Autumn Decoupage Sign & Patterned Vase

Transform basic decor into fall aesthetic goals with free printables and Mod Podge. This cozy craft duo is giving cottagecore vibes without the hefty price tag. 

Instructions 

Distressed Fall Wall Sign 

Step 1: Download and Print 

1. Visit PlaidOnline.com to purchase & download the Falling for Autumn - Mod Podge Digital Image Bundle.  
2. Print on cardstock for best results, ensuring the design fits your sign dimensions. 
3. Carefully cut out the printed design, trimming close to the edges. 

Step 2: Create Distressed Background 

1. Base coat - Paint your wooden sign with 2-3 coats of rust/terra cotta colored FolkArt Chalk Paint. Let each coat dry completely (30-45 minutes). 
2. Top coat - Once the base color is fully dry, apply 2 coats of white or cream FolkArt Chalk Paint over the entire surface. Let dry completely. 
3. Distressing - Using medium grit sandpaper, sand the edges and random areas of the sign to reveal the rust color underneath. Focus on:  All four edges and corners, as well as areas where natural wear would occur. Refer to the photo for placement - the distressing should look organic and weathered, with the rust color peeking through in various spots. 
4. Wipe clean - Remove all sanding dust with a dry cloth. 

Step 3: Apply Decoupage Design 

1. Position your printable - Place the fall wreath design on your sign to determine exact placement. The wreath should be centered with equal spacing on all sides. 
2. Apply Mod Podge to sign - Using a foam brush, apply a generous, even layer of Mod Podge to the back of your printed design. 
3. Adhere design - Carefully place the printable onto the sign, starting from one edge and smoothing as you go to prevent air bubbles. Use your fingers or a credit card to smooth from the center outward, pushing out any bubbles or wrinkles. 
4. Seal the design - Once the design is adhered and smooth, apply a layer of Mod Podge over the entire printed area using gentle brushstrokes. Work from the center outward. 
5. Full seal - For added durability and a cohesive finish, you can apply Mod Podge over the entire sign surface, including the distressed areas. This will give it a subtle sheen and protect the finish. 
6. Dry completely - Allow 2-4 hours for initial drying, and 24 hours for complete cure. 

Step 4: Optional Additional Distressing 

1. Once fully dry, you can lightly sand over parts of the printed design for an extra vintage look, but do this sparingly to maintain readability of the text. 

Fall Pattern Cylinder Vase 

Step 1: Download and Prepare 

1. Visit PlaidOnline.com to purchase & download the Falling for Autumn - Mod Podge Digital Image Bundle.  
2. Print the pattern on regular printer paper, measuring to ensure it will wrap around your vase with slight overlap. 
3. Trim the pattern to the correct height and length for your vase. 

Step 2: Prepare Vase 

1. Clean the glass cylinder thoroughly with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils or residue. 
2. Dry completely with a lint-free cloth. 
3. Measure and mark where your pattern will begin and end. 

Step 3: Apply Decoupage Pattern 

1. Test fit - Wrap the pattern around the vase to ensure proper sizing. Trim if necessary. 
2. Apply Mod Podge - Using a foam brush, apply Mod Podge directly to the exterior of the vase where the pattern will be placed. Work in sections. 
3. Adhere pattern - Starting at one edge, carefully press the pattern onto the vase, smoothing as you wrap it around. Use your fingers to press out any air bubbles, working from top to bottom and smoothing around the curve. 
4. Overlap edges - The pattern should overlap slightly at the seam. Refer to the photo for placement - the seam should be at the back of the vase. 
5. Seal the pattern - Once the pattern is fully adhered, apply a coat of Mod Podge over the entire patterned area. Use smooth, even strokes going in one direction to minimize brush marks. 
6. Additional coats - Apply 2-3 total coats of Mod Podge over the pattern, allowing 20-30 minutes drying time between coats. This creates a protective, washable finish. 
7. Cure time - Let the vase cure for 24-48 hours before adding water or flowers. 

Pro Tips 

Sizing printables: Adjust the print size in your printer settings to perfectly fit your sign and vase dimensions. 

Smooth application: When applying paper to curved surfaces like the vase, work slowly and press small sections at a time to prevent wrinkles. 

Waterproofing: For the vase, the multiple coats of Mod Podge create a water-resistant seal, but avoid submerging the decorated area in water.