Ever wonder how to decoupage without wrinkles? If you love upcycling thrift store finds and want to try a decoupage technique that gives a smooth, wrinkle-free finish, the iron-on method is a game-changer. Unlike traditional wet glue decoupage, this technique allows you to reposition your design and reduces the risk of tearing delicate paper such rice paper. Today, we’re using it to create a charming “Family” sign that makes a perfect home décor piece or gift.

Some days, creativity flows freely. Other days, it’s like staring into the fridge, hoping inspiration will appear between the wilted lettuce and half-empty ketchup bottle. Lately, my creative spark has been on an unplanned sabbatical.

But just when I thought my craft mojo was gone, I spotted a thrift store “Family” sign amongst my stash that was bland and begging for a makeover. And really, what better word to focus on when you’re stuck in a creative rut? Family is the backbone that sees you through the worst of times; the people who remind you who you are when the world feels like it’s upside down. If any project was going to pull me out of this creative slump, it had to be this one. So, armed with colourful rice paper and the iron-on decoupage method, I set out to bring this sad little sign back to life – and maybe breathe some life back into my creativity while I was at it.

By the way, if you’ve never decoupaged before, this is a great beginner project that will get you professional results on your very first try!

Do It Over Designers

It’s time for another Do It Over Designers blog Hop, hosted by my friend Ann at The Apple Street Cottage. This month we were challenged to use paper in our projects. Be sure to check out the links at the very bottom of this post for more do it over paper inspiration!

Why the Iron-On Decoupage Method?

Rice paper is thin but strong, making it ideal for decoupage projects. But this method will work well with many types of paper.

The iron-on technique offers several benefits:

✔️No Wrinkles or Bubbles – the dry application keeps the paper smooth.
✔️Easier Placement – you can move the design before committing.
✔️Great for Large Surfaces – works well on signs, furniture, and trays.

Watch the Decoupage Video!

Materials

[If you’re looking for some of the things we used, we’ve got you covered (disclosure): The blue links in this post may be affiliate links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases which we proudly donate to Alzheimer’s research. But don’t worry, you don’t pay a cent more! Thanks for helping to support our fundraiser!]

• Wooden sign spelling “Family” (or any word of your choice) – ours is thrifted
• White chalk paint or acrylic paint
• Rice paper with a design or colour that complements your décor
• Decoupage glue (such as Mod Podge or a similar adhesive like a satin clear coat)
• Small paintbrush or sponge brush
• Parchment paper (we use unbleached)
• A household or travel iron (set to low, no steam)
• Sandpaper (optional, for distressing)
• Rotary blade to trim rice paper borders
• X-acto knife
• Metal safety Ruler
• Self healing cutting mat
• Clear sealer (matte or glossy, depending on your preference) – Spray is preferable

How to Decoupage without Wrinkles

1. Prepare the Wooden Sign

This family sign is two tone so we definitely need to even out the base colour.

Start by painting your wooden sign with a base coat of white or a light colour. This helps the rice paper design stand out. Let the paint dry completely.

2. Apply a Layer of Decoupage Glue

Just with the coat of white paint, it looks better already!

Now, brush a thin, even layer of decoupage glue onto the sign (I’m using a matte clear coat). Be sure to cover the entire surface where the rice paper will go. Let it dry completely; this is key to the iron-on method working properly. Give it a second coat and again let it dry (we left it overnight).

3. Position the Rice Paper

I love how bright and cheerful this paper is! If your rice paper has a white boarder, start by trimming it off. For perfectly straight edges, use a rotary cutter with a self healing mat. Of course, if you prefer, you can cut it with scissors instead.

Figure out how you want to position the pattern on the sign. I find it helpful to lay it underneath to visualize the placement.

But then, I add it on top of the dried glue and crease along the edges. Since the glue is dry, you can move the paper until you’re happy with the placement.

This antique iron acts as a weight to prevent the paper from shifting before it’s ironed down.

4. Iron It On

Along with the thrifted family sign, I also found a small travel iron at the thrift store for only $3. Perfect for crafting!

One caveat to keep in mind: do not use the steam function! Remove any water, if there happens to be some, in the iron. You don’t want to introduce any moisture.

Place a piece of parchment paper over the rice paper.

Using a dry iron (no steam) on a low setting, gently press down and move in slow circular motions. The heat reactivates the glue, adhering the rice paper smoothly to the wood sign. Work from the centre outward to avoid trapped air.

5. Trim Edges

When it’s all glued down, you can trim off the excess.

For the rice paper that extends beyond the edges of the sign, you can either trim it with a fresh sharp blade or use sandpaper to lightly remove the excess.

First, cut into the middle of the cut-outs of the letters and run the blade into the corners.

You’ll be able to crease the paper.

Then, I flipped the sign over with the front facing down and ran the blade along the edges.

You might find it impossible to get into curves on the back, like I have on these letters. So, in that case, it’s best to run the blade carefully along the front – just in that area – so you can get into the tight space better to completely cut away the paper.

If you prefer to sand, sanding downward prevents tearing and gives a cleaner finish. For a vintage look, feel free to lightly distress the edges of the sign.

However, I find that sanding can leave a fuzzy edge and kick up dust that you don’t want in your final clear coat.

6. Seal Your Project

To protect your design, apply a clear sealer over the entire surface. There are no pictures of this step because I prefer to spray the sealer and it’s too cold outside, but brushing is fine too. Only apply a very light coat to avoid bubbling the paper. A matte finish gives a soft, natural look, while a glossy sealer adds shine. Let it dry thoroughly.

If you do happen to get bubbles after sealing, you can always iron again using the parchment paper to reactivate the glue.

Reveal

The iron-on decoupage method is the easiest way to get a professional finish without wrinkles or bubbles. Now that I’ve tried it, there’s probably is no reason to go back to a ‘wet’ method like we used for this decoupage on wood project.

No matter what you’re making, be it a “Family” sign or another decorative piece, this iron on technique gives you the ultimate control over your design while keeping the process stress-free!

Is it any wonder why I love this decoupage paper so much? The sign just happens to fit perfectly on our hand painted cabinet, so that’s where it will likely stay (see how to hand paint furniture designs).

I wish I had known about this wrinkle free iron on method back when we did this medicine cabinet DIY. Have you tried this decoupage method? Let us know in the comments!

Pin How to Decoupage

Do It Over Designers

Now, I’m excited to share what this talented group of bloggers is up to. I hope you’ll take a moment to visit each of them and discover the crafty upcycles they’ve created using paper.

• Pandora’s Box
• Purple Hues & Me
• Unique Creations by Anita
• Sum of Their Stories
• Tea and Forget-Me-Nots
• Color Me Thrifty
• Vintage Style Gal
• The Apple Street Cottage
• Birdz of a Feather
• Exquisitely Unremarkable
• Modern on Monticello

How to Decoupage FAQs

Decoupage Paper

What paper is best for decoupage?

The best paper for decoupage depends on your project, surface, and desired finish. Here are some good options:

1. Napkins & Tissue Paper – Ideal for a seamless look on curved surfaces like glass or wood but can be delicate to work with. Sometimes these can bleed when wet, so always test first before beginning your project.
2. Rice Paper – Thin, flexible, and easy to work with, making it great for both beginners and detailed designs.
3. Printed Paper (Scrapbook or Wrapping Paper) – Provides more durability and patterns.
4. Book Pages, Sheet Music, or Maps – Vintage-style projects look great with these, but they may need softening with water or glue.
5. Fabric is also an option (Thin Cotton or Muslin) – Works for a textured, layered look but needs a strong adhesive.

For best results, use thin, absorbent paper that molds well to your surface without excessive wrinkling.

Decoupage Sealer

What is the best way to seal decoupage?

The best way to seal decoupage depends on your surface and the level of durability you need. Here are some options:

1. Decoupage Glue/Sealer (e.g., Mod Podge) – A classic choice that can work as both an adhesive and a sealer. Available in matte, satin, or gloss finishes. Note that I prefer this as a base and use Polyurethane (spray or brush on) to seal over the top.
2. Polyurethane or Polycrylic – Great for high-use items like furniture. Polycrylic is water-based and less likely to yellow over time.
3. Spray Sealers (Acrylic or Polyurethane) – Provides an even, brush-stroke-free finish. Best for delicate papers that might wrinkle with a brush-on sealer.
4. Resin or Epoxy – Ideal for ultra-durable, waterproof, and glossy finishes, such as tabletops or coasters.
5. Wax (Clear or Antiquing Wax) – Gives a soft, vintage look, especially on wood-based projects.

Tips for a Smooth Finish

• Apply thin, even coats, letting each layer dry completely before adding another.
• Sand lightly between layers with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
• Use a foam brush or soft brush to minimize brush strokes.

Printers

What kind of printer do you need to do decoupage?

If you prefer to print your own design, the best printer for decoupage depends on the type of paper you’re using and whether you need waterproof prints. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Laser Printers (Best for Waterproof Prints)

• Why? Laser printers use toner, which won’t smudge or bleed when wet.
• Best For: Decoupage with Mod Podge or other liquid adhesives.

The only downside is it can’t print on napkins or thin tissue paper directly (you will need to tape it onto regular paper first).

2. Inkjet Printers (Best for Thin Papers & Color Vibrancy)

• Why? Inkjet printers work well for delicate papers like rice paper or napkins.
• Best For: Vibrant colors and detailed prints.

The ink may bleed if not sealed properly. To mitigate any issues, you can heat set the ink first in a 200 degree oven for five minutes –  but you must not leave it unattended. Then lightly spray with hairspray or a clear acrylic sealer and let dry before applying glue.

Tips for Printing Decoupage Designs:

• Print on matte or lightweight paper (20-32 lb) for easier adhesion.
• Seal inkjet prints with a spray sealer before decoupaging to prevent bleeding.
• Use tissue paper or napkins by taping them onto a regular sheet before printing.

Decoupage How To

What are the steps to decoupage?

For an easy, no fuss way to prevent wrinkles here are the steps:

1. Prepare the surface – Paint a light colour

2. Apply two Layer of Decoupage Glue letting dry between coats

3. Position the Paper

4. Iron It On using parchment on top of the paper

5. Trim or sand the edges

6. Seal your project

What do you need for decoupage?

Here are some basic supplies

• Paper or Fabric – Napkins, tissue paper, scrapbook paper, rice paper, or printed images.
• Decoupage Glue/Medium – Mod Podge, diluted white glue, or a specialized decoupage adhesive.
• Surface to Decorate – Wood, glass, metal, plastic, ceramic, canvas, or even fabric.
• Brushes or Foam Applicators – For applying glue and sealant.
• Scissors or Craft Knife – For cutting designs.
• Sealer/Topcoat – Spray sealer, varnish, or polyurethane for durability.
• Iron – Highly recommended to prevent wrinkles.

Optional But Helpful Supplies:

• Sanding Block or Fine-Grit Sandpaper – For smoothing rough surfaces.
• Acrylic or chalk Paint – To prep the background before applying paper.
• Tweezers – To handle delicate napkins or tissue paper.
• Plastic wrap – To smooth out wrinkles and bubbles (only if using wet method).

Troubleshooting

How do you keep Mod Podge from wrinkling?

Use the iron on method to decoupage your paper to the surface.

What do you seal decoupage with?

There are many options but our preference is a spray on clear coat.