Decoupage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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decoupage
[ˈdɛkəˌpɑːʒ ]
Definition
craft technique
Decoupage is a craft technique that involves decorating an object by gluing colored paper cutouts onto it. This is typically finished with a coat of varnish or lacquer to give it a polished look. It can be used on various surfaces, including wood, glass, and ceramics.
Synonyms
collage, paper arts.
Examples of usage
- She decorated the box using decoupage.
- Decoupage techniques were used to create the artwork.
- He learned decoupage at the art class.
- Her favorite hobby is decoupage on furniture.
Translations
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Origin of 'decoupage'
The term 'decoupage' comes from the French word 'decouper,' which means 'to cut out.' The craft likely originated in the 12th century when the Chinese began decorating their furniture and objects with intricately cut paper designs. It gained popularity in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in France, where it was adopted by bourgeois society as an affordable means of embellishing their belongings. Artists and craftsmen refined decoupage techniques, using it not just for decorative purposes but also as a means of artistic expression. Over time, decoupage evolved into various forms and practices, blending with other artistic disciplines and remaining a cherished craft for home decor and personalized art projects.