Small Print
 
These decoupaged dishes make for an inspired display on a table and are equally at home with vintage glass objects.

Here's how: Enlarge clip art to the size of a transparent glass plate and print design on thin paper, such as lightweight resume paper. Cut pattern to size and shape of the plate. Spread a thin, even coat of decoupage medium over the underside of the plate and apply the clip art so that the image shows through the bottom of the plate. Smooth out air bubbles with your fingers and make sure all edges are adhered. Set aside to dry. If your clip art isn't perfectly flush with the plate's edge, use a fine sanding block to smooth the edges or trim with sharp scissors. Once the paper is fully dry, paint two or three layers of acrylic paint onto the back of the plate to seal it. (We used a champagne-colored acrylic paint to complement the clip art.) 
 
Alphabet Soup
 
Here's how: Collect old or new pieces, such as signs, printers' blocks, game cards, typography art—anything featuring numbers or letters. Choose a variety of shapes and sizes and arrange on a shelf.

Tip: Flea markets and garage sales are good sources for typographic ephemera, but you can also try online stores such as paper-source.com, etsy.com, and buysignletters.com for new items.
 
Letter Perfect
 
Here's how: For a large surface like this work space or a dining table, choose a big graphic pattern. Before you begin, read manufacturer's instructions and clean all areas where decals will be applied. Position decal and use adhesive tape to hold it in place. Peel off a small corner of the backing paper and continue to slowly remove while gently smoothing the decal onto the surface with hands or a brayer. When all the paper has been removed, press firmly to get rid of any rough spots. No top coat sealer needed.

Tip: Feel free to cut up a decal and rearrange the elements on a piece of furniture any way you like.

More Great Decorating Tips From Family Circle
 
Related Articles From Family Circle:

• How to Decorate Pillows with Lace
• How to Make Handmade Pottery
• How to Decorate with Ribbons

What have you been using to decorate your home?

*Photo Provided