Decoupage +Mixed Media- Altered Box Tutorial by DT Megha

Hello everyone,

Today I am here with a Tutorial post for you all. I have incorporated decoupage and mix media techniques into one project.

I am making a book box for a mother from her daughters on the occasion of Mother's Day! Here's a look at the book box:

Step 1: To make this, begin by choosing a box which opens like a book, of any size. Choose a decoupage pattern paper or card stock which looks rich and vintage. I have picked up the Vintage papers from Papericious. 

Step2: Cut the papers according to the size of your box. I prefer using a paper trimmer for this, as it gives a neat cut and precise measurements. Use decoupage glue and adhere the papers on the insides of the box, all sides and the inside lid.

Step 3: Use acrylic paints and paint the rim and corners of the box. In this case, I have used a Royal Blue Colour. 

Step 4: Time to add texture. Apply modelling paste on the outer sides of the box with a spatula. For texture, use a pointed sharp object and run through it. In this case, I have used a long needle to mimic the effect of book pages. 

Step 5: Time to add colour to the texture. You could use any form of spray colours. Acrylic colours watered down will also work. I have used the 13 Arts Sprays. When adding colours, always remember to work in layers. Dry between coats. For my box, I have used the colours Brown, Yellow and Grey. I have done this on the three sides of the box, leaving the spine untouched.

Step 6: Next time to decorate the outside of the box. Choose pattern paper for the top, bottom and spine of the box. Once cut down to size, using decoupage glue adhere it. 

Step 7: Lets add some textures and dimension. Using a stencil add modelling paste. I've added texture to depict grandness and give it a vintage look. You could further add texture with cut pieces of burlap like I have done. Once down in place, randomly brush white gesso.  

Step 8: Next, time to add elements. You could use chipboard and metal elements. I have used some pattern chipboards as well as the Star Confetti from Rainbow Craftykari. Once your elements are glued down, cover them with a coat of white gesso.

Step 9: Since I had a vintage look in mind, I decided  to use the rust and patina paste to add colour and texture. I am applying each colour in turn and building the colour intensity, starting from darkest to lightest.

Step 10: Next, I wanted to incldue the photographs on the box. I have used corrugated sheet to uplift them. I have also added paper flowers in white and shades of brown. For more texture, I have mixed yellow rust paste and a tinge of blue patina paste in the art stones to get the mustard rust look and adhered them with matte gel medium. Waxes highlight all this amazing texture. I have used Brass and White Gold waxes to highlight the details.

Step 11: For me, a project like this is completed with splatters. I have added rust yellow and white paint splatters, making sure to dry one colour before splattering the next.

Step 12: Next, let's complete the spine of the book box. Using the same stencil which we used on the lid, create a pattern with modelling paste. I have used diluted yellow rust paste to add colour. Once dry, I've used the waxes to finish it up for a vintage look.

Step 13: To complete it, use some background stamp with Black and Coffee Archival Ink and randomly stamp,  highlighting texture and details all over the box where needed. 

Screw the hinges and assemble the box to complete it.

Here are some more pictures:

Supplies used:

• MDF Book Box

• Modelling Paste 
• White Gesso 
• Stencil

• Matt Medium 
• Burlap Sheet 

• Papericious Pattern Paper 
• Decoupage Glue 

• Flowers 
• Metal Charms

• Stamps
• Archival Inks,

• Rainbow Craftykari MDF Star Confetti

• 13 Arts Colour Sprays 
• Acrylic Paint

• Finnabair waxes
• Patina and Rust Pastes
• Art Stones

• Liquid Glue
• Heat Gun

Most of the above-listed materials are available on the Rainbow Craftykari Store and can also be pre-ordered by sending an e-mail at rainbowcraftykari@gmail.com.
Do visit the Rainbow Craftykari store HERE


Visit our BLOG for more inspiration, tutorials and check out our ongoing challenge.

Happy Crafting!

Megha