How to Mod Podge on Wood

How to Mod Podge on Wood: 5 Basic Steps

Mod Podge is a versatile and efficient crafts material that has a variety of uses. You can use it as a regular glue to stick different things together like paper and wood, fabric to wood, and many more. Mod Podge can also work as a transfer material that places images on photographs on wood or metal. Finally, it preserves the surface of photographs and other crafts and adds a lovely surface for that professional effect. If you’re wondering how to use Mod Podge on wood, we’ll show you some basic steps to get started.

What you need to Mod Podge on wood

You need the following things to use Mod Podge on wood:

1. Mod Podge

Mod Podge is available in different variants. Use regular variants to stick fabric, paper, dried flowers, and leaves.

2. Wood

Use a smooth piece of wood to work on. It’s best to cut wood before applying Mod Podge and to sand it to make sure there are no imperfections.

3. Paintbrushes

Use small paintbrushes to apply acrylic paint and Mod Podge.

4. Acrylic paint

Use acrylic paint on wood. Use any color of high-quality acrylic paint.

5. Sandpaper

Use 100-grit sandpaper. Use a sand block to sand larger pieces of wood.

6. Hand saw or a router

A handsaw, table saw, or router will work. Remember safety when using an electric saw. Use goggles, working gloves, and a mask for protection.

Instructions on how to use Mod Podge on wood

Here are the step by step instructions on how to get started

1. Prepare your wood

Image Source: https://www.ssww.com/blog/diy-photo-transfer-keepsake-craft/

The first step is to work with your wood. Select wood that’s smooth as this is the easiest to work on. Use sandpaper to remove any imperfections like dirt, grime, or oil on the surface of where you will place the photograph. If you overlook this step, you may end up ruining your work.

If you would like to cut wood to your desired shape, this is the best time to do it. Use a handsaw or a router to easily cut the wood according to the piece you want. Make sure to sand the surface and the sides to remove any imperfections.

2. Paint your wood with acrylic paint

After cutting and sanding, paint the wood with acrylic paint. Apply acrylic paint in two layers but make sure to let the first layer dry up completely before you apply the second coat. You may also paint the back part of the wood if this will also show. You don’t need to paint the surface where you will place the photograph.

3. Prepare your photograph

Cut the photograph according to the size of the wood. Use a cutter to get the correct size. Wipe the surface and the back of the photograph to remove fingerprints, dust, hair, and other imperfections. Set the photograph aside.

4. Add Mod Podge to your project

Image Source: https://plaidonline.com/articles/how-to-use-mod-podge-photo-transfer

Use regular Mod Podge on the surface of the wood. Use a small brush to apply Mod Podge evenly all over the surface. Place the photograph on the Mod Podge and use a brush to set it on wood. While the Mod Podge is still wet, you can still move the photograph in position. Don’t wait until the Mod Podge is starting to dry up as it will be very hard to move the photo this time. Let the project dry overnight. Keep the project away from dust and debris as it dries.

5. Preserve your project with Mod Podge

In the morning, take the Mod Podge project out and preserve it. Wipe the surface of the photograph with a clean, dry rag. Apply the first layer of Mod Podge that will preserve the project. Apply it evenly without any clumps or bubbles. Let this dry completely overnight. You will know that the Mod Podge is dry when it begins to shine. Once it is dry, wipe the surface once more to get rid of any dust or dirt.

Apply another layer of Mod Podge to seal everything. You will need to wait until a day for this to dry completely.

Other uses of Mod Podge on Wood

Aside from sticking photographs on wood, you can also use Mod Podge in other ways.

Stick fabric on wood

Just like sticking photographs, you can use Mod Podge to stick fabric on wood. You can use cotton, felt or lace which can make pretty boxes, coasters, and other decorative or gift items. After sticking fabric, felt or lace on wood, add two layers of Mod Podge to preserve the project. You need to let the project dry completely to make sure that everything sticks well.

Sticking gift wrapping paper on wood

Decorate wooden boxes, planters, and any wooden items with gift wrapping paper. Prepare wood by cutting and sanding it and cut the gift wrapping paper to size. Apply the Mod Podge on wood and let this dry completely. Apply the final layer of Mod Podge on the surface of the project to preserve it. Use two layers.

Preserving flowers and leaves on wood

Get fresh flowers and leaves from your garden and press them. You may use an old book or any heavy item to press these flat. Once you’re ready, apply Mod Podge on wood to stick the pressed flowers and leaves. Let everything dry before applying the final two layers of Mod Podge.

Aside from flowers and leaves, you can stick items like ribbons, twigs, the bark of trees, shells, and stones on wood. These items are rough and bulky and thus, you need several layers of Mod Podge to keep these on wood and to preserve it.

Mod Podge is a versatile crafts material. You can use this on different materials, not just wood but it can save you time to learn how to use Mod Podge on wood as it is the most common. Mod Podge works well on different materials when it is completely dry. So, do not rush, let your project dry before preserving it with Mod Podge.


by