Recycled Tabletops

Pressed Flower Decoupage

Materials:

drop cloth
wood putty
decoupage glue
pressed flowers and other decorative elements of choice
water-based polyurethane

Steps:

1. Put a drop cloth under the table before you begin working.

2. If the dent or scratch is very deep, fill it first with wood putty.

3. Brush decoupage glue over the damaged area.

4. Position a pressed flower on the glue.

Materials:

measuring tape
scissors
craft paper
decoupage glue
water-based polyurethane

Steps:

1. Measure the surface of the table and cut a pattern to your liking out of craft paper or any type of paper.

2. Cover the entire surface of the table with decoupage glue and position the paper on the tabletop.

3. Let dry for 15 to 20 minutes and cover with another layer of decoupage glue to make sure all edges are firmly set. Dry.

4. Seal the entire surface with several layers of water-based polyurethane.

Photo Finish

• Use the same technique with sepia copies of your favorite photographs. You can vary the sizes of the copies to fit the tabletop.

• If the table is really damaged with stains or scratches, rub on a layer of brown shoe polish to even the tone before decoupaging.

• If you get a wrinkle or bubble in the paper after you have let it in the glue, let the glue dry for about five minutes, then pierce the bubble with a little pin to let the air escape. Finish with water-based polyurethane.