How to Modge Podge Paper Onto Furniture

Select decorative paper elements to decorate the piece of furniture. For example, use maps, magazine photos, comic book pages or wallpaper. You can cover the furniture with a single, large piece of paper, or use small, sharp scissors to cut out shapes, designs or patterns.

Paint the furniture piece with a base coat if the wood is unfinished. Use an acrylic craft paint in any color you choose. Allow the furniture to dry. This step is optional if the wood has previously been finished.

Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge to one section of the furniture, using a sponge paintbrush. For example, coat the top, side or front. Don't coat the entire piece of furniture at one time unless it is small.

Paint the back of the paper with a thin coat of Mod Podge. Don't use too much Mod Podge, because the substance will ooze out the sides of the paper. If this happens, remove the extra Mod Podge with a damp sponge or damp paper towel.

Place the paper on the furniture. Use your fingers and a damp sponge to smooth the paper.

Repeat the steps, applying paper and Mod Podge one section at a time until the furniture is covered with paper.

Allow the piece to dry, and then coat it with a thin coat of Mod Podge.

Repeat with at least three or four more coats of Mod Podge, allowing the piece to dry thoroughly between each coat.

Coat the decoupaged furniture with clear varnish. Allow the varnish to dry, and then apply at least three or four more coats, allowing the varnish to dry completely between each coat. Seven or eight coats is even better and will provide a smooth, shiny surface that protects the piece from dings, scratches and spills.