How To Make A DIY Decorative Box with Napkin Decoupage

Want to create a unique decorative box? See this step-by-step tutorial for decoupage on wood. This simple napkin technique makes decorating a wooden box easy.

I recently saw a beautiful wooden box in a boutique gift shop and thought it would be great for storing TV remote controls. We had just remodeled our beach cottage, and the faded blue colors would be perfect. However, upon further inspection, I realized it was larger than the space I had in mind and was a little pricey for storing remote controls. LOL.

Then I saw some paper cocktail napkins with similar colors, and inspiration was sparked. The napkins were only $5.99, and I felt I could find a box for cheap at the thrift stores to complete the project. In addition, I had another napkin from Decoupage Lamp Project that I could combine with the new napkins to create the design I had in mind.

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How To Make DIY Decorative Box

Now that I have the napkins, I need to find a wooden box that would be appropriate for this project.

Shop Thrift Stores

With a new plan in mind, I measured the area where I wanted to use the box and scoured thrift stores for the perfect box.

Within a few days, I found a cute little cedar chest that had been reduced because of a damaged lid.

Since I planned to add the napkin decoupage technique to the box, repairing the damage with wood filler would be easy.

Gather Supplies

I began by repairing the damage with wood filler.

Then, I gathered my paintbrush, chalk paint, scissors, and Mod Podge.

In addition, I added a small jewelry drawer pull to lift the lid easily.

Paint The Exterior of Wooden Box

Because the wooden box was made of cedar and the napkin had a white background, the box’s exterior had to be painted white.

I left the cedar interior untouched.

Decorating A Wooden Box

Next, it’s time to begin decorating the wooden box.

You can begin by separating the napkin layers. You only need the decorative top layer of the three-ply napkin.

Then, cut the napkin into pieces that will fit on the box.

It’s best to test the napkin pieces before beginning the application.

How To Decoupage on Wood

How to decoupage on wood is basically the same technique as any other material.

However, you do want to seal the wood before applying the mod podge and napkin. Unfinished wood should be sealed with paint, stain, or clear sealer.

Follow your paint or sealer instructions for drying before beginning to decoupage on wood.

Apply Napkin Decoupage

Brush the area where the napkin will be applied with mod podge and carefully add the pieces.

Apply all pieces, including any decorative designs, to the wooden box. Brush a mod podge layer over each piece’s top to ensure it adheres.

Sand Edges of Napkin

Once the napkin and mod podge is completely dry, you may find that the edges of the napkin are more visible than you prefer.

You can diminish the appearance of the napkin edges by using fine-grit sand paper and lightly sanding until the design looks painted onto the wooden box.

Wipe the box carefully to remove dust and check for loose napkins’ edges.

If you have any loose pieces, you can apply another coat of mod podge to secure.

I added a clear wax to finish the box and create a smooth matte finish.

Just apply the wax over the entire surface of the decorative box and then buff until silky smooth.

Decorative Box with Napkin Decoupage

The box looks better than all those remote controls laying around the base of the TV.

There are so many possibilities when using napkins to create a decorative box. Any paper napkin can be turned into a work of art.

In addition, these type of boxes can be used to hold game cards, stationary, recipes, jewelry, or other trinkets.

However, it works great for the remote controls as planned.

Other Napkin Decoupage Projects

• A Distressed Decoupage Lamp
• Updated Thrift Store Ginger Jar
• Chinoiserie Blue and White Napkin Rings DIY
• Recycle Tin Can Decoupage Decor
• How To Make A DIY Decorative Box
• Decoupage Eggs for Easter
• Napkin Decoupage Christmas Ornaments
• Decoupage Coasters for Gift Ideas
• Decoupage Dollar Tree Pumpkins
• No-Wrinkle Napkin Lampshade Makeover

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