Skillfully Decoupage Skulls and Bones Onto Decor

An Introduction to Skull Decoupage Paper

Decoupage paper featuring skulls and other skull decoupage paper designs has become increasingly popular for use in crafting and home décor projects. With visually striking patterns printed on tissue-style paper, skull decoupage paper allows crafters to easily add a touch of the unusual or macabre to their work.

The Definition and Use of Decoupage in General

For those unfamiliar, decoupage is a decorative craft technique that involves adhering paper cutouts or imaged tissue paper to a base object using glue or decoupage medium. The paper designs appear layered or inlaid once the project is completed.

Common bases used in decoupage include wood (furniture, boxes, trays, signs, etc.), glassware, pottery, canvas, hardback books, metal tins or pieces, and more. Almost any porous or solid base material can have paper decoupaged onto it with proper preparation and sealing once complete.

The Draw of Skull and Bone Decoupage Paper

When it comes to skull decoupage paper, the artistic appeal lies in the striking, ornate beauty of skulls and skeletons intertwined with decorative floral or abstract elements. These papers feature gilded edges around intricate skull and anatomical prints that catch the eye.

In decoupage crafting, they allow the creator to add a touch of the macabre, add texture and depth, or highlight a theme of remembrance or memento mori. Examples include using skull decoupage paper to decorate funeral memory boxes, Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, Halloween crafts, steampunk or gothic home goods, and more.

Tips for Working with Skull Decoupage Paper

Choosing High Quality Paper

When selecting skull decoupage paper, it's important to choose tissue paper or decoupage paper specifically made for the medium. Look for paper that is lightweight and translucent, allowing any base surface designs to show through.

Avoid regular wrapping tissue, printed tissue gift wrap, or scrapbooking paper, as these tend to be too opaque and thick for the decoupage process. Quality decoupage tissue will result in a more professional, refined finished project.

Properly Preparing Surfaces

Before decoupaging, clean the surface of the base object well, then lightly sand to roughness to help the glue and paper adhere properly. Apply a base coat of decoupage medium or glue to the area and allow to dry.

This helps prevent absorption of the glue into porous surfaces like wood or pottery and allows the skull decoupage paper to stick better without bubbling or wrinkling.

Sealing and Protecting Finished Pieces

Once your decoupaged skull design is complete, it is vital to seal and protect it with a top coat of decoupage medium, mod podge, or spray sealant like polyurethane. This helps prevent moisture damage, enhances richness of colors, and gives your project a glossy, finished look.

Multiple thin coats allow the piece to properly cure and harden. Then your skull decoupage paper creation can be enjoyed and displayed for years to come!

Inspiring Examples of Completed Skull Decoupage Projects

Jewelry Boxes

Small wooden boxes and jewelry cases make excellent decoupage bases, allowing ample room for artistic creativity. Carefully cut and layer skull decoupage paper strips, flowers, butterflies or other designs for a custom look.

Urns and Memorial Pieces

The symbolism of skulls makes decoupaged urns, memory boxes, and tribute pieces popular for honoring lost loved ones. Metallic skull prints or floral skull paper conveys remembrance and celebration of their passing.

Furniture Makeovers

For an unexpected twist, try decoupaging a favorite table or chair using skull decoupage paper. Black and white skull prints or subtle floral skull papers transform furniture surfaces strikingly.

So if you're seeking to impart a touch of elegant darkness into your decoupage work, intricately designed skull decoupage paper offers limitless creative possibilities.

FAQs

What is decoupage?

Decoupage is a decorative craft technique that involves adhering paper cutouts or imaged tissue paper to a base object like wood, glass, or canvas using glue or decoupage medium.

Can I use any paper for decoupage?

It's best to use lightweight, translucent tissue paper or paper made specifically for decoupage. Other papers tend to be too thick and opaque for the layered look.

What objects work well for decoupage?

Common bases include wood furniture, trays, and boxes, as well as glassware, pottery, hardback books, canvas, metal pieces, and more. Ensure surfaces are cleaned, lightly sanded, and sealed.

How do I protect a finished decoupage piece?

Always seal completed decoupage projects with multiple coats of decoupage medium, mod podge, or spray sealants like polyurethane. This prevents moisture damage and enhances the richness of the paper's colors.