Feb 27, 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to Using Mulberry Paper for Decoupage

Mulberry paper is quickly becoming a favorite in the decoupage community because of its high-quality texture, excellent ink absorption, strength, and Eco-friendliness. This comprehensive guide will explore why mulberry paper stands out, its advantages for decoupage, and how you can use it in your crafts.

What is Mulberry Paper?

Mulberry paper is made from the bark of the mulberry tree, specifically from its branches, which are harvested in a way that does not harm the tree's main structure, ensuring sustainability. The bark's fibers are long, lending the paper its remarkable strength and durability. The texture of mulberry paper can vary from smooth, ideal for printmaking, to highly textured. Additionally, the paper can incorporate various inclusions such as flower petals, leaves, and even gold and silver flakes, enhancing its decorative appeal.

Mulberry paper is known by many names such as "Kozo Paper", "Washi", "Hanji", or "Rice Paper".

Benefits of Using Mulberry Paper for Decoupage

Premium Texture and Aesthetic: The distinct textures and inclusions found in mulberry paper enrich decoupage projects with depth and intrigue, providing a unique aesthetic that distinguishes it from other types of paper. Whether it's the smooth yet luxurious texture ideal for printing your designs, or the robustly textured variety that serves as standout decoupage material on its own, mulberry paper offers versatile options for creative expression.
Superior Ink absorption: Mulberry paper is renowned for its excellent ink absorption qualities, a characteristic that makes it highly valued in various artistic and printing applications. This superior ink absorption is largely due to the long fibers derived from the mulberry tree's bark. These fibers create a porous structure that allows the paper to absorb ink deeply and evenly, resulting in vibrant, rich colors and sharp, clear lines. The high absorbency of mulberry paper makes it a favorite among calligraphers, printmakers, and artists who require a paper that can handle heavy, saturated applications of ink without bleeding or spreading.
Durability and Flexibility: The long fibers of mulberry paper make it exceptionally strong, meaning it can withstand the wet glue and varnish applied during the decoupage process without tearing easily. Despite its strength, mulberry paper is quite flexible, making it easy to manipulate around curved surfaces and into intricate designs.
Eco-Friendly: Since mulberry paper is made from natural fibers and is renewable, it's an environmentally friendly option for crafters concerned with sustainability.

DIY Digital Printing on Decoupage Mulberry Paper

Yes, you can print your own designs for decoupage using mulberry papers.

Digital printing on decoupage mulberry paper combines modern technology with traditional craft materials, creating unique and personalized designs for a variety of decorative applications.

Many of our clients prefer using paper ranging from 25 to 45 gsm in thickness for their digital printmaking projects.

Inkjet printers are preferred for their ability to produce vibrant colors and subtle gradients, making them ideal for detailed and colorful designs. The water-based inks penetrate the mulberry paper's porous texture, enhancing the handcrafted feel of the decoupage project.

On the other hand, laser printers offer precision, with their toner particles bonding firmly to the paper surface, making them suitable for designs that require sharp lines such as small texts. Using decoupage mulberry paper with a laser printer is more challenging compared to an inkjet printer, primarily due to the heat generated by the laser printing process, which might cause delicate very thin paper to brown or even burn. If your laser printer allows you to adjust the heat settings, use the lower setting to help prevent the paper from damage.

How to Use Mulberry Paper in Decoupage

Materials Needed:

Mulberry paper
Decoupage glue or Mod Podge (preferably choosing an acid-free glue for the best results.)
A base object to decorate (wood, glass, metal, etc.)
Brushes
Scissors or a craft knife
Varnish (optional for added protection)

Steps:

Preparation: Begin by preparing your base object by cleaning its surface to ensure it's free of dust and grease. For best results, apply a base coat of paint if the object isn’t already primed or colored to your liking.
Cutting the Paper: Cut or tear your mulberry paper into the desired shapes and sizes for your project. Tearing can give a feathered edge that blends smoothly onto the surface.
Applying Glue: Apply a thin layer of decoupage glue or Mod Podge to the area of your object where you will place the paper. Position your mulberry paper over the glue and smooth it out carefully to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.
Sealing: Once all your paper pieces are in place and the glue has dried, apply a top coat of glue or varnish to seal the paper. This not only protects your work but also gives it a finished sheen. Multiple coats may be applied for extra durability, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
Finishing Touches: After the final coat has dried completely, you may add any additional decorations or details to your project, such as paint, stamps, or additional paper layers.

Tips for Success with Mulberry Paper Decoupage

Experiment with both tearing and cutting the paper to take advantage of the unique edges each method produces.
Use a minimal amount of glue to avoid soaking the paper, which could lead to tearing or distortion.
Work in small sections, especially on larger projects, to maintain control and precision.
Consider using a plastic wrap or a clean, dry brush to smooth out the paper and remove air bubbles without damaging the wet paper.

Where You Can Buy Our Decoupage Mulberry Paper

Kozo Studio Online Store (you're here right now!). We ship from Thailand to almost everywhere in the world at low prices. Usually, it takes about 10 to 20 days for your order to arrive, depending on where you live.

If you're in the US, you can also purchase from our wonderful retailers, who carry both blank and fabulous printed decoupage mulberry papers.