Mod Podge: Project Ideas for All Ages

Remember Mod Podge? This classic arts and crafts material brings back so many memories. I can picture the big jar of this goo with the yellow and red label and recall the familiar scent. Not only is Mod Podge still around, it is better than ever. Mod Podge Dimensional Magic can be used in combination with regular Mod Podge to create a clear, hard, raised surface that acts much like acrylic resin, but without the fumes or multiple steps involved. This makes it a perfect choice for art projects, especially when you want to create with kids.

Mod Podge Dimensional Rings

Instead of buying a mass produced or artist-created ring in a specialty shop, be your own jewelry designer. This project is a great one to do with a group of girls. Make birthday or Christmas presents, or just a custom wardrobe of funky styles.

What you need to make custom rings:

• Patterned paper, magazine page or drawing
• Penny
• Mod podge
• Glue
• Mod Podge Dimensional Magic
• Paint brush
• Ring blank

1. Choose an image that you want to use. A design from a magazine, photo or a small piece of patterned scrapbook paper will work. If you really want a custom piece of jewelry, draw your own.
2. Trace a penny on the image to get the size you need to cover the ring blank. Cut out the image. Brush front and back with regular Mod Podge. Once dry, glue the image to the penny.
3. Set the penny on a completely flat surface in a safe place that will not be disturbed. Squeeze Mod Podge Dimensional Magic over the surface of the image. The layer will be raised. If any bubbles appear in the glaze, pop with a toothpick.
4. Let glue dry at least 24 hours. Glue the penny to the ring blank and wear it proudly!
5. If you want to create a necklace or earrings, use a bezel in the size needed. Bezels and jewelry findings can be found in craft stores or online.

Mod Podge Decorated Dimensional Tins
Decorated tins cost very little to make, but can make a big impact when given as a gift. The finished product will have a raised, glass-like look to it. Spell out a friend's name, ransom note style, or create a mosaic look with multiple pieces of colored paper. Fill with candy or a custom-made ring for a special gift.

What you need:

• Tin, such as an Altoid tin or other small tin
• Decorated paper, magazine images, photos or drawings
• Scissors
• Seed beads
• Glue

1. Cut out desired images to cover the lid of the tin. Use several images to create a design on the lid, or choose one large image. Spread the front and back with regular Mod Podge and let dry. Glue the pieces in the desired pattern on the lid.
2. Glue seed beads over the image if desired. Cover the surface with Mod Podge Dimensional Magic. Start a the edges and spiral toward the center. Leave untouched for at least 24 hours.
   

Acrylic resin is not the only product on the block. Mod Podge can rival the look without the dangerous fumes. Pull out the supplies on a rainy day and watch your kids knock out gift after gift!


More by Sylvie Branch:
Host a Kids Art Show
Five Fun Games to Play with Sidewalk Chalk
Tin Can Art: 2-Dimensional Collages