Tuesday, September 6, 2011

DIY: Decoupage





Don't you guys love Pinterest? That's where I found this idea.
Here's a great way to save some money on your craft addictions; make you own Decoupage! And it really works plus it's easy to do.

You need....

A jar
Elmers Glue
Water


Empty the glue into a jar. My jar is just an old Salsa Bottle.


Add Water. You need it to be 50% glue and 50% water.


Shake shake shake


And you are done!!
I know it works because i used it to paste this paper label onto the jar :)
It could make a great gift for your crafting buddies

Do you have QUESTIONS about this? I have some answers.
Check out my diy decoupage Q&A.


Don't you guys love Pinterest? That's where I found this idea.



Stephanie



153 comments:

Pamela Alexis said...

Thank you! great diy! and yes I love pinterest!

Plum Wonderful Momma said...

Awesome! This made my day!!! New follower here. ;)

Erin_Skidmore said...

great idea!!!! that will be saving me lots of money!!

Anonymous said...

This would not be waterproof, would it?

Megan and Stephanie said...

@ anonymous- I don't know if it would be waterproof. I guess the best way to find out is to try it out on something small. Just curious, what are you making that will get wet?

Jackiofalltrades said...

I don't think Mod Podge is waterproof either. You usually have to spray a waterproof finish on it.

Megan and Stephanie said...

Good idea Jackiofalltrades!

Lisa Moreno said...

Thank you! I never buy that stuff, just because it costs too much! I will make this! LOVE Pinterest!

Joi said...

Modge Podge is waterproof, once it dries.

DebiK said...

Thanks so much for sharing Ladies!! I have often wondered if this would work...we used to use this in art when I was in school, waaaay back when! I will definitely be trying it out soon! And yes, yes, yes! to Pinterest!

misstalie said...

I'm from Australia and haven't heard of Elmers Glue... what kind of glue is it?

Anonymous said...

Mod Podge is NOT waterproof, even after it dries. I used the gloss kind to make a cover around my son's water bottle for his field day so it wouldn't get mixed up with others, but after some time in the cooler in ice, which turned to water, it started to dissolve the mod podge and turned whitish and sticky.

Megan and Stephanie said...

@ misstalie - Elmers glue is just regular glue that kids use in school for projects and such. It's white and dries clear. It's nothing special and it is real inexspensive (especially during back to school season). I don't know how else to describe it so maybe you could google it. Hope that helps!

Anonymous said...

Is it supposed to be runnier than Mod Podge? I made some and it seems really wattery. I poured the bottle of glue in the jar then filled the glue bottle with water, so I think I have the ratios correct...just seems a little runny.

misstalie said...

Thanks ladies. It sounds like something we'd call CLAG.

Anonymous said...

misstalie, I think it would be more like PVA

Jan said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I need to use some today checked my jar and its very thick. Was thinking about adding a little water...but now I will just go to the $ Store pick up some Elmers. Thanks soooooo much for sharing.

Megan and Stephanie said...

I guess it could be a little runny but I think it works just the same. On your next batch use less water and add a little more at a time until you get the consistancy that you like. Good luck!

Anonymous said...

In Argentina we´ve been using 50% glue & 50% water for years, Mod Pog comes from USA so cost is imposible. All my decoupage projects and crafts are made with this formula. LOVE PINTEREST!!!

Amanda said...

Mod Podge is NOT waterproof. Anything with water and glue is not waterproof. I recommend using a sprayer sealer or polyurethane to seal anything.

The other bonus to making your own Mod Podge there is no smell :)

Pinterest is AWESOME!!!

Anna said...

I love this! Thanks for posting.

Anonymous said...

In case anyone from UK was curious - PVA is the equivalent - been wondering about mod podge for a while! Thanks :)

Bobbi Jo said...

This is great and so much less expensive that the store bought MP. Thank you for sharing! Hugs, Bobbi Jo

faithfulecreations.com said...

Be careful using this on photos or anything that comes in contact with them. Not all Elmer's glue is acid free.

Anonymous said...

What is mod podge?

Martha said...

Wow, great idea!!! Only one thing, I'm in Italy and I don't know if the glue that we have here is the right one, it is "Vinavil" and I think is like the PVA glue but I'm not sure... Any one can help me about this? By the way: I LOVE Pinteres!!!! so many inspirations and people to share with :))

John Andrews said...

What a great cost saving idea! Thanks for sharing!

Anonymous said...

I've used Mod Podge to coat my art student's projects, but you must be careful because any place you've used water-based markers ( i.e. Crayola markers) will smear and ruin your picture! I wonder if there would be any difference in quality or waterproofness if you made the mixture with Elmer's Glu-All instead of School Glue?

Chadwell Chatter said...

Found this on Pinterest :-) This is one of those so simple and genius ideas! Can't wait to save $ with this.

Anonymous said...

Someone mentioned runny markers with Mod Podge. I found a tip that I haven't used yet but sounds like it works. When printing a quote or using one with markers spray first with hairspray let dry than glue to project.

Kim @ seven thirty three said...

So funny! I made this when I was 10 years old and decoupaging a gift for my Memere... totally forgot about it until I just saw this on Pinterest! Thanks for the reminder. ;)

Anonymous said...

This is awesome! I found it on Pinterest. I've only recently come across Mod Podge and was wondering about using it to make some decorations for my upcoming wedding - but being on a budget, decided not to buy it yet - I'm so pleased I didn't!! I already have the PVA glue, so can use that - fantastic! :) Thanks ladies, Tash in New Zealand

nikki d said...

great post I so using this once I run out but mod podge comes in 10 different versions lol like glossy and matte. Is there anyway I can duplicate that like adding varnish or something?

cyndee said...

They make an outdoor mod podge that is waterproof

Budget Marie Antoinette said...

This might seem like a stupid question but what id Mod Podge? Is it like a rubber cement..? I've never heard of it!

Budget Marie Antoinette said...

*is GAH!

Anonymous said...

I'm from Australia too and have been trying to work out for ages what modge podge is. It seems that it's just a weak version of PVA. The full strength PVA is carpenters glue, whoch you can water down as you like for craft work. What we call 'school glue' (because it's non toxic, cheap and washes out of clothes) or 'white glue'is a weaker version which works well for car and fabric.

april@gingerbread said...

This is an awesome DIY idea....homemade modge podge sounds awesome! I hope you will link up with me here:
http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/2011/09/sweet-saturday-v4.html

april@gingerbread said...

Oh ya, and I am your newest follower!

Amanda Anne said...

That is AWESOME!! I can't wait to make some - I'm a follower for sure!

www.scrapproject365.blogspot.com

Wife, Mother, Godess said...

Thank you, thank you for this the universe revealed!

liz said...

I read up and found that most people use 1 cup glue to 1/3 cup water, if that helps. Also, you can add varnish to it to make it glossy.

Christine said...

Also from Oz and have been curious about Mod Podge for ages but no more mystery. Sounds like good ole PVA watered down. Thank you for the insight! xc:

Martha S. said...

One warning....you must use Elmer's Glue, not School Glue if you want a waterproof finish. Otherwise, your homemade Mod Podge will actually attract any moisture in the air and turn cloudy. If you use regular Elmer's Glue-All, it will be waterproof when your project is dry.

Ann-Kay said...

Haha, i can't stop laughing. I'm from Germany and i'm desperately trying to find out what exactly Mod Podge is made from, because we don't have it here. It's too funny to see how everyone else who is not from the US is as confused as i am and curious about Mod Podge too. I guess I can make my own as soon as i've figured out the german equivalent to Elmer's Glue, CLAG and PVA, lol :))
Does anyone know UHU? I think it might be the same, but i'm not sure

kris said...

Hahaha I didn't know people actually buy mod podge haha it was always the term I thought for "watered down glue" lol. And I'm from the US lol

Tricia - Simplicity.blogspot said...

Isn't it wonderful how crafters form all over the world can have a conversation about glue. It is a great idea.

Staceybug said...

How long does it last before drying up?

utterflea said...

Er I'm from India and I kept wondering about mod podge too lol. Now wondering what the Indian equivalent is. Is it Fevicol?

Felicity said...

Wikipedia on PVA glue: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyvinyl_alcohol

Ashley M. said...

OH MY! I wish I had found this a few days ago! I am hosting a craft night at my house for 25 of my teaching friends and just bought $30 worth of mod podge! WOW.. this really could have saved me some money! Now I know for next time.. thanks for sharing!

P.S. I'm your newest follower!

everydayaem.blogspot.com

Ashley

KinseyAlyssa said...

Does it have to be white Elmer's glue, or can it be the clear kind?

Shannon said...

Perfect! Just found your through pinterest. Have been wanting to test out my Mod Podge skills... This will push me forward. My son has 439 bottles of glue laying around. You know, because he needs a new bottle every year for school.

newmexicomtngirl.com said...

that's where I found you too. I do love pinterest, but get too caught up in it and don't get to other things
peace,
CheyAnne
http://www.cheyannesexton.etsy.com

Anonymous said...

I've been doing this for a long time... in Egypt it is impossible to find any craft supplies.We don't even have Elmer's, so I use a generic white glue called OKAY. I print kitchen jar labels on my inkjet, spray it with a light coat of clear varnish to prevent smearing, and use the glue solution like Modge Podge. I use these jars daily while cooking, often touching it with wet hands, and clean it
regularly inside with hot water. Outside I do a quick wipe down with a damp cloth, followed by a dry cloth. Jars still look great after 3 years!

Under Cover Fashion Lover said...

Thank you Thank you for this, I have seen MOD PODGE everywhere on Pintrest and to be honest had no idea what it was! Thanks for the ideas and love your blog!

Anonymous said...

Does this get sticky like mod-podge does? I love mod podge but hate the stickiness layer that is left when it dries.

statia said...

Actually, this makes sense. Mod Podge SMELLS like Elmer's glue. I figured it was just a thinner version of glue. Though, like someone else said, there are quite a few different finishes of mod podge. You'd probably need to see the ingredients of all of them to figure out how to make the different types.

MyStyleVita said...

GENIUS!! I was about to start crafting with mod podge for the first time thanks to pinterest making me think I'm a crafty person now. I can't wait to DIY the actual Mod Podge before i make my DIY crafts!

xoxo MYSTYLEVITA.com

Anonymous said...

There is a Elmers brand equivalent called Bostik. Looks like it is common in Germany and the U.K.

Noblekatt said...

Can I just say, loving that I found this on pinterest, loving even more that there is such an international following! This conversation is fascinating, totally giving me the giggles that so many have the same thoughts (what is Elmers glue? what is Mod Podge?) . So far I have counted the UK, New Zealand, India, Egypt, Australia and at least one gal I am guessing is French. What a great idea, can not wait to try it out!

Polka Dot Rabbit said...

hands up for fellow Australian! Does anyone know what polyurethane is in Australia? I tried using outdoor clear enamel gloss varnish but it was still sticky...

Jen@Mom's Online Garage Sale said...

Gonna make this right now so my 2 crafting buddies and I can use it tomorrow for our weekly fall crafting day...WOO HOO! Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!

Chinkles said...

Love this! I'm here in the Philippines, and Mod Podge is sold at one store which i had to hunt down. Whereas they have Elmers glue in our normal school supply/book store!

If i wanted a more durable coating, can i use carpenter's glue and water instead, or is this elmers good enough? From what I'm seeing in the comments, there is a small issue with it being waterproof.

Anonymous said...

I used Mod Podge mixed with burnt umber acrylic paint to "age" a cheap print and make it look like an oil painting. I was thrilled with the results. The print was one of those from Target/WalMart that was glued to cardboard. The cardboard made it sturdy enough to handle the Mod Podge. (tried it on a print without cardboard and it didn't work) I cut the fake mat off and reframed in a nice vintage frame and I feel like I've got a fine piece of artwork. The antiqued mod podge made the print look old and like it had brush strokes. LOVE. Thanks for the tip. Mod Podge is ridiculous in price-especially as we KNOW the product is NOT expensive to make. Mary from Oklahoma :)

:::b r a n d i::: said...

Hmm, interesting, as the bottle of Mod Podge I have sitting on my desk is a lot thicker than the Elmer's glue I have. :/ Wondering about that.

And I always, always use matte Mod Podge. I hate the glossy stuff...so is this formula matte?

Anonymous said...

love the idea

Anonymous said...

Cracks me up that I will spend close to $4 on a product that could be made for under a buck! I love it and my wallet thanks you! :)

Anonymous said...

Modge Podge is available in Australia ( i work in a craft shop) but sells for about $20 AUD a bottle. Much cheaper to use PVA and water. Have been doing this for years! lol.
For those of you unsure what PVA is, check the ingredients label on your glue and it will tell you what the most active ingredient is.
Also found you via Pinterest. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Am also going to try this instead of another expensive product called Fabric Stiffener. Am sure it will work just as well to stiffen lace, etc.

Andrea said...

hi. I was going to comment too and say that you can buy mod podge in Australia. I've seen it. But no way am i going to buy it now. lol Plus it's expensive. I've used watered down pva before. I've also added paint to it to antique something aswell. Great blog btw :)

Kate said...

Love it!!! Cheaper and just as good?! Right on. And yes, thank GAWD for Pinterest.

recessionhome said...

Just posted this and linked back to you on www.recessionhome.com - where I curate thrifty craft ideas... Thanks so much! And come check us out...

Ashley

Megan and Stephanie said...

Hey guys, I made a mod podge Q&A post. Hope it answers some questions for you!

http://doityourselfdivas.blogspot.com/2011/09/diy-mod-podge-q.html

Anna Leach said...

I knew there was an easy way to make it because we used to all the time in girl scouts but i couldn't remember exactly what you did. Elmers glue is sooo much cheaper than modpodge! Thanks!

Megan said...

Just made some! Much runnier than Mod Podge... I think next time I'll do 1/2 cup water to 1 cup glue. Still working for what I need :) Thanks!

Drew Travers said...

Has anyone diluted Titebond or Titebond II and tried it??

Jennifer Rizzo said...

great idea!!!

Jennifer Rizzo said...

great idea!!!

Anonymous said...

@Ann Kay: no, UHU is not mod podge! Serviettenkleber is the one. >o) Greetings from Ireland!

Anonymous said...

I agree that Elmers All Bond does better & I use less water - more like 2/3 glue & 1/3 water. It is ALLLL much cheaper than modge podge though & I think the All Bond works better. I also use it to make REALLY strong paper mache projects. We make ones so strong that we use non yellowing varnish on them (outdoor varnish) and use paper mache outdoors without an issue. I wouldn't set it directly on dirt, but elevated on a rock or on the porch or patio it works awesome.

Anonymous said...

I agree that Elmers All Bond does better & I use less water - more like 2/3 glue & 1/3 water. It is ALLLL much cheaper than modge podge though & I think the All Bond works better. I also use it to make REALLY strong paper mache projects. We make ones so strong that we use non yellowing varnish on them (outdoor varnish) and use paper mache outdoors without an issue. I wouldn't set it directly on dirt, but elevated on a rock or on the porch or patio it works awesome.

Anonymous said...

I have been using that mixture for years, but thought I should try Modge Podge because it should be better....haha! It does not work as well as glue and water. Shame on me for not believing in myself.

Tanya Anurag said...

Yes i love Pinterest and that is exactly where i found you girls. Thanks for sharing. I once did think about using Elmer's glue instead of Mod Podge but i was afraid that I'd ruin my craft so I did not. This post restores some confidence :)

Lauren H. said...

Oh my gosh! Now I can make the glitter Mod Podge I've been lusting after, but refusing to spend the money on! Awesome!

Miura Aimes-Oroan said...

Wow, this is just genius. I don't buy Mod Podge, but my mom buys it on a rare occasion. I suddenly have the urge to craft... :D

Anonymous said...

Why can't we use straight Elmer's glue?

Brittini said...

YAAAAYYYY!!!! cant wait to try this! I am new to pinterest, as of today to be exact. I seen you there =) I have crammed so much into my litle brain today. I think it might explode. I have typed up a homemade laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, cleaning products, hand scrubs and now mod pode recipes. All something I use on a daily basis. Talking about SAVING MONEY!!!!! Something I have been trying so hard to achieve. Thank you so much!!!!!

Anonymous said...

How long does it last in jar. Can't wait to try it.

In Awe of Applique said...

pinterest rocks...I'm totally addicted! Thanks for the tutorial, the look of burlap is really growing on me and it look divine paired w/lace and muslin, my tree is going to have a whole new look this year!

Danielle said...

I just bought some mod podge yesterday...now I know better! As for smearing pictures or artwork, I've found that spraying with a clear coat of spray paint first works wonders. And it dries almost instantly, too. I've been able to mod-podge over ink jet black and white photos with this technique.

Anonymous said...

This works beautifully! And yes-there is the added bonus of no Modge Podge smell. PINTREST IS FABU!

Emily said...

@ann-kay: Elmer's Glue is weisses Bastelkleber, you know like the 1 euro bottles you can buy at Kik?

Stephanie said...

I use MP almost everyday with my glass plates ... thanks for the tip! Can't wait to try!

Anonymous said...

To Martha or anyone else in Italy, you want to use Vinavil or any other brand "colla vinilica".
Jo

Sannah said...

Great idea, I was off to buy some mod podge tomorrow, but now I might try this instead - thanks!

~Renee CreatingCottage said...

I've also used a version of this homemade mode podge but with wood glue! It's waterproof!!!
I think my mixture is more like 3 parts glue to 2 parts water, but it's really to preference. I'm a sucker for a high gloss and my things usually get a spray of clear varnish after anyway. But the wood glue is very strong stuff, so if you're doing anything for outdoors it's a great preservative. Great post!!!

Gayle Page-Robak said...

Love working with Mod Podge and thank you for this recipe...I knew I bought that huge jug of Elmer's glue for reasons beyond glitter. I have joined your followers list and invite you to join my followers list; as well,I hope you will grab a blog button. Hugs, Gayle
http://atastefultouch.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

My preference is to use more like a 75% white glue and 25% water. It's just what I am used to and it's worked fine for me for many years. Hope this helps the person who said they thought theirs was a bit runny.

missweigold said...

I love Pinterest! Found you there, I just can't seem to get an invite. I'm very focused on a homemade holiday for my family this year, and can't wait to make this mod podge. I have a few presents ready for this stuff. Thanks for posting.

Anonymous said...

From Pinterest, as well. Thanks for this! I was about to hunt for Mod Podge (I just discovered it) but now it seems I don't have to! ~ Marian from Manila, Philippines

Anonymous said...

Here is a similar recipe that I have used. It has a glossy finish to it, due to the wood varnish. I also think that the varnish would help with it being a little more water proof and sealed better, the only downfall is that there is going to be some smell that comes along with using the varnish in the mix.
Homemade Mod Podge: Mix 1 cup of white glue with 1/3 cup water. Add 2 tablespoons of varnish for gloss finish. Keep in a container with a tightly sealed screw on lid. Use for decoupage projects.

JOAN said...

I use Aleene's tacky glue. And depending on what I want to make I use more or less water ;)

denise said...

Awesome!!! I have been wanting to do some projects but the price held me at bay...Now I can do it with out worry about $$$$!!

Sharlyn said...

Thanks, I have a craft studio and find that the recipe will greatly cut back on costs!! Great!

StephanieNix said...

will it work on things like diy canvas? you're supposed to put mod podge over the picture, this being glue, would it ruin the picture?

Donna said...

Made my Diva Podge...a million thanks!

bakesnbooks.blogspot.com

Monica said...

Just a thought... Elmer's also make a waterproof formula carpenter's glue. When mixed with water it might not be 100% waterproof but might offer a little more tolerance to moisture. The color is a little more on the beige side than white, but still dries very light and watered down I would imagine even lighter. Gonna test this tomorrow!

Anonymous said...

I'm an art teacher and I have made this mixture for years and have saved lots of $$$! It works just as well as the expensive Modge Podge!!

Tonya Isbell said...

I seen a comment about about sealing w/ polyurethane. That is an EPIC FAIL! :( I just did 90 bottle cap magnets and filled then w/ polyurethane only to find out that is does not dry clear (even though I used what they said was a clear coat), because polyurethane naturally yellows. However, any epoxy resin or EnviroTex Lite will work great. There is also something called Easycast Casting Epoxy. Just didn't want others to deal w/ what I had to deal with! It was a pain in the rear!! BTW. . . LOVE your blog! I wish I had seen this sooner. . . like before I bought some Mod Podge! ha ha

mai said...

i wonder if i added dish soap would that turn into adhesive spary , thanks for sharing your ideas

Anonymous said...

Check at hardware stores to buy Elmer's by the gallon. It's perfect if you plan on making gift jars. I also add a tablespoon or more of clear varnish to add some shine to the finished project. Just make sure to mix it well before using because it settles to the top.

sarah jane said...

Found this via Pinterest! Love your blog:) Thank you

danibennett0388 said...

When put over top of pictures printed off of a color printer, does it smear them?

Megan and Stephanie said...

@ danibennetto388 I don't recommend putting it on pictures. The bottle of decoupage you see here has a label that I printed off my computer and "decoupaged" onto the jar; it didn't smear. Good luck with your project! Let me know if it works out for you.

Anonymous said...

Great Idea!

desperatebandwife said...

Thanks! I will!

Anonymous said...

I just made some and I was wondering if you have to let it set or if you can use it right away?

Megan and Stephanie said...

You can use it right away.

Sasha Fitzgerald said...

Fantastic tutorial! I'll never buy the stuff again :P

Anonymous said...

Just made some:)

Michele Aitken Elkhart, Indiana said...

Im going to dump out my salsa so I have a jar and create some of this wonderful stuff! Cant wait to try it~

Anonymous said...

OMG! This is sooooooo awesome! I am totally making a million things haha :)

Anonymous said...

Hey! Click the link to see an AWESOME thing you can make with Modg Poge :D http://pinterest.com/pin/165999936234731759/

MrsDierksMom said...

oh my goodness ....THANKS!! i am making photo coasters as a Christmas gift and we are on a really tight budget this year and this will make the cost of 4 coastersonly $1.40... ihave everything else in my craft cabinet!!! thanks a bunch

Anonymous said...

Modge Podge claims to be ACID FREE. But Elmers white glues are NOT ACID FREE. Wood glue is NOT ACID FREE. Where do we get PVA (white glue) that IS acid free for making this DIY 'podge? Thanks :)

Anonymous said...

I've been wanting to try some craft projects that call for the use of this, but didn't really know where to get MP here in the Philippines. Now, I can just make my own :) Awesome!

PS....what about a GEL Medium--any homemade recipes for this?

Anonymous said...

Oh my!!! Paid almost $6.00 for a jar of Modge podge today. I hope WalMart will take it back (not opened). I can buy a lot of Elmer's glue for $6.00. Plus I have a bottle of the Elmer's Carpenters glue.
Even though pinterest is ADDICITIVE and I don't get much house cleaning accomplished, I still LOVE pinterest! :) Thanks everyone for their input.

Anonymous said...

Can I use mod podge on my own printed pictures from my computer?

Anonymous said...

Before reading all the comments I used the Elmers school glue to create my mod podge. Oops. Oh well ,it's all I have to use now! LOL I'm just brushing it over some little ornaments the kids and I made so hopefully it works!

Anonymous said...

So just wondering do we think that this would work the the glitter flat ideas?

Megan and Stephanie said...

Glitter works well too

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing :O)will save everyone $$....

Anonymous said...

When I use to cross stitch I would keep a small squirt bottle of this mixture and would go around my fabric with this to keep it from raveling. A lot cheaper than Fray Check.

Anonymous said...

For people like me who use a lot of Mod Podge on a regular basis for projects that include attaching paper to metallic surfaces, this recipe is not satisfactory. The glue mixture is either too sticky or too watery; either way, the resulting project ends up wrinkly and very obviously "home-made-looking." Mod Podge is worth the money if you're a serious decoupager, imo.

Anonymous said...

Also, for those who question whether or not Mod Podge is waterproof: I've been using it for years to decoupage watering cans as well as other projects that come into contact with water. I use 4 - 5 applications of MP (letting them dry in between each application), and my projects last for years and years, with continued, regular use. (I wouldn't use it to decoupage a swimming pool or a hot plate; but among other things, I've decoupaged room spray bottles which I keep in the bathroom-- NO problems!)

Simmone D. said...

I have become a Pinterest addict!!! I will definitely try this method before buying Mod Podge. My husband needs a sign for the hospital he is CEO of and this will be my first attempt. Wish me luck!

angie said...

For those interested in trying this in Australia, I just purchased Elmer's glue at Officeworks woohoo!!!

I'm also an avid Pinterester!

ashlee adams said...

ok im in heaven because that stuff is SO expensive - its like 7.00 a container and i use it for everything !! Excited!!!

Anonymous said...

No it would not be waterproof. You would need a coat of varnish or something.

College Girl's Coupons said...

Has anyone tried to use this mix to put a fabric collage on a wall? Would it come off cleanly?

Vanessa said...

Martha, I don't think Vinavil is the same because I was using that in Italy and didn't bring any back with me to the UK (because I thought it was just normal PVA) and now I am using PVA and it doesn't give the same effect as the vinavil and I wish I'd brought some with me! (I'm using a watered-down solution to give a protective layer to prints and bring out the inks).

Anonymous said...

During the stiff-fabric craze in the eighties, my mom had a gift shop/decorator store (after deciding that working the family business of their fabric store with my dad was too much "quality time" lol). She was also a decorator. We used this to do all kinds of stiff fabric projects. Wicker waste-baskets, headboards, baskets, etc., with beautiful chintz ribbons and bows woven through the open parts - all stiffened up with this mixture which also gave it a lovely sheen.

Anonymous said...

it's glue like you would use in school when you were a kid

Beth said...

I don't know about using glue on the wall, but I found this idea on Pinterest and it sounds golden for what you're wanting to do: http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2008/07/starched-fabric-decal-experiment.html?m=1 I'm getting ready to try it myself so we'll see how it goes!

Start A Dollar Store said...

I love your blog! Happy New Year!

Anonymous said...

I made some yesterday to make coasters out of hardware store tiles, and added 1 tablespoon of polyurethane to the mix and it seems pretty runny compared to mod podge, but it also seems heavier duty. Another change I made to the mix is that I used elmers glue-all instead of school glue. It's a little more expensive, but a heavier duty glue.

Anonymous said...

I got this tip from my sister in law...she uses this for keeping jigsaw puzzles together that she wants to frame. Works really well.... she uses a foam brush to apply this to both sides of the puzzle. (one side at a time, allow to dry then turn over and repeat). When it is dry, put in frame and hang.

Anonymous said...

Sorry, guys, but this does NOT work as well as modpodge, and your stuff will be ruined within a short time span. :( You're diluting an "already inferior" bonding agent. So, bite the bullet and go for the stuff that actually does what you want it to do! :) I'm all for saving a dime (believe me!!!), but wasting my time is NOT something I enjoy!

Linda said...

What an awesome DIY! I found you through Pinterest and yes, I do love that site! Thank you for sharing!!!

Anonymous said...

To all the Aussies asking about Elmers glue, I bought some today from Officeworks, it was about $5 a bottle, they also see it at some other shops here, just Google it, find the Australian website and it has its stockers :D

Crystal said...

Thanks for this! I just made it and it works. I used grocery-store brand school glue (HEBuddy for all my fellow Texans) and it is awesome!

Anonymous said...

For Australians...

Elmer's Glue is simply a white glue. It's a water based glue used for general woodwork and craft. It's white when applied, but dries to a more-or-less transparent finish. It is, however, not invisible. (Neither is Mod Modge.)

You can find dirt-cheap white glue in any craft store, Spotlight, Lincraft, Bunnings and cheapy-crap shops like Cheap-as-Chips, and probably Coles/Woolies. You do not need to buy Elmer's Glue. Any brand will do.

(Strongly advise NOT to buy it from Spotlight though as they are a ripoff.)

You can buy smallish bottles of Mod Podge in Spotlight, and here in Adelaide, you can get it from Art 2 Art. A small bottle costs about $10 at Art 2 Art. There are a range of Mod Podge products, some with glitter, some low gloss, high gloss, etc.

(Again, don't buy it from Spotlight, due to crazy prices.)

I'm currently investigating replacing Mod Podge with white glue. So far, I can't really tell the difference, except that white glue is extremely cheap.