Tools and Equipments Required For Perfect Decoupage

One of the advantages of decoupage is that it requires very little equipment, and it's likely that you already possess the tools that you need to get started.

Some tools are essential for decoupage, such as scissors, glue, varnish, cotton swabs, damp rag and various images of all kind of sources. There are also things nice to have for decoupage but not always necessary such as tweezers, craft knife, cutting mat, paintbrushes, craft roller, a piece of sponge, metal ruler, colored pencils, water-soluble pen and decoupage medium. While you are managing to create a perfect decoupage you will need the following:

* Glue
There are many brands of glues available, some made specifically for decoupage. White PVA glue makes an excellent medium, although some glues may need to be diluted a little with water before using it. For simple projects, you can mix two parts clear drying craft glue with one part water. Decoupage glues may be used full strength, except on glass where they should be diluted.
You can simply use the following recipe for making your own glue if you find it difficult to obtain decoupage glue,

¼ cup of sugar
¼ cup of flour
½ teaspoon of powdered alum
1¾ cups of water
¼ teaspoon of oil of cinnamon
Mix the sugar, flour, and alum in a medium sized saucepan.
Gradually add the one-cup of water, stirring vigorously to break up any lumps. Boil until clear and smooth. Stir constantly. Remove from heat and add the remaining water and oil, stirring until thoroughly mixed. Put into a screw top container.

* Glaze
Mix together three parts PVA glue with one part water. Add more water if necessary. Add two tablespoons of varnish, for shine. Put into a screw top container.

* Cotton Swabs
These are used to spread the glue around. They are a very inexpensive alternative to paint brushes.

* Scissors
Certain things can gradually blunt scissors, and you want to keep yours as sharp and clean as possible. Therefore you it is better to have a pair of scissors put aside solely for decoupage and always try to use them in cutting fine sandpapers.
Embroidery scissors, which are well known by its sharpen, are good for decoupage. Curved scissors can be helpful also in cutting out awkward shapes. You may need to use a scalpel or craft knife when cutting intricate parts of decoupage or parts from inside the image its self.

* Damp Rag
This will help you to wipe up any excess glue that leaks out, as you don't want the residue to lie on top.

Although you can buy supplies made specifically for decoupage, you can also use supplies that you probably have lying around the house. This makes decoupage one of the cheapest crafts around.