3D decoupage is a traditional papercraft technique, which allows you to add depth and dimension to your cards. It is the art of creating an image by building up layers and raising parts of it to create a 3D illusion. It’s very effective and results in an eye-catching make that friends and family will love. Confusingly, the word ‘decoupage’ refers to two different things: the first is the technique discussed here (often called 3D decoupage) and the second is the art of decorating a blank surface by glueing pieces of paper to it. Be careful not to confuse the two!
Once you’ve chosen an image, print it out numerous times, then decide which parts you’d like to be raised. Use the whole image for the base. For the first layer, cut out the image again but take an element away. Stick it on top of the base motif using 3D pads. Continue layering up the image, each time choosing a smaller element. Look at the example below to see how it works…
This decoupaged card by Colette Smith is ideal for beginners, as it doesn’t involve many layers.
It’s composed like so:
Base: the whole motif, Layer 1: just the cat’s head, Layer 2: eyes, inner ears and nose, Layer 3: eyes and nose, Layer 4: inner eyes and nose
Remember to use 3D pads to attach each layer, as this is what creates the depth. You can see the layers in this picture.
If you think that looks fun, pick up issue 89 of PaperCrafter to find out how to make this adorable Christmas card, featuring a 3D decoupaged puppy - out now!
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