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Make a Decoupage Necklace

Make a Decoupage Necklace
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Create a decoupage necklace by decorating a wooden or metal pendant with paper, glue, and sealer, then attach it to a cord.

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Step-by-step guide to make a decoupage necklace

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DIY Decoupage and Crackle Finish Step-by-Step Guide for BEGINNERS

What you need
Adult supervision required, clear sealer or varnish, decorative paper or napkin, decoupage glue or white craft glue, fine sandpaper, jump ring, necklace cord or chain, pliers, scissors, small paintbrush or foam brush, wooden or metal pendant

Step 1

Gather all your Materials Needed and clear a clean flat workspace to work on.

Step 2

Wipe the pendant with a clean dry cloth to remove dust and oils from the surface.

Step 3

Lightly sand the front of the pendant with fine sandpaper to make the surface a little rough for better glue grip.

Step 4

Place the pendant face down on the decorative paper and use a pencil to trace its outline on the paper.

Step 5

Cut out the traced paper shape leaving a tiny border so you can wrap the paper over the pendant edges.

Step 6

Use the paintbrush to apply a thin even coat of decoupage glue to the front of the pendant.

Step 7

Place the cut paper on the glued pendant with the design facing up and center it carefully.

Step 8

Smooth the paper gently from the center outward with your finger or brush to remove air bubbles and wrinkles.

Step 9

Trim any extra paper hanging over the edges with scissors so the paper sits neatly on the pendant.

Step 10

Brush a thin even coat of clear sealer over the top and around the edges of the paper to protect it.

Step 11

Let the sealer dry completely for at least 30 minutes before handling the pendant.

Step 12

Use pliers to open a jump ring and attach it through the pendant hole then close the jump ring securely.

Step 13

Thread the necklace cord or chain through the jump ring and tie or fasten the cord to your preferred length.

Step 14

Take a photo of your finished decoupage necklace and share your creation on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can I use if I don't have decoupage glue or fine sandpaper?

If you don't have decoupage glue you can use watered-down white school glue for step 6, and if you lack fine sandpaper use an emery board to lightly roughen the pendant surface in step 3.

What should I do if the paper gets air bubbles or wrinkles when I place it on the pendant?

If you get air bubbles or wrinkles when placing the cut paper (step 6–7), gently lift the paper, apply a bit more decoupage glue to the pendant, then smooth again from the center outward with your finger or a brush.

How can I adapt the activity for different ages?

For younger kids have an adult do the sanding and tracing and use pre-cut decorative paper or stickers for steps 3–7, while older kids can try layered papers, intricate trimming, and multiple sealer coats for a more advanced pendant.

How can we personalize or improve the finished necklace?

To personalize the finished pendant after trimming, add tiny charms or a sprinkle of craft glitter on top and then brush on the clear sealer, or swap the sealer for jewelry resin for a durable glossy finish.

Watch videos on how to make a decoupage necklace

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How to Make A Shell Necklace | Decoupage

4 Videos

Facts about jewelry making for kids

✂️ Paper napkins are extra thin and many crafters use only the top printed layer for super-smooth decoupage.

💦 A clear sealer protects your design from smudges and light splashes—but most decoupage pendants aren't meant to be soaked.

🔗 A decoupage pendant can be strung on leather, waxed-cotton, ribbon, or a metal chain to change its style.

🎨 Decoupage is the art of decorating objects with cut paper and has been popular in Europe since the 1700s.

🧴 Mod Podge is a well-known craft brand often used by crafters as glue, finish, and sealer in one product.

How do I make a decoupage necklace?

To make a decoupage necklace, start by choosing a wooden or metal pendant with a flat surface. Cut small paper shapes or images to fit, prime the pendant if needed, then brush a thin layer of decoupage glue (like Mod Podge) onto the surface. Place the paper, smooth out bubbles, and brush more glue over the top in thin coats. Let each coat dry, seal with a clear sealer, attach a jump ring, and thread on a cord.

What materials do I need for a decoupage necklace?

You’ll need a flat wooden or metal pendant, decorative paper (scrapbook paper, tissue, or printed photos), Mod Podge or craft glue, a small paintbrush or foam brush, scissors, clear sealer or varnish, a jump ring and pliers, plus a cord or chain. Optional extras: acrylic paint for a base coat, sanding block, stickers, glitter, and a protective work mat. Use non-toxic supplies for kids.

What ages is this activity suitable for?

Decoupage necklaces work for many ages: preschoolers (4–6) can participate with close adult help for cutting and gluing. Elementary kids (7–9) can do most steps with supervision. Tweens and teens (10+) can complete the project independently and handle small tools like pliers. Avoid loose small parts around children under 3 and always supervise use of sharp tools or strong glues.

What are some safety tips and variations for decoupage necklaces?

Safety: use non-toxic glue, supervise scissors and pliers, protect the work surface, and seal in a well-ventilated area. Keep tiny jump rings away from under-3s. Variations: use photos, fabric scraps, washi tape, glitter, or gold leaf; paint a background color before adding paper; make matching earrings; or create layered translucent effects with tissue paper for a unique look.
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