Decoupage – A business idea

Any idea that not only brings out your creative side but gives you an opportunity to earn is worth giving a bit more than a thought. Did you know that – in 17th Century Venice, began a craze for exotic lacquer furniture imported from the far East. It arrived in ships and hence the process was tedious and expensive. Side by side a parallel art industry came up to meet the demand. Original works of art were reproduced on paper  and pasted on furniture with layers and layers of lacquer till the furniture looked exactly like the original hand painted ones from the orient. Thus was born the art of decoupage which gained immense popularity all across Europe for the next two centuries.

How to decoupage

Bits of paper are pasted on objects using a special glue called decoupage glue. Layers of glue applied gives the effect as if actually painted. While one can use any kind of paper, those available in the market are specially printed high quality decoupage tissue papers with vibrant colors and design. Decoupage glue is a multi-function glue which helps seal the paper, gives it a lustrous shine and helps the paper stick to the object for a long time. 

There can be variations in this basic process with different objects and papers. Reverse decoupage is used on glass. At times on the white spaces of the tissue, designs can be done with acrylic colors or archival inks. Glue mixed with colors can create a crackle effect. Decoupage glue can be used to transfer image from paper to object. 

Old pieces of furniture, ceramic plates, bottles, small boxes, coasters, etc can be upscaled by decoupage. Simple and boring objects like gift boxes or plain white purses can be given a riot of colour and design using decoupage. By mastering a few techniques and having your creative ideas, one can mimic a hand painted art work.

Commercial viability

There will always be a demand for upscaling of items. You can begin with the old and boring items at home, redo them and put them on sale. Gift boxes and decorative items like wall hangings and coasters are specially easy to re decorate using decoupage. Ceramic plates, earthen plates and purses are specially attractive. Glass jars and bowls with reverse decoupage and rice paper give an amazing effect. Decoupage classes are  in demand too and both children and adults can pick up the art of decoupage in just two to three days. Rest the finesse comes with regular practice.

Decoupage resources

Manisha Yadav

I am Manisha Yadav, Founder and Ideologue of Narisakti. MBA Student and Digital Marketing expert, I take your brand online and help you reach more customers.