DIY Paper Doilies Wall Art: Elegant & Budget-Friendly Home Decor

Welcome to a creative journey where we transform simple materials into a stunning piece of wall art. Crafting unique home decor doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, some of the most beautiful pieces are born from a touch of ingenuity and a desire to personalize your living space. This particular project highlights the versatility of decoupage and the charm of paper doilies, proving that elegance can be achieved on a budget.

My crafting adventure began during the exciting “12 Months of Martha” campaign, specifically with the launch of Martha Stewart Crafts’ phenomenal new decoupage line. With an impressive collection of over 57 items, this line promises to be a game-changer for crafters, offering endless possibilities for any project imaginable. While browsing the craft store, my initial thought was to create wall art using traditional canvases. However, the price tags gave me a significant “sticker shock” – spending $20 or more on just a few canvases felt prohibitive for a simple DIY project.

This challenge sparked a wave of resourcefulness. Embracing the spirit of thrifty crafting, I turned to our garage’s wood pile. There, a piece of PureBond Hardwood Plywood awaited its new purpose. Not only did this decision save money, but it also presented a perfect opportunity to experiment with a new wood stain, adding another layer of texture and color to the project. The result? A vibrant, eye-catching piece that I couldn’t be happier with. It’s incredibly simple to create, and the chosen color truly makes it pop, proving that sometimes, the best supplies are already within reach.

Why Choose DIY Wall Art?

DIY wall art offers a multitude of benefits beyond just decorating your home. It’s an opportunity for self-expression, allowing you to infuse your personal style and creativity into your living environment. Store-bought art can be generic and expensive, whereas a handmade piece carries a unique story and character. This project, in particular, showcases how accessible and rewarding crafting can be, even for beginners. You get to control the colors, textures, and overall aesthetic, ensuring the final product perfectly complements your existing decor.

Moreover, repurposing materials, as we did with the plywood, is an eco-friendly approach to crafting. It reduces waste and encourages a mindful consumption of resources. The satisfaction of transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary with your own hands is truly unparalleled, making DIY projects like this a fulfilling hobby.

Introducing Martha Stewart Crafts Decoupage Line

The Martha Stewart Crafts decoupage line is a dream come true for crafters. Decoupage, the art of decorating an object by gluing colored paper cutouts onto it in combination with special paint effects, gold leaf, and other decorative elements, has been revolutionized by this collection. With its wide array of finishes, brushes, and, of course, the exquisite paper doilies, it simplifies the process while ensuring professional-looking results.

The “Multi-Surface Finish” is particularly noteworthy for its durability and versatility, capable of adhering to various surfaces from wood to glass. The dedicated “Decoupage Brush Set” provides the right tools for smooth application, minimizing brush marks and ensuring an even coat. These products are designed to make decoupage accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out. The specific “Decoupage Paper Doilies” are pre-cut and feature intricate designs, eliminating the tedious task of cutting and allowing you to focus purely on the artistic arrangement.

Gather Your Crafting Essentials: Supplies List

Before diving into any DIY project, ensuring you have all your supplies ready is key to a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience. For this elegant paper doily wall art, you will need the following items. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing your vision to life:

11 x 11 inch piece of PureBond Hardwood Plywood: This forms the sturdy base of our artwork. PureBond plywood is known for its formaldehyde-free composition, making it a safer choice for indoor projects. Its smooth surface is ideal for staining and decoupaging. Feel free to adjust the size according to your preferred wall space.
Sander: Essential for achieving a perfectly smooth surface. A handheld orbital sander works best, but a sanding block with fine-grit sandpaper will also do the trick for smaller pieces.
Veneer Real Wood Edging: This adds a polished, finished look to the edges of your plywood, making it resemble a solid piece of wood rather than a cut board. It’s often adhesive-backed and heat-activated.
Scissors: For precise cutting of the veneer edging and for punching out the paper doilies.
Iron: Used to activate the adhesive on the veneer real wood edging, ensuring a strong and seamless bond to your plywood. A standard household iron is sufficient.
Towel: A clean cloth or towel is indispensable for wiping away sawdust and for applying the wood stain.
Martha Stewart Crafts ® Wood Stain – Amaranth, 6oz: This beautiful, vibrant stain will give your wood base a rich, captivating color. The Amaranth shade offers a deep, jewel-toned hue that truly makes the doilies stand out.
Gloves: Safety first! Protect your hands from the wood stain, which can be messy and difficult to remove from skin.
Respirator: When working with stains and sealants in enclosed spaces, a respirator protects your lungs from fumes. Always prioritize your health and safety.
Cloth: An old, clean cloth (like an old t-shirt or rag) is perfect for wiping off excess stain and ensuring an even application.
Martha Stewart Crafts ® Decoupage Paper Doilies – White: These delicate, pre-cut doilies are the star of our show. Their intricate patterns will add a touch of classic elegance to your art.
Martha Stewart Crafts ® Decoupage Brush Set: A dedicated set of decoupage brushes helps achieve a smooth, bubble-free application of the decoupage medium. The different sizes are useful for various areas of the project.
Martha Stewart Crafts ® Decoupage Multi-Surface Finish – Durable Matte, 8oz: This is our adhesive and protective topcoat. The durable matte finish provides a non-glossy, sophisticated look while sealing and protecting your artwork.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Doily Wall Art

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own beautiful paper doily wall art. Take your time with each step for the best results!

Step 1: Prepare Your Wood Base

Begin by cutting your PureBond Hardwood Plywood to your desired dimensions, which for this project is 11 x 11 inches. Precision here ensures a symmetrical and professional-looking piece. Once your wood is cut, measure each edge carefully and cut four corresponding strips of Veneer Real Wood Edging. This edging is typically sold in rolls and can be easily trimmed with scissors. Refer to the packaging for specific instructions, but generally, you’ll use a household iron to activate the adhesive on the veneer. Simply place the veneer strip along an edge, cover it with a towel to protect your iron, and press firmly with a hot iron. The heat will bond the veneer to the wood. This technique, which I picked up at the Haven Conference, is incredibly effective for creating a clean, finished edge that mimics solid wood.

Step 2: Sanding for a Smooth Finish

Once the veneer edging is securely applied, it’s time to sand. Using your sander, meticulously smooth out all four edges where the veneer meets the plywood, ensuring a seamless transition. Also, sand the entire face of the wood until it’s perfectly smooth to the touch. This crucial step prepares the surface for an even stain application and prevents any bumps or imperfections from showing through. After sanding, use a clean, dry towel to thoroughly wipe off all sawdust from the wood. This ensures that the stain adheres properly without any gritty residue.

Step 3: Staining Your Wood Base

Before you begin staining, always prioritize safety. Don your gloves and respirator to protect yourself from the stain’s fumes and any potential skin irritation. With your safety gear in place, open your Martha Stewart Crafts Wood Stain in Amaranth. Apply a generous amount of stain directly onto the wood surface using a clean cloth. Don’t be shy with the application initially, as you want to ensure good saturation. Immediately after applying, use another clean part of your cloth to wipe off any excess stain, working in the direction of the wood grain. This technique helps achieve a consistent color and prevents blotchiness. Remember to stain all four edges as well, as these will be visible once your art is displayed. Allow the stain to dry completely, preferably overnight, to ensure it’s fully cured before moving on to the next step. Drying time can vary based on humidity and temperature.

Step 4: The Art of Decoupage

The next day, with your stained wood completely dry, it’s time for the exciting decoupage process! Gather all your Martha Stewart Crafts decoupage supplies. Start by carefully punching out the individual paper doilies. These often come in sheets with perforations, yielding many small, delicate pieces. Take your time with this step to avoid tearing them.

Once your doilies are ready, arrange them on your stained wood surface to visualize your desired pattern. This dry run helps you decide on spacing and composition before applying any adhesive. When you’re happy with the arrangement, pick up one doily at a time. Apply a small amount of the Martha Stewart Crafts Decoupage Multi-Surface Finish (Durable Matte) to the back of the doily using a decoupage brush. This acts as your adhesive. Carefully place the doily onto the wood in your chosen position.

Once the doily is in place, gently brush a light, even coat of the decoupage finish over the top of the doily. This step seals the doily and creates a smooth, protective layer. Use light strokes to avoid tearing the delicate paper. Repeat this process for all your doilies until your design is complete.

After all the doilies are adhered and coated, brush a final, light coat of the decoupage finish over the entire wood surface, including the areas without doilies. This ensures an even finish and provides overall protection. Let this coat dry for at least one hour. For extra durability and a truly finished look, apply one more coat of the decoupage finish over the entire piece, making sure to cover all areas evenly. Allow this final coat to cure completely, ideally for 24 hours, before handling or displaying your artwork.

Displaying Your Masterpiece

With your beautiful DIY paper doilies wall art complete, it’s time to find the perfect spot for it! I opted to display mine in a charming vignette. I wrapped chevron washi tape around simple mason jars and filled them with fresh flowers, creating a delightful pairing that enhances the handmade feel of the room. This personalized touch truly transforms a space, making it feel more inviting and uniquely yours.

Consider hanging your artwork in a hallway, above a console table, or as part of a gallery wall. Its delicate charm makes it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or even a cozy reading nook. The vibrant color of the stain and the intricate white doilies create a lovely contrast that will surely catch the eye and draw compliments.

Customization and Care Tips

The beauty of DIY is the ability to customize! Don’t feel limited by white doilies. Martha Stewart Crafts offers various colors and patterns. You could also try:

Using different colored stains or even paint for the wood base.
Adding glitter or metallic accents to the doilies after the first decoupage coat.
Arranging doilies in a geometric pattern, an abstract design, or even spelling out initials.
Incorporating other paper elements like scrapbook paper cutouts or magazine clippings.
Making a larger piece with multiple wood panels for a grander statement.

To care for your finished wall art, simply wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive materials, as these could damage the decoupage finish. The durable matte finish provides good protection, but keeping it out of direct sunlight can help preserve the vibrancy of the stain and doilies over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use different types of wood for this project?

A1: Yes, absolutely! While PureBond Hardwood Plywood was used here for its quality and formaldehyde-free properties, you can use other types of wood like pine, oak, or even MDF. Just ensure the surface is smooth and free of defects before staining or painting. The key is a flat, clean surface for the doilies to adhere to.

Q2: What if I don’t have a sander?

A2: A handheld sanding block with fine-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) will work perfectly fine for smaller pieces of wood. It might take a little more effort and time, but you can achieve a wonderfully smooth finish manually.

Q3: How can I prevent bubbles under the doilies?

A3: To prevent bubbles, apply a thin, even layer of decoupage medium to both the back of the doily and the wood surface. After placing the doily, gently smooth it out from the center outwards with your fingers or a flat tool (like a brayer or a plastic card) to push out any trapped air. If small bubbles remain, they often disappear as the decoupage dries and tightens.

Q4: Can I use regular paper doilies instead of Martha Stewart Crafts branded ones?

A4: Yes, you can use any good quality paper doilies. Martha Stewart Crafts doilies are often thicker and more durable, which can make them easier to work with. If using thinner doilies, be extra gentle during application to avoid tearing.

Q5: How long does the decoupage finish take to fully cure?

A5: While the decoupage finish may be dry to the touch within an hour or two, it typically takes 24 hours to fully cure and reach its maximum durability. It’s best to wait until fully cured before handling or hanging the artwork to ensure a long-lasting finish.

Final Thoughts: Your Creative Journey Awaits

So, what do you think? Can you believe this elegant wall art was once just a naked piece of plywood? This project truly embodies the spirit of DIY – taking simple, affordable materials and transforming them into something beautiful and personalized. The satisfaction of stepping back and admiring a piece you created with your own hands is truly immense. This Martha Stewart Crafts decoupage project is not just about making wall art; it’s about embracing creativity, learning new techniques, and adding a unique touch to your home that no store-bought item can replicate.

I encourage you to try this project yourself. Experiment with different colors, doily arrangements, and even other shapes of wood. The possibilities are endless, and the joy of creating is boundless. Happy crafting!

Disclaimer: I received the products for free as part of the 12 Months of Martha Campaign. I was not compensated to publish this post. As always, all opinions are my own. There are affiliate links in this post, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through those links, at no extra cost to you. This helps support my crafting endeavors and allows me to bring you more exciting DIY projects.