Decoupage (or découpage) is the art of decorating an object by gluing colored paper cut outs onto it in combination with special paint effects, gold leaf, etc. Commonly an object like a small box or an item of furniture is covered by cutouts from magazines or from purpose-manufactured papers. Each layer is sealed with varnishes (often multiple coats) until the "stuck on" appearance disappears and the result looks like painting or inlay work.

By the 18th century these creations were not confined to Italy but had spread throughout Europe and were no longer only the occupation of artisans but had also taken on the role of a lady's hobby, notably in the court of King Louis XV. Instead of glueing paper onto furniture, it was used to decorate smaller objects such as hat boxes and toiletries.

In the early part of the 20th century, decoupage, like many other art methods, began experimenting with a less realistic and more abstract style. 20th century artists who produced decoupage works include Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. Most famous are Matisse's Blue Nude (Souvenir de Biskra).

Since decoupage was considered to be a "poor man's art," it isn't surprising that common household materials can be used to create exquisite effects. The list of supplies is short:

• Something to decoupage onto. Examples include: furniture, photograph albums, plates, ceramics, shelving, frames, mirrors.
• Pictures to decoupage with. These can come from a myriad of sources: newspapers, magazines, catalogs, books, printed clip art, wrapping paper, greeting cards, fabric, tissue paper, lace.
• Cutting utensil. Scissors, craft knife (X-acto) or razor blades can be used.
  Glue. Standard white glue works best if it is diluted with a little water. Specialty glues can be found in most crafting stores.
• Smoother. Popsicle sticks work well. A brayer is a specialized tool like a miniature rolling pin designed to help remove wrinkles, remove excess glue and smooth pictures.
  Glue Spreader. Many things around the house can be use for this: cotton swabs, paint brushes, sponges.
• Rags, sponges, tissue paper, etc. To help wipe up glue and other clean up.
  Sealer. Glue or other decoupage medium can be used as a sealer. Alternatively, polyurethane, spray acrylic or other lacquers can be used.

The Guild of British Découpeurs

The Guild was formed in 1993 with the aim of promoting the art of découpage and providing information and resources for découpeurs countrywide. The Guild provides information on all aspects of découpage from preparation and finishing techniques to design, encompassing all products, sources and découpage publications. Through its judging programme and standards of excellence the Guild encourages the highest standards of traditional découpage. The Guild organises regular meetings and workshops for members and actively promotes the exchange of ideas and experience through contact with fellow découpeurs not only in the U.K., but also in Italy, Denmark, South Africa, Canada and the USA.