Découpaged Easter Eggs

If you're looking for a quick and easy craft to do this Easter, then decoupage is definitely for you. Decoupage comes from the old French word decouper, meaning "to cut out", so if you can cut and paste, you already know most of the techniques involved.

Basically, all you have to do is cut out pictures, glue the pictures onto an object, and then cover the object with glue to seal it. Not only is the end result very effective, decoupage won't make a hole in your budget; and you'll be able to create a beautiful display for your home, as well. Happy Easter!

Approximate Time: 30 minutes (per egg) plus drying time

Supplies:

• polystyrene eggs from a budget store or craft supplier
• paper napkins/serviettes
• gesso or white acrylic paint
• a decoupage medium; diluted white glue or school glue (PVA) - 3 parts glue to 1 part water
• sponge
• cotton bud
• damp paper towel or rag
• paint brush
• pair of scissors

Instructions:

1. Paint lots of polystyrene eggs with gesso (acrylic primer) or white, acrylic paint.
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   Note: decoupage works best on matte surfaces, so apply at least one base coat of paint to remove the shiny finish on your eggs.

2. Peel off all white layers from the back of a paper serviette/napkin. Only the top printed layer is used. Cut out a motif with a small pair of scissors. Alternatively, tear out an image.

3. Apply a thin layer of diluted PVA to the surface of your egg. Position the motif on the surface and carefully smooth it out using a cotton bud or a sponge; start in the centre and work outwards to work out any air bubbles or wrinkles. Let the motif set for a few moments and then clean up the edges with a damp paper towel or rag. Repeat until all your images are glued on the eggs. Leave to dry completely.

4. To finish, apply a minimum of two coats of diluted PVA using a brush to seal each egg.

   Note: leave to dry thoroughly between each coat. The edges of the serviette motifs should end up smooth.

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5. Display your eggs in dishes or baskets around the home, alternatively, string together to make an Easter mobile.

You can have a go at decoupaging other household objects too, such as a lampshade, plant pot, wooden box, or even a glass plate.

By Anne D. from United Kingdom