Things You'll Need
Double boiler
Water
Stove
Paraffin wax or candle
Wooden spoon
Newspaper
Sponge paint brush
Paper decoration
With all the beautiful paper decorations available today, some are just too nice to throw out after a single use. Among the many options available to save your paper decorations, a waterproof coating is helpful. By giving your paper decorations a waterproof coating will ensure they last more than one event. Waterproofing can also preserve your mementos from any special occasion. There are ways of waterproofing paper other than using the chemical-laden products you find in the stores. Using commonly found items, anyone can make their paper decorations waterproof.
Step 1
Put 2 inches of water into the bottom pot of a double boiler. Place the top pot of the double boiler onto the bottom pot. Put paraffin wax into the top pot. Place the double boiler on the stove burner, set on low heat. If you do not have a double boiler, you can use any pot. Place a clean, empty can inside the pot and melt the wax inside the can. Make sure to have at least 2 inches of water in the pot.
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Step 2
Stir the wax frequently while it melts. It is best to melt the wax slowly over low heat rather than faster on high, to avoid scorching.
Step 3
Lay out the newspapers on a flat surface. Put your paper decorations onto the newspapers. This is to protect your surface from the melted wax while coating the paper decorations.
Step 4
Spread a thin coat of melted paraffin wax over the paper decorations using the sponge brush. Be sure to apply a light, thin coat, completely covering the items. Allow to dry.
Step 5
Apply a second coat of melted wax to ensure good coverage of the paper decorations. Use a light hand and apply a thin coat. If the wax is to thick, it may just chip off, or hide the details of the paper decorations. Allow to dry. Use paper decorations as desired.
Warning
Always use proper precautions when working with melted wax and a hot stove to avoid injury.
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