A wood finish on a wall, table, cabinet or other piece of furniture is usually durable and appealing, but can be dark and boring. If you are looking to liven up a piece of wood cabinetry or furniture, you are able to do so, without paint. Fabric, paper, art work and photos can be used through decoupage to cover wood and enhance the look of it without altering the wood itself.
Clean out the wood thoroughly with a sponge and mild soap in warm water. If oil or grease stays, use a nylon scrub pad.
Dry the wood thoroughly with a clean towel.
Sand the wood smooth. Smaller projects can be sanded using an interlocking tool with a sanding head. Wipe it down with a tack cloth to remove the dust.
Select pictures from magazines, scrapbook stickers and papers, swatches of fabric or postcards to decorate the wood. Cut them out.
Assemble the design on a table.
Brush a clear-drying polyvinyl acetate glue with a paint brush onto the wood section, and set your ornamental pieces into position.
Brush the paste over the top of the paper or fabric to make a barrier against weathering or additional damage.
Smooth out air bubbles as you proceed along with your fingertips. Excess glue can be removed immediately with a damp paper towel or sponge.
Allow the job dry completely overnight.
Apply a coating of spray lacquer. Allow it to dry after which re-coat, if necessary.