Modern versions of decoupage were first seen in the lacquered objects of the Far East brought to the west in the 17th century. Images covered in clear varnishes were applied to various types of furniture for decoration. By the 18th and 19th centuries, it has crossed over into the domestic and artistic world. Practiced by historical figures such as Marie Antoinette and Lord George Byron as well as artists Matisse and Picasso, decoupage used on canvas projects recalls the history of the art while infusing new ideas and images.
Materials and Tips
Canvases for decoupage projects can be almost any size from large or small stretched painter's canvas. Large grained canvas can be used with thinner paper images so that the surface texture shows through the paper. In addition to the canvas, decoupage projects require scissors for cutting the pieces of paper to the glued to the canvas, brush, and glue lacquer. Matte or glossy lacquers can be used, with matte finishes creating an integrated finish to the assembled paper or photographs.
Selecting Images
Decoupage on canvas projects can combine a many images into a collage piece or use just one or a small number of featured images. Depending on the desires of the artist, images can be found in magazines, personal drawings, photographs, or colored papers assembled in geometric designs. For photographic collages, using printed photographs on thinner paper helps to create seamless image where the photograph appears to be part of the canvas rather than an addition.
Creating Effects with Color
For decoupage projects using a single image, the canvas can be prepared to enhance the features of the picture. For example, the canvas can be painted in a single color which contrasts or complements the colors in the picture. If using acrylic paint, the water-based decoupage glue/sealer can be used to cover the canvas after the image is applied without further action. When oil paints are used, the paint must first be covered in an oil-based sealer such as shellac or varnish must be applied before the decoupage glue/sealer.
Adding Dimension
Not all decoupage on canvas projects have to end after the application of the decoupage glue/sealer. Instead, the images can be given dimension with the addition of textured fibers such as yarn or string. For example, a decoupage portrait of a group of flowers created by using paper circles can be enhanced by adding green yarn, after the glue/sealer finish, to represent the flower stems and leaves. Not only does this add dimension to the flat surface of the canvas, but it also adds texture.
