How to Decoupage With NO Wrinkles

- October 28, 2023

If you've been visiting the Cottage for a while, you know that decoupage is a favorite around here. Recently, my friend, Kim asked me if I'd ever heard of the the iron method. I hadn't, but I learned about it and decided I was definitely going it give it a try.

WOW, was I impressed!

Let me show you this technique along with a cute Fall craft...

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The first thing I did was head to the dollar store where I found a wood acorn cut-out and some pretty fall napkins.

I really love the soft colors in these napkins.

You'll need some wood filler (I'll show you that in a minute), Mod Podge, craft paint, a brush, your acorn, napkin, burlap, scissors, sandpaper, and (I almost forgot) a piece of parchment paper.. An iron is also needed, but more about that later!

The first thing I did was cut off the tag and fill that hole.

Since the napkin was mostly white, I painted the acorn with two coats of craft paint.

I didn't paint the top where the acorn cap would be - you'll see why in a minute.

My paint must be getting old - it looked and felt a bit 'grainy', but some fine-grit sandpaper smoothed things out.

When the paint was dry, I brushed on a coat of Mod Podge.

When it was dry, I added coat number 2, and while waiting for it to dry, separated the layers on my napkin.

You only want a single layer for decoupage.

The napkin was placed on the acorn.

A piece of parchment paper was placed on top of it.

When you do this, set your iron on medium heat. The Mod Podge will melt and within seconds the napkin will be in place just as smooth as can be! Be sure to run your iron around the edges so your napkin won't end up 'lifting'. Your household iron will work just fine - no need for a craft iron, although if your heart is really set on one, this craft iron is one of the best.

That's it!

Not a wrinkle in sight!

A piece of sandpaper released the excess from the edges.

Spray with clear sealer:

Now, for the cap...Get some burlap and trace around the top, leaving some extra for 'wiggle-room'.

Cut the burlap on the line.

Spread some glue on the acorn cap.

Add the burlap and let it dry.

Trim the excess.

I also added a little glue to the edge and smoothed-down any stray bits of burlap.

I didn't like the unfinished edge, so a piece of trim was glued on to cover it.

Much better!

To 'dress it up', I made a bow with some jute and hot glued it on with a silk flower.

All ready for display!

Decoupage with no wrinkles using iron method

How's that for an easy project? Let me know in the comments!

I really love the look you get with the iron method for decoupage. If you haven't tried it, you need to...so, off you go. Get your supplies together and give it a try!

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Craftastic Monday