Thank you! great diy! and yes I love pinterest!

Awesome! This made my day!!! New follower here. ;)

great idea!!!! that will be saving me lots of money!!

This would not be waterproof, would it?

@ anonymous- I don't know if it would be waterproof. I guess the best way to find out is to try it out on something small. Just curious, what are you making that will get wet?

I don't think Mod Podge is waterproof either. You usually have to spray a waterproof finish on it.

Good idea Jackiofalltrades!

Thank you! I never buy that stuff, just because it costs too much! I will make this! LOVE Pinterest!

Modge Podge is waterproof, once it dries.

Thanks so much for sharing Ladies!! I have often wondered if this would work...we used to use this in art when I was in school, waaaay back when! I will definitely be trying it out soon! And yes, yes, yes! to Pinterest!

I'm from Australia and haven't heard of Elmers Glue... what kind of glue is it?

Mod Podge is NOT waterproof, even after it dries. I used the gloss kind to make a cover around my son's water bottle for his field day so it wouldn't get mixed up with others, but after some time in the cooler in ice, which turned to water, it started to dissolve the mod podge and turned whitish and sticky.

@ misstalie - Elmers glue is just regular glue that kids use in school for projects and such. It's white and dries clear. It's nothing special and it is real inexspensive (especially during back to school season). I don't know how else to describe it so maybe you could google it. Hope that helps!

Is it supposed to be runnier than Mod Podge? I made some and it seems really wattery. I poured the bottle of glue in the jar then filled the glue bottle with water, so I think I have the ratios correct...just seems a little runny.

Thanks ladies. It sounds like something we'd call CLAG.

misstalie, I think it would be more like PVA

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I need to use some today checked my jar and its very thick. Was thinking about adding a little water...but now I will just go to the $ Store pick up some Elmers. Thanks soooooo much for sharing.

I guess it could be a little runny but I think it works just the same. On your next batch use less water and add a little more at a time until you get the consistancy that you like. Good luck!

In Argentina we´ve been using 50% glue & 50% water for years, Mod Pog comes from USA so cost is imposible. All my decoupage projects and crafts are made with this formula. LOVE PINTEREST!!!

Mod Podge is NOT waterproof. Anything with water and glue is not waterproof. I recommend using a sprayer sealer or polyurethane to seal anything.

The other bonus to making your own Mod Podge there is no smell :)

Pinterest is AWESOME!!!

I love this! Thanks for posting.

In case anyone from UK was curious - PVA is the equivalent - been wondering about mod podge for a while! Thanks :)

This is great and so much less expensive that the store bought MP. Thank you for sharing! Hugs, Bobbi Jo

Be careful using this on photos or anything that comes in contact with them. Not all Elmer's glue is acid free.

What is mod podge?

Wow, great idea!!! Only one thing, I'm in Italy and I don't know if the glue that we have here is the right one, it is "Vinavil" and I think is like the PVA glue but I'm not sure... Any one can help me about this? By the way: I LOVE Pinteres!!!! so many inspirations and people to share with :))

What a great cost saving idea! Thanks for sharing!

I've used Mod Podge to coat my art student's projects, but you must be careful because any place you've used water-based markers ( i.e. Crayola markers) will smear and ruin your picture! I wonder if there would be any difference in quality or waterproofness if you made the mixture with Elmer's Glu-All instead of School Glue?

Found this on Pinterest :-) This is one of those so simple and genius ideas! Can't wait to save $ with this.

Someone mentioned runny markers with Mod Podge. I found a tip that I haven't used yet but sounds like it works. When printing a quote or using one with markers spray first with hairspray let dry than glue to project.

So funny! I made this when I was 10 years old and decoupaging a gift for my Memere... totally forgot about it until I just saw this on Pinterest! Thanks for the reminder. ;)

This is awesome! I found it on Pinterest. I've only recently come across Mod Podge and was wondering about using it to make some decorations for my upcoming wedding - but being on a budget, decided not to buy it yet - I'm so pleased I didn't!! I already have the PVA glue, so can use that - fantastic! :) Thanks ladies, Tash in New Zealand

great post I so using this once I run out but mod podge comes in 10 different versions lol like glossy and matte. Is there anyway I can duplicate that like adding varnish or something?

They make an outdoor mod podge that is waterproof

This might seem like a stupid question but what id Mod Podge? Is it like a rubber cement..? I've never heard of it!

*is GAH!

I'm from Australia too and have been trying to work out for ages what modge podge is. It seems that it's just a weak version of PVA. The full strength PVA is carpenters glue, whoch you can water down as you like for craft work. What we call 'school glue' (because it's non toxic, cheap and washes out of clothes) or 'white glue'is a weaker version which works well for car and fabric.

This is an awesome DIY idea....homemade modge podge sounds awesome! I hope you will link up with me here:
http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/2011/09/sweet-saturday-v4.html

Oh ya, and I am your newest follower!

That is AWESOME!! I can't wait to make some - I'm a follower for sure!

www.scrapproject365.blogspot.com

Thank you, thank you for this the universe revealed!

I read up and found that most people use 1 cup glue to 1/3 cup water, if that helps. Also, you can add varnish to it to make it glossy.

Also from Oz and have been curious about Mod Podge for ages but no more mystery. Sounds like good ole PVA watered down. Thank you for the insight! xc:

One warning....you must use Elmer's Glue, not School Glue if you want a waterproof finish. Otherwise, your homemade Mod Podge will actually attract any moisture in the air and turn cloudy. If you use regular Elmer's Glue-All, it will be waterproof when your project is dry.

Haha, i can't stop laughing. I'm from Germany and i'm desperately trying to find out what exactly Mod Podge is made from, because we don't have it here. It's too funny to see how everyone else who is not from the US is as confused as i am and curious about Mod Podge too. I guess I can make my own as soon as i've figured out the german equivalent to Elmer's Glue, CLAG and PVA, lol :))
Does anyone know UHU? I think it might be the same, but i'm not sure

Hahaha I didn't know people actually buy mod podge haha it was always the term I thought for "watered down glue" lol. And I'm from the US lol

Isn't it wonderful how crafters form all over the world can have a conversation about glue. It is a great idea.

How long does it last before drying up?

Er I'm from India and I kept wondering about mod podge too lol. Now wondering what the Indian equivalent is. Is it Fevicol?

Wikipedia on PVA glue: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyvinyl_alcohol

OH MY! I wish I had found this a few days ago! I am hosting a craft night at my house for 25 of my teaching friends and just bought $30 worth of mod podge! WOW.. this really could have saved me some money! Now I know for next time.. thanks for sharing!

P.S. I'm your newest follower!

everydayaem.blogspot.com

Ashley

Does it have to be white Elmer's glue, or can it be the clear kind?

Perfect! Just found your through pinterest. Have been wanting to test out my Mod Podge skills... This will push me forward. My son has 439 bottles of glue laying around. You know, because he needs a new bottle every year for school.

that's where I found you too. I do love pinterest, but get too caught up in it and don't get to other things
peace,
CheyAnne
http://www.cheyannesexton.etsy.com

I've been doing this for a long time... in Egypt it is impossible to find any craft supplies.We don't even have Elmer's, so I use a generic white glue called OKAY. I print kitchen jar labels on my inkjet, spray it with a light coat of clear varnish to prevent smearing, and use the glue solution like Modge Podge. I use these jars daily while cooking, often touching it with wet hands, and clean it
regularly inside with hot water. Outside I do a quick wipe down with a damp cloth, followed by a dry cloth. Jars still look great after 3 years!

Thank you Thank you for this, I have seen MOD PODGE everywhere on Pintrest and to be honest had no idea what it was! Thanks for the ideas and love your blog!

Does this get sticky like mod-podge does? I love mod podge but hate the stickiness layer that is left when it dries.

Actually, this makes sense. Mod Podge SMELLS like Elmer's glue. I figured it was just a thinner version of glue. Though, like someone else said, there are quite a few different finishes of mod podge. You'd probably need to see the ingredients of all of them to figure out how to make the different types.

GENIUS!! I was about to start crafting with mod podge for the first time thanks to pinterest making me think I'm a crafty person now. I can't wait to DIY the actual Mod Podge before i make my DIY crafts!

xoxo MYSTYLEVITA.com

There is a Elmers brand equivalent called Bostik. Looks like it is common in Germany and the U.K.

Can I just say, loving that I found this on pinterest, loving even more that there is such an international following! This conversation is fascinating, totally giving me the giggles that so many have the same thoughts (what is Elmers glue? what is Mod Podge?) . So far I have counted the UK, New Zealand, India, Egypt, Australia and at least one gal I am guessing is French. What a great idea, can not wait to try it out!

hands up for fellow Australian! Does anyone know what polyurethane is in Australia? I tried using outdoor clear enamel gloss varnish but it was still sticky...

Gonna make this right now so my 2 crafting buddies and I can use it tomorrow for our weekly fall crafting day...WOO HOO! Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!

Love this! I'm here in the Philippines, and Mod Podge is sold at one store which i had to hunt down. Whereas they have Elmers glue in our normal school supply/book store!

If i wanted a more durable coating, can i use carpenter's glue and water instead, or is this elmers good enough? From what I'm seeing in the comments, there is a small issue with it being waterproof.

I used Mod Podge mixed with burnt umber acrylic paint to "age" a cheap print and make it look like an oil painting. I was thrilled with the results. The print was one of those from Target/WalMart that was glued to cardboard. The cardboard made it sturdy enough to handle the Mod Podge. (tried it on a print without cardboard and it didn't work) I cut the fake mat off and reframed in a nice vintage frame and I feel like I've got a fine piece of artwork. The antiqued mod podge made the print look old and like it had brush strokes. LOVE. Thanks for the tip. Mod Podge is ridiculous in price-especially as we KNOW the product is NOT expensive to make. Mary from Oklahoma :)

Hmm, interesting, as the bottle of Mod Podge I have sitting on my desk is a lot thicker than the Elmer's glue I have. :/ Wondering about that.

And I always, always use matte Mod Podge. I hate the glossy stuff...so is this formula matte?

love the idea

Cracks me up that I will spend close to $4 on a product that could be made for under a buck! I love it and my wallet thanks you! :)

Modge Podge is available in Australia ( i work in a craft shop) but sells for about $20 AUD a bottle. Much cheaper to use PVA and water. Have been doing this for years! lol.
For those of you unsure what PVA is, check the ingredients label on your glue and it will tell you what the most active ingredient is.
Also found you via Pinterest. Thanks!

Am also going to try this instead of another expensive product called Fabric Stiffener. Am sure it will work just as well to stiffen lace, etc.

hi. I was going to comment too and say that you can buy mod podge in Australia. I've seen it. But no way am i going to buy it now. lol Plus it's expensive. I've used watered down pva before. I've also added paint to it to antique something aswell. Great blog btw :)

Love it!!! Cheaper and just as good?! Right on. And yes, thank GAWD for Pinterest.

Just posted this and linked back to you on www.recessionhome.com - where I curate thrifty craft ideas... Thanks so much! And come check us out...

Ashley

Hey guys, I made a mod podge Q&A post. Hope it answers some questions for you!

http://doityourselfdivas.blogspot.com/2011/09/diy-mod-podge-q.html

I knew there was an easy way to make it because we used to all the time in girl scouts but i couldn't remember exactly what you did. Elmers glue is sooo much cheaper than modpodge! Thanks!

Just made some! Much runnier than Mod Podge... I think next time I'll do 1/2 cup water to 1 cup glue. Still working for what I need :) Thanks!

Has anyone diluted Titebond or Titebond II and tried it??

great idea!!!

great idea!!!

@Ann Kay: no, UHU is not mod podge! Serviettenkleber is the one. >o) Greetings from Ireland!

I agree that Elmers All Bond does better & I use less water - more like 2/3 glue & 1/3 water. It is ALLLL much cheaper than modge podge though & I think the All Bond works better. I also use it to make REALLY strong paper mache projects. We make ones so strong that we use non yellowing varnish on them (outdoor varnish) and use paper mache outdoors without an issue. I wouldn't set it directly on dirt, but elevated on a rock or on the porch or patio it works awesome.

I agree that Elmers All Bond does better & I use less water - more like 2/3 glue & 1/3 water. It is ALLLL much cheaper than modge podge though & I think the All Bond works better. I also use it to make REALLY strong paper mache projects. We make ones so strong that we use non yellowing varnish on them (outdoor varnish) and use paper mache outdoors without an issue. I wouldn't set it directly on dirt, but elevated on a rock or on the porch or patio it works awesome.

I have been using that mixture for years, but thought I should try Modge Podge because it should be better....haha! It does not work as well as glue and water. Shame on me for not believing in myself.

Yes i love Pinterest and that is exactly where i found you girls. Thanks for sharing. I once did think about using Elmer's glue instead of Mod Podge but i was afraid that I'd ruin my craft so I did not. This post restores some confidence :)

Oh my gosh! Now I can make the glitter Mod Podge I've been lusting after, but refusing to spend the money on! Awesome!

Wow, this is just genius. I don't buy Mod Podge, but my mom buys it on a rare occasion. I suddenly have the urge to craft... :D

Why can't we use straight Elmer's glue?

YAAAAYYYY!!!! cant wait to try this! I am new to pinterest, as of today to be exact. I seen you there =) I have crammed so much into my litle brain today. I think it might explode. I have typed up a homemade laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, cleaning products, hand scrubs and now mod pode recipes. All something I use on a daily basis. Talking about SAVING MONEY!!!!! Something I have been trying so hard to achieve. Thank you so much!!!!!

How long does it last in jar. Can't wait to try it.

pinterest rocks...I'm totally addicted! Thanks for the tutorial, the look of burlap is really growing on me and it look divine paired w/lace and muslin, my tree is going to have a whole new look this year!

I just bought some mod podge yesterday...now I know better! As for smearing pictures or artwork, I've found that spraying with a clear coat of spray paint first works wonders. And it dries almost instantly, too. I've been able to mod-podge over ink jet black and white photos with this technique.

This works beautifully! And yes-there is the added bonus of no Modge Podge smell. PINTREST IS FABU!

@ann-kay: Elmer's Glue is weisses Bastelkleber, you know like the 1 euro bottles you can buy at Kik?

I use MP almost everyday with my glass plates ... thanks for the tip! Can't wait to try!

To Martha or anyone else in Italy, you want to use Vinavil or any other brand "colla vinilica".
Jo

Great idea, I was off to buy some mod podge tomorrow, but now I might try this instead - thanks!

I've also used a version of this homemade mode podge but with wood glue! It's waterproof!!!
I think my mixture is more like 3 parts glue to 2 parts water, but it's really to preference. I'm a sucker for a high gloss and my things usually get a spray of clear varnish after anyway. But the wood glue is very strong stuff, so if you're doing anything for outdoors it's a great preservative. Great post!!!

Love working with Mod Podge and thank you for this recipe...I knew I bought that huge jug of Elmer's glue for reasons beyond glitter. I have joined your followers list and invite you to join my followers list; as well,I hope you will grab a blog button. Hugs, Gayle
http://atastefultouch.blogspot.com

My preference is to use more like a 75% white glue and 25% water. It's just what I am used to and it's worked fine for me for many years. Hope this helps the person who said they thought theirs was a bit runny.

I love Pinterest! Found you there, I just can't seem to get an invite. I'm very focused on a homemade holiday for my family this year, and can't wait to make this mod podge. I have a few presents ready for this stuff. Thanks for posting.

From Pinterest, as well. Thanks for this! I was about to hunt for Mod Podge (I just discovered it) but now it seems I don't have to! ~ Marian from Manila, Philippines

Here is a similar recipe that I have used. It has a glossy finish to it, due to the wood varnish. I also think that the varnish would help with it being a little more water proof and sealed better, the only downfall is that there is going to be some smell that comes along with using the varnish in the mix.
Homemade Mod Podge: Mix 1 cup of white glue with 1/3 cup water. Add 2 tablespoons of varnish for gloss finish. Keep in a container with a tightly sealed screw on lid. Use for decoupage projects.

I use Aleene's tacky glue. And depending on what I want to make I use more or less water ;)

Awesome!!! I have been wanting to do some projects but the price held me at bay...Now I can do it with out worry about $$$$!!

Thanks, I have a craft studio and find that the recipe will greatly cut back on costs!! Great!

will it work on things like diy canvas? you're supposed to put mod podge over the picture, this being glue, would it ruin the picture?

Made my Diva Podge...a million thanks!

bakesnbooks.blogspot.com

Just a thought... Elmer's also make a waterproof formula carpenter's glue. When mixed with water it might not be 100% waterproof but might offer a little more tolerance to moisture. The color is a little more on the beige side than white, but still dries very light and watered down I would imagine even lighter. Gonna test this tomorrow!

I'm an art teacher and I have made this mixture for years and have saved lots of $$$! It works just as well as the expensive Modge Podge!!

I seen a comment about about sealing w/ polyurethane. That is an EPIC FAIL! :( I just did 90 bottle cap magnets and filled then w/ polyurethane only to find out that is does not dry clear (even though I used what they said was a clear coat), because polyurethane naturally yellows. However, any epoxy resin or EnviroTex Lite will work great. There is also something called Easycast Casting Epoxy. Just didn't want others to deal w/ what I had to deal with! It was a pain in the rear!! BTW. . . LOVE your blog! I wish I had seen this sooner. . . like before I bought some Mod Podge! ha ha

i wonder if i added dish soap would that turn into adhesive spary , thanks for sharing your ideas

Check at hardware stores to buy Elmer's by the gallon. It's perfect if you plan on making gift jars. I also add a tablespoon or more of clear varnish to add some shine to the finished project. Just make sure to mix it well before using because it settles to the top.

Found this via Pinterest! Love your blog:) Thank you

When put over top of pictures printed off of a color printer, does it smear them?

@ danibennetto388 I don't recommend putting it on pictures. The bottle of decoupage you see here has a label that I printed off my computer and "decoupaged" onto the jar; it didn't smear. Good luck with your project! Let me know if it works out for you.

Great Idea!

Thanks! I will!

I just made some and I was wondering if you have to let it set or if you can use it right away?

You can use it right away.

Fantastic tutorial! I'll never buy the stuff again :P

Just made some:)

Im going to dump out my salsa so I have a jar and create some of this wonderful stuff! Cant wait to try it~

OMG! This is sooooooo awesome! I am totally making a million things haha :)

Hey! Click the link to see an AWESOME thing you can make with Modg Poge :D http://pinterest.com/pin/165999936234731759/

oh my goodness ....THANKS!! i am making photo coasters as a Christmas gift and we are on a really tight budget this year and this will make the cost of 4 coastersonly $1.40... ihave everything else in my craft cabinet!!! thanks a bunch

Modge Podge claims to be ACID FREE. But Elmers white glues are NOT ACID FREE. Wood glue is NOT ACID FREE. Where do we get PVA (white glue) that IS acid free for making this DIY 'podge? Thanks :)

I've been wanting to try some craft projects that call for the use of this, but didn't really know where to get MP here in the Philippines. Now, I can just make my own :) Awesome!

PS....what about a GEL Medium--any homemade recipes for this?

Oh my!!! Paid almost $6.00 for a jar of Modge podge today. I hope WalMart will take it back (not opened). I can buy a lot of Elmer's glue for $6.00. Plus I have a bottle of the Elmer's Carpenters glue.
Even though pinterest is ADDICITIVE and I don't get much house cleaning accomplished, I still LOVE pinterest! :) Thanks everyone for their input.

Can I use mod podge on my own printed pictures from my computer?

Before reading all the comments I used the Elmers school glue to create my mod podge. Oops. Oh well ,it's all I have to use now! LOL I'm just brushing it over some little ornaments the kids and I made so hopefully it works!

So just wondering do we think that this would work the the glitter flat ideas?

Glitter works well too

Thanks for sharing :O)will save everyone $$....

When I use to cross stitch I would keep a small squirt bottle of this mixture and would go around my fabric with this to keep it from raveling. A lot cheaper than Fray Check.

For people like me who use a lot of Mod Podge on a regular basis for projects that include attaching paper to metallic surfaces, this recipe is not satisfactory. The glue mixture is either too sticky or too watery; either way, the resulting project ends up wrinkly and very obviously "home-made-looking." Mod Podge is worth the money if you're a serious decoupager, imo.

Also, for those who question whether or not Mod Podge is waterproof: I've been using it for years to decoupage watering cans as well as other projects that come into contact with water. I use 4 - 5 applications of MP (letting them dry in between each application), and my projects last for years and years, with continued, regular use. (I wouldn't use it to decoupage a swimming pool or a hot plate; but among other things, I've decoupaged room spray bottles which I keep in the bathroom-- NO problems!)

I have become a Pinterest addict!!! I will definitely try this method before buying Mod Podge. My husband needs a sign for the hospital he is CEO of and this will be my first attempt. Wish me luck!

For those interested in trying this in Australia, I just purchased Elmer's glue at Officeworks woohoo!!!

I'm also an avid Pinterester!

ok im in heaven because that stuff is SO expensive - its like 7.00 a container and i use it for everything !! Excited!!!

Has anyone tried to use this mix to put a fabric collage on a wall? Would it come off cleanly?

During the stiff-fabric craze in the eighties, my mom had a gift shop/decorator store (after deciding that working the family business of their fabric store with my dad was too much "quality time" lol). She was also a decorator. We used this to do all kinds of stiff fabric projects. Wicker waste-baskets, headboards, baskets, etc., with beautiful chintz ribbons and bows woven through the open parts - all stiffened up with this mixture which also gave it a lovely sheen.

I love your blog! Happy New Year!

I made some yesterday to make coasters out of hardware store tiles, and added 1 tablespoon of polyurethane to the mix and it seems pretty runny compared to mod podge, but it also seems heavier duty. Another change I made to the mix is that I used elmers glue-all instead of school glue. It's a little more expensive, but a heavier duty glue.

I got this tip from my sister in law...she uses this for keeping jigsaw puzzles together that she wants to frame. Works really well.... she uses a foam brush to apply this to both sides of the puzzle. (one side at a time, allow to dry then turn over and repeat). When it is dry, put in frame and hang.

Sorry, guys, but this does NOT work as well as modpodge, and your stuff will be ruined within a short time span. :( You're diluting an "already inferior" bonding agent. So, bite the bullet and go for the stuff that actually does what you want it to do! :) I'm all for saving a dime (believe me!!!), but wasting my time is NOT something I enjoy!

What an awesome DIY! I found you through Pinterest and yes, I do love that site! Thank you for sharing!!!

To all the Aussies asking about Elmers glue, I bought some today from Officeworks, it was about $5 a bottle, they also see it at some other shops here, just Google it, find the Australian website and it has its stockers :D

Thanks for this! I just made it and it works. I used grocery-store brand school glue (HEBuddy for all my fellow Texans) and it is awesome!

For Australians...

Elmer's Glue is simply a white glue. It's a water based glue used for general woodwork and craft. It's white when applied, but dries to a more-or-less transparent finish. It is, however, not invisible. (Neither is Mod Modge.)

You can find dirt-cheap white glue in any craft store, Spotlight, Lincraft, Bunnings and cheapy-crap shops like Cheap-as-Chips, and probably Coles/Woolies. You do not need to buy Elmer's Glue. Any brand will do.

(Strongly advise NOT to buy it from Spotlight though as they are a ripoff.)

You can buy smallish bottles of Mod Podge in Spotlight, and here in Adelaide, you can get it from Art 2 Art. A small bottle costs about $10 at Art 2 Art. There are a range of Mod Podge products, some with glitter, some low gloss, high gloss, etc.

(Again, don't buy it from Spotlight, due to crazy prices.)

I'm currently investigating replacing Mod Podge with white glue. So far, I can't really tell the difference, except that white glue is extremely cheap.

I know this comment is buried pretty far down, but this is not equivalent to Mod Podge. There's an article about it here (http://www.modpodgerocksblog.com/2011/11/why-you-shouldnt-make-your-own-mod.html) that details why it's not. This was kind of irresponsible of this blog to post without having done any research about the properties of these items. I hope you don't all end up with ruined crafts!

This is perfect! I was literally JUST going to buy some when I saw this via Pintrest! Wonderful!!!!

I made this in an old salsa jar that I apparently didn't let air out long enough. My goop smells like bad salsa and just about makes me gag when I use it. Luckily my project doesn't seem to retain the smell.

At Anonymous for spreading rumors: Its ridiculous that you would cite a blog post by someone that is sponsored by Mod Podge, unbiased my a$$. Additionally I have personally used the 50% formula for 15 years and never experienced any of the so called downfalls. Man up and leave your name.

Wow, my mom has been using this mix for years to seal her finished jigsaw puzzles before she frames them. I have made many collages and other small crafts using this same concoction. I had no idea there even was a thing called mod podge because this always worked so well for me!

Will this help fabric from fraying terribly? I have about 600 2" wide, 4 yds long strips of fabric that are being used to make decorations for a wedding. I need to keep edges from fraying a lot. It is 100% cotton. I am hoping to roll fabric lengths and just dip edges in. Using fray check is WAY too time consuming...30 min to do 5 strips even though folded a few times. If not....any recipes for homemade fray check so I can make lg amt for dipping?

i have used elmers glue for decoupage for years. i buy the one gallon jugs at Home Depot. after my project is good and dry i just spray with varnish or lacquer.

Hi, I just made this. Thank you so very very much for this post! I had no idea that I needed to use MP this explains why one of my printed out labels leaked I will be using this ALL the time now! Thanks again.

Its not the same as Mod Podge, Mod Podge is waterproof, elmers glue is not, so if you are planning to do a scrap book or collage that you dont want to get ruined , stick with the original, as an art teacher I water glue down all the time, it saves money and it cost effective, but glue can almost "come back to life" if it get wet again!

Ha! I LOVE pinterest, that 's where I found THIS IDEA. ;) Thanks for Paying It Forward.

Do you know how the sparkle Mod Podge is made. What could be added to this recipe to make it sparkle

This isn't like Mod Podge in Australia anyway. Elmer's glue is like a PVA glue (a general kids school glue) which for us usually isn't acid free. If you mix it with water you'll get a great glue for paper mache, but I wouldn't recommend it for decoupage unless you like it yellowing with time.

anybody know how to remove decopage from a wall? the previous owners of my home found a shower curtain they really liked so they cut out the design and decopaged it around my dining room ceiling and master bath wall

Awsome and so easy!Great recipe!
I used this recipe and it worked great!

How fun to see something I have done for years through Pinterest! I included a link to your blog in a post on my blog...as this was my inspiration for it! Wonderful blog and thank you for sharing your creativity with all of us!

@Amber you probably have to punch holes in the plastic first, there are these rollers with little spikes that you use for the removal of heavy wallpaper. After that, try damping the glue with warm water and scraping it off with a metal painters spatula. If all else fails, you can always sand it off with large grain sandpaper. And don't you just hate it when you cant figure out what the previous owners did to your house in terms of materials used XD
For the european readers: the Action store sells white childrens glue that works great for this! They also sell clear varnish for only 2,99 that dries within ten minutes, grab one of those too to seal your projects. Best spray varnish EVER.

Where an you buy Elmer's glue in NZ? I'm wanting to make slime/gloop at school with my class but cant find where to buy it (and by all account Elmer's glue works best).

O My gosh I am SO happy that I found this thx SSSSSooooo much!

well...I hate to say this, but you will be sorely disappointed fairly quickly when your beautiful project has yellowed, peeled and/or flaked! Water added to Elmer's glue is about the worst thing you can do to get it to "work" like Mod Podge! Elmer's is a lower grade of glue than MP. Neither is water proof, however MP is a much better quality product than any "kid's glue"...I don't work for them if that's what you're wondering, but I, too, wanted the "cheap" way out of it since it is such a costly material, sooo I contacted my chemist uncle! *LOL* The best thing to do is to use MP and then use a sealer to waterproof it. Before you buy more run over to Hobby Lobby and print their 40% off coupon and take a kid along with you to get that other bottle for you! ;) Happy decoupaging!

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opps...sorry about that! Here's my cont'd comment:
Best recipe I've found:
1 cup water
1 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup of granulated sugar
1/2 tablespoon vinegar
1/8 teaspoon vegetable oil (depending on how glossy of a finish you want)
In small saucepan on low to medium heat combine all ingredients being careful not to bring to boil. Cook until smooth consistency then pour into air tight container such as a mason jar or jar with airtight lid...let cool then use or store for future use. You can add vegetable oil for higher shine when it dries...keep in mind that this is NOT waterproof!

In essence you've just made the base for paper maché...good luck! Although I have not used this particular recipe, I have used plain ol' water and flour with salt to make the paper maché base...I worry about sugar in the recipe and mold??? If anyone tries it out, please update us...thanks!
This link has one with resin glue powder that I think I'd trust 100%...and resin is quite durable!
http://familycrafts.about.com/od/papermache/a/resinpmpaste.htm

Totally awesome, lol!! I featured this on my blog with direct link to your site!

http://glamorousbride.blogspot.com

Fotini <3

In art school, if we didn't know anything we were required tomake test runs. For all of you in other countries, mix up a small test batch and see what works. Try mixing it with other stuff and see what you get. A tablespoon of glue and water is all you need for a test batch.

I did collages for yrs using pva mixed with various ratios of water, tinted or not. Sometimes I would spray the finished projects with polyurethane or not. Experiment and see what you get!

Actually this is similar to what I use to paper mache'...2 bottles of glue to 1/2 c. water and get to mache-ing...never thought of using it to make mod podge-brilliant.

This stuff is also great for stiffening things like crochet instead of using sugar solution. You just use a little less water and let it dry for a few days. The good thing about it for crochet is that if you need to wash it, you just stiffen it again. The commercial stiffener I bought a while ago reminded me of PVA glue so now I just use that. Pinterest is the greatest. :-)

wow. theres alot of comments. i jsut saw the one from the Australian.... it's PVA glue. wood glue, which is avaliable from Bunnings (the aus version of home depot)

yes it is damm costly....thank u 4 d great idea!!!

Clever! I'm going to do this.....

You can add clear future floor wax with home made Mod Podge for a waterproofing and also for a glossy shine. add 1/3 Elmers glue, 1/3 water, 1/3 Future Floor wax. Best wishes! :) I am a Pinterest nut, I am very Pinteresting!!!.. hehe

I used this mixture to do a paper mache jack in the box head for my son for halloween a couple years back. After several layers it was still somewhat flexible, so my last layer I used elmers wood glue, it worked perfect!

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Wow --- I appreciate your discovery so much. Keep up the good work. I'd be an idiot not to follow your blog. :D

Susan Givens
aka
http://www.zibbet.com/MoxyFoxDesigns

Well you grabbed a new follower with this amazing idea.

you got another new follower lol, and yes i love pinterest too only joined last week and the stuff i have found is amazing and love your tips xx sue

http://www.modpodgerocksblog.com/2011/11/why-you-shouldnt-make-your-own-mod.html

I use this recipe to glue puzzles together. Paint one side and let it dry. Then paint the other side & let it dry.

You now have a puzzle picture to hand on the wall.

Cheap decorating.

I just use plain elmer's glue and a foam/sponge brush... no water... It puts a glossy seal on whatever you are trying to "mod podge". I guess it would depend on the craft though as to whether you would need the water.

This is a great but Elmers glue will yellow and crack over time so sealing it will help the cracking but not the yellowing, though. Any high dollar art piece should continue to use Modge Podge.

Awsome! Thank you tank you! Greetings from The Netherlands ^_^

I just used this as my first Pinterest project and I love it! Can't wait to share it with others! Thanks for the post!!

According to Mod Podge's MSDS sheet Mod Podge is a type of PVA adhesive. I have found that when trying to figure out what a particular art product is made out of- checking the MSDS sheets is a good way to get the information. Sometimes, but not always, the pH is also listed

Hi I'm trying to find a way to keep henna from crumbling off a candle. I've been reading that mod podge is used for it. But since I'm from the UK we don't have mod podge and was wondering if anyone knew whether PVA glue would be a solution? I've also read about sprays and varnishes but I have no idea where to get them from and googles no help :( it has to be non-flammable too even though its meant to be just a decorative piece. Any ideas?

Hello! I used your recipe for home made Mod Podge with Elmer's Glue. I re did a large wooden trash can. It turned out GREAT! All except the front bottom is left with a white smear from the glue. I did a second coat all over and for some reason only the front turned out like this. Do you know what I could do to correct this look? I'm bummed, cuz it does look good. I love your ideas :)

Mod Podge is NOT waterproof! Never has been! My sister uses the stuff religiously, and has done many projects with it, and even after multiple applications on several projects (dressers and coffee tables) setting something wet on it will ruin it!

Whether using Mod Podge or the DIY kind, always spray or paint it with something waterproof if it will be in contact with ANY kind of moisture.

I will be using this home made version and for the bathroom, livingroom items, will spray with a topcoat (or 2) of something waterproof.

Thanks for sharing this! LOVE pinterest!

This does work really well, but it is NOT waterproof. I decoupaged some drawer fronts using this recipe and if it gets wet, the surface gets a tacky feel and can streak. But it holds up over time. The drawers I used it on look just as good now as when I first did them, and that was well over 10 years ago.

You can also dye the concentration with a small amount of food coloring or gel coloring a drop or two or three to your liking. I have done this with a few projects and it tints it a differnt hue. Cool little tid bit. Thanks for droppin knowledge. Cheers.

I live in Spain and there is no Mod Podge around. I have a white glue from MakroPaper. I was just wondering whether anyone has used a diluted version of white glue to transfer a photo to a canvas. Thanks for all the the above tips

While I don't want to burst anyone's crafting bubble, I've read this doesn't work, per se. Mod Podge also contains a sealer and finisher, if that makes sense. Here's what I found on modpodgerocksblog.com:

"The truth is, I've gotten MANY e-mails from people (with pictures) asking why their photo/furniture/gift project is yellowing/flaking/peeling and what they can do. With further prompting, I find out that they made a glue concoction on their own by adding water.

Mod Podge is a step above craft glue in terms of the sealing properties. Mod Podge is glue, but it's also a sealer - and there are varnishes, etc. in the formula that don't exist in craft glues. The bonding properties of Mod Podge are way stronger than that of (most) craft or school glues. Long story short, the ingredients in Mod Podge are not the same as craft glue, and in 99% of cases are superior. That is why Mod Podge costs more than craft glue.

And that is why it lasts longer and is more durable on projects.

A lot of the homemade recipes take craft glue and dilute it with water, which is just about the worst thing you can do to make a decoupage medium of any sort. You're taking a glue that is inferior to decoupage medium and made it even thinner by adding water. This is why I receive pictures all the time of ruined furniture or home decor items that didn't last more than a few years before the paper started peeling off or yellowing BADLY. In the short term, the projects might seem okay, but over the years, the projects go down the toilet. And then I get very sad e-mails."

Just thought I'd share before anyone tries this and ends up ruining their projects....