Decoupage
A Third Age Artistic Pursuits feature
by our Interests, Hobbies & Pastimes Editor

Decoupage, (from the French decouper – ‘to cut out’), is an art form generally attributed to East Siberian tomb art, where the nomadic tribes would decorate the tombs of their deceased with cut-out felts.

The practice subsequently spread to China where it was futher developed by the Chinese who used paper instead of felt to decorate boxes, windows or lanterns. It later became popular in 17th century France where the hobby was enjoyed by such luminaries as Marie Antoinette and Madam de Pompadour.

Decoupage then is the art of decorating objects with layers of paper cut-outs, each layer glued and sanded before the application of the next layer in order to build up the ‘picture’ envisaged by the artist. It is not dissimilar to Collage, in which the paper cut-outs and other materials are applied to a flat surface such as paper or canvas.

Decoupage is used to decorate the likes of boxes, furniture, photograph albums, ceramics and mirrors. One of its many delights is that the same technique can be applied to almost any item, and given the fact that its other component parts (glue and paper) are so cheap and easily sourced, it also makes Decoupage one of the cheapest possible hobbies and art forms.

If you’re interested in learning more about Decoupage in your Third Age, Decoupage: The Art of Decorating with Paper in Over 25 Beautiful Projects is an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to learn more or to take up the hobby.

The principles of Decoupage are easy to master and this inspiring new book gives practical advice on all the basic techniques. A comprehensive introduction details all the materials you will need to produce exquisite Decoupage projects of your own, and includes tips on preparing surfaces, cutting intricate papers and applying adhesives. There are 25 varied and exciting pieces to create, including traditional designs and contemporary treatments.

Try creating a Rose-covered Jewellery Box, or a Children’s Toy Chest!

One reader who bought this book said: “This book has been beautifully put together. It gives you a comprehensive background on the history of Decoupage as well as an exact picture of what you need in tools to begin. The items that have been Decopauged look ‘classy’ and are the sort of things you would like to have in your own home. Some of the projects look quite complicated for beginners, but they give a step-by-step guide on the various techniques. This book makes you feel quite motivated to begin a new project!”

For those in their Third Age who would like to learn Decoupage in a social environment, Decoupage Courses are also available in most areas.

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