How to Work With Mod Podge: Formula Selection, Surface Prep and Application

Test Mod Podge on a small area before committing to a full project.

Plaid makes Mod Podge, a product that acts as an adhesive, a sealant and a finish for decorative surfaces. Decoupage is its most familiar use, and the range of available formulations is designed to suit different craft requirements. Because of that variety, it also works for puzzles, glass, ceramics, plastic and photo-transfer projects.

Selecting the Right Formula

Match the formula to your project and the surface involved:

• Canvas — brush stroke gloss, brush stroke matte, glitter, gloss, glow-in-the-dark, matte, satin, shimmer or sparkle
• Fabric — fabric or glitter
• Glass and ceramics — gloss, glow-in-the-dark, hard coat, matte, outdoor, satin, shimmer or sparkle
• Jewelry — glitter, gloss, glow-in-the-dark, hard coat, matte, shimmer or sparkle
• Kid's projects — glitter, gloss, glow-in-the-dark, matte, puzzle-saver, shimmer or sparkle
• Paper — brush stroke gloss, brush stroke matte, glitter, gloss, glow-in-the-dark, hard coat, matte, shimmer or sparkle
• Scrap-booking — glitter, glow-in-the-dark, paper gloss, paper matte, shimmer or sparkle
• Outdoor projects — outdoor uses. Bear in mind that Mod Podge is not completely waterproof.

Getting Surfaces and Materials Ready

Only apply Mod Podge to surfaces that are clean. For glass, metal and plastic, wipe the surface with a damp cloth using soap and water. Papier-mache, terra cotta and plaster should be cleaned with a damp cloth alone. Allow every surface to dry completely before you apply Mod Podge.

Surfaces that are unfinished, such as wood or canvas, require a primer or base coat before Mod Podge is used. On unprimed canvas, apply two coats of gesso primer or acrylic paint. A primed canvas only needs a wipe with a damp cloth. Sand wood before applying Mod Podge, then remove excess sawdust with a damp cloth.

Paper generally requires no preparation before a Mod Podge project. You can, however, spray both sides with a clear acrylic sealer. This step becomes necessary if you intend to apply Mod Podge over printer ink.

Wash, dry and iron fabric before applying Mod Podge. Place it on a flat surface and brush on a thin layer of fabric Mod Podge. This stiffens the fabric, which makes cutting shapes easier and helps prevent frayed edges.

Cut fabric, paper or other materials to fit the surface. A ruler and pencil help keep cuts straight.

Applying Mod Podge

When decoupaging, build up materials on the surface in layers. Start with the bottom layer, using Mod Podge as the adhesive. Remove air bubbles with the Mod Podge tool set, working from the center outwards. Once all materials are in place, apply two final coats of Mod Podge to the surface.

To use Mod Podge as a sealer, apply two coats over the surface. Sanding between coats gives a smoother finish. If Mod Podge is mainly serving as an adhesive, apply a medium coat to the back of the materials before sticking them to the surface. Use the Mod Podge tool set to work out air bubbles from the center outwards.

Allow each coat of Mod Podge to dry for 15 to 20 minutes, the manufacturer's recommended interval, before adding another coat. Sanding between coats produces a smoother finish. Once the project is completely dry, spray clear acrylic sealer over the Mod Podge to reduce tackiness.

Cleaning Up After a Project

Rinse brushes and the work area right away after use. Once dry, Mod Podge is difficult to clean up.

Practical Tips

• Avoid using Mod Podge over felt or polymer-coated plastics.
• If a cap is stuck, soak the Mod Podge bottle in warm water to help loosen it.
• Keep Mod Podge out of reach of children.