decoupage
dey-koo-PAHZH
/ˌdeɪkuːˈpɑːʒ/
The art or craft of decorating objects with paper cutouts, which are glued down and then sealed with multiple layers of varnish.
Decoupage is a specific craft technique that results in a smooth, embedded look, distinguishing it from simple collaging where the paper edges remain raised and unsealed.
The story behind the word. The word comes directly from the French verb 'découper', meaning 'to cut out'. The craft itself became wildly popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, often referred to as 'lacca povera' (poor man's lacquer) because it mimicked expensive Asian lacquerware.
Word relationships
- collage: A 'collage' is an assemblage of different materials pasted together, while 'decoupage' specifically involves sealing paper cutouts under layers of varnish to make them look painted on.
Commonly confused with
- montage: A 'montage' is a single composition made by combining multiple pictorial elements, often photographic or digital, whereas 'decoupage' is a physical craft of sealing paper onto objects.
Word family
- decoupager (noun): An artist who specializes in decoupage.
Collocations
- decoupage medium
- decoupage varnish
- decoupage technique
- master the art of decoupage
Example sentences
- "She spent the weekend mastering the art of decoupage on wooden boxes, using vintage botanical prints." An introduction to a home decor project.
- "The antique coffee table was beautifully restored using a delicate decoupage of old sheet music." A description of a finished piece of furniture.
Memory hook
Think of 'de-coupon'. You cut out coupons (paper scraps) and paste them down to decorate a box. Decoupage is cutting and sealing paper.
When not to use
Do not use 'decoupage' to describe digital collages or simple paper pasting that does not involve sealing or varnishing.
Fun facts
- Famous historical figures like Marie Antoinette and Madame de Pompadour were avid practitioners of decoupage, destroying valuable court paintings to decorate their personal boxes.
Related words
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