Covering cardboard with tissue paper, often done as a form of decoupage, involves adhering the tissue paper to the cardboard surface using a suitable adhesive. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Steps to Cover Cardboard with Tissue Paper
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Prepare Your Materials: Gather your cardboard box or surface, tissue paper (various colors and patterns can be used), decoupage medium (like Mod Podge or thinned white glue), a soft brush or sponge, scissors, and optionally, sandpaper.
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Prepare the Cardboard: Lightly sand the cardboard surface if it's particularly rough. This helps the adhesive stick better. Ensure the cardboard is clean and free of dust.
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Cut or Tear Tissue Paper: Decide if you want to cut the tissue paper into specific shapes or tear it into smaller, more organic pieces. Tearing often gives a more textured and rustic look.
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Apply Adhesive: Using your brush or sponge, apply a thin, even layer of decoupage medium to a small section of the cardboard. Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from drying out too quickly.
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Apply Tissue Paper: Carefully place the tissue paper pieces onto the glued surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles with your fingers or a soft cloth. Be gentle, as tissue paper can tear easily when wet.
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Overlap and Layer (Optional): Overlapping the tissue paper pieces creates depth and visual interest. Experiment with different layers and arrangements.
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Seal with Another Coat of Adhesive: Once you've covered the entire cardboard surface with tissue paper, let it dry completely. Then, apply a topcoat of decoupage medium to seal and protect the tissue paper. This also gives the finished project a nice sheen.
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Finishing Touches: After the topcoat dries, you can add additional embellishments like glitter, paint, or other decorative elements. If desired, apply a final layer of varnish for extra protection. To define edges, run your finger along them as shown in the reference video.
