Materials:
postage stamps--available at stamp collecting shops (usually in large, inexpensive bags)
wallpaper paste, white glue or decoupage glue
wood box or accessory
base paint for wood accessory (optional: paint just the inside and edges of the box if desired with water-based paint so the glue adheres to it).
thin antiquing glaze--use paint or tint (optional). Try mixing a bit of brown paint with some white glue, decoupage medium or buy a craft antiquing glaze paint. Mix water with brown paint to create a thin paint that will dry quickly and make uneven stains.
acrylic polyurethane (optional)
wood knob for box lid (optional)
gold paint for knobs and other trim (optional)
letter-sealing stamp and wax for trim on knobs and other areas (optional)
Steps:
- Base-paint the item if desired. Let dry completely.
- Spread glue or wallpaper paste on an area of the wood item and place stamps down in desired pattern.
- When placing stamps over other layers, coat the bottom of the stamp with glue or paste. Also brush the tops of the stamps with glue or paste.
- Continue until the item is covered and stamps are as desired. Let item dry completely .
- Antique the item by spreading some brown antiquing glaze over it and then wipe off. For a darker tint, let it soak in before wiping or add several coats. Let dry .
- Seal with polyurethane if desired.
- Paint knobs for lids or other trim. Let dry and glue/screw onto item (drill knob hole if necessary).
- Add sealing wax decorations by melting the wax according to product directions , and then use a brass stamp to create a design.
Tip: Coat the brass stamp with vegetable oil first so the sealing wax does not clog the design.
Stamp tips:
- To remove a stamp from an envelope, place the letter in the freezer for about an hour (or place a bag of ice on top of the stamp). When it gets cold, the glue will loosen and the stamp will peel off easily.
- Lighter fluid will also work. Pour some on the back of the stamp and let it soak in. The stamp should then peel off easily (Do not use lighter fluid near an open flame or lit cigarettes).
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