Upcycle Thrifted Vases Into Beautiful Home Decor Pieces Using A Napkin Hack

There are plenty of ways to style vases in the home, but decoupage is the perfect way to add a touch of new life to old containers. Whether you're looking to spruce up your home or refurbish some thrifted finds, you're only a few steps away from having the perfect personalized vase collection to accent your space. And napkins make a great decoupage material for just about any container, so feel free to experiment with your shape of choice. 

The list of materials for this technique is pretty simple and you might already have them laying around the house. The most important piece of this project is your vase. Try to keep in mind the intended function of your project; is it going to house a wonderful seasonal bouquet or be a standalone centerpiece? You will also need some old paper napkins featuring your design of choice. They can range anywhere from floral to geometric. This trick is perfect if you have some lying around after a dinner party, which will keep the cost low. And if you don't have any to spare, you can always pick up a pack for only a few bucks! Napkins can be a cheap and surprisingly versatile addition to your crafting arsenal, only requiring some glue and a pair of scissors to get you started. Scrounge up a container of Mod Podge, a can of paint (or spray paint), a pair of scissors, and you are ready to freshen up your new finds.

To start, you're going to pick your paper napkins. Finding the perfect design that fits your aesthetic can be a little challenging but the outcome is worth it. If you've found yourself with a clear vase, it's time to crack out the paint. You can use a generous amount of spray paint or chalk paint. Chalk paint is recommended as it applies to most surfaces but don't be afraid to throw on an extra coat or two. 

Once your vase is primed, you're ready to kick off the fun part: planning out your pattern. This is where you add your own personalized touch to your vases. You can cut out pieces of the design that you enjoy, for example specific flowers and leaves, creating an entirely new design unique to your vase. If you're happy with the napkin, all you have to do is cut it to size and you're ready to apply. 

Apply a coat of Mod Podge to your vase and stick your design to it. Make sure to work out any bubbles or creases before your vase has a chance to dry. Remember Mod Podge doesn't dry super quickly so if you're unhappy with your layout, don't be afraid to move things around. Give your design a top coat to seal it and your new vase is all set. Now you'll just have to choose the perfect flowers for your new work of art.