Transform Pretty Decorative Napkins Into Beautiful Mod Podge Plates

Have you ever Mod Podged? I'm not a crafter but I made this little soap dish plate for my bathroom using a very simple craft technique . I just wanted to share it.

A friend of mine recently hosted a small, informal craft class in her home and invited a few of us over to join in. 

I have to be honest — I am not a crafty person. Not even a little. But I went with an open mind, and I’m so glad I did. If I could do this project, truly anyone can. It was simple, relaxed, and surprisingly fun — and we all walked away with something genuinely beautiful.

We each started with a plain shell

We painted the back of the shell gold

The technique we used is called Mod Podge — basically a glue-and-sealer that lets you adhere pretty designs onto different surfaces. It’s easy to work with and very forgiving (which was perfect for me!).

I cut the napkin to fit the shell

We used decorative paper napkins as our design element, and watching them transform into something lovely was almost magical. 

This was the special glue that glues down the napkin

A friend made this one with mah Jong tiles on it

I couldn’t believe how something so simple could turn into such a charming finished piece.

Cutting away the extra

It's an easy fun project that can easily be done with kids. The best thing to do is to look it up on YouTube and follow directions. 

We also made a glass trivet from a clear glass. 

Clear glass trivet. I put gold paint around the edges
and a pretty napkin. 

How to Mod Podge a Decorative Plate

Important: This technique is for decorative use only. Do not eat directly off a Mod Podged plate unless you are using a product specifically labeled food-safe and sealing it properly.

What You’ll Need:

• A clear glass plate (smooth surface works best)

• Decorative paper napkins (the thin, printed kind)

• Mod Podge (Matte or Gloss)

• Foam brush or soft paintbrush

• Scissors

• Plastic wrap or parchment paper (optional, for smoothing)

  
  

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Step 1: Prepare the Plate

Wash and dry the plate thoroughly. Any dust or fingerprints can affect how the design adheres.

Step 2: Separate the Napkin Layers

Most decorative napkins have 2–3 layers. Carefully peel away the plain backing layers so you’re left with just the thin printed layer. This is important — only the top layer should be used.

Step 3: Cut Your Design

Cut out the design or pattern you want to use. You can do a full-plate design or smaller pieces arranged however you like.

Step 4: Apply Mod Podge to the Plate

Turn the plate upside down (you’ll be working on the back so the design shows through the front).
Brush a thin, even layer of Mod Podge onto the area where your napkin will go.

Step 5: Place the Napkin

Gently lay the napkin design face down onto the glued surface (remember, you’re working on the back). Smooth it carefully with your fingers or place plastic wrap over it and smooth outward to reduce wrinkles. Go slowly — the napkin is delicate.

Step 6: Seal the Design

Once the napkin is in place, lightly brush another thin layer of Mod Podge over the entire back of the napkin. Don’t overwork it — too much brushing can tear the paper.

Step 7: Let It Dry

Allow the plate to dry completely. This usually takes at least 1–2 hours, but overnight is even better.

Step 8: Add Extra Coats (Optional)

For durability, apply 1–2 additional thin coats, letting each coat dry fully before adding the next.

We used this at the end for an extra shiny coat to seal it. 

I had a great time making it ! Have you ever Mod Podged? 

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