge on the item has dried a tad and is sticky. This is perfect. Stick down your paper.
• Print Once your paper is down, gently smooth out the paper with your finger, a credit card, a plastic ruler, or a pan scraper. This will help keep bubbles out of your project. er Tips With Mod Podge
• Let the Mod Podge set and then you can sand the edges (if applicable) of your project. You can use sandpaper or a nail file.

At some point you will want to print some pictures to decoupage or use in your papercraft. There is a defined difference between inkjet and laser printers, Understanding the difference will help you save time and money.

Never print any images on photo paper.  Photo paper has a coating on it that will cause problems. Regular printer paper is best. Use at least 20 lbs is generally good, but you can go thicker if you need to. 

Inkjet Printers

There are a few things that you can do to prepare any images that you print on an inkjet printer, You need to take these steps because inkjet printer ink will bleed.  Print the pictures on paper and let them dry for at least 10 minutes. Spray both sides of the paper with a clear acrylic sealer. Use several coats and let coats dry in between applications. Then add a thin layer of Mod Podge on both sides and allow to dry. After that, you are free to craft with your pictures any way you would like,

LaserJet Printers

No prep is needed. You can always go to your local office supply store to make copies.

Fabric Mod Podge Tips

You may want to use Fabric Mod Podge to create covers for your art and junk journal covers and spines.

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