Decoupage and Pictures: Safety

• Decoupage medium can be used over photographs with some considerations. The photographs used should not be the originals or only copies of the photos, as you won't be able to remove the medium once it is on to restore the original image.
  
  

Photo Printing

• The photographs used should be printed on photo quality paper with a non-inkjet printer. Photos printed on regular printer paper, which is thinner and more flimsy than photo paper, may become soggy or distorted when the medium is applied. If an inkjet printer is all that's available, allow the picture to dry completely before spraying it with hairspray and allowing to dry again. The hairspray will create a protecting layer for the inkjet dyes in the image to prevent bleeding.
  
  

Create Backup Images

• Print additional copies of the pictures you plan to use. You can do this at home or take them to a photo lab at a local store. This is to ensure that you don't use the original image but also have a couple of backup images if the first attempt at the decopage doesn't turn out as you had hoped. It is also advisable to have a backup of whatever you're affixing the pictures to, if possible.
  
  

Affixing the Pictures

• Use scissors to remove any borders or edges you may not want on the photos you plan to decoupage. Arrange the photos on the item you plan to glue them too. Make sure that you're happy with the placement before you continue.
  
  Flip the pictures upside down and use a paint brush to apply decoupage medium across the backs. Turn the pictures back over and press into the firm object to make the medium work as a glue. Work out any wrinkles with your fingers then let it dry for five minutes. Use the brush to apply two layers of medium across the tops of the pictures. Repeat until you have the surface thickness you desire. Allow to dry completely before touching.