Inside: Unlock the art of napkin decoupage with our easy DIY guide. Learn to apply pretty napkins with Mod Podge to create beautiful, unique decor for items like glass jars, garden pots, and more. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters!
Decoupaging with paper napkins is an absolute blast! It’s an incredible way to give a fresh, beautiful face to otherwise mundane items, turning them into one-of-a-kind works of art. This simple yet effective upcycling technique has quickly become one of my favourite crafting adventures.
The charm of using paper napkins for decoupage is truly mesmerizing. Over the years, I’ve tackled various projects, from turning plain sneakers into runway-ready footwear to crafting gorgeous decorative planters for my garden with vibrant Marimekko napkins and recycled tin cans.
In this post, I’ll share over 30 creative ideas for napkin decoupage, guiding you through each project with tips on achieving the perfect finish—whether coating a glass vase or Mod Podging a set of dinner plates. So, grab your prettiest napkins and let’s get crafting—it’s much more fun than you might think!
Why Use Paper Napkins For Decoupage?
Many types of paper can be used for decoupage projects, including old road maps, printed papers, and even wallpaper on furniture. Paper napkin decoupage has unique qualities that make it a better-suited decoupage material with specific crafts and upcycles.
- Decoupage napkins are affordable, especially compared to decoupage materials like speciality papers. They can even be purchased individually in online shops like eBay and Amazon. Often, there isn’t a need to buy the whole packet.
- One paper napkin will go surprisingly far when decoupaging. I upcycled a bench with less than half a packet of Marimekko paper napkins.
- Paper napkins come in a delightful array of designs, from elegant florals and playful polka dots to whimsical animals and bold abstract patterns. With such a wide selection of beautiful napkins and printed napkins, it’s easy to find one that perfectly matches your project’s style or theme.
- Many designers, such as Marimekko and Cath Kidson, produce a paper napkin range, so getting that designer look with your upcycles is easy. I have used paper napkins to get that Marimekko designer look in my home by upcycling everyday objects from decoupaging wooden bowls and yoghurt buckets with Marimekko paper napkins.
- Paper napkins are thin and delicate, making them easy to work with and cover curved or uneven surfaces without wrinkling or tearing.
- Paper napkin decoupage is so delicate it can appear like the image has been printed onto the object. It is easy to wet and tear the edges of paper napkins to create a feather edge, making the decoupage look seamless.
- Versatile: Paper napkins can be used for various decoupage projects, from small crafts like boxes and frames to larger surfaces like furniture or walls.
- They are great for finishing off and adding decoration to paper mache crafts, such as these vintage teacups and Marimekko cacti.
- Paper napkin decoupage can be used instead of paint to update tired and dated objects such as planters and picture frames.
How To Print Onto Paper Napkins
Don’t worry if, for some reason, you can’t find the right printed napkin you need. It is possible to print your own on a home inkjet printer. This is great if you want a particular image or even print a photo onto a napkin.
I print on paper napkins for decoupage in the same way as I print on tissue paper.
- Use a plain white paper napkin.
- Separate the napkin layers and only use one.
- Cut the napkin to size and tape it to an A4 sheet of paper using masking tape.
- Make sure that the napkin ply lies taught on the A4 paper.
- Download the image you want to print onto the napkins. Sites such as Pictureboxblue are full of wonderful vintage images.
- Resize and arrange the images using a program such as Photoshop. Make sure that the images will fit on the printed napkin. Don’t forget to allow for the masking tape margin.
- Place the paper with the taped napkin into your computer’s paper feeder. Make sure it is the right way up before printing.
- Select the best quality print from the printer’s advanced menu settings. Then, print your image.
What You Need For Napkin Decoupage
- Printed paper napkins or cocktail napkins, either shop-bought or own-printed napkins.
- Decoupage medium such as matte Mod Podge
- Fine-grit Sandpaper
- Foam brush, a dry brush and cling film (piece of plastic wrap)
- Decoupage object, it can be wood, plastic, glass, metal, or stiff fabric, such as canvas shoes.
How To Decoupage With Paper Napkins
There are several ways of decoupaging with napkins, depending on what you are decoupaging.
Step 1: First, prepare the object you are going to decoupage. Paper napkins are very thin, which is part of their appeal, but they can also be a pain. The colour of what you will decoupage will likely show through. I recommend covering the object with white paint.
Step 2: The most crucial part is separating the paper napkin layers. Most paper napkins are made up of 3 different layers (plys). Only the top ply of the paper napkin is printed and is the one to use for the decoupage.
Separate the layers by rubbing the napkin between your thumb and forefinger in one corner. The layers should separate, and then you can gently pull the printed top layer of the napkin.
Top tip: Using a little scotch tape on the back of the napkin and pulling can help separate the layers.
Step 3: The paper napkin can be feathered or cut, depending on your desired effect.
When decoupaging a mason jar for my map mason jar bank. I cut the paper napkin into strips and decoupaged them one by one into the glass. These strips helped the napkins cope with the curves without puckering up. I matched the map pattern on the napkin to seem like one continuous decoupage.
Use a brush to wet where you want to tear the napkin for a feathered edge. Then carefully, pull around the picture you want.
Cutting the napkins into a straight edge, a rotary cutter works better than scissors.
Step 4: As the paper napkin is so fragile, don’t apply the decoupage glue directly to the napkin. Apply it directly to the object to be decoupaged.
Cover the item with decoupage glue using a foam brush and lay the cut napkin on top of the glue. Use a clean foam brush to press the napkin firmly down. To smooth out any wrinkles, use plastic wrap (cling film), either layer it on top of the napkin piece or smooth it out with your hands.
A bunched-up plastic wrap ball can also be used as a sponge to smooth out air bubbles.
Craftmunki has some excellent tips for avoiding wrinkles when decoupaging with paper napkins.
Step 5: Another way of decoupaging with paper napkins on a flat wooden surface is to lay the napkin onto a painted dry piece of wood. Then liberally apply the decoupage glue on top of the napkin. The glue will seep through the paper napkin and adhere to the wood. A good video demonstrating this method here.
Step 6: Finish off the decoupage by sanding away excess paper napkins from the edges, especially on wood. Then, seal the decoupaged images by applying coats of Mod Podge on top of the paper napkin.
If the decoupaged object is outdoors, a waterproof sealer should be used for the final coat. You can even get a dishwasher-proof Mod Podge.
32 Paper Napkin Decoupage Ideas
Paper napkins can be used to decoupage, wood, glass, ceramics, metal, plastic and even stiff fabrics. Here is a collection of a wide variety of paper napkin decoupage crafts and upcycles.
How To Make Cool Marimekko Plastic Bottle Planters
A great example of how to decoupage plastic soda bottles with paper napkins to make some designer herb planters.
Make A Unique Map Mason Jar Bank For A Wonderful Gift
Clever use of map printed paper napkins decoupaged onto glass to make these cute map mason jar banks. Print maps of your favourite places onto blank paper napkins to personalize this upcycle.
A Simple Decoupage Bottle Idea
Add summer fun to your table with these fruit slice decoupaged glass bottles.
How to Decoupage With Napkins on Glass
Another glass jar paper napkin decoupage.
Easy DIY decoupaged IKEA cake stand
This is another glass paper napkin decoupage. This time the paper napkin is decoupaged under the plate so that it shows through the glass.
Easy Marimekko Decoupage on Wood Bowls
These bold Marimekko poppy paper napkins completely transform simple wooden salad bowls. Check out these other summer craft ideas for adults.
How To Make A Beautiful DIY Decoupage Chinoiserie Vase
Upcycle a vase into a stunning Ming vase with Chinoiserie paper napkins.
DIY Marimekko Shoes
Create some designer shoes out of cheap plain canvas sneakers with paper napkin decoupage.
Unique Marimekko Christmas Wall Art Made From A Table Top
This was a fun way to show my love of Marimekko designs by creating some giant wall art by decoupaging an old wooden tabletop; Paper napkins are also great for decorating wooden boxes.
DECOUPAGED TERRA COTTA POTS
Paper napkins can be decoupaged onto ceramics to create some pretty plant pots.
Easy Upcycled Marimekko Decorative Tin Can Planters
Don't worry if you don't have any plant pots to decoupage; you can create the same effect with these tin can planters.
Mod Podge Candles with Tropical Napkins - Mod Podge Rocks
Even candles can be updated with the magic of paper napkins.
decoupage basket | hydrangea napkins
Because paper napkins are so thin and pliable they can even be used to decoupage a woven basket.
How to Make a Unique Marimekko Bench
It took a lot less paper napkins then you think to decoupage the whole bench.
Decoupage Chair
If you don't fancy doing a whole bench, start off smaller with a chair. I love the colour and pattern.
Unique Easter Egg Decorating With Marimekko
I love these designer Easter eggs made with Marimekko paper napkins.
Art Canvas Decoupage Christmas Ornament - 2 Bees in a Pod
Use the right napkin and you can even make Christmas ornaments.
How to Make Gorgeous Nordic Christmas Decorations
Decoupage onto wood slices to make this adorable Nordic hanging Christmas decoration.
How To Make Handy Upcycled Hanging Bucket Storage
Another paper napkin decoupage upcycle. This time on large yogurt pails, they make stylish storage for the shed.
Easy DIY Giant Paper Mache Cactus
This fun giant paper mache cactus was finished off with paper napkins, to give it a special look.
How to Decoupage with Paper Napkins and Make a Tray Look Fabulous
I love how the paper napkin decoupage really transformed this plain tray into something beautiful.
How To Make A Beautiful Decoupage Shell Dish
Decoupage seashells for a unique gift. Large scallop shells make lovely trinket dishes.
How to Make Coasters out of Ceramic Tiles and Napkins, Easy DIY Home Decor Craft
These tile coasters would make a lovely gift.
Book Page and Paper Napkin Clock Makeover
Another great use of Marimekko paper napkins, this time for a fabulous clock update.
Day of the Dead Crafts: Decorative Luminaries
Use Day of the Dead napkins for some fun upcycled Halloween luminaries.
DIY Mod Podge Project: Upcycle an Old Thermos!
Give an old thermos a new lease of life with paper napkins.
Rustic Farmhouse Floral Can Craft for Christmas
Another tin can decoupage transformation, this time for Christmas. Check out these other tin can Christmas crafts.
How to Make Colorful Magnetic Clothespins
I love these, who'd of thought clothespins could look so pretty.
How To Make A Decoupage Baubles Decoration
This is a fun alternative Christmas decoration. Use Marimekko paper napkins to make some decoupage bauble flowers.
How To Make A Paper Mache Bowl With Decoupage
It's the decoupaged vintage nature images that transform these paper mache bowl. Includes free printables of the images to use.
How To Make Cute Upcycled Mini Bud Vases
Decoupage some mini plastic bottles (Yakult), to create a colourful mini flower bud display.
Wooden bangle bracelets
Upcycle bracelets by decoupaging them with paper napkins to match your outfit.
FAQs about Napkin Decoupage
Q: Can I decoupage on any surface?
A: Almost! Paper napkins work wonderfully on wood, glass, ceramics, and even metal surfaces. For the best results, ensure the surface is clean, smooth, and dry before you start.
Q: How do I prevent the napkin from tearing when I decoupage?
A: Be gentle and patient. First, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the surface. Carefully place your napkin piece, then softly dab another layer of Mod Podge on top using a foam brush. Using a piece of plastic wrap to press down can help avoid tears.
Q: How do I get rid of air bubbles under the napkin?
A: After placing the napkin, gently smooth it with your fingers or a dry brush. If bubbles appear, lightly press them out towards the edges with a piece of plastic wrap or a flat tool like a credit card.
Q: Can I use printed napkin designs for any style of decor?
A: Absolutely! Whether you love a vintage, modern, or eclectic style, you can find printed napkins that enhance your décor theme. Mixing and matching patterns can also create a unique, personalized look.
Q: How long does it take for my decoupage project to dry?
A: A layer of Mod Podge typically takes about 20-30 minutes to become tacky. It’s best to leave your project overnight for complete drying, especially if you’ve applied multiple coats.
Q: Can I wash items that have been decoupaged?
A: Yes, but with care. Items like coasters or home decor that won’t endure heavy wear can be gently wiped with a damp cloth. Avoid submerging decoupaged items in water or using them in a dishwasher.
Q: What’s the best way to seal a decoupage project?
A: For a durable finish, apply several thin coats of Mod Podge, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly. For items that need extra protection, like outdoor decor, use a waterproof sealer for added resistance against the elements.
Conclusion And Other Craft Ideas
In wrapping up, the art of decoupaging with paper napkins offers a platform for creativity and turns everyday items into personalized treasures. Whether you’re refreshing larger projects such as old furniture, enhancing home decor, or giving new life to wearables, each project leaves you with a unique piece that speaks to your style.
Remember, the perfect napkin can transform a simple object into a stunning masterpiece with just a little practice and patience. So, keep experimenting with different projects and beautiful napkins; you’ll be amazed at what you can create.
In addition to printing lovely images onto paper napkins to craft with, there is also a great tutorial on printing onto fabric at home.
If you are looking for ideas for decoupaging, check out this A to Z of upcycling ideas. You’ll find many fantastic decoupage ideas here, including decoupaging with other materials.
Fabric is another fun material to use for decoupage; check out this amazing Kaffe Fassett decoupaged vase.
For other craft types and technique tutorials, check out the tips for sewing on paper, by hand, or with a sewing machine. It’s also a good idea to ensure you have these craft essentials.
Robin Black
Sunday 6th of June 2021
I have been searching for fabric to make a kitchen valance and the only thing I really like is a paper napkin I found. Have you ever decoupaged a paper napkin on fabric? I was wondering if I could decoupage the napkin onto the fabric and then cut out the triangles I want to use as a valance? Would this work and be somewhat pliable? Thank you
Claire Armstrong
Sunday 6th of June 2021
To decoupage fabric, I would first cover the fabric in Mod Podge and leave it to dry. This will stiffen the fabric, I would then decoupage the napkins on top of this fabric as you would other objects. This will alter the feel of the fabric and make it stiffer but it will still be pliable. I would practice on a small piece first to see if it would work for your needs. I hope that helps.
Angela Brown
Thursday 1st of April 2021
Gosh I love this!
Claire Armstrong
Friday 2nd of April 2021
Aww, thank you so much.
Marita Kavanaugh
Wednesday 17th of March 2021
Wow thank you for this! As a beginner about to start decoupaging I found this very helpful. I was wondering if it would work if I used a napkin that is stencilled along the edges, would the stencil show up?
Claire Armstrong
Wednesday 17th of March 2021
Thank you, I'm glad you have found it helpful. I'm not sure about the stencil but it's worth giving it ago.
Vickie
Saturday 9th of January 2021
A fantastic, detailed outline crafted to inspire those of us that want to take supplies in hand and give this a whirl. I sure wish I found it before I paid 35 bucks to watch a live online class 😁
Claire Armstrong
Saturday 9th of January 2021
Thank you, Vickie. I'm glad you found it helpful. Crafting should be fun and free!
Michelle Leslie
Tuesday 30th of June 2020
Oh my goodness Claire. I don't think I've ever come across an article with so much information about mod podging with napkins/serviettes. It's like a one-stop-shop for all you need to know. Thanks so much
Claire Armstrong
Tuesday 30th of June 2020
Thank you, Michelle. I’ve had plenty of practice especially with Marimekko paper napkins.