Welcome to the world of decoupage! Relaxing, beautiful and a key component of upcycling, decoupage is a papercraft loved by many.
If you’ve never heard of decoupaging before don’t worry. It’s a very simple craft that we cover in our how to decoupage for beginners guide. Plus you only need two key materials to get started – decoupage paper and decoupage glue. We’ve already covered where you can buy decoupage paper so today is all about finding the best decoupage glue for you!
There’s quite a few decoupage brands on the market and many craft retailers also sell their own versions. We’re going to help you navigate the world of decoupage glues as well as explaining what it is, why it differs from normal glue and where you can buy it.
Ready? Let’s get stuck in.
What is decoupage glue?
Decoupage glue is a coating used to stick decoupage paper to a variety of surfaces. It differs from normal glue as it’s more watered down, allowing you to layer lots of papers on top of one another in the traditional decoupage way.
Decoupage glue also differs as it can be used to seal and varnish your designs. Normal glue is too thick for this and wouldn’t give that glossy finish we’re all after! It’s also specifically designed to be able to stick onto more tricky surfaces like wood, metal and plastic.
There’s a few different decoupage glue brands on the market, most famously Mod Podge. We’re going to help you find the best one for you but first, here’s some places you can buy decoupage glue from.
Where can I buy decoupage glue?
You can buy decoupage glue from a number of online and high-street stores.
From the high street, you can find decoupage glue at most independent craft stores and a few big-name brands. For the US, Target and Walmart often stock decoupage glue as does Joanns. In the UK you can find decoupage glue in Wilkinsons, Hobbycraft and The Works.
Online you can find decoupage glue at:
6 of the best decoupage glues
1. Mod Podge Matte Waterbase Sealer, Glue and Finish
Pros: All-in-one finish, quick-drying, easy to use Cons: Can be expensive, isn’t waterproof
Coming in at number one is Mod Podge. We’ve talked a little about why Mod Podge is our number one choice (below) but this Matte Sealer, Glue and Finish is the perfect glue from the range for decoupaging.
Not only is it a three-in-one, but it’s also durable, easy to use and easy to clean. Its consistency makes it simple for you to layer decoupage paper and leaves you with a professional-looking matte finish. You can use it on a huge range of surfaces including wood, canvas and even metal (why not test it out with our how to decoupage a tin tutorial?)
If matte finishes aren’t your thing Mod Podge has a huge range of products. You can find a glossy finish, satin finish and even a glitter finish. If you’re working on projects that can or will get wet, you’ll need their dishwasher-safe or outdoor product as standard Mod Podge isn’t waterproof.
Decoupage glue VS Mod Podge
There’s lots of confusion in the crafting world about whether Mod Podge is classed as decoupage glue.
Mod Podge is technically an all-purpose crafting glue so it can’t be called a stand-alone decoupage glue. However, it has mostly the same ingredients as regular decoupage glue, works just as well and includes decoupaging as one of the many things it can do.
Mod Podge is often touted as the best decoupage glue on the market and we tend to agree. It’s strong, durable and cost-effective as you can use it on multiple projects. It’s become a crafting technique in itself, with many people calling themselves Mod Podge crafters (if you want to join in check out our list of Mod Podge ideas.)
So, while Mod Podge isn’t technically a decoupage glue it contains the same properties and performs just as well. Which is why it’s our number-one pick!
2. DECOART Decoupage Glue
Pros: Dishwasher safe, affordable, non-toxic Cons: Not as versatile as Mod Podge
DECOART is another established brand in the decoupage world. They have a small range of decoupage glues which work well and are super affordable. Plus it’s non-toxic, easy to use and safe for kids (with adult supervision) who want to learn how to decoupage.
We love that their product is dishwasher safe (just air cure for 14 days after finishing your design) which a lot of other brands don’t have. This is great because the product also works on ceramic, tile and plastic meaning you can give old crockery a new lease of life!
3. Décopatch glue
Pros: Child-safe, food-safe, affordable Cons: Solely for decoupaging and can’t be used for other crafts
Despite Décopatch being one of the cheapest decoupage brands on the market, their products are top quality. Just like other decoupage glues, Décopatch products can be used on a variety of materials and can be used for years.
Their products are great value for money; a 600g bottle is just £10.28 – that will last you years!
All their products are non-toxic and child-safe with only a ten-minute drying time, allowing you to decoupage safely as a family. Why not opt for their sparkle finish decoupage glue? Kids will love adding glitter to all their designs!
4. Viva Decor Napkin Glue and Top Coat
Pros: Fast drying, transparent, three-in-one product Cons: Very small bottle for the price, not waterproof
Viva Decor designed their glue specifically for decoupaging with napkins. This traditional form of decoupaging creates beautiful, delicate designs as the napkin paper is very thin.
Viva Decor’s decoupage glue is designed to work with this thinness, allowing you to lay down the napkin pieces without them tearing or crumpling.
It’s also a three in-one product meaning you can stick the pieces down and then use the glue as a varnish or final glaze. It's super fast-drying too, so you can build your layers quickly.
Test out your new decoupage glue!
Looking for a simple project to get you started? Learn how to découpage a box with our easy-to-follow tutorial.
5. CollAll Purpose Glue
Pros: 3 in 1, can be used for crafts and DIY Cons: Not designed for decoupage, thick consistency
Collall sells a range of glues that are similar to Mod Podge. Their all-purpose glue can be used for decoupaging and a multitude of other crafting projects.
It is also strong enough to adhere to wood, glass, ceramic and more. You could even use it to make our decoupage tray DIY!
6. Crafter's Companion Spray Glue
Pros: Easy to use, quick to clean, thin finish Cons: Non-waterproof, not as durable
Spray glue makes a wonderful addition to any crafter's kit. They’re simple to use, lightweight and much less messy than other decoupage glues.
Crafters Companion sells a few different types of spray glue, some of which are designed to stick and spray and some designed to add shine. The stick and spray is great for decoupaging thin paper but you will need to add a varnish on top.
It’s also the ideal glue for cardmaking.
Make your designs stick with decoupage glue
Decoupage glue is a necessity in every crafter's kit. They will help you secure your papers in place and give them a nice shine after.
Think about whether you want your decoupage glue to be multi-functional and decide what you’re willing to spend. Then you can choose the perfect one for you.
Once you’ve got your glue you can start your decoupaging journey!
Find decoupage project inspiration with Gathered
Now you’ve secured your decoupage glue you need a project to work on! Take a look through our easy decoupage ideas and find your next creative project.
