Decoupage with Mint by Michelle: How to Transform Furniture with Decorative Paper

If you've ever seen a restored piece of furniture with a floral motif, an angel, or a vintage illustration and wondered how that special effect is achieved, the answer is almost always the same: decoupage with Mint by Michelle paper. At Anaqa Design, we've been working with this technique for some time, and we're increasingly falling in love with the results.

What is decoupage and why Mint by Michelle?

Decoupage is a decorative technique that involves applying paper to a surface — wood, ceramic, fabric — and sealing it with layers of glue or varnish until it's fully integrated into the finish. The result is an illustration that looks hand-painted, with a depth and delicacy difficult to achieve otherwise.

Mint by Michelle is one of the leading brands for high-quality decoupage papers. Their designs are unique: floral, romantic, vintage, with a soft and sophisticated color palette that pairs perfectly with paints like Chalk Paint or Fusion Mineral Paint.

Video: Mint by Michelle applying decoupage step by step

Mint by Michelle herself demonstrates in this video how to apply her decoupage paper to a piece of furniture. An essential visual guide before starting your project:

How we apply decoupage at Anaqa Design

In our workshop, we follow a meticulously detailed artisanal process:

• We sand and prepare the furniture surface to ensure good adhesion.
• We apply a base coat of paint — usually Chalk Paint or Fusion Mineral Paint — in the chosen color.
• We cut and position the Mint by Michelle paper, adjusting it to the shape of the furniture.
• We seal it with several layers of varnish or decoupage glue to integrate the paper into the surface.
• We apply a final protective finish that ensures durability and resistance.

The result is a unique, unrepeatable piece that combines artisanal technique with designer style.

A real example: our Enchanted Lamps

One of our most special projects using Mint by Michelle paper is our vintage floral lamp shades. We use the exact same paper model shown in Mint by Michelle's video to create shades with a romantic and delicate finish that completely transforms the ambiance of any room.

Each lampshade is entirely hand-painted and decorated in our workshop. The light they project when lit enhances the floral motifs of the decoupage, creating a warm and magical atmosphere.

👉 See the Enchanted Lamps in our store

Tips for your first decoupage project

• Choose your paper carefully: Mint by Michelle papers are thin and pliable, perfect for adapting to curved or embossed surfaces.
• Lightly dampen the paper before placing it to make it easier to handle without tearing.
• Apply glue both under and over the paper to seal it completely.
• Allow ample drying time between coats — patience is key for a professional finish.
• Always protect with a final varnish to ensure the durability of the decoupage.

Ready to give it a try?

At Anaqa Design, you'll find everything you need to get started: Mint by Michelle decoupage papers, Chalk Paint and Fusion Mineral Paint, varnishes, and accessories. And if you prefer to enjoy the result without the process, you can also explore our unique, hand-restored and decorated pieces.

Every piece of furniture has a story. Decoupage is the most beautiful way to tell it.