Do you have a question about Mod Podge? I’ve got you covered! Check out the answers to popular decoupage questions here! Click through for answers.

Do you have a question about Mod Podge? I've got you covered! Check out the answers to popular decoupage questions here! Click through for answers.

Each week I’ll have a question about Mod Podge from a reader posted right here, as well as the answer. If you have a question about Mod Podge – anything from how it’s used, to formulas, to project help – I’d love for you to post it in the comments below or email me here. Each week I’ll select a question to feature in the newsletter, and provide the answer right here!

Q: “I am starting my very first Mod Podge project soon and I have some questions. I am cutting a flag and I read somewhere that I could cover it in Mod Podge first, then when it’s cut it won’t fray – is that true??? And if I do, once it’s hard from the Mod Podge will that make it difficult to put onto a painted wooden surface (It’s a team flag, not the American flag)?” -Amanda

A: Yes, you can use Mod Podge to stop fraying. I do it on fabric all the time. Once I Mod Podge fabric, I cut it with a craft knife or scissors and boom . . . no fraying!

And Mod Podge doesn’t really make fabric “hard.” It does make it stiffer, but it’s still pretty flexible. You’ll be able to put it on a painted wood surface.

Thank you for the great question and GET PREVIOUS QUESTIONS BELOW!


Q: “Can I use Mod Podge on candles and then burn them?” -Kara

A: The short answer is no . . . but let me explain. You can use Mod Podge on candles and then use them for decorative purposes (just for displaying, not burning). You can use Mod Podge on the outside of glass candleholders and be fine (like Yankee candles).

Now having said that, Mod Podge is non-flammable. But it will melt. So what I’ve heard of some people doing is peeling back the paper and napkin (along with the Podge) as a candle burns.

If you do that, it’s at your own risk. No matter what, just never leave anything Mod Podged that’s near a flame unattended.


Photo transfer to wood supplies

Q: “I’m having issues with rubbing the paper off when I do a Mod Podge photo transfer.” -Matt

A: Mod Podge photo transfers can be tricky and take a little bit of practice – I’m talking about the kind where you use Mod Podge photo transfer medium.

Now, there are photo transfers you can do with regular Mod Podge, but the Mod Podge brand photo transfer medium is its own item and is a one step process. You don’t need glue to go along with it!

I’ve noticed two things with the photo transfers using the medium. 1) you need to make sure there is enough medium between the paper and the surface.

You should not be able to see the image (it should be completely obscured by medium) when you place it down. 2) the paper might not come off the first round.

After you let it dry for 24 hours, you’ll rub the paper off AFTER wetting it. It typically takes me about two rounds to completely remove it all. It’s not because it can’t be done, it’s just that I’m careful because TOO much rubbing can remove the image.

So I’d rather get as much as I can (which is sometimes hard to see when it’s wet), let it dry, and then go back and remove the rest of the paper. Does that make sense? You can definitely wet it again and rub it again without worry.


Q: “My daughter recently moved and a blanket sat on top of a Mod Podge dresser. There is now fuzz stuck to the top of the Mod Podge. How do we remove it?” -Karen

A: This can definitely happen! Especially if the Mod Podged dresser was in a warm place and it re-activated the formula. It won’t happen if you use a clear acrylic sealer on top like Mod Podge spray or Minwax Polycrylic.

But if it ends up that there’s no top coat, you can remove the fuzz with a very fine grit sanding block. Rub gently and you’ll be able to remove it all. You just don’t want to rub too hard and reach the paper/fabric below. Good luck!


Q: “I want to decoupage posters to the cabinets in my laundry room. I can’t find posters that are a good size to use. Do you have any examples where you decoupaged a poster over a plain paper background to fill in the space? Does it show a “pieced together” look? Thanks for any advice!” -Karen

A: Let me start by sharing an example of a poster being applied to a canvas with Mod Podge (find it here). In the post, she uses water from the bathtub to help (you can use a spray bottle).

You can remove the cabinet doors, which might take a few minutes, but will probably make it easier to do when the door is a flat surface on a counter as opposed to vertical.

Now, depending on how thin the poster is, you might have issues with the cabinet color coming through the paper slightly. The poster needs to be relatively thick. If it’s not, you should paint the centers of the cabinets with white acrylic (NOT latex!) paint.

In terms of what to use, if you can’t find a poster that fits, I’d say trim one down with an X-Acto knife. Another great option? Gift wrap! There are also some beautiful, large sheets of paper at place like Paper Source.

If you overlap regular papers, you’ll definitely be able to see it. So I definitely recommend one large piece trimmed to fit. Good luck!


Q: “What is the best way to make photo coasters with Mod Podge?” -Suzanne

A: There’s a great tutorial on the blog for this that you can see here. I have two comments. The paper preference is laserjet printouts – you can get those done at Kinko’s if you don’t have a laserjet printer. The reason is because inkjet printouts will smear. Here’s how to treat inkjet photos, from my FAQ:

“Print the picture onto the paper and let it dry for at least ten minutes. Spray both sides of the paper with clear acrylic sealer (several coats) and let it dry.

Paint with a thin layer of Mod Podge on both sides, then let it dry. Then you can Mod Podge as normal. It sounds like a lot of steps, but it’s not that difficult – you just have to make sure it all dries.”

Now photos will work as well, you’ll just have to add more Mod Podge and really smooth them down!

I’ve got additional coaster tutorials here.


Q: “I love Mod Podge but I think I have ruined some of my art with it. I used the sealant over my button art and now my items look cloudy. My Swarovski crystals don’t shine. Please help me restore my beautiful art pieces!!” -Ruth

A: Mod Podge dries clear, but it can dull the shine on items that are supposed to be blingy, like crystals and glitter. If the rest of the art is cloudy, it should dry with time.

If there’s any glitter on the piece, you’ll have to deal with the dulling as any decoupage medium would do the same thing.

Now with the crystals, I would use a q-tip and paint remover to get rid of the Mod Podge on top. That is your best bet to restore your piece! My recommendation next time is to complete your piece and then glue the crystals on top.


Q: “I use Mod Podge to stick buttons onto my cards. But I have tried loads of things as an applicator but sometimes the buttons are small so I get Mod Podged too!! Has anyone got any good ideas or tips??” -Tia

A: I’ve actually had to apply glitter to a very small area (using Mod Podge) and my life was saved by applicator bottles. You would pour some of the Mod Podge from its original bottle into the applicator bottle.

Make sure to keep the pin in the top to keep the applicator tip from getting clogged and drying out.


Q: “I am currently changing an old standing lamp (the electrical wires are shot) into a Halloween candelabra with flameless candles. It has one main light in the middle and three other smaller offshoot places for candle sticks. I want to replace the center spot with a skull & then drill a hole in the top of the head for a larger flameless candle. I found a foam head, which will be perfect for the center (& easiest to make the hole into), but I know you can’t spray paint straight onto styrofoam or it will melt. Can I Mod Podge the skull & then spray paint over that?” -Christine

A: I’ve used Mod Podge with spray paint many times and never had an issue! You can always paint Mod Podge on a piece of scrap paper and spray paint with the exact spray paint you’ll be using first to be sure . . . but I haven’t had one issue in years.

I’d add several coats of Mod Podge, by the way. Good luck and it sounds like an awesome project!


Try an upcycled furniture project with this piece from the Goodwill - this table was made over with paint, Mod Podge photo transfer and a vintage graphic!

Q: “Can I use regular Mod Podge to transfer an image to a piece of furniture that is painted black?? Thank you!” -Teri Jo

A: That wouldn’t work because the ink is going to be dark, and the background won’t be light when you use regular Mod Podge. You can use Mod Podge Photo Transfer Medium – it has a white background (behind the colors). Get tutorials with that product here.


Q: “I’m curious if I seal a mug with dishwasher safe Mod Podge can I put it in the microwave at all?” -Mary

A: Unfortunately Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is not microwave safe. You don’t want to melt your Mod Podge, even when it’s fully cured.


Q: “Is it safe to use Mod Podge on mason jars for candle holders? I want to decoupage images on the outside and I am afraid they may start a fire.” -Lee-sa

A: It’s very safe! The key is keeping the Mod Podge on the outside of the jar. Mod Podge isn’t flammable, but you want it on the outside of a jar and not near a flame so it doesn’t melt.

Also regardless, the flame should be monitored at all time. If you feel like you’ll be spending a lot of time away from the project, use LED tealights. Then you don’t have to worry!


Q: “I made a box and covered with fabric. I used Mod Podge Matte on the fabric, and I applied a layer on the fabric. Once the fabric dried it feels rough -what can I do to take away the feeling of roughness ? Also do I need to apply a lacquer to protect it from the dust and grease (make easy to clean).” -Paola

A: Pretty much any acrylic product that you put on fabric is going to make it a little rougher, especially a product that acts as a glue (or a sealer). You can try using #0000 grit steel wood that is every so slightly damp to take away some of the roughness, but it’s never going to feel soft.

It’s just the nature of the project! As far as applying a lacquer, Mod Podge is fine by itself, but if the project is going to experience a LOT of action, I’d brush Minwax Polycrylic on the top to seal. It might help make it feel slightly less rough too by building up the top layer.


Q: “Anyone know how to get dried Mod Podge out of my car seat? Guess it got too hot and bubbled out.” -Ashley

A: Over the course of my Mod Podging career I’ve gotten Mod Podge on everything . . . and someone taught me early on to apply brush cleaner to the affected area until I could wash the clothing (typically what ended up getting Podged).

Once it dries, it’s a big harder to tackle. Learn how to remove Mod Podge here.

I suggest you try the technique(s) in the article OR use brush cleaner and warm/hot water and scrubbing. You definitely want to warm the area up with water and “reactivate” the Mod Podge before trying anything.

Also please do a test on the fabric in question. Remember that anything you try is at your own risk – I can’t speak for all fabrics, and I certainly don’t want you to ruin your item, whether it be a shirt or a car seat. So doing a test is key.


Did you know you can transfer INKJET printed images onto wood? Yes . . . this photo transfer to wood is easy with Mod Podge and regular school glue.

Q: “Is it me or is the Photo Transfer Mod Podge much thicker, also, it doesn’t seem to dry clear? can i just use regular Mod Podge for photo transfer?” -Julie

A: I actually get this question a lot, so I’m glad to finally answer it! Let me explain the two different options for photo transferring with Mod Podge . . . at least generally speaking.

1. Mod Podge Photo Transfer Medium – you cannot use this for regular decoupage . .  meaning, you don’t want to use this formula to glue a photo down to a surface (this accounts for the thickness; it is a different formula).

It is specifically and only for photo transfers. It has a white background as opposed to a clear background (opaque). That white background is nice in that the image really pops up off of the surface! To get an idea of how to use this formula, visit this post . . . it will make it clear.

2. Regular Mod Podge – typically meaning either the Gloss or Matte formula. Obviously these formulas can be used for regular decoupage, aka, gluing something to a surface. But they can also be used to transfer images and obtain a clear background.

Just as you’ve seen me share a project above that will clear up how the final product will look, here are two tutorials (this one and this one) which will show you what I’m talking about.

Now, there are a variety of different methods for using regular Mod Podge combined with other ingredients to complete a photo transfer. You can Google or search Pinterest to find the one that works the best for you.

So which do you choose . . . well, it depends on the look you are going for. Any photo transfer completed with Mod Podge is going to look slightly vintage. Take a peek at the tutorials I’ve shared above and see what works best for you!


Q: “Can you tell me what the problem may be if my clear Mod Podge dries milky white in some areas?” -Lisa

A: First read my article Does Mod Podge Dry Clear? There are typically two possibilities if your Mod Podge is milky white. First, it might not be completely dry. Depending on where the Mod Podge is, the climate you’re in, and some other factors, you might need to give it several days to completely dry.

The second possibility is that the Mod Podge might have been applied too heavily in an area, in which case it clumps and dries milky white. For the first issue, you’ll just have to wait longer. For the second issue, it can help to sand down the Mod Podge lightly to get rid of the excess.

Thank you for the great question!


Q: “There are so many different types of Mod Podges, which one is the best for using with glitter on wine glasses?” -Joan

A: I love the new Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge just for this reason! You’ll do the same thing as one of my contributors did on this mug. One thing you should remember is to keep the Mod Podge down from the rim of the glass . . . you don’t want your lips to be touching the Mod Podge every time you drink. Besides that, just remember that the Mod Podge will dull the glitter slightly. Good luck!


Q: “Can I Mod Podge over sticky back gems? I never feel that they are secure.” -Linda

A: This week you’re testing my loyalty to Mod Podge, but it’s okay! ;D I actually want you to have the right supplies for your project – whether Podging is involved or not. You *can* Mod Podge over sticky back gems, but I don’t recommend it.

It will really dull them (as will any other acrylic glue). I recommend using E-6000 to secure them (just add glue to the sticky side before gluing them down).

Trust me, they won’t be able to be removed. You can probably even pop up ones you’ve already stuck down (carefully) and add the E-6000 at this time. Good luck!


Q: “I have a quick question for you. I have a friend who would like me to repurpose a metal box for her. I would like to decoupage it with some pretty papers and fabric. What formula Mod Podge should I use? She will be using it for a jewelry box. Thanks for the help!” -Regina

A: You’ve actually got several good options for this project! Before I start, here’s the Mod Podge formula guide so that you can learn more about each one.

Now having said that, I imagine that a jewelry box will get used quite frequently, so I’d personally go with either the Satin or the Hard Coat (if the usage is really extensive). I really love those finishes. But after reading the formula guide, you might decide on another, and that’s okay too!


Q: “I read your piece on all the Mod Podge formulas. It was very informative and I bookmarked it for future reference. But the question I am have trouble finding an answer for is, “What’s the difference between Mod Podge and Royal Coat”? They are both decoupage glues, (glue, seal, protect) and they both are made by Plaid. I wonder because I want to do more decoupage and I would like to use the best product. Is there an advantage to either one?” -J.S.

A: Royal Coat is only made in certain markets and for certain stores . . . . which is why it’s not advertised regularly. Royal Coat is actually stronger than some formulas of Mod Podge, so it’s like a “premium” Mod Podge.

The similar Mod Podge product? Hard Coat . . . it’s very close to the same thing and they have a Satin finish. Both are great, but Royal Coat could help you in situations where you need a “tough” decoupage medium!


Q: “I recently used Mod Podge Dimensional Magic on a domino pendant. I noticed, I missed a spot around the edge. Can I go back and fill it in? If so, will it still look good or should I just make another one?” -Kristi

A:  I had this very same question when I first started using Dimensional Magic! Yes, you can go back and fill in DM after it’s dry. It’s pretty awesome. You won’t even notice a seam!


Q: “I have a question, I recently made a lamp with Mod Podge, I decorated the inside of the lampshade with photos on vellum paper. will the Mod Podge acrylic spray keep the photos from burning? I covered them in several layers of Mod Podge then waited for it to dry then sprayed it with the acrylic sealer, will that be enough?” -April

A: Acrylic spray is actually flammable due to the propellants (regular Mod Podge is not). The can should provide warnings. I’d ask at the hardware store if there is a non-flammable coating you can put on the inside, but otherwise, never leave that lamp unattended.

It’s always recommended you Mod Podge on the outside of a shade – BUT as long as the lightbulb isn’t too close OR You use one of those LED ones which are low heat, you’ll be fine.


Mod podge formula guide

Q: “I’m planning on using this product on a table top to seal it with a gloss finish. I was just wondering if a standard paint roller (yes the fuzzy kind) would work with Mod Podge? If not any good suggestions on a tool that would cover a large area quickly would be much appreciated.” -Kyle

A: A fuzzy paint roller will definitely leave texture in your Mod Podge – which could be the look you are going for! But if you aren’t, try a brush like this one. It’s a 4″ with gold taklon bristles and VERY soft, which is what you want. You can probably find similar at the hardware store.


Q: “Hi! I’m having some trouble with Dimensional Magic I’m hoping you can help with. I print my image on an ink jet printer. When the ink is dry, glue it into a cabochon with a thin layer of Mod Podge matte. When that is dry, do a thin layer of MP on top of the image. Then when that is dry, I cover with the Dimensional Magic. But when that dries, my ink color disappears (the magenta in particular). Any tips?” -Melanie

A: The problem is the inkjet image – that will bleed with both Mod Podge and Dimensional Magic. Especially the Dimensional Magic. You have a few options.

My first is to get the images printed on laserjet next time. If that’s not possible, spray an acrylic sealer over the inkjet image and let dry. THEN Mod Podge.

And do it several times – you’d rather have several thicker layers of Mod Podge to protect the inkjet image from the DM. That *should* work, depending on the printer you use. I find the best results with the newer HP printers. Good luck.


Q:I got Mod Podge all over my favorite jeans!! I didn’t realize until they came out of the wash! Any ideas how I can get it out??” -Lottie

A: This one is tough – because your jeans might be ruined forever (learn how to remove Mod Podge here). But there’s something you can try. Scrape away as much of the dried Mod Podge as you can, then scoop a finger full of petroleum jelly out of the jar and apply it to the dried decoupage medium.

Work the petroleum jelly into the fabric with your fingertips and allow it to sit for at least one hour. Wipe off as much petroleum jelly as possible. Saturate the spot with grease-cutting dishwashing liquid. Dampen the fabric slightly and work the dishwashing liquid in by rubbing the fabric together.

Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Rinse the dishwashing liquid under cool running water. If any petroleum jelly or Mod Podge remain, reapply the dishwashing liquid. Wash the fabric in the washing machine with warm water and laundry detergent.

Hang the fabric to air dry or put it in the dryer on low heat. Do not dry fabric until the Mod Podge and petroleum jelly are completely gone, as heat can set the stain.


Q: “Hey! Wanting to do some shoe decoupage using paper images. Which shoe types work best (canvas? suede/leather? patent?) and which Mod Podge product is most suitable for this? Needs to be somewhat weather resistant and durable. Thank you for any advice.” -Katie

A: I’ve seen people decoupage on a variety of shoes – including all of the types you’ve mentioned. What I’ve discovered is that the smoother the surface, the more difficult it is to get Mod Podge to stick (there’s probably a coating on the leather, as there is with patent).

My recommendation is to either sand a slick surface or use a spray primer (in white) before decoupage. I recommend the Outdoor or Fabric Mod Podge (if you’re using fabric in the future) with a clear, brush on sealer on the top. This just makes them extra durable, since shoes get so much use. You don’t have to add in the brush on sealer, but I would.


Q: “I was wondering if i could keep Mod Podge in a different container other than the plastic one it comes in? As in glass, foam, or a different plastic? Help pleeeease!!!!” -Sidney

A: Absolutely – you can keep in a glass or plastic container (not foam). But just make sure that the container is airtight. You don’t want anything to get in and contaminate your precious decoupage medium!


Q: “Every time I try to Mod Podge I get bubbles in my projects and it looks terrible. Help?” -Patricia

A: When I first learned to Mod Podge, my project looked like a relief map of the Andes Mountains. I found that one of my biggest problems was not using enough Mod Podge. AND I also didn’t let the bottom coat dry for 15 – 20 minutes before applying the top coat.

The first place to start is with my “Learn to Mod Podge” article here. There are several methods for getting no wrinkles.

One thing to remember is that if a paper is REALLY thin you might not be able to avoid wrinkles. I can’t do napkins or tissue paper without wrinkles. For thin wrapping papers, I have to spray it with a misting water bottle first to get it to work.


Q: “Does Mod Podge go bad?? I have an industrial size container and it looks like it has separated with a thin layer of clearish liquid in top – should I just stir it back together? Thanks!!!” -Jackie

A: I’ve consulted the experts on this question and apparently the shelf life is two years when unopened, and six months when opened. Having said that, you’re welcome to stir yours up and see what happens. I’d do a test first.

If it’s a kid’s project or something that doesn’t have to last forever, you’re probably okay. If it’s a really special item, like a gift or piece of furniture, I’d go ahead and buy a new bottle.


Mod Podge DIY wall art

Q: “Can I use a heatless blow dryer to dry my project faster? Will that lessen the quality?” -Heather

A: You can absolutely use a hair dryer on your Mod Podge projects! I definitely recommend a lower setting or if you don’t have multiple settings, keep the hair dryer a bit further back.

You don’t want anything to melt on your project. I use a hair dryer all the time . . . sometimes you just can’t wait! 😮


Q: “I have question about Mod Podge. If it is flammable? The liquid one and the spray one? I wanted to use on Unity candles and they want to burn the candles too.” -Maji

A: Mod Podge is non-flammable – the liquid. I still don’t recommend using it on candles unless it is 1) for decorative purposes only or 2) it’s on the outside of glass and the candle is burning inside. Mod Podge WILL melt.

Now the spray is flammable . . . most aerosols are because of the propellant inside. So definitely don’t use that around a flame.


Q: “Has anyone used the Mod Podge for outdoors? Why is it so thick? I had so much trouble working with it.” -Jessica

A: I have used it many times and the thickness is due to the ingredients that help the Podge be very highly water resistant (pretty much waterproof). A few suggestions: 1) shake the bottle if you can, or try to stir it with a thin piece of wood 2) dip your brush in water quickly before working with it.

Don’t add water to the actual formula, but getting your brush slightly wet before dipping in any acrylic formula (paint, Mod Podge, etc) is something I always do to “get it going.”


Q:I have a question; I plan on making comic book shoes on a cheap pair of canvas shoes, would I need to use Fabric Mod Podge?” -Jessica

A: Yes – I would use Fabric Mod Podge (Outdoor Mod Podge works too but it’s a lot thicker). Even though the canvas shoes are cheap, I’m guessing you want the shoes to last . . . so the Fabric Mod Podge will help repel water.

Even with the Mod Podge, I wouldn’t wear them and stand in puddles. Get a Mod Podge shoes tutorial here. Enjoy!


Q: “Is it possible to Mod Podge cut outs from magazines or posters from bands from magazines onto canvas? or is the paper to thin for this and maybe become transparent? My daughter would like to do a project like this so any advise would be very welcome!” -Brigitte

A: Yes, it is possible! There are a few things you have to keep in mind though. The paper is thin, so you need to be somewhat familiar with Mod Podging to make sure there are no wrinkles. Decoupage the cutouts down with a medium layer of MP, then wipe away the excess around the edges.

DO NOT put Mod Podge over the top yet – let the cutouts dry for 15 – 20 minutes. You can use a brayer and turn the canvas over and roll from the inside too to smooth. Once the canvas is dry, then put on the top coat. Good luck.


Q:  “Anyone ever paint over a Mod Podge project with acrylic craft paint? How did it work out? Thanks!” -Katie

A: The good news is yes, I have painted over the top of a Mod Podge project with acrylic craft paint! Mod Podge is actually an acrylic product so it plays with well with others just like it.

You’ll just need to let the Mod Podge dry fully. And then you might want to go over the top of the paint again with another coat of Mod Podge . . . but I’ll leave that up to you.


Q: “Can I mix Mod Podge in with Crayola Air Dry Clay to make the clay stronger when it dries? I already use it on the outside to help make it water resistant.” -Mike

A: This is an interesting question that we got in the “Getting Crafty with Mod Podge” group on Facebook. I didn’t know the answer, so Mike did a test and answered the question for us! Here’s what he said: “I kneaded hard coat mod podge with crayola air dry clay until it was easy to mold. Did not crack at all, and is much more solid than just air dry clay on its own.”


Q: “I’m working on coasters and have tested several products, mostly 3 coats of regular Mod Podge and 3 coats of Mod Podge Acrylic. I live in Florida, but it takes around 6 weeks to cure. I bought a couple of other formulas, but thought I would check with you first. Suggestions? Too many coats? They look great . . . just too long.” -Shann

A: So what I would do is use a hair dryer or heat gun between Mod Podge layers (just the regular Mod Podge, not the acrylic). Do it on a low setting and don’t get too close to the project . . . you don’t want to burn anything. But it will definitely help with your cure time.

To a certain extent though, if you live in a humid area like Florida, you will have to wait for things to dry. There’s only so much that can be done about the humidity. But drying like I suggest should help.


Q: “I want to decorate my own wine glasses glitter. What is best to waterproof it? Yet still gives the glitter a shine?” -Elizabeth

A: SO – it turns out there is a Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge! It’s a relatively new product. You can see my article about it here.

You’ll see that the glitter stays shiny even when put over the top . . . though I have to be honest, it IS going to dull the glitter a little. But it’s not going to lose its sparkle, I promise!


Mod Podge bottles

Q: “I am making my friend a wooden box for recipes from bridal shower guests. I want it to be the guest book too, and I was going to have guests stamp and sign their thumbprints over the painted wooden surface, then Mod Podge it to seal. From your experience, would this work? Would it smear?” -Audrey

A: I’ve asked some professionals and they say the best things to use are oil based Sharpies (the paint pen kind) and then Stazon ink pads.

You’ve inspired me to do a post about this very thing. I’m going to put together a ton of pens, pencils, etc and see what smears! It’s going to take me a few weeks but I’m excited. So thank you 😀 (that post is here).


Q: “Any ideas or tips to cover a fabric office chair with a prettier fabric using Mod Podge? I am new to this style of crafting and don’t have loads to spend on the project. I have seen covering shoes this way but this is a much bigger surface. Thrift store find!” -Turanga

A: Absolutely! I think you should put fabric on top, and I found this tutorial that should help you.

Though I know the chair in the tutorial is hard and not fabric . . . but the process is still similar. There are three things to consider:

  1. You’re probably going to have to use a lot of Mod Podge, because some is going to seep into the fabric that is already on the chair, and you want the fabric you’re applying to stick.
  2. If you use a regular cotton fabric that is lighter, you’re probably going to have to paint the fabric on the chair white first (using fabric paint). This will help with #1, but also, Mod Podged fabric tends to be somewhat transparent. If your chair is red, for example, you’ll be able to see the red through lighter cotton fabric unless you do something first. You might not care about that, but I just wanted to warn you.
  3. You’ll likely have to use an additional brush on or spray sealer over the top. Mod Podge can be tacky for a bit after it’s applied, so you’d have to wait for a while to use the chair until it fully “cured” – which can happen weeks after it dries. Using an additional sealer helps anyway because it will probably be used a lot, so it will make the chair more durable.

Overall it won’t be that expensive, especially if you use apps for the craft stores with coupons for the items you purchase . . . I don’t ever go to the craft store without a coupon.


Q: “What can I do to fix clear Mod Podge spray clear that I sprayed on chairs painted with paint pens that looks cloudy? Did I ruin the chairs – any help?” -Lil

A: My guess is that it’s probably because you sprayed in the cold – or it’s reacting with the paint pens. My guess is the first. You can bring the chairs into a warmer area and see if it dries and clears up. If not, you’ll have to sand more than likely, and start over.

You can try and paint a gloss over the top but I’m not sure what that to do. What I’m saying is that the reaction has already happened. Always spray in a well ventilated area, but never when it’s too cold.


Q: “I’ve turned into a Dimensional Magic addict, and your tutorials and links are my fix. I’m using it in shallow jewelry bezels, and while I know it’s never going to be as hard as resin, I’m wondering if there’s a way to make it harder. (Bonus points if I can make it harder AND more water-resistant.)

Do you think I could layer some Hard Coat or Outdoor over it? Or Hard Coat and an acrylic sealer? I’ve never used those formulas, so I don’t know if they play nicely together.” -Kate

A: Dimensional Magic is acrylic based so it works fine with other acrylic based products, but the problem is you’re not going to have the crystal clear look of the Dimensional Magic if you paint something over the top. Mod Podge dries clear, but it’s not as crystal clear as Dimensional Magic.

You can try a crystal clear, acrylic based, outdoor brush on sealer (like something you get from the hardware store) and see if it works, but you’d have to do a test. Dimensional Magic is honestly best left on its own!


Q: “I need some advice. I wanted to make a keepsake for my husband by painting one of his childhood toy horses, then using photo transfer put parts of a letter from his mother on it. I’ve tried twice, but when I go to remove the paper, all of the lettering comes off too.

So the finished product after the second try has the words, but because rubbing too much took it off, you can still see the paper edges. So it looks like stickers on it. What am I doing wrong?” -Kristy

A: I’m wondering if it’s the paint that is on the childhood toy – a lot of toys from years ago have a painted coating over the top. Mod Podge photo transfers work best on unpainted surfaces or surfaces that don’t have a coating on top (Mod Podge is fine, it just depends with other coatings). Your best bet might to be refinish the entire toy if it’s possible.


Q: “Any ideas using Mod Podge with plain wooden hangers (like ones that come from IKEA)? Would like to do something to make them not so plain! Thanks!!” -Jennifer

A: I’m excited if not downright thrilled to answer this question! Decoupage on hangers is really fun. Here are just a few suggestions, and I’m sure there are more!


Q: “I want to decoupage some photos onto a wooden coffee table top. I have a question . . . I have read different reviews that say photos will be ruined by Mod Podge and one that said to hair spray the photo first and then other reviews say it’s fine . . . I’m so confused and afraid to go further without input. help?” -Maureen

A: If you are using inkjet printed photos, yes, you need to either hairspray or acrylic spray first to avoid bleeding. Laserjet photos are fine to use as is.

“Real” photos on photo paper are also okay to use but you have to use a LOT of Mod Podge. My recommendation is laserjet if you can get access to one of those types of printers, but if you can’t, then spray both sides before decoupaging!


what is modge podge

Q: “I have an urgent question. I don’t use Mod Podge. But I am making a collage of photos on a slice of wood from a trunk of a tree for a friend (a surprise). My question, I have all the pictures in place, can I apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the photos now (not going over the edges) so they stay just exactly where they are?” -Kasey

A: It really depends on what paper you used and how the photos are secured. If the paper is pretty thick, and you secured the photos with spray adhesive (for example), then you are fine to put a layer of Mod Podge over the top (you can even go over the edges).

However if you used a printer and the paper is regular weight (and relatively thin), then putting Mod Podge on the top only could cause it to wrinkle.


Q: “I used an iron on sheet to create a Christmas design sweatshirt with my computer printer . . .  I ironed it on but I wanted to make sure it was “sealed” so I got Fabric Mod Podge . . . I spread it on and let it dry 24 hours . . . and it looked great! I put the shirt on and the mod podge is sticking to itself and ruining my shirt!!! I don’t understand why it’s sticking to itself!?” -Susan

Answer: Here’s the official answer from the manufacturers of Mod Podge: Plaid Enterprises: “The project is machine washable in cold water on the gentle cycle or by hand after 72 hours, and line dry. However, Fabric Mod Podge will hold up best on decorative items that don’t have to be washed often.” –source


Q: “I cannot get peel and stick cork here – what can I use to glue cork to the back of coasters?” -Lisa

A: This week I pulled a question from the Facebook page! And it’s a good question. No, you cannot use regular Mod Podge for this purpose – it’s not strong enough (wanted to address that off the bat).

Try E-6000. You definitely want something a bit more industrial. Given that it has an odor/fumes, please use in a well-ventilated area.


What are your burning questions about Mod Podge? Leave them in the comments!

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235 Comments

  1. I sealed some cups with mod podge but now all you see is the brush strokes. How can I smooth it out without ruining it?

  2. I’ve used modge podge on lots of things I really do like it but I do have one question I can not figure out which is I’m starting to woodburn on raw cider block could I use modge podge for just a sealer. Thank you

    1. Hi Judy! Yes, you can use Mod Podge as a sealer! I recommend the satin formula or hard coat for raw wood because the finish is very nice on wood.

  3. I am using mod podge and fabric to cover a bicycle frame. All of the tutorials I have watched show the project being completed in one day. I do not have the time for that and would like to do small sections on different days. Is there a problem with placing new fabric and Mod Podge over already dried sections?

    1. Hi there! That won’t be a problem. Just store the bike at room temp so that metal is always at the same temp. I’m not sure if it matters, but that would be my concern if I had any.

  4. Can I use Mod Podge to seal a pinecone that has already been heavily drizzled with glitter glue? Will it dull the shiny glitter glue?

    1. Hi Lisa! You can. It will dull the glitter slightly. If you don’t want that to happen, try a very shiny spray sealer. I like Krylon Glitter Blast in clear.

  5. I used mod podge ultra spray (gloss) to finish a photo that I had transferred onto a slice of natural wood with the mod podge photo transfer medium. I’m looking to seal the wood with Watco danish oil, can I put that over the photo or do I not need to? The wood was unfinished when I did the transfer.

    1. Hi Matt! I wouldn’t put it over the photo unless you want the photo to be darker. I’m also not sure how danish oil reacts with Mod Podge – I think it would be fine, but I would do a test.

    2. @Amy, Thanks for the reply! I figure since the mod podge ultra spray is a sealer within itself, the photo side of the natural wood slice should be fine right? And putting the danish oil on the other side should get the job done preserving the wood?

  6. Hi need to know if after using modge podge to transfer a photo onto wood piece that is just one side of a record album bin , can I still put the clear coat that beads to go over the entire piece onto the modge podge side?? Please help Us for gift for Christmas and I have to start it TODAY 😫

    P.S. I love your tutorials and general info about the different types of modge podge so thank you very much!!

    MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄

    1. Hello! Yes, after you use either Mod Podge or the photo transfer medium you can use a clear coat over it! And thank you, have a Merry Christmas as well!

  7. I’m using the Matt mod lodge, I’m getting a color bleed while using on printed paper cut outs then epoxying tumblers. I don’t know if I’m using to thick or not allowing to dry enough between coatsAny help is appreciated. Thank you

    1. @Amy, I mod podge over inkjet printed fotos quite often…. usually within 5 minutes of being printed…… never had a problem with bleeding, not even slightly.

  8. SO glad I found this site! I’m making a mobile type light with a pendant light hanging in the center just into the top of all the flat mobile shapes. The bulb/fixture is dimable. Which is the best to make the shapes for longevity, from Modge Podged cut out paper, wire “frames” wrapped w/MP’d paper, or paper clay mixed w/MP? Depending on what is best, do you have a recomended distance the shapes should be from the bulb? Thank you!

  9. I want to put my completed cross stitch project on canvas and not frame it. Can I use midge lodge to protect the design and fabric from dust?

    1. Hi Carmela! You can. However, if you aren’t decoupaging anything down, you don’t necessarily need to use Mod Podge. You could use a clear acrylic spray!

  10. Would you be able to use the mod podge photo transfer medium to transfer a photo onto leather? Or is there a different type of mod podge that I should use?

    1. Hi Matt! That’s a great question – I have never transferred a photo on leather. I have done it to fabric and it works well. I’d try the photo transfer medium on a sample piece first 🙂

    1. Sure! Just don’t get toooooo close to the cup. Heat guns are – hot! Lol. You don’t want to melt the Mod Podge, just dry it more quickly.

  11. Hi! A couple of weeks ago I painted some clay pots with ivory acrylic paint. Then I topped it off with a coat of Mod Podge, it dried nice and clear and saw no issues and put them on display. However, I noticed recently that the ivory paint now looks kind of dirty. I thought I might of been some dust, but after wiping it down it wouldn’t come off, almost like it’s under the Mod Podge. I plan on painting more clay pots next week, and I wanted to know if you had any advice or ideas on what was going on.
    Thank You!

    1. Sounds like something is seeping through . . . do you think it’s dirt? I would seal the inside of the clay pots with clear acrylic sealer – and maybe the outside too – before painting and Mod Podging. See if that helps!

  12. Why is it when I cure my modge podge glasses in the oven the modge podge turns brown? If I have white paint underneath it will turn the color yellow or brown ruining the white color.

    1. Is the paint you are using glass paint, like FolkArt glass paint? And also, it’s possible that you are using too a temp? What temp are you using?

  13. Hi! Question – can I use mod podge on oven/stove knobs? The lines indicating the “off” position have faded so I was thinking what if I used washi tape and mod podged it?

    1. Hi there! You could do that. You might want to prime the knobs first? Or sand them to make everything adhere better. That’s what I would do! But yes, it will work.

    1. Yes you can! HOWEVER – if you are using it for smoking, you’ll want to put some sort of additional coating on top. Maybe epoxy? You don’t want to put a cigarette or something hot on the Mod Podge. It’s not flammable but it will melt and your project will be ruined.

  14. Glitter-Wall

    Can I use a Mod Podge-Glitter-Mix on a lacquer paint?
    Will it stick on top off it or does it come off after it dried?

    1. Hi there! It *should* work but my guess is it’s going to depend on the lacquer paint you use. So what I’d do is grab a piece of cardstock or scrapwood, paint your paint, and let dry – then do the Mod Podge on top. You don’t need to mix glitter in during the testing because you’re just trying to see if the Mod Podge sticks. I think it will but I can’t be 100%!

    2. @Amy, thank you very much.
      It was no problem at all. I now have a fantastic Glitter-Wall.
      Very happy with Mod Podge. Great product.

  15. I have an antique stool that has a painted scene on top. The paint is cracking and starting to peel up. Can I Mod Podge it to seal everything and protect it from further deterioration? And will the Mod Podge hold down the peeling edges?

    1. Hi Craig! Hmmm – I don’t know that I’d use Mod Podge for this. Honestly I’d take it to an antique shop and ask their opinion on what to do. While Mod Podge might help you, there’s likely something better and since it’s an antique piece I don’t want to take any chances.

  16. is there a way to slow the dry time for mod podge? I am mounting a 3’x7′ photo to mdf board and need more working time to adjust & roll out the image

    1. Hi Henrietta! You can – having said that, it depends on how close the candles are going to be to the Mod Podge. If they’re going to be really close to it, either use LED candles or use an aerosol spray to seal and let it really air out and cure before putting candles in there. Mod Podge is not flammable, however I don’t want it to get so hot in the vessels that the Mod Podge melts.

  17. I used Mod Podge for the first time a few days ago and it hasn’t dried yet. It looks white and covers my rice paper that I put on a waste paper wooden bin. I have had the Mod Podge a year or two does that matter.

    1. Hi Elizabeth! Is it wet to the touch? It shouldn’t matter that it’s a year or two old. I’m wondering if it just looks wet or you actually touched it and it’s wet. Let me know and we’ll move on from there. Thank you!

  18. Cathy Jan. 27, 2021
    I coat a canvas with mod podge and apply a picture to the canvas when it is dry I coat it again and then paint with oil paint over the whole piece. How archival is this process? Let me know as I sell these pieces.

    1. Hi Cathleen! Mod Podge is 54 years old I believe – and at the 45th anniversary party I saw a piece that had been done 45 years before. It was in great condition! Mod Podge is very archival. The ONLY thing I can think that might be an issue is if the piece sits in the blazing sun. Then you might want to use a UV spray, or advise the people not to hang in direct sun . . . any piece would fade so just to be advised.

  19. Hi, I’ve painted a canvas with some matt emulsion left over from painting my lounge. It is a dark grey colour. I’ve stuck some gold metallic tape on to make geometric shapes but some of the tape is lifting. Can I put any Modge Podge over the top? Which product is best and will it ruin the paint underneath?

    1. Hi Pam! I *think* you could use Mod Podge – Gloss, Matte, or Satin depending on the finish you want – but honestly I don’t know how Mod Podge interacts with emulsion! It should be fine with the tape.

  20. I made a pop socket with permanent vinyl. Can I put mod posts on top to make sure the vinyl doesn’t come off?

    1. You can, however you can also just spray seal it since you aren’t decoupaging! You’d need to use a more satin or matte Mod Podge if you choose to use it because the Gloss will be kinda tacky especially the way those pop sockets are used.

  21. I completed a diamond painting and asked two girls at Michael’s what I could use to seal the diamond painting. She handed me a container of Modge Poge and a brush and said that this would work perfectly. Well, I am very upset because the Modge Poge she told me to use totally ruined the diamond effect of my diamond painting. Is there another type of high gloss spray that you would recommend to seal a diamond painting? Also, is there something that I could use to maybe remove the Modge Poge from the top of the diamond dotz to bring the effect back? I’m so upset because I spent so many hours on this and was planning on framing it and hanging it in a room in my house. Now it’s ruined. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    1. Hi Lisa! Yes, it does dull the effect. You’re going to have a hard time finding something that doesn’t. You can get a high gloss spray, but that’s not going to provide the same layer of protection that an actual brush on does. Another option: https://www.amazon.com/Mod-Podge-Super-8-Ounce-CS11297/dp/B007QNI16E/ Super Gloss Mod Podge. But again, it will dull, but just a little. Not like the regular Mod Podge!
      If you want to remove the Mod Podge I’d place a hot, wet towel over the top of the painting. Then try to wipe it off. But honestly I worry that it’s going to settle in the grooves of the diamond painting. So just be careful!

    2. @Amy, Thank you. I will give it a shot and see if I can get the modge poge off the top of the diamond beads. If not, lesson learned. I will also give the high gloss a try and see if that works. I bought a small, inexpensive, diamond painting that I can try different sealants on. Maybe I’ll get lucky and find something that works. 🙂

  22. Would you use any type of mod podge to seal permanent vinyl over wood? (I have put vinyl wording on a balsa wood door hanger to be hung on the outside of a home front door.)

    1. I would probably use a spray sealer honestly. If you have Mod Podge, great – you can use it. It can definitely be used as a sealer. But if you aren’t decoupaging anything (ie. the vinyl is basically a sticker) then just use a spray or brush on clear sealer. 🙂

  23. This might be a new one for you….I have a new Ipad cover that has the hard felt like fabric inside
    I don’t like the way it feels and wondered if fabric modge podge would make it smoother and not affect the ipad itself. it would also need to be flexible and hopefully not flake off with use.

    1. Hi Linda! Acrylic products (like Mod Podge) will make that felt/fabric feel stiffer and rougher. I don’t know if anything that will make it smoother. All the products I have experience with would not give the effect you want. The only thing I could suggest is removing the interior fabric and place something else on the inside of the case.

  24. Hi – I created a memory board/lap desk covered with actual photos (not printer) coated with 4-5 coats of regular Mod Podge for my daughter. I also created a removable wrist rest for when she wants to use it with her laptop. So here’s where I goofed and would like to know the best way to remedy – in placing one of the small ‘industrial strength’ velcro tabs, I accidentally misplaced it on the board & when I went to readjust it, it pulled up just that small section of ALL the layers of mod podge underneath. So now I basically have a beautifully covered board with a missing section the size of quarter. If I lightly sand it down, will the new mod podge adhere to the old, fully cured layers? And will I need to keep adding additional layers to even it up? Thanks!

    1. Hi Linda! Yes if you sand it will, and yes you will likely have to add additional layers. Just be patient and you’ll be able to make it look pretty good! Sounds like a cute project 🙂

  25. I am a bit confused, fairly new to Mod podge, I have read conflicting information regarding what it can be applied to. ie. Glass , plastic and painted surfaces, my biggest concern is I am going to make something for someone and it is going to come off eg. glass(non porous) yet I read all kinds of people using it, and painted surfaces say for eg. repurposing a coaster with a not so nice image – painting(w/acrylic) and applying paper, I have noticed that some items if you try come right off? am I missing a step, or is it the issue where if you don’t pick at it it’s fine?

    1. Hi Tracy! Glass is one of those tricky surfaces – while non porous, generally speaking you are fine to Mod Podge to it. The best way is to make sure to clean the surface with mild soap and water or rubbing alcohol. It shouldn’t come right off – especially if you prime the glass first, which is what some people do (acrylic paint or chalk paint). But you don’t have to. If you Mod Podge to glass, it will hold and hold well. But yes, if I sat and picked at it, I could remove the pieces of paper potentially. Honestly the quality of glass is the biggest factor . . . I could more easily pick something off of high quality crystal than a dollar store vase. The more dense the glass, the less porous, and the easier to remove the item. Having said that . . . your question is good, and you can Mod Podge on glass. If you have concerns about a surface, simply do a test, that’s your best bet. Especially with the HUGE variety in quality and composition of surfaces, even when made of (seemingly) the same material.

  26. I used mod podge to seal a tumbler that I used fine glitter on. It kinda dulled the shine. Any tips to fix the dullness..!?

    1. Hi Sandy! Unfortunately that it just a side effect of using Mod Podge with glitter if you coat it over the top. I know one thing people are doing with the tumblers is applying Mod Podge, sprinkling glitter on the top, and then coating with epoxy to make it permanent and washable.

      1. Hi Anastasia! That’s a great question. I don’t think that would work since oil and water repel each other and Mod Podge is waterbased. I have never tried it but that’s what I think.

  27. Hi! I’m trying to paint some plywood blue with a water based stain to delineate a lake from a shoreline. Someone said that if I mixed the stain with Mod Podge it would stop the stain from running in the wood grain so I could have tight sharp lines between the painted part and the non-painted part. What do you think?

  28. I have a question. I am making Japanese washi eggs. I use ModPodge gloss to adhere washi paper to a real eggshell. Next I coat the egg with 5 coats of ModPodge gloss. I have been waiting about 45 minutes between coats. The ModPodge is clear and feels dry. Is 45 minutes between coats enough time?

    After applying the 5 coats, how long should I wait before I wet sand to make the egg nice and smooth?

    After wet sanding, how long should I wait before applying two coats of a liquid acrylic-based varnish?

    1. Hi Linda! 45 between coats is fine – I usually wait 20 or until it’s visibly dry. After applying the five coats, let dry overnight, then wet sand. Then after you sand, let dry (if any dampness is left behind). Then you can go ahead and varnish when it’s dry again.

  29. I’m creating some t-shirts for my friends, and I was wondering if I would be able to paint with acrylic then seal it with fabric mod podge, and if so, will it be washer and dryer safe?

    1. Hi Angelina! Fabric Mod Podge is best for applying fabric to fabric and making it washable. If you are wanting to paint on shirts and have it washable, I’d just use fabric paint. You won’t need to seal in that case!

  30. Do I need to wait a month for Mod Podge to cure before applying a polyurethane varnish? If so, can I use a hair dryer to make it cure sooner?

    1. Hi Joanie! No, you do not need to wait a month before applying a polyurethane. You can go ahead and apply the poly when the project is dry. It will continue to cure during that time frame.

  31. I modge podged photos onto wood years ago and one of the photos is loose, can I reapply modge podge over the loose picture? I cannot remember if we sealed it with a spray sealer. Can I go over the sealer? Thanks for your help.

    1. Hi Tammy! Yes you should be able to do this. Do a test in the corner and let it dry just to make sure . . . if that works, continue on! But Mod Podge works fine with spray sealer.

  32. I did a project using crayons, I went over the crayon with a sponge I then placed a sticker over it but some of the letters won’t stick. Can I use mod podge over it? Any in particular or it depends on the finish I’m looking for? Will the spray be easier? Thanks!

    1. Yes you can use Mod Podge over it! None in particular, you’re correct – whatever finish you like. And the spray is great. If it’s just this project, I’d just go with regular Mod Podge.

  33. Hi this is the first time for me to use Mod Podge.
    I have a piece of wood that has a glossy top. I would like to Mod Podge a paper sign on it. Thank you so much.

  34. Ok i may be really dumb but I can’t find a pacific answer; can you use mod lodge on normal coloured printed paper or will it ruin the colour?

    1. Hi Macey! You aren’t dumb. You can print on regular paper with laserjet ink and it won’t bleed. However, if you use inkjet ink, you’ll need to spray seal both sides of the page and let dry overnight (use either clear spray sealer or hair spray) before Mod Podging. If you go ahead and just Mod Podge, the inkjet will bleed.

  35. I am a newbie… like just bought my first cricut ever new! I’m making beer mugs and tumblers for my nieces wedding and I already applied the vinyl to the glasses. Can I still use the dishwasher mod podge?
    If so, how many coats?
    Thank you in advance:)

    1. Hi Chelle! Your best bet with vinyl is to use a permanent, washable vinyl. Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge doesn’t work well with vinyl and it’s really more for applying paper, glitter, and some other stuff. Now if you want to add glitter separately . . . you can! No need to put it over the vinyl though.

  36. I bought necklaces and earrings for the wedding I’m in for all the girls.
    Some jewelry can cause my skin to turn green and I was wondering can I use mod podge to seal it so it won’t do that?
    Will the work?
    What kind?

  37. I FOUND A BEAUTIFUL SUNFLOWER PAPER NAPKIN AND WANTED TO APPLY IT TO A PAINTED BLACK WOOD SHELF FRONT, AFTER APPLING MOD PODGE THE BLACK CAME THRU AND RUINED IT, IS THERE ANY WAY TO DO THIS CORRECTLY AND KEEP THE DARK COLOR FROM SHOWING THRU ? THANKS

    1. Hi Sara! When napkins are painted with Mod Podge, they become transparent (like they would if they just got wet with water). The best thing you can do is paint white underneath the napkin, or a light color. You might not be able to paint the entire piece but you’ll have to paint at least the area for the napkin to pop.

  38. I painted slate rock and used modge podge as my sealer. I waited several days before putting it outside and my rock turned a milky white all over the painting:( how can I fix this and also what causes that to happen? Thank you in advance

  39. I have mod podged my canvas of acrylic painting, now I have to ship the artwork ,is it safe to wrap the painting with plastic paper,or will the wrapping stick to my artwork ?

    1. Hi Robyn! Yes. It will need to be laserjet, or if it’s inkjet spray both sides with hairspray or a clear acrylic sealer and let dry.

  40. I’m planning to make incense stick holders with air dry clay, if I seal it with gloss mod podge to make it shiny will it melt or light on fire?

    1. Hi Gera – Mod Podge is non-flammable. It should be fine. However the recommendation is that it not be left unattended. 🙂

    1. Hi Jennifer! I wish I could tell you but I have NO idea! I’d recommend a test in an indescrite area. Including the reflector. I *think* it would still reflect by I’m not sure about that either. It should be pretty easy to remove if it’s not going to work.

  41. I did a air dry sculpture painted it with acrylic metalic gloss paint can I softend the look with coats of Matte Mod Podge?

  42. I painted on a canvas with acrylic paint and put modge podge on it. It seems very sticky and is sticking to other paintings. Should I spray lacquer over the painting or does it just need more time to dry?

  43. I want to make a graduation canvas for my daughter and her friends I have the paper, canvas and pictures. Should I adhere the paper to the canvas first? Or should I just spray the canvas and put the paper on?

  44. I want to use mod podge to line a wooden box with fabric.. do I have to put the mod podge on top of the fabric, or can it just be between the fabric and the wood?

    1. Hi Cassidy – you don’t have to put it on top of the fabric. Having said that, if the fabric is thin, it may soak through and then you’ll will want to. I feel like home decor weight fabric is pretty good for adding a thin layer of Mod Podge to something and it doesn’t soak through. Really thin cotton, it soaks through.

  45. I’m painting blocks for a 3 year old with the alphabet but wanted to know if I can use mod lodge gloss to coat over the top?

  46. My boyfriend made me chairs for outside. They are made of pine n painted with oil based paint. Can I decoupage an image on back of the chair?
    Thanx Janine

  47. I want to put sheet music image on a piece of acrylic and then do a pour painting over it. I want only the music notes and staff to show on the acrylic, I do not want the white background, it has to be a clear (opaque) background so that the paint pouring shows through. What product do you recommend?

    Thank you

    1. There isn’t a Mod Podge project that would work to do this method, unfortunately! Especially with the background being acrylic. Mod Podge doesn’t work well with acrylic because it’s an acrylic product (like craft paint). Acrylic products don’t stick to acrylic very well.

  48. Hi Amy, not sure if you’ll be able to answer my question or not

    I managed to badly crack my phone and a friend of mine told me to use dimensional magic to fix it

    I just wanted to ask whether this is a good idea or not before I go and potentially ruin my phone

    Thanks, Jordan

    1. Um no – please don’t use Dimensional Magic to fix it. It can seep into the crack and ruin the inside stuff. You’ll need to get it professional repaired!

  49. I have a question about how to store mod podge crafts. I have many wood crafts that I sealed with pod podge. I wrapped them with paper to store them so they wouldn’t stick together and not the paper is stuck all over them and has ruined numerous pieces that I spent many hours on. What should I be wrapping them with? Or is there something that I can spray over top of them to keep things from sticking to them? I also store them in an outdoor storage facility….

    1. You can brush them or spray them with a clear acrylic top coat. I also recommend wax paper or Glad Press n’ seal between projects!

  50. Hello,
    I would like to know which mod podge would be best to stiffen grosgrain ribbon to put on an outdoor wreath?

  51. So I’m working on a project where I’m using mod podge and a tiny bit of water as a pouring medium, and I was going to use tape as a sort of stencil to keep the paint off of specific areas for a design, but the tape would be cut pretty thin and I need to find a way to take the tape off without it ripping or not being able to because the mod podge dried too much, so I guess my question is, when is the best time to do so, especially if I don’t want to take it off too early so that the paint smears over the areas I want to keep paint free.

    1. Hi Emmeline! You can wait until it dries. Use stencil tape or something that doesn’t stick (painter’s tape, etc). If the Mod Podge dries too much or over the tape, you can run an Xacto knife along the edge of the painter’s tape and it will help you be able to pull it up.

  52. I am making an Advent calendar using a cork board. If I paint the cork board with gesso first, can I then transfer a photo onto the painted surface with mod podge?

    Thank you.

  53. I am new to modpodge and crafting . I am decorating a ECO-FRIENDLY LEATHER Serving book for my friend for Xmas. My way is can I cover the front of the book using printed paper from Micheals? I wanted to do that and then add some stickers I bought for her.what is the best way to make this work?? All the posts I see is ppl using brown paper bags.. HELP

    1. Hi Molly! I don’t think Mod Podge would be your best bet for leather. I’d try a spray adhesive. Then put stickers over the paper, then seal it. I suppose you could try Mod Podge but I think you might have to sand, and I’m not sure how much it would stick.

  54. I am using Avery clear sticker project paper to put images on glassware. When I brush the dishwasher safe Mod Podge across the top of image, the ink smears. Yes, it’s inkjet & I let them dry for over 24hrs. I experimented with regular MP first then DWS MP and it seems to do better. Am I on the right track??? I know. 3-4 days before Christmas and I’m struggling! I didn’t want to have to make ANOTHER trip to Walmart for acrylic spray! If I spray stickers, how long to dry before applying DWS MP?? Appreciate any advice!!

    1. Hi Teresa! Even letting them dry, you would still need to spray them. But if you’re using Dishwasher Safe, I assume you’re going to be washing these. And if you are washing these, I would REALLY use laserjet so you don’t have the bleeding. Yes, Dishwasher Safe seals it, but you really want to have everything be as waterproof as possible. To be honest I’m not sure about the sticker paper. Usually sticker paper has a coating on top or is somewhat plastic, especially clear. My guess is, even if the clear sticker paper says it’s for inkjet, that anything wet is going to ruin it just due to the paper. If I were you and you want to do a clear sticker, I would contact someone on Etsy to make a vinyl one for me. Not what you want to hear before Christmas but I just don’t think the DWS is going to work with that sticker paper (I think any acrylic product would smear it).

    2. Hi Amy! I made another trip to Walmart, bought a can of Krylon Workable Fixatif, sprayed my printed sheets a couple times & after 2 hours, started layering the DWS MP. So far it’s working!! No smears or bleeding and I’m preparing to cut images out to stick on the glasses. I taped around them to keep it clean-looking. I’ll add a couple more coats of Mod Podge and hopefully be DONE! I love your info here! Your tips & the Q&A’s really kept me from pulling my gray hair out!! I imagine the recipients of these glasses will more than likely add them to their collections and not actually use them for drinking, but I’m giving hand-wash instructions anyway! Thank you so much!!!! Merry Christmas!!

  55. Hello! Doing some after Christmas crafting–thank you for your blog! I want to Mod Podge some notebook paper with someone’s handwritten notes in ink pen onto a canvas. Of course the notebook paper is thin and has notes written on the front AND back of the paper. Do you think I could seal the paper enough to not have bleeding from the back? I am going to do a test run but wanted to know what sealing products I should look for…

  56. I’m making team Disney Ears for my daughter’s drill team. I had the logo for their team made into an iron on transfer, but it is matte and I wanted to see if I could use Mod Podge glitter over the transfer to make them sparkle. Will that work on top of the iron on?

    1. @Amy, no, it just feels like paper-y not the plastic feel of some transfers, those tend to be kind of shiny, this is flat matte.
      Thanks for your reply. I wanted to try this before I bling them.

  57. I’m looking to do mod podge over a wooden Santa’s sleigh that has cut outs in it. My sister told me I can burn into the hole areas as would be a real pain to cut those areas out but not seeing anything like that online. Can you tell me if this is correct and if so how I would do that? Thanks

    1. Hi Pamela! I don’t know anything about the burning she’s referring to. If it were me I would probably use a craft knife. We have a Facebook group called “getting crafty with Mod Podge” if you want to ask in there (if you have a FB account).

  58. Hi, I just painted on a smooth unfinished ceramic piece. Then I made sure the paint was dry. Then I applied mod podge gloss to give it that shiny look and it made some of the paint smudge off and it left unwanted white lumps that dryed onto it. I made sure the mod podge was dry too! I got my podge a week ago. How do I fix these problems? And, what are all of the different types of mod podges and what do they do? Also, should I put podge on pencil or colored pencil? Or on canvas? I don’t know much about mod podge. Oh, and is it fine if I wash my brushes off with soap/water after applying the podge? What are all the different types of surfaces mod podge can go on? Important question: what are the do’s and the don’ts of mod podge. What are really good brands of mod podge? Last question, what surface should I let my project dry on? It keeps sticking to the newspaper and the newspaper rips and is stuck on my projects. Thanks!

    1. Hello! My guess is the ceramic was coated – which means the paint won’t stick, and neither will the Mod Podge. Mod Podge can’t peel paint off unless the paint isn’t sticking either. You can’t use latex paint with Mod Podge. And even when ceramic is unfinished, if it has any type of coating, a lot of times stuff won’t stick. You could sand the ceramic and see if that helps. OR you can put a spray paint coat down on it first. Here’s the Mod Podge formula guide: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/mod-podge-formula-guide/
      Here’s my guide to using it with pencils: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/using-mod-podge-with-ink-markers-pencils/
      Yes you can Mod Podge on canvas – here are some projects; https://modpodgerocksblog.com/mod-podge-on-canvas-ideas/
      Yes it is fine to rinse the brushes with soap and water. You absolutely should, because if it dries it will get stuck in the brushes and ruin them. You can get answers to the rest of your questions here: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/learn-how-to-mod-podge/
      I would use a silicone mat for your crafting surface. It is non-stick. Also please join our Mod Podge group – you can ask questions all the time!
      https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftywithmodpodge/

    2. @Amy, tysm for your answers. And I don’t think the ceramic is coated, it felt rough and dry. Though the podge did rub off the paint I think I can fix it thanks to you! I will defiantly consider the silicone mat, I never thought of it. Unfortunately, I don’t have a FB account, sorry! But I will tell others about it. If you like rabbits, I saw a great website called EARS. its run by Beatrice Bunn. Its really cool.

  59. Hi, I used mod podge gloss spray to seal acrylic keychains, but it let spots, bubbles. (Makes it look like fuzz is stuck but no fuzz.

  60. I am making laser burned earrings. Can I spray my wood jewelry with Mod Podge Matte Clear Acrylic Sealer.

    1. You can! Should be fine. Having said that, do a test first on a small portion of the earring. Let dry, then you should be fine. Then do the remainder.

  61. Hi I bought some plastic tumblers and have put on permanent vinyl on them as decor. I have read that you dont need a sealant but the vinyl decal consists of small bits that im worried may come off with a washing. I bought some dishwasher safe mod podge but am debating on putting it on but I have a question about curing.

    1) they will dry clear, right? as long as I make the coat thin. I’m worried that brush strokes will be seen.

    2) my husband accidently bought me the spongey black brushes. will those work well?

    3) These plastic tumblers will go into plastic bags to be handed out as gifts after the 4th day of drying and then be handed out in a month. So my question is, Can they “cure” in a plastic bag?
    What environment do they have to be in to “cure”?

  62. I sprayed my diamond art with hi shine modge podge. It looks cloudy. The can says to place the piece in a warm area, and it’ll clear up. I had it in a room that was 68 to 70⁰. Does it need to be warmer? What can I do?

  63. I accidently put matte mod podge over my ultrafine glitter and it lost all its shine. Is there a way to save it or do I need to redo it with gloss mod podge?

  64. Am new to using Mod Podge. Used it to adhere photos to wood (decoupage-style). Unfortunately, I used a brush on the first few and when applying the first coat didn’t cover quite fully, so there are white streaks on the photos. Have since sanded lightly and added another coat, which got rid of some of the streaks but there are still some left. Is there anything I can do now to fix them? Have moved to using a roller for all applications and it’s working much better now.

    1. Hi Rae! The only way to fix it more is to try to sand it a bit more. I worry that you might sand into the photos now. But you could use a really really light grit and see if it works!

    1. Hi Trisha! I’m not sure what would work on those type of cases. No acrylic product that I can think of (not Mod Podge). They don’t stick to that type of plastic :/

  65. Hey Amy!
    Hope you can help!
    I decorate ceramic/clay plant pots. I seal them first with a layer of mod podge. Then paint 2/3 coats of chalk paint, making sure each time the pot is left overnight to dry fully.
    Then I seal with another coat of mod podge. And leave again overnight.
    I live in a very warm country and have found that the mod podge has gone sticky on a couple of my pots and has started to peel off.
    I’m using the decoupage one because its the only one I can find here (its a small island in the middle of the Atlantic!)
    Is there anything I can do to avoid this as its pretty much ruined them!

    Thanks
    Wendy x

    Weird thing is, its not happened to every one!

    1. Hi Marlene! Since it’s not fabric to fabric you don’t need it washable in the machine so you can use regular Mod Podge. Plastic can be tricky though. It depends on the plastic. You can do a test and see if it works. A lot of people sand their plastic lightly before Mod Podging to make it stick better.

  66. I just recently made my first project which was a diy phone case. I sealed it with mod podge then sprayed it with the sealer a day later. It has now been two days and when I went to pick it up to see how it looks my finger prints stuck to it. Is there anyway to fix/ prevent this from happening again?

  67. I have painted some wooden buttons on a waistcoat with acrylic paint. I wanted to seal over them with mod podge. If I do that will I be able to wash the garment, or will it all come off the buttons and potentially ruin it in the wash?
    Also if I drycleaned the garment instead.. would that ruin the mod podge finish / cause it to damage the garment?

    1. Hi Debbie! So since you aren’t decoupaging, you don’t really need Mod Podge. And here’s my thought process – it really depends on the paint you used more than the Mod Podge and whether it was washable paint. BUT since the buttons are wooden anyway, I probably wouldn’t wash the garment. Because I don’t see paint staying on wood buttons no matter what you do if the garment is washed in a machine. And the washing could potentially ruin the buttons?

      I’d seal the buttons with a really tough spray sealer or brush on sealer. Then I’d put foil over them before taking the garment to the dry cleaner so they know not to hit the buttons. That’s often what I’ve seen at the cleaners when I have had things with cool buttons. They put foil over them. Good luck!

  68. I am resurfacing a formica countertop by sanding it down and painting it. I would like to put down old pictures and glitter throughout the counter. I thought about maybe using laminants on the photos and clippings b4 put any Mod Podge down on them. Will this react to with the Mod Podge?

    1. Mod Podge wouldn’t work well with laminants, if you are meaning lamination like adding a plastic-y coating with a laminator. Your best best is to use laserjet copies of the pictures and clippings so they don’t bleed. But there are a lot of options or ways that people tackle it. Can you join my Facebook group? There are 600k people – LOTS of countertops and this is a big project! https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftywithmodpodge

  69. I am using plastic coffee canister, I have sanded it a little, and also used waverly chalk in white, I ran some designs off a website to put on the canister. I then used gloss mod podge on the back of the picture and put it on the canister, I have waited 30 to 45 minutes for the mod podge to dry It doesn’t just stays white Please help what can I do next to seal the pictures on the coffee canisters

  70. I have a number of latex paint samples (not oil based) that I would like to use for a few projects. Mainly, painted canvas with vinyl pictures/messages. Can I use Mod Podge to “seal” the vinyl pictures/messages?

  71. So, I have a painting that I have sealed in Matt Mod Podge, and after it was fully dried, wrapped it in wrapping tissue. I will be sending it with my sister (who will be traveling by car) to Texas. My question is, will the wrapping tissue stick to the Mod Podge in the Texan heat?

  72. I have been using the Matte ModPodge for years, why would it suddenly come out shiny on a project? Have to redo several items now. thanks

  73. I want to use Mod Podge to seal some Sharpie writing on a metal surface. If I apply Mod Podge on top of the Sharpie and put a clear coat (i.e. Minwax Polycrylic) on top of that, will the Mod Podge below cause the top clear coat to crack?

    1. Nope! Just let the Sharpie dry completely, and then let the Mod Podge dry completely. There’s only cracking/crackle when the Mod Podge isn’t dry and a top coat is applied.

    2. @Amy, Great, thanks so much! What about screen printing on a metal surface, is Mod Podge safe to use on something like this as well?

  74. I’ve mixed mod lodge an black glitter 2gether in the container of mod podge(it’s a lil under 1/2 full) Is it possible to put 2 much glitter? And can I put the top back on the mod podge to keep it good under I finish my project? It’s 10 at night & I’m asking this question and I know no one’s going to answer me this late so I’m going to have to just try it. Wish me luck

    1. I usually use 1/2 cup Mod Podge to 1 – 3 T glitter. Yes it is possible to put too much glitter. You need most of the mixture to be glue for it to stick. Yes you can put the top back on to keep it good. Good luck!

  75. Want to apply photos to wooden disc for a wreath. From everything I read if it is not a laser jet printer I must first cost them with hair spray or acrylic~correct? Then I can apply to the wood with Midge Podge and then coat the top after enough drying time

  76. Do I really have to wait 4 weeks for my mod podge hard coat to cure before I use a top coat? I am painting my bathroom cabinets and I need to seal them properly as they will get high traffic use but also they are in a humid room so I need them to withstand that, I was going to use mod podge hard coat first and then a top coat over the top for extra protection but I can’t wait four weeks inbetween…. Should I just cut out the mod podge stage, or will all be ok if I leave it a few days before using a top coat?

    1. Curing is different than drying – once it’s dry you can put the top coat over. You’ll be fine to leave it for a few days. Curing is just when it reaches its toughest strength chemically speaking.

  77. I had been planning on mod podging a picture (painted with acrylics) onto a box as a present. I hadn’t realised it needed to cure for 4 weeks – I need to post it next week! Is this possible or should I try a different technique? Thank you 🙂

  78. Need help asap. Ordered hand painted bible. When I opened I, tape was stuck to the cover and the modge Podge sealer came off in a spot. I tried picking it to make better. Any ideas what to do to fix this area? Can’t post a pic here.

  79. I am a first timer, I am making a tea light in a glass jar pusing a napkin. When cutting the napkin do I line it up or do I leave a little over lap, to allow for shrinkage. Also I am wondering if I sand the glass bottle before putting on the napkin or is a layer of modge podge enough on the jar put the napkin on and modge podge over it enough?

  80. I want to transfer an image that large that needs to be printed in 2 A4 papers, when I use mod podge, there is an ‘invisible line’ where the two papers collide that ends up adding a groove line that is very ugly, any suggestions on how to remove it? the line is very much visible when I put some paint on top of it

  81. Hello, I am planning on painting Converse canvas shoes and I need a sealant for them. I have Matte mod podge but not fabric mod podge and wanted to ask if Matte mod podge would and not crack or rub off or if I had to buy the fabric one.

    1. Honestly I wouldn’t recommend Mod Podge as a sealer for paint on shoes. If you were attaching fabric or glitter to shoes, Mod Podge is great. But just sealing . . . use a spray sealer that is tough in the finish of your choice. A lot of people recommend this: https://angelusdirect.com/collections/acrylic-finisher
      It is brush on, but that’s fine.
      I know Mod Podge is brush on too, but it is best in applications where you are decoupaging or attaching something to a shoe versus just painting on it!

  82. I used the matte finish Mod Podge to seal a diamond art painting and it’s very dull. How can I remove it and use the glossy?

  83. I put Modge podge 3 dimensional on an acrylic blank and after allowing to dry for over 3 hours, it was touched and now there are wrinkles in it. It was completely dry, I don’t understand why there are now wrinkles… can someone help me?

  84. I am trying to tint glass bud vases for a bridal shower. I tried the food coloring with glossy mod podge on the outside of the vases and they came out great. How do I seal them so they are water resistant? Or should I use the dishwasher or outside mod podge? Thanks!

  85. I want to use mod podge and food coloring to paint on the outside of my canisters then bake them so it stays. Will this harm the contents of the canisters?

  86. I used mod podge gloss then waited 4 weeks for it to cure. I then used an acrylic spray gloss over the top to prevent it being tacky and now my beautiful glossy surface has gone dull and to touch it feels like a matte finish. Can this be fixed?

  87. I am a PE teacher, and I want to put cut-out shapes and/or stickers on an elementary school gym floor (it is either rubber or vinyl). The kids love to pick off anything they can get their fingernails under, therefore, the shapes need to be sealed. Can this be done? If so, which product would be best to use? Thank you.

    1. Hi Jana! You’ll need to go to Home Depot and grab something for sealing floors! An acrylic product is not nearly tough enough. You’ll need a Verathane floor finish for high traffic. Good luck!

  88. I was mod podging a project the other day and the lid fell on top of my cat. He now has a dried spot of mod podge on his ear. Any recommendations for how to get it out of fur? Thanks 😊

  89. I used modge lodge to glue fabric onto my bible. however, there are a ton of spots that dried dark and i can’t find anything about how to fix it. i’ve done this project with another bible before and it turned out fine. how can i fix it?

  90. I painted on a ceramic plate and sealed with mod podge. I checked it at 17 minutes and it was looking so good. Checked again and my plates are now brown/burnt. Can I get the mod podge off without taking the paint off and reseal?

  91. I am doing some diamond painting coasters for Christmas presents and I use the Dishwasher Mod podge. I already put cork backing on the backs of some. Will the Mod Podge hurt the cork or make it slippery? Or am I better off removing the cork?

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