Decoupage Vase Using Floral Napkins

Decoupage plain vases/pots using floral napkins for a stylish yet inexpensive statement decor accessory.

Today’s blogging world is all about creating the “look for less” and often includes creating name-brand “hacks” (i.e. Pottery Barn hacks, IKEA hacks, Anthropologie hacks). While this project isn’t exactly a hack, floral painted vases are a staple item at Anthropologie; however, like most things at Antrohoplogie, the unique vases can be expensive. Therefore, when I saw these floral napkins at Target, I knew I could make my own statement floral vase.

This was my first time decoupaging with napkins. Therefore, I watched this YouTube video on the 5 Decoupage Tips to Avoid Wrinkles with Napkins. I found it very helpful and used a couple of the tips. I highly recommend watching it before starting your own project.

Materials

• Floral paper napkins
• Vase or pot
• Decoupage glue (like Mod Podge)
• A bristle paintbrush
• Scissors

Instructions

Cut your napkin: Depending on the size and shape of your vase, you’ll start by cutting your napkin into small strips or pieces. Cut around any distinct flowers and leaf shapes. I started with a few strips and then had to move into using smaller pieces. Once cut, you’ll then peel your napkin pieces apart so you are left with only the thin, top layer of the napkin.

Decoupage the napkin to your vase: There are a few methods people use for decoupaging napkins. (I found this YouTube video helpful.) I chose to use the “dry method” where you place the napkin piece on your vase dry and then add the decoupage glue over the top of the napkin. Be sure to start in the center of your napkin piece and work outwards to avoid making large wrinkles. Using your paintbrush, gently work out any air pockets or wrinkles. Keep in mind that while your piece is wet it will look like you have a lot of small wrinkles. The majority of these should dry out. Keep applying pieces to create your unique floral pattern. Try not to touch the wet decoupage areas. Keep in mind that you might have to work in sections and let your piece dry before adding more pieces. Once your vase/pot is covered, let your piece dry. Once dry, apply one or two top layers of decoupage glue. Let dry overnight before using.

I paired my floral vases with my DIY Rattan Cane Woven Hurricanes. They make for a perfect spring or Easter table. Just make sure to buy extra napkins so your napkins can match your vases! As for the flowers, I used a mixture of faux flowers and real flowers. Can you tell which flowers are real and which are fake? I’ll have more details about the flowers and how to create a realistic faux flower arrangement in an upcoming blog post and Instagram (@tonalitydesigns) video (coming soon).