Decoupage-it might be an illness

Pinterest can be a dangerous thing.  In the best way, of course.

After seeing some decoupaged crates on Pinterest, I knew I had finally found something to replace the dilapidated baskets we use to hold firewood. 

A couple years ago, I had purchased some pretty napkins at Ikea but never used them for the project I had in mind at the time.  (And I hate printed napkins for mealtime.  They're pretty as can be but all that ink makes them useless for cleaning food off my face.)  I was excited to try them on crates.

But first, maybe I should try a smaller project?

I found an ugly, dark, cheap tray at a rummage sale.  I painted it white and separated the layers of my first napkin...

I ended up peeling the torn napkin off the tray and throwing it away.  Next I tried scrapbook paper and wallpaper border.  It isn't perfect, but I'm happy enough with it.

I scouted around on Pinterest for decoupage advice and found a few tips that gave me hope.

Then I went to Joann Fabrics last Saturday and found crates half-off.  Deep breath.  Maybe I could make the napkins work?  Half-off makes it a pretty small waste of money if it didn't work.  And they'd still be functional, even if I couldn't pretty them up, right?  So, I brought two home.

I finished putting the napkins on tonight.  More coats of ModPodge and they'll truly be finished but I'm pretty delighted with how they look.

I pulled out a jar destined for recycling and a small napkin printed with chevrons today...and considered.  Yep, I'm pretty sure decoupage is a disease.