Mod Podge

Mod Podge can act as both a glue and a sealer. You can use it to glue paper or fabric, to a box, or frame. You can even use it to add glitter to an item. The possibilities are endless. This article will give you basic information on Mod Podge and how to use it. It will also give you a crafting idea.

Steps

Getting Started

1. Find something you want to Mod Podge. The ideal candidate for Mod Podging is thin, flexible, and porous. You will be gluing this onto something else. If the item you choose is too bulky, the Mod Podge won't hold it, and it will fall off. Here are some ideas:
   • Fabric and lace
   • Paper, including scrapbooking paper and tissue paper
   • Photos are great to use, but it might be a good idea to use a copy instead of an original
   • Glitter, Epsom salts, and sand
   • Food coloring can also be mixed into Mod Podge to tint items another color
   • Leaves
2. Find a base item to apply the Mod Podge to. You can use Mod Podge to apply things like paper and fabric to almost anything. The best items to use are bulky items that you can hold. Here are some items to get you started:
   • Wooden and papier-mâché frames, trays, and boxes
   • Glass cups, candle holders, and mason jars
   • Terra cotta pots and vases
   • Other 3D, such as trays, figurines, etc.
3. Find something to apply the Mod Podge with. You can either use a flat paintbrush or a foam brush. If you are going to use a paintbrush, look for something that has firm, but smooth, bristles, such as taklon. Avoid boar-bristle brushes, as they are too stiff and will leave streaks. Camelhair brushes are too soft to be used with Mod Podge.
4. Choose a Mod Podge finish. Mod Podge can be used as both a glue and a finish. This means that you can paint it over paper to make it glossy. Here are some common finishes and what they are:
   • "Classic" is your basic Mod Podge. It comes in glossy or matte.
   • "Satin" gives you a finish that is between glossy and matte.
   • "Hard Coat" gives you a durable finish, idea for furniture. It comes only in a satin finish.
   • "Outdoor" is durable and water-resistant. It is not water-proof, however, and cannot sit in water.
   • "Sparkle" already has glitter mixed into it. It's great for adding some sparkle to any surface. For a heavily-glittered finish, however, you will need to mix extra glitter into the Mod Podge.
   • "Glow-in-the-Dark" can be painted over a surface to make it glow at night. It is thin, however, and will require multiple coats.
5. Prepare the item you are going to apply with Mod Podge. Some items, such as paper, are ready to be applied to your base items. Other items, such as fabric, need a little more preparation in order to get the best results. Here is a list of items commonly used for Mod Podging, and how to best prepare them:
   • Fabric needs to be washed and ironed. Washing will remove excess dye and help prevent bleeding. Ironing will make the fabric smooth and easier to work with.
   • Paper, including scrapbooking paper, is ready to use as it is. You do not need to do anything to it.
   • Paper printed from a laser printer does not need preparation. Paper printed from an inkjet printer will. Click to learn how to prepare it.
   • Photographs will need to be photocopied onto regular paper. Photograph paper is not suitable for Mod Podging. The moisture can cause the ink to melt off.
   • Tissue paper does not need any preparation. Keep in mind, however, that it is thin and may wrinkle. It may be a good idea to have extra sheets, in case the first one wrinkles or tears.
   • Natural items need to be wiped clean with a damp cloth and then dried.
6. Know how to prepare inkjet printed paper for Mod Podging. Print what you need to print, then let the paper dry for 10 minutes. Spray the front and back of the paper with an acrylic sealer. Wait for it to dry, then paint both sides with Mod Podge. Let the paper dry all the way before you use it for your project.
7. Prepare the base item for Mod Podging. Whether you are using wood or glass, you will need to prepare your base. If you don't, the Mod Podge may not stick well, and whatever your Mod Podges may fall off. Here are common surfaces that people use for Mod Podging projects, and how to prepare them:
   • Wood surfaces need to be sanded with fine-grit sandpaper, and then wiped clean with a dust cloth. If you don't have a dust cloth, use a damp cloth or sponge instead.
   • Glass needs to be washed with soap and warm water. You can wipe it with some rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
   • Primed canvas needs to be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Un-primed canvas needs to be coated with two layers of gesso or acrylic paint.
   • Plastic needs to be cleaned with soap and water. Keep in mind that some types of plastic may repel the Mod Podge. If this happens, you will need to find another surface.
   • Plaster, Papier-Mâché, and Terra Cotta surfaces need to be wiped clean with a damp cloth to remove any surface dirt and dust.
   • Tin needs to be washed with soap and warm water. If it is very dirty, wipe it clean with a cloth soaked in white vinegar.
8. Trim paper or fabric to fit frames, boxes, and cans. You will need to have the item you are Mod Podging already the right side before you start applying it. Set the frame or box down on the paper or fabric, and trace around it using a pencil. Cut the paper or fabric out using a pair of scissors or a craft knife.
   • If you want to Mod Podge a round item, like a can, measure the height of the item, and cut the paper/fabric according to that height. Next, wrap the paper/fabric around the cylinder, and mark where it starts to overlap. Cut off the excess paper/fabric.
9. Consider painting the base item. Mod Podge can be used as a sealer to protect painted surfaces. You can paint your base item all one color, and Mod Podge cut paper or lace onto it. You can also paint designs onto it, and use Mod Podge as a finish.
   • Keep in mind that Mod Podge is not water-proof. It will dissolve if you leave it in water too long.

Using Mod Podge on Paper, Fabric, and Flat Surfaces

1. Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the base item. You can use a paintbrush or a foam brush. Simply brush on a thin layer, going from edge to edge. The finish of your Mod Podge does not matter so much at this point since you will be covering it anyway.
   • If you are covering more than one side of an item, such as a box, then work on one side at a time.
   • If you are covering a round object, consider setting the object down on a mug or in a bowl so it doesn't roll away. Work on one small patch at a time.
   • If your item is very dark, and you are using a light-colored fabric or paper, consider painting your item white first.
2. Cover the back of the item you will be applying with Mod Podge. Place the fabric, lace, paper, etc. down on your work surface so that the back is facing you. Apply a layer of Mod Podge using a paintbrush or foam brush.
3. Place the item you are Mod Podging onto your base item and smooth it down. Carefully lift the fabric, paper, or whatever you are using, and flip it over. Press it wet-side-down onto your base item. Gently smooth it until you do not see anymore wrinkles or air bubbles. You can use your fingers or a brayer to smooth it.
   • To get the best results, start smoothing from the center, and work your way outwards.
4. Allow the Mod Podge to dry for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Try to keep it some place where it won't get disturbed. If there is a lot of dust in your area, turn a box on its side and place the item inside the box.
5. Apply a top coat of Mod Podge to the entire surface and allow to dry. Brush it on using thin, even strokes. Don't worry if the layer is thin; you will be adding more coats. It will take one hour for the Mod Podge to dry. If you see any brush strokes, wait until the Mod Podge is dry, then gently buff them away using 400-grit sandpaper. Wipe the surface after sanding with a dust cloth.
6. Apply a second coat of Mod Podge to the surface and allow to dry. You can add another coat for extra durability, once it dries.
7. Wait for the Mod Podge to dry before using your project. Most types of Mod Podge will be dry and usable after 24 hours. The Hardcoat variety will require 72 hours.
8. Consider sealing the item with acrylic sealer. This will make the finish more durable, and reduce stickiness/tackiness. Be sure to match the finish of the acrylic sealer to the Mod Podge. If you used glossy Mod Podge, use an acrylic sealer with a glossy finish. If you used matte Mod Podge, use an acrylic sealer with a matte finish.

Using Mod Podge to Tint Mason Jars

1. Fill a mason jar with 1 ½ inches (3.81 centimeters) of Mod Podge. You will be spreading this Mod Podge around inside the jar. This will give you a more even finish than just painting it on. It will not be water proof, however.
   • If you want a translucent look, use glossy Mod Podge.
   • If you want a frosted or sea glass look, use matte or satin Mod Podge.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring and stir with a stick. The more food coloring you add, the brighter color your will get. Be sure to stir the Mod Podge and food coloring well; you do not want to see any streaks or swirls. The tinted Mod Podge will look pastel at first, but it will turn clear and bright once it dries.
   • Consider stirring in a few teaspoons of water. This will make the Mod Podge flow easier in the next step.
3. Hold the jar on its side and rotate it until the colored Mod Podge covers the entire inside. If you are worried about making a mess, hold the jar over a pad of newspaper or a paper plate.
4. Turn the jar upside down to drain the excess dye. Place the jar on top of some popsicle sticks. This will prevent the dye from pooling around the rim. If you don't have popsicle sticks, you can also use pieces of cardboard or plastic knives.
5. Wait 30 to 60 minutes for the dye to dry partway. This will allow the excess dye to flow down the sides of the jar and drain out. After the time is up, you can turn the jar right-side up and let it air-dry for 24 to 48 hours. You can also help it dry faster by placing it into a warm oven. Read on to learn how to do this.
   • Air drying will give you fewer air bubbles.
6. Bake the jars, up-side down, in a warm oven. Line a baking sheet with some aluminum foil, and place the jars upside down on it. Put the baking sheet inside a pre-heated oven; use the lowest temperature you can.
7. Let the jars bake for 10 minutes. As they continue to bake, they will start to turn clear.
8. Flip the jars over and let them back for 20 to 30 minutes more. Pull the baking sheet out of the oven and flip the jars over so that they are right-side-up. Be sure to wear some oven mitts to protect your hands. It is very important that you flip the jars over; if you don't, they will become stuck to the baking sheet.
   • If you still see streaks in the jars after 30 minutes, put them back into the oven and let them bake some more.
9. Take the jars out and let them cool. This may take a few minutes to a few hours. Avoid placing the jars in a cold area or running them under cold water. This may cause the glass to crack. The cold water will also cause the dye to fall off.
10. Consider decorating the jar with puff paint to make it look more interesting. You can find puff paint in the t-shirt and tye dye section of most arts and crafts stores. If you can't find any puff paint, try some 3D or dimensional paint instead.
    • To create a Moroccan style lantern: draw designs using black, gold, or silver puff paint. Then, use superglue to attach small, colorful gemstones to the jar.
    • To create a stained class effect: draw designs on the jar using black puff paint. Make sure that the designs connect, like with real stained glass.
11. Use the tinted glass jar properly. The tint is not permanent, so you cannot use the jar for drinking out of. Water will cause the tint to dissolve and fall off. Also, avoid using real candles inside the jar. Try to use battery-operated ones instead.
    • If you want to use your tinted mason jar as a vase, put a thin, glass vase or candle votive inside it. Fill the vase or votive with water, and put the flowers in. Be careful not to get any water inside the jar itself.

Using Mod Podge to Apply Glitter, Sand, or Epsom Salts

1. Consider working over a sheet of paper. This way, when you are done, you can fold the paper in half and funnel the glitter back into its container.
2. Paint the surface you want to be glittered with glossy Mod Podge. If you use matte or satin Mod Podge, then your finish won't be as shiny. You can also use Epsom salts to create something that looks like ice or snow. You can also use sand, for a fun, beach-themed item.
   • If you are going to use more than one color of glitter, then paint the area where you want the first color to go. You will need to let this first color dry completely before moving onto the next.
   • If you want to only glitter part of the item, mask off what you don't want glittered with painter's tape or an adhesive stencil.
   • If your item is very dark, and you are going to use epsom salts or a lighter color of glitter, consider painting the item white first.
3. Shake the glitter onto the surface. Try using more glitter than you think you will need. A thick layer will be fine. If you are applying glitter to a jar or cup, try to hold the item from the inside so you don't get your fingers dirty. You can also turn the jar or cup upside down and stick it on top of a narrow soda bottle or water bottle; this will hold the jar/cup steady while you work.
   • The best sort of glitter to use for this would be the extra fine crafting glitter. You can find it in the scrapbooking section of an arts and crafts store. The standard, chunky glitter will also work, but it will look more coarse.
   • T=If you are using Epsom salts, consider mixing in some clear or iridescent glitter. This will give you more of a snowball effect.
4. Tap the excess glitter off. Turn the item on its side, and tap the glitter off. Be careful not to touch any area that you just glittered, or you may create a smudge or dent.
5. Wait for the Mod Podge to dry before moving on. If you want to add another color, let the Mod Podge dry for one hour before adding more colors. If you are done adding the glitter, remove any masking tape and wait 24 hours.
6. Seal the item once the Mod Podge is dry. Choose an acrylic sealer with an appropriate finish, and lightly spray the item. If you need to apply more than one coat, let the sealer dry first before spraying the item again. You will need to lead the sealer all the way before you can use your project. Most sealers will take about four hours to dry, but you might want to refer to the instructions on the can for a more specific drying time.
   • If you used glitter, use a glossy sealer.
   • If you used Epsom salts, do not use a sealer.
   • If you used sand, you can try lightly spraying the surface with a matte sealer.

Tips

• Wipe away any excess Mod Podge that comes out the sides of your paper with your paintbrush.
• To make your Mod Podge super smooth, sand it between coats with 400-grit sandpaper. This will help get rid of brush strokes. You can polish it afterwards with #0000 steel wool. Make sure that each coat is completely dry before you sand or polish it. Be sure to wipe the Mod Podge with a dust cloth after you sand or polish it to get rid of any dust.

Warnings

• Mod Podge is not water-proof. Even if you use the outdoor kind, do not let it sit or soak in water. This is especially important for Mod Podged glass. If you let Mod Podge sit in water, it will melt right off.

Things You'll Need

• Mod Podge
• Something to Mod Podge
• A base item to Mod Podge onto
• Paintbrush or foam brush
• Glitter, sand, or Epsom salt (optional)
• Food coloring (optional)

Related Articles

• Mod Using Modio
• Apply Mod Rock

Sources and Citations

See also

• Make a Paper Straw
• Make a Paper Daisy
• Make Placemats by Weaving Paper Strips
• Fold a Paper Into Thirds
• Glue Acrylic
• Make Paper Look Old
• Use a Glue Gun
• Make a Translation Tessellation
• Make Glue
• Make a Paper Bag

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What links here

• Make Mod Podge
• Decorate a Teen Girl's Bedroom on a Budget
• Mod Podge a Puzzle
• Mod Using Modio
• Paint With Acrylics