Mod Podge has been around since 1967, and is often used by crafters to decoupage because it is a glue, sealer and finish all in one. About a year ago I finally took the plunge and purchase some from my local craft store after seeing it used project after project on my craft webiste haunts. I have what seems to be a mile-long list of projects I want to use it on, in addition to the few that I've completed. Below are some of those projects, and some tips on how to best use Mod Podge if you never have before!

Before you begin using Mod Podge, be sure you have a clean brush (I use a paint brush but a foam brushes works too). No matter what you are applying the Mod Podge to, make sure to is as clean and smooth as possible. Unless the directions state otherwise, start with a thin layer and let it dry, then go back to add a second (or third). Make sure it is dry before moving on to a new coat. I live in a very dry climate where it doesn't take too long, but I have heard some people wait a whole day! Mod Podge Rocks is a website dedicated to, well, Mod Podge! They have some video tutorials to help get you going.

So what can you do with Mod Podge? Here are some of the projects I'm itching to try:

Furniture

This little table is from the Mod Podge website, where scrapbooking paper is added over bright paint. A similar concept can be found over at Mod Podge Rocks with a child's chair.

Shoes

From glitter to comic books, you can dress up a pair of boring flats with whatever you want. Below are two tutorials for glitter and comics, but I have seen this done with thin fabric too. You don't have to use flats; this tutorial re-vamps a pair of Oxfords.

Remember not too glop it on too thick!

Magazine Mat

I am currently working away on my own magazine mat, which uses Mod Podge more as a finish. I'm still rolling the paper, but I can't wait to get to the Mod Podgeing! This is a good way to re-use old magazines, and I have also seen a similar project making a trashcan out of the paper rolls.

Word Bird

You can use Mod Podge to decoupge all sorts of things, even birds!

Bangles

The potential for these bracelets is limitless! Just like with the shoes you could take any kind of paper or glitter and cover the plain wooden base. I've even seen projects where confetti is used as a coating.

Basically, you can adhere almost anything (given that it is flat) to anything else! I've also used it to seal in paint on a handmade bird-feeder. Mod Podge "dimensional magic," also looks really fun to use! Maybe after I knock out a few more of the projects on my current list I'll try it out. What about you? Are you a "Mod Podger"? Have you used another product you like better? Share in the comments below!