Decoupage comes from the French word decouper, which means "to cut out." Host Jeanne Benedict has cut out some images and borders from fabric (figure A) and is going to apply them with a shellac finish to this rustic terra-cotta tile to be used as a base plate. Before you start gluing anything down, decide how you want your images or design to appear on the tile and set it aside in that order (figure B). Decoupage basically has 3 steps: seal, glue and shellac. These can all be accomplished by one product, so inquire at a craft store about a decoupage medium that does it all. - First apply a thin sealer coat with a foam brush and allow that to dry for about 15 minutes -- check the manufacturer's instructions on drying time (figure C).
- Next, apply a thicker coat, which acts as the glue (this may look heavy, but it will dry clear).
- Set your images in place and gently smooth out the fabric to avoid air bubbles. If you have overlapping fabric, just apply the glue to adhere them down, and allow that coat to dry for another 15 minutes (figure D).
- Then, apply many coats of the product to act as your shellac, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next coat (figure E).
Your end result will have a beautiful polished look (figure F). Benedict has written a little phrase in Italian, which you would actually do on the raw tile before you apply the very first sealer coat. Another idea is to use these decorated tiles as place cards and write the name of your guest on them. The tiles are obviously similar, but each has a unique design. It's these personalized details that your guests will notice -- and they won't be able to avoid feeling complemented that you cared enough to make that special effort. Urn Centerpiece Now, pick up the terra-cotta theme with matching urns for centerpieces. Benedict gives them a formal touch with burgundy pillar candles, flowers and fruit. Place a block of floral foam inside the urn to raise the candle, and add floral foam around the sides as well (figure G). If your vessel isn't watertight, as most planters have a drainage hole, be sure to plug it up or line the inside with plastic wrap . Next add water to your urns. Start with the focal flowers, which in this case are red and orange roses, and then fill in with other items (figure H). Host Jeanne Benedict inserts kumquats into the floral foam with a small wooden picks. Champagne grapes are always a big hit! To secure them, simply wrap green floral wire around the stem near the top of the cluster; twist-tie the wire ends and insert into the foam (figure I). Wrap the stem of cherries with floral wire and some purple stattice for more color. Here's a neat trick with lemons and limes: slice the lemon or lime crosswise as thin as possible; fold the round in half and fill in around the flowers and other items. It's a great way to add bursts of color and interesting curved lines that will bring movement to the arrangement and keep the movement flowing (figure J) . Now for some elegant greenery: ivy stems spilling down the sides will make a nice silhouette in low light. And as a final touch, Benedict is studding the top of the candles with brass upholstery tacks, which will pick up the gold tones in the decor. Final Touches The host has also incorporated tassels as napkin accents. The table is finished with wine glasses and silverware. This table reflects the cuisine, enhances the atmosphere and will definitely spark conversation!
RESOURCES :
Table Settings: 100 Inspirational Stylings Themes and Layouts
Model: 1859673805
Author: Tessa Evelegh
The New Book of Table Settings: Creative Ideas for the Way We Gather Today
Model: 1579901697
Author: Chris Bryant, et al
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