Things You'll Need
Damp cloth
Painter's or masking tape
PVA-based decoupage medium
Paintbrush
Acrylic polyurethane
Decoupaging ceramic tiles is very similar to decoupaging wooden or paper items; however, it requires a special finish to prevent yellowing and peeling. Learning this technique will enable you to undertake any number of projects, from creating original tile art for your bathroom or fireplace to making a unique paper weight for your desk. Decorating tiles this way is a fun, crafty endeavor that families can do together or an individual can do on her own.
Step 1
Prepare your tiles. If you are using new tiles, wash them with a damp cloth to remove any packing or storage dust, and dry them completely. If your tiles are attached to a wall in a kitchen or bathroom, make sure all grease, soap scum, calcium deposits and other residues are completely removed. Not doing so will prevent your decoupage medium from sticking properly.
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Step 2
Tape off your tile. If you are applying this directly to the wall, use masking or painter's tape to tape off the tile so you don't get decoupage medium on grout or other tiles.
Step 3
Paint one thin layer of a PVA-based decoupage medium, like Mod Podge, on the tile and let it dry. This will make it easier to attach your paper. Paper attached directly to tiles, especially those attached to the wall, can slide and move.
Step 4
Cut out your paper shapes and determine where you will place them on the tile. Paint a thin coating of decoupage medium on the back of the images and press them firmly to the tile.
Step 5
Use your paintbrush to apply a thin coating of decoupage medium to the top of the tile, covering the entire tile and image. Use a soft brush and even strokes to avoid streaks. Allow this layer to dry completely, then apply another. Repeat the process until you have built up 6 to 10 thin layers of decoupage medium. Make sure each layer is completely dry before proceeding to the next.
Step 6
Apply a coat of acrylic polyurethane to the top of the tile. This is the secret to decoupaging ceramic tile, as it will prevent your PVA-based decoupage medium from yellowing or peeling and add durability to your project. Once the first layer dries, apply another. Once it dries, you have successfully decoupaged a ceramic tile.
Tip
Decoupage tiles can be used for a whole host of purposes outside of home renovation, including as coasters, trivets and refrigerator magnets.
For the most pleasing results, be sure to eliminate air bubbles from your glue and avoid any visible brush strokes.
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