Tips and Tricks: Using Free Printables in Home Decor

Raise your hand if you love using free printables. Me too! I’ve used several from other bloggers, and I’ve designed a few of my own as well. Some of my favorites are the quotes and subway art that you can print out and use in your home decor. I love to display them in frames, but I don’t like to use the glass because of the glare. Unfortunately, if you use an ink jet printer like I do, if  your printable gets even a small drop of water on it, it’s ruined. Today I will share a little trick for making your framed  printables last a little longer.

I came up with this idea after my two year old destroyed one of my printables. Little turkey. Last year I made up this free printable quote, framed it, and put it on a table in my living room. Rachel got her hands on a squirt bottle, and the rest is history. I had to print a new one, and this time I knew I’d better protect it.

How To Protect Your Printable Art

There are a few things you can use to protect the surface of your printables. I’ve used texture cream, but this time I used Mod Podge. If you’ve used an ink jet printer, you must seal the surface of your printable first. I tried just applying Mod Podge, but it smeared my image. Here’s what you gotta do:

Use a clear matte spray to seal the ink. I used Krylon brand because I had it on hand. Just give your printable a few quick coats of the spray. It only takes about 30 seconds for it to dry between coats.
After about 5 minutes, mine was totally dry and ready for it’s top coat of mod podge. At this point, you can add as much texture as you want. If you use random short strokes with your brush, you will get a cool canvas look. I simply brushed mine straight across for this project.
I know I’m late to the game, but I just discovered matte Mod Podge. Holey moley, I love it! Leaves a much more professional looking finish than the high gloss that I’ve been using for years. Why didn’t someone tell me about this stuff sooner?

Anywho, after your mod podge dries, cut out your printed art and stick it in a frame. Not only is the surface protected, but it has a cool texture. A win/win situation! Don’t you love easy home decor?