Craftiness, Thrifty

Homemade Mod Podge Recipe 2017 – Don’t be hoodwinked!

19 September, 2012

I’m so glad you made it here! There are lots of dubious homemade mod podge recipes out there but this is the one that is perfectly proportioned! The one handed down from crafting whizz to crafting whizz, and now here it is, in your very hands! I first posted this recipe many moons ago (six years ago!) when I was living in London. These days we live in a yurt in New Zealand (seriously!) and I still use this homemade mod podge recipe every single day. I use this homemade mod podge on DIY projects like relining my drawers with beautiful old wall paper, everyday crafts with my daughters and the collage artworks I love to whip up.

Now, in lots of ways I am a hand clapping optimist. I find it really hard to imagine the worst case scenario and always think everything is going to work out, which is often to my detriment. In other ways I am a doubting cynic. When it comes to brands and their promises I am more dubious then Scooby doo smoking doobies in dubiousville.  When a grand claim is made of a product my mind screams “LIES, ALL DAMN LIES!” like some kind of crossed witch.

There are some exceptions:

  • Helmans mayonnaise (no other will do. I can eat this with a spoon for lunch.)

Ummmm.

Okay, actually, I think that is it on my list.

So when I first heard about crafting super power that is Mod Podge I tried to ignore the screamy witch and find out exactly what it is that makes Mod Podge such a delight. First of all I began by trying to find out what Mod Podge is.Wanna know what it is, basically?

Watered down PVA glue.

That’s: Homemade Mod Podge is PVA glue with water in it.

PVA (that you can buy in bulk for a few quid) with water (free)

But people are paying heaps for this crafting Must Have, to do things like decoupage and scrapbooking, that people have done for years with watered down PVA. PVA is also known as Elmer’s glue or woodowrking glue or simply white crafting glue. It is gluggy and sticky and thick and perfect.

I kind of think the people of Mod Podge are trying to fox us all a little bit.

Oh well. Now we know, eh?

Homemade Mod Podge - the actual recipeHomemade Mod Podge Recipe

To make a jar of fake / homemade Mod Podge you need 1 cup of glue and 1/3 cup of water.  These proportions are perfect – don’t mess with them. Other internet recipes for homemade Mod Podge abound but they are TOO WEAK. Beware! Shake really well  and use as you would Mod Podge. To make it gloss add 2 table spoons of water based varnish or to make the sparkly add super fine glitter.

What to make

You can make ANYTHING with this stuff – it is the business! I craft left, right and center with my trusty jar of homemade mod podge!

Decoupage – mod podge is traditionally used to decoupage. This stuff works just as well.
Scrap booking – it is perfect.
Sealing – fling a bit of this over a freshly painted canvas or a craft to seal it all in.

I have even made hardcore DIY recycled flooring with mod podge and paper as the base!

Recently I wanted to try making some decorated pegs. I made some Christmas pegs with ribbon and scrabble tiles in this way but found cutting the fabric and getting it to not fray really tricky. Using homemade Mod Podge on fabric turns it into a paper like substance and makes cutting out fabric a real breeze – perfect for a peg craft, thanks.

Just give the little scraps of fabric a good soaking then leave them to dry as flat as you can. Then snip them up. It is truly ace and made making these pegs so easy. And if you are like me and keep every snippet of beautiful material than this is the PERFECT use!

I used some navy polka dots and even a bit of lace, so simple and quick (excuse the late-at-night in mid-winter photography!)


Does it yellow?
I have been using this for several years and it hasn’t yellowed. Beyond “several years” I can’t answer as I haven’t been making it for ages. However, my gut feeling is that people have been decoupaging for EVER, without things yellowing- and mod podge didn’t actually exist until quite recently. So, yeah.

I made retro fabric bird garland using this technique and transformed some rubbish old tins.
Is it waterproof?
You can make it waterproof by adding varnish to it. However, if you really want something waterproof, hardcore, then I would say you need to use varnish. Not mod podge at all. (Remember Mod Podge isn’t waterproof unless you select the waterproof option too.)

What do you think? Are you a Mod Podge Die Hard? Or are you generally happy with the fake/ home made versions of things?

The best place online to buy PVA is undoubtedly my affiliate chums Yellow Moon. You can get 1 litre bottles or 5 litre bottles and it never goes off.  They also have almost every possible craft thing you have dreamed of. It is a crafter’s paradise.

*sings* I’ve been spending most my years living in the crafter’s paradiiiiiise… power in the money… money in the power… minute after a minute…. hour after hour…

Sorry. Totally carried away with my 1990’s rapping there.

Tell me about the project you are whipping up with your homemade mod podge!

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Thanks for reading!

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  • Lakota [Faith hope and Charity Shopping] 12 June, 2012 at 1:33 pm

    I do still have some mod podge, but indeed it is just PVA and water, and I have that too! Cute pegs – my smallest is particularly in love with pretending to be washing. I have to put pegs on him and pretend I think he’s a sock or old pair of pants!

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:28 pm

      Hehehehe that is SO adorable! Ramona loves helping me with the pegs, but mostly she just gets her tongue/lips pinched in them and cries.

    • Pip Phelps 31 October, 2016 at 11:34 am

      Hehe, you are very funny, I like the 90s rap lol. Thanks for the awesome savvy tip! This will be the first blog I’ve ever followed and am 38

  • Patch 12 June, 2012 at 1:34 pm

    Have read about people using it on so many blogs, wondered what it was. Thank you for clearing that up. I shall not be going out of my way to get any. Home made it is for us!

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:29 pm

      Yes, it seems to be going wild at the moment hey?

      • Lila 18 October, 2018 at 7:11 pm

        Ironically, I JUST bought my first bottle of Mod Podge! I haven’t even opened it yet. Can you believe the timing? Now, I get to try Mod Podge and homemade at the same time! Thank you so much for this recipe. I will not be buying a second bottle of MP!

      • Audette 8 March, 2019 at 1:08 pm

        I am mod podging my dining room table. I printed – in gray scale – different sizes of Ansel Adams artwork. He is MY favorite. I have everything from rock formations to Acoma Pueblo. When I am finished, there will not be a bare spot – anywhere! Thanks for the homemade Mod Podge. A suggestions about being “waterproof”? After I am finished, my plan is to polyurethane a thin coat on top. Thank you again!

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:41 pm

      Also, I just commented on your blog but WP seems to be dropping my comments at the mo? Maybe in spam?

      • Patch 12 June, 2012 at 8:27 pm

        It was in spam, so I have moved it.

  • Kerry 12 June, 2012 at 1:59 pm

    I’ve never used the actual modge podge and just mix up my own batch of the PVA and water as needed – it’s fab and something we always have around the house! Thanks so much for linking up lovely! xx

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:29 pm

      Yeah, I don’t actually make up a whole jar, just little bits as I need it.
      Thanks for hosting! xx

  • Thrift Bee 12 June, 2012 at 2:07 pm

    Homemade wins every time for me, (i will even admit to being happy with Aldi mayo ) I would love to tell you i’m your newest follower, but i cannot find out how to follow you other than by e-mail. If you have time could you guide me in the right direction. Much obliged.

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:31 pm

      Ah ummm.
      Maybe the RSS feed on the right hand side, just below the Twitter bit?
      Also, Bloglovin? It is host neutral and I’m learning to love it.

      • Donna Corley 26 August, 2017 at 7:19 am

        I use the clear elmers glue to make mine and can easily do photo transfer onto wood using the clear glue!

        • Harrythespida 24 December, 2017 at 1:36 am

          Donna, when you do photo transfers, is your mixture 3 to 1?
          Harrythespida

    • Sarah 25 September, 2014 at 2:02 am

      Home made Mayo is the best!

  • Melksham Mum 12 June, 2012 at 3:26 pm

    There was me thinking Modge Podge was some amazing stand alone product! Now I know if I ever need some what to do, so thanks for that!
    The pegs look adorable x

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:32 pm

      Thanks MM.
      I’d be interested to see how Mod Podge lovers get along with it xx

      • Tara 17 December, 2017 at 9:10 am

        I have cheap glue n wood glue which is beyter over pictures

  • Sew Scrumptious 12 June, 2012 at 3:36 pm

    Thanks for the lovely mention. I feel cheated by Modge Podge!! I didn’t realise it really was JUST PVA glue and water. Its really expensive!! Will be making my own from now on. LOvely pegs by the way. Loving the lace ones! x

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:33 pm

      It is quite dear isn’t it. They are on to a winner I think!
      Hope people check out your site, its lush x

  • Saffron 12 June, 2012 at 4:09 pm

    I just searched the other day for the ingredients of MP, after which I happily watered down my glue! Great fabric stiffener & all purpose magic thing!
    Ps. My Lulastic inspired resin things have turned out beautifully……thanks

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:34 pm

      Oh Hurrrahhhh for your resin crafts! So glad you did it!

  • knittymummy 12 June, 2012 at 4:24 pm

    I’ve just done my first decopage (which my husband insists is a word I’ve just made up) and I’ve used PVA, worked just fine.

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:34 pm

      Lol. Do you say it in a a very French accent? You kind of have to eh.

      • knittymummy 12 June, 2012 at 8:15 pm

        Oh yes, my very best French accent

    • anoushka 30 April, 2018 at 9:23 am

      “decoupage” is a French word- “couper” is to cut, decoupage is the noun :->

      • Linda 15 May, 2020 at 1:33 am

        Thanks! This is just what I need. Am covering an unfinished wood door in our barn that opens to my studio with handmade art paper. Don’t want to use a spray, not pay a fortune for the brand name stuff.

        BTW: I, too, used to swoon over Hellman’s, then I discovered Dukes, the Mayonnaise of the South (US). Oh, My, it changed my life! Since I live in the way North, I buy a case at a time whenever I have access to it. If you can ever find a source, do not hesitate!!

  • Liz 12 June, 2012 at 5:41 pm

    I do have a pot of it knocking about, but I bought it several years ago. I’m definitely a fan of using DIY versions of such things if they work.

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 7:36 pm

      I am the worst- I ALWAYS think there is a DIY option. And google doesn’t tend to tell you otherwise haha. Somewhere out there there is a recipe for DIY gaffa tape!

  • Bek @ WeAreWildThings 12 June, 2012 at 8:08 pm

    I was getting really grumpy that I couldn’t find anywhere to buy mod podge because so many American blogs use it for everything and I couldn’t find it over here. PVA and water, that I can do. Thanks for de-mystifying. Yay.

    P.S. Like the pegs. 🙂

    • lulastic 12 June, 2012 at 8:18 pm

      I have totally de-mystified it’s ass HA take that MODGE

  • Charis 12 June, 2012 at 10:42 pm

    Doh! Why am I only discovering what Mod Podge is now?! Bought it last month, ha ha! At least when it runs out I know to just replace it with PVA glue & water!

    • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 10:58 am

      Well, you should totally let me know your conclusion, whether it was worth all the extra dosh! x

      • Gloria Harriman 21 July, 2018 at 12:06 am

        Does elmer’s glue dry clear?

        • Lucy 24 July, 2018 at 9:48 am

          no, I don’t think so x

  • hellkatdesigns 13 June, 2012 at 9:19 am

    Mod Podge is all over so many crafty blogs right now. I haven’t seen much of it here in Aus, only once in an art store recently. I distinctly remember seeing the price and thinking “ummm yeah, i’m sure PVA would work just fine!”

    • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 11:01 am

      Yup, it is everywhere. I can see why though, with crafting it is sometimes a bit of a treat having a new little product eh. x

  • TheMadHouse 13 June, 2012 at 1:20 pm

    I have some as my friend brought it back from the us for me, but since ready how to make my own on A Place of my own, I have been just watering down PVA.

    • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 11:01 am

      *searches for A place of My Own* – sounds cool! x

  • sue harding 13 June, 2012 at 4:44 pm

    i have been using watered down pva for various collages and seen it used wet to wrap materials around chairs, old phones (presumably decorative only) lamps etc to amazing effect using bright patterned cotton. Recently did a collage using an old embroidered torn cushion and including paper torn from magazines

    • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 11:02 am

      Wooah, I love the idea of covering random defunct objectives with fabric! Amazing! Loving your art on your blog by the way 🙂

  • Saffron 13 June, 2012 at 7:09 pm

    Aha, I see Sue Harding has left comment. She is my mad arty Aunt who put me onto your blog (which I lurve). Anyhoo, I need blogging advice, would like to set one up but am a bit of a technotwit. If poss, could give me a way of contacting you without using your comments bit? Thanks, Saffron (safftaylor@yahoo.com.au or freddyandviolet on Facebook)

    • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 11:02 am

      Hehe, thanks and thanks mad Aunt Sue!
      I’ll email you,m although don’t see myself as an expert!

  • The Kiwi Nomad 14 June, 2012 at 7:46 am

    nice pegs! good tip on the PVA, I got some recently to try out decoupage but had read about Mod Podge and was wondering if I was missing out on some secret ingredient.

  • lulastic 14 June, 2012 at 11:04 am

    Nope, not missing out even a dash. Consider yourself wisened to the unmystical ways of Mod Posge 🙂

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  • freddyandviolet 19 June, 2012 at 7:13 am

    Love. I guess will work for making kids fabric covered hairclips etc? On the ‘to do’ list!

    • lulastic 25 November, 2012 at 10:41 pm

      It’d be perfect!

  • Hazel 21 June, 2012 at 9:04 pm

    I have always been very suspicious of Modge Podge, mainly because I had only seen it on American blogs and thought that it might be something that has a different name in the UK. Turns out it does – PVA and water. Thanks very much, very useful!

    • lulastic 21 June, 2012 at 10:04 pm

      Hehe yup. Those clever stateside marketeers eh! (Love your blog btw)

  • Make do mum 29 June, 2012 at 3:26 pm

    Aha! I had a feeling it was just PVA with a fancy label. Great tip about applying it to the fabric before cutting it, love the little pegs 🙂

    • lulastic 30 June, 2012 at 1:51 pm

      I know- the apply before crafting tip makes such a difference!! X

  • Liz Burton 1 July, 2012 at 9:23 pm

    Haha we just made some papier mache-decoupage thingies today using…guess what…PVA and water!

    I only started diluting it when I was once too short of glue to finish a project. This moment of extreme tightness made me realise that watering it down just a little bit, makes it go much further and doesn’t diminish it’s magic sticking powers. Then I just watered it down some more for laquering stuff etc. x

    • lulastic 1 July, 2012 at 9:28 pm

      Cool cannae wait to see ’em! I am ready to devoupage something big and bad, like a whole table.
      Mind you, I’d well get bored about a tenth through
      x

  • Erica 8 July, 2012 at 2:18 pm

    I used to do heaps of decopage on anything and everything as a kid using none other than PVA glue! Was debating whether to get some mod podge to do a few projects, thinking it must have some miracle secret ingredient, but ill just stick with what I know now! Thanks heaps!

    • lulastic 9 July, 2012 at 6:45 pm

      Totally, of course if you need something to last forever a layer of varnish would help but you’d need to do that with MP anyway x

  • YankeeCat 14 July, 2012 at 8:57 pm

    Podge has a sealer in it….will this recipe hold up over time?

    • lulastic 15 July, 2012 at 8:32 pm

      Hello. I think for craft projects this stuff will be fine – it has been used for decades after all.
      Mod podge is only a sealer to a certain extent anyway- it isn’t waterproof so you need to use varnish over the top to really make any thing modpodged or pva and water last – i.e decoupaged furniture.

      • stephen-walker 13 December, 2013 at 8:04 pm

        there are 2 types of pva external (waterproof when dry) and internal will go misty white when damp for long time hope this helps have been using it for years without realizing this is whot the crafters where talking about

      • Esther 20 February, 2014 at 7:36 am

        I actually painted several jars for a candle/potpourri project six years ago or so. I put a couple of layers of Mod Podge over the paint. I tried reclaiming the jars not long ago and that stuff wasn’t budging. At. All.

        I finally gave up. Whatever is in Mod Podge definitely isn’t in the glue I’m currently using for a glass bottle arrangement for my sideboard. I thought it was just watered down glue, but it isn’t shiny and it mocks me with its unstickiness. Thankfully the paint and glue come off easily with hot water. It must be the varnish that’s missing.

        • Jackie 6 June, 2016 at 1:12 am

          Do you know what type of glue Elmer’s is? External or internal? And I’m in Australia so we have Clag glue paste (consistency of watery porridge- is this the same consistency as mod podge?

          • Lucy 9 June, 2016 at 10:45 am

            You can actually use internal or external PVA – I have used both 😀

      • Jackie 6 June, 2016 at 1:15 am

        Hi, thanks for the informative blog! I’m totally new at this crafting thing. Just wondering if by water based varnish you mean nail polish? And if not, what kind? And would mixing nail polish with pva glue and water do the trick? Also how do I know which PVA brands to use in creation of the above mod podge recipe? In Australia we have Clag, Boston and Uhu pva glue. I used to use Clag back when I was a kid, and it was literally like thinner than porridge, with clumps.

        • Lucy 9 June, 2016 at 10:44 am

          Hmmm – clumps not good! PVA – it is thick and white… it is kind of standard?
          I wouldn’t use nail varnish – I am talking about the varnish people use on furtniture, boats that kind of thing You get it form the hardwear store- polyeurethane x x

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  • Norma Hasham 23 September, 2012 at 6:55 pm

    Wish I’d seen your site two weeks ago, have just been on a weekend workshop to make an antique book and Mod Podge was on the requirements list, I’d not come across this before so stumped up several £’s to the workshop organiser to order some. The moment I opened the jar the smell made me think ‘PVA’ and I have to admit I felt somewhat cheated. Thanks for confirming my suspicion, I now know what to use in future

    • lulastic 23 September, 2012 at 9:16 pm

      Smells are such a giveaway! 😀 Look forward to hearing how you get on. Workshop sounds brilliant!

  • mainegreengirl 26 September, 2012 at 10:51 am

    I’m so glad I found this post! I have recently started blogging, as well as following your blog and just the other day I had searched for Mod Podge, figuring there might be a homemade version recipe out there. I have never used it before – the real thing or homemade – but saw this cute idea: http://www.infarrantlycreative.net/2011/04/cereal-box-crafts-notepads.html and just have to have some to make them as Christmas gifts for some kids I know!

    Do you think the homemade will hold up on something like that?

    Thanks for a wonderful blog – I love it here!

    • lulastic 25 November, 2012 at 10:43 pm

      AHHH thanks! Sorry for late response! I love those 🙂 and your own version. I would make it more glue than water, I d tend to tweak the rations depending on the materials I work with.

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  • Ginger Davis Allman 15 November, 2012 at 7:50 pm

    Oh…just like others, I wish I had read this two days ago. I have been using Golden Acrylic Medium and ran out of it for a collage project. The closest store doesn’t carry Golden products so I looked online to see if Mod Podge was the same thing. Page after page of scrapbooking forums said it was the same thing. So I bought it. And the minute I opened it I could smell the PVA and new instantly that I had just wasted my time, my money, and and sadly, my project. Mod Podge is PVA glue. Elmer’s Glue-All. Aleene’s Tacky Glue. Same darned thing. I want my $5 back.

    And I agree with you about the Hellman’s. Nothing else comes close.

    • lulastic 25 November, 2012 at 10:45 pm

      Ah good, I am so glad we are clear on that! (Hellmans)
      I would love to hear your feedback , once you have been through a jar of it. I truly haven’t found anything where this stuff hasn’t sorted me out.

      That $5 could just be part of your Craft Trials fund 🙂

  • Teri 19 December, 2012 at 12:55 am

    A load of blogs I follow use mod podge for just about everything. As a lot of them are American. I thought i’d be unable to get it in the UK. I found it online but its way out of my pocket and here you are giving me an affordable version! I can’t believe its just PVA and water. I will be making lots of this up!! Thanks so much! 🙂

    • Lucy 19 December, 2012 at 2:59 pm

      Wahey! *high fives*

  • Kathy 4 June, 2013 at 2:29 pm

    What the heck is PVA glue?

    • Lucy 5 June, 2013 at 12:03 pm

      HAHAHAHA.
      It is the glue we use in England, white craft glue, basically.

    • Jennifer Lin 7 July, 2015 at 4:41 am

      This was entirely my response as well, Kathy! I knew it was something basic, but not the term we use stateside!

  • Rachael 19 July, 2013 at 12:34 pm

    Tysm im going to doing your version off it, ty for sharing xxxx

  • Kristina 27 August, 2013 at 4:44 pm

    What kind of glue do I use? I don’t know what PVA is and I don’t have a pound land here.

  • Vix 19 October, 2013 at 3:39 pm

    Home made all the way for me!! I got very lucky and found some 1950’s Times Supplements on freecycle and used them to decoupage a boring bookcase! I used good old pva and water and it looks fab 🙂

    Also, I found your blog quite by accident but I love it x

  • Fabric lover 19 November, 2013 at 7:50 am

    So the matte mod podge would just be the PVA and water? I want to make a book purse for my friend and don’t want to splash out on mod podge 🙂

  • earthy 10 December, 2013 at 10:53 am

    I made some up and ive tried to transfer graphics on a shabbied table and its not as good as mod 🙁 any tips?

  • jan evans 4 January, 2014 at 12:44 pm

    Hi I saw an item on Pinterest about making plain glass look like coloured frosted glass using something called Elmers glue [we don’t have it in England] and food colouring would that work with your recipe ? ps Glad to know I am not the only one with the Helmans, i make most savoury sandwiches with it and always lick the spoon clean !

    • jan evans 4 January, 2014 at 12:51 pm

      PPS Just been mooching around your blog [came to it via mod podge] to find out that you were in England now in NZ so you probably don’t know what elmers glue is either !

  • Jacinta 5 February, 2014 at 4:13 am

    I am a massive mod podge fan but you are right it is a very expensive product and I always figured it must be pva glue and something else. Was heading out today to buy some but I will give the homemade version a go 🙂 there are plenty of different brands doing the same thing and mod podge has released another 20+ different types, from glitter to 3D! Would love some info on how to make all the different types one day 🙂 thanks heaps Xx

  • Kim 18 March, 2014 at 2:25 am

    Hey, I was just wondering if this would make it as waterproof as Modge Podge claims to be. I have a few projects up my sleeve, one being some ceramic photo tiles but I read somewhere that the homemade modgepodge doesn’t work as well on this type of thing although I am really quite reluctant to spend nearly £10 on the stuff if the home made stuff will work just as well?

    In anticipation of your response.

    Great site by the way, glad I stumbled upon it

    Kim x

    • Lucy 19 March, 2014 at 10:01 am

      I would add a layer of polyurethane varnish if I want it totally waterproof 🙂

  • Kay 30 March, 2014 at 12:11 am

    Thank you so much for the tip. You’ve just saved me a small fortunes worth : )
    So glad i came across your blog and will be checking in for more tips and thrifty ideas soon xxx

  • Kristina 9 April, 2014 at 9:11 am

    Hi,
    I was just wondering if anyone has tried this on glass? or if anyone could recommend an alternative for gluing glitter to glass?
    Many thanks 🙂

  • Corrine 16 April, 2014 at 7:42 pm

    Hi lovey, Thank you for your post about alternative mod podge! Just one question, does the finished project go yellow after time, as this happened to a tray I place photographs on, using PVA glue, which spoilt the effect? Modge Podge claims not to go yellow?

    Whats you opinon in this matter.
    Regards
    Corrine

    • MAb 31 March, 2015 at 5:15 am

      Mod Podge has never yellow’d on me, but the fake stuff I made did over time, so I’ll stick to the MP. I also use the craft store coupons that come in the mail to cut down the cost of the Mod Podge. Works for me.
      Yes, there is no beating Best Foods/Hellmann’s! Unfortunately it does contain MSG which is under the catch-all name of “Natural Flavors” listed on the back of the label. MSG is a neurotoxin and creates migraines for many folks who are actually unaware of that nasty little fact. Occasionally I use Miracle Whip for other certain things, and homemade mayo mostly when I have the time.

      • Hilary 20 November, 2017 at 3:17 pm

        Thank you for the migraine poison tip, I didn’t know this.
        The PVA and water is a great tip. I paint with acrylic so was looking for a UK version of MP. So delighted to come across this page by accident.
        Many thanks.

    • Camilla 1 March, 2018 at 1:44 am

      You need acid free PVA to stop yellowing over time the same type scrapbookers use also it can leave a slight sticky feeling on your craft I would advise putting varnish over it then the projects can be cleaned over time with out damages to your art work. I to just found out about mp and have been seeking a answer to whether PVA could be used thank you for clearing this up, I have used PVA many times for different projects and I love the stuff there’s so many things you can do with it thank you again

  • MARY 3 May, 2014 at 10:09 pm

    Does this also work the same for the photo transfer onto other materials? ie. wood? Thanks

  • Jojo 10 May, 2014 at 10:42 pm

    Hi there

    Phew was just about to order mode podge so glad I found you cause I’m pregnant and need to keep hold of out money and I have pva glue xxx

    So my question is I’ve just seen a few youtube clips of photo transfer using mode podge is the Receipe different for photo transfer? Xxx

    Jo 🙂 xxx

    • Lucy 11 May, 2014 at 8:36 am

      So sorry, I haven’t tried it. Do a version that doesn’t matter if it goes wrong and let us know!

    • dany 20 May, 2014 at 1:22 pm

      Hi Jo
      Just wonder if you have found out about the Pva and MP yet ? I am also would like to transfer photo to canvas but not sure about pva turning yellow after sometimes I was told ? Can you post once you find out please.
      Thank you

  • Jon 11 May, 2014 at 7:16 am

    Great blog!

    Can anyone recommend a place to get polyurethane as a paint-on? As opposed to a spray. Something in me says it would be easier to paint on – but perhaps I should give the spray a go.

    Any advice would be greatly appreciated

    • Lucy 11 May, 2014 at 8:35 am

      I get my poly from the hardware store… Does that help?

      • Jon 11 May, 2014 at 9:07 am

        Sorry, was that here in the uk? If so, could you tell me the name of it and I’ll google it. All I can find is poly in a spray can 🙁

        Perhaps it has another name?

        Many thanks

  • Jennifer 15 May, 2014 at 3:19 pm

    That’s the same recipe I use for the “starch” I use to stiffen my crochet ornaments. It’s amazing what manufacturers try to make us believe we can’t live without.

  • dany 20 May, 2014 at 1:18 pm

    I am glad to find your website.
    I would like to transfer picture to canvas and was told that pva will go yellow after a few years ….MP won’t !
    Have you experienced that ? Please let me know ….much appreciated!!!!

  • Julie Penson 21 May, 2014 at 3:15 am

    I too was scouring the web looking for the miracle that was modge podge – It now turns out that i’ve already modge podged the whole of my bedroom without realising! I bought some old books from a charity store and used the pages to paper my whole room…it looks fantastic and the cost was absolutely minimal. I just brushed the wall with my pva/water mix, applied the book page (I did batches of 6, so that it didn’t dry out) then brushed the same mix over the top. It’s stood the test of time for 12 months so far – I also covered 2 mismatched tables so that the whole room matched. I’m so glad i’ve finally solved the mystery 🙂

  • heather groundwater 30 June, 2014 at 9:54 am

    thanks for the tip i always wondered what modge pod was so i googled it and up pops your site thanks for all your advice super person

  • Tigsuk 16 July, 2014 at 9:34 am

    How waterproof would this be? I wanted to use it on shoes

    • Lucy 16 July, 2014 at 8:05 pm

      Hmm, I wouldn’t – I’d use shoe gu…

  • Claire Harvey 19 July, 2014 at 12:47 am

    Heyy,

    Just a quick question, I normally use Liquidex.. I use it to transfer images onto wood etc.. Can I do this with Modge Podge.. well watered down PVA ? I have a dresser that I was to up-cycle.. I live in the UK, and I usually have to get the stuff online as it’s so super pricey round here.. If modge podge does the same sort of thing, you will be saving me about £20 a month…

    Thankkkks

    • Lucy 19 July, 2014 at 11:34 am

      Hello
      I tried to do this with Mod Podge last week and it didn’t work.It is MEANT to – I wonder if my photo paper didn;t work the same way as an actual photo, you know? I think gesso is pretty reasonably priced though and this definitely works. Good Luck!

  • Briana Kay 2 August, 2014 at 4:22 am

    Hey there! So glad there is a DIY for this. I was looking at buying some for a project I have in mind, but I’ve heard it’s really expensive. I was wondering if you might be able to advise me on this though. The project I have in mind is to transfer photos onto three glass panes that I have from an old coffee table of ours. I read something in another blog (I think) about how to use Mod Podge to do it. Will the DIY stuff do the trick or is it a special kind of Podge that is used for transferring? Please advise? Thanks!

    • Lucy 2 August, 2014 at 11:31 pm

      I am so sorry, I haven’t tried transferring with this- only with gesso…

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making | Collective-Evolution 8 August, 2014 at 4:34 am

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  • Kalamity 15 August, 2014 at 12:40 am

    You know what? I was just about to Amazon and splash out on some of that sorcery. Looked at this and literally screamed at my computer: “MY LIFE IS A LIE!” Before promptly rushing over to my desk, grabbing a tube of PVA glue and my half empty glass of water and rushing downstairs. So thank you, anonymous person, for saving me three whole English pounds.

  • 50 Things You Can Start Making - Ingenuity Innovation 19 August, 2014 at 3:32 pm

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  • Kala Taylor 4 September, 2014 at 4:26 am

    Just wanted to say a huge thank you for this recipe. I don’t know how they can charge so much for it. I will definitely try this.

    Once again thank you.

    from
    Kala
    🙂

  • Carrie 5 October, 2014 at 8:28 pm

    Oh you fabulous woman! I’ve been putting off doing loads of stuff because I don’t know what Modge Podge is and I have two bottles of PVA sitting in my box of goodies – doh.

  • 45 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making | Organic Health 9 October, 2014 at 10:46 am

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  • alex 21 October, 2014 at 3:30 pm

    Has anyone tried a project years ago and seen if it has discoloured to yellow using this method?

  • Amanda 22 October, 2014 at 5:50 am

    Like many of you I’ve just ordered the mod podge and then found your site, I have several PVA’s too grrrrr.
    I’m guessing your recipe will be what they call “satin” finished,
    Any idea how to make a matt finish?
    I’ve also ordered the “hard” finish do you think that would just be less water?

    Thanks for the tips

  • Cathy 26 October, 2014 at 8:26 pm

    Is it possible if you could make this with a glue stick? I can’t seem to find PVA glue…

    • Lucy 27 October, 2014 at 11:11 am

      Oh no, that won’t work at all. Every art/ craft store has huge bottles of PVA and you can buy from almost every online craft supplier 😀

  • Lauren 2 November, 2014 at 8:40 am

    This is brilliant, and i was just about to spend £10 for a pot, pound shop it is

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making | Goldenlight ~ The Golden Light Channel: Higher Frequency Information from the Angelic Realms for the Golden Age upon the New Earth 5 November, 2014 at 4:25 pm

    […] Homemade Mod Podge – If you are a keen crafter and go through tonnes of Mod Podge then why not have a go at making some for yourself, you will be surprised at how much you will save. […]

  • Lindsay The Frugal Crafter 7 November, 2014 at 4:18 am

    Hi there! I am an avid mod-podge fan, I get it by the gallon online with a coupon so I only pay $18-$20 a gallon and I am in the US. I used to water down Elmers PVA to decoupage and collage with and yes it works fine but here is why I like mod podge, it is thicker and has almost a jelly like consistency that is really clear and glossy and does not wrinkle my paper. I find it to be unique among other decoupage mediums too (other decoupage mediums are like water down glue it seems) so I wonder if your UK PVA glue might be thicker than what we have in the US? I fin the Elmers and Modpodge smell differnt. Maybe you have really awesome PVA over there. It it awful what you have to pay for supplies in the UK, totally not fair. I saw this on Pinterest and I am excited to explore your blog! Thanks for sharing.
    and you are correct, modpodge is not waterproof unless you get the outdoor kind so you need to seal it. I am looking to try the Minwax polycrylic for that as here it seems to be the cheapest and it lasts on floors and furnature so it should be fine:)
    Have a great day!

  • Jayne Gallagher 10 November, 2014 at 4:34 pm

    Hello I am wanting to have a go at covering some wine glasses in glitter do you think this would work for that and what would you recommend to set the glitter mixture on some kind of varnish?
    I can remember using this mixture years ago for papier mache balloons!!

  • Helen stocks 13 November, 2014 at 12:05 pm

    Anyone seen mr maker on childrens tv he calls it gloppy glue ….. Still just pva and water

  • Emma Carraro 17 November, 2014 at 4:25 am

    I like multimedia art projects and have always used PVA to stick tissude paper to a stretched canvas, it works just fine and gives it a nice glossy finish. I don’t spend a fortune on decoupage glue and paper I’ve used thin card, tin foil paper, old sweet foils in my art projects and the PVA has worked just fine in every case.

  • Gianne 2 December, 2014 at 7:24 pm

    Hi! What kind of glue did ypu put?? Can i put a clear glue?

    • Lucy 3 December, 2014 at 11:11 am

      It is PVA – a thick white glue. Clear glue won’t work. 😀

  • Tanya 5 December, 2014 at 1:28 am

    I am making a Wedding Fund jar for my son & his fiancee so was looking for glitter etc to decorate it. Came across MP on a craft website & it sounded brilliant for sealing glitter. Decided to look it up to see what it actually is and found your blog. I couldn’t believe it was the same stuff I made up, about 15 years ago, to seal decorations onto my son’s project folder in primary school! I missed a trick there didn’t I? I should have marketed it! I shall be doing the same again. Thanks Lulastic.
    PS. I love Helmand too!

  • Tanya 5 December, 2014 at 1:29 am

    *Helmans

  • Moira McCullough 15 December, 2014 at 10:58 am

    Brilliant, thank you. I too thought that it was a special glue that could only be purchased in the US, yes, I remember pva glue, can be nasty stuff if you get it on your clothes

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  • polly 22 January, 2015 at 6:47 pm

    Thankyou for your Blog. PVC well now that is great. A question tho. How will it go if i painted a photo onto timber or a canvas? will it destroy photo.? A baby beginner here in my old age . Thankyou

  • Callie 23 January, 2015 at 3:49 am

    Thank you! Have been trying to source a craft to host for my works crafternoon, and across a fab tutorial that required modge podge. was stressing about the expense and as I was looking for the cheapest place came across you post! Happy days, I am going to give the tutorial a try with this fakeaway recipe! Ta muchly!

  • Another Crafty Cat Transformation | Destroy what you enoy 23 January, 2015 at 7:45 am

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  • Seema 28 January, 2015 at 8:37 pm

    Thank you! Just last week Mod Podge was featured on the T.V. talk show called “The Real”. The segment was called remix my kicks and can be pulled up on TheReal.com. Basically plain fabric sneakers and/or shoes were transformed stylishly using Mod Podge as the adhesive and sealant. The results were astounding. I’ve never heard of the product before the show and intend on doing this project with my little one. Naturally I looked up Mod Podge and it’s expensive. I love D.I.Y. projects! I will definitely try your recipe! Thank you so much! One question, will my homemade version work for covering sneakers and shoes in glitter, magazine cut outs or stickers? Will it seal it the same and be waterproof and durable? I really appreciate your feedback!

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  • Madeleine 2 April, 2015 at 9:27 pm

    Woho. Thanks for the recipe. Mod podge does not exist in Sweden and all the amrican blogs use it. But I got pva in my cupboard, orange bottle (in case other sweds pop by).

    Also great thanks for your blog. You got me google living in yurts, learn alot more about breastfeeding and most important, adultism. I never heard rhe term before, but now I am working hard not to do that to my child and just in 5 days our relationship is alot better and he is happier. Thank you!

    // Madeleine – environmental science student and mother of a bilingual toddler.

    • Lucy 3 April, 2015 at 11:34 am

      Oh wow! How wonderful!

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making - Mila Lolli 4 April, 2015 at 6:55 am

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  • Decoupage Easter Fun | Kick Arse Crochet 5 April, 2015 at 10:51 am

    […] I then adhered it to the glass jar. I was going to buy a tub of mod podge but on researching alternatives, I found it was nothing more than water and pva. You heard me right. Check out this super informative article: https://lulastic.co.uk/thrifty-2/homemade-mod-podge/ […]

  • An Hue 7 April, 2015 at 2:16 am

    I bought PVA glue for 30,000 VND ($1.5) and am wondering if I could use it as Mod Podge because that “imported from America” bottle of glue costs 350,000 VND (more than $17). I am so happy to find your blog. I will try this cheap but seem workable version of Mod Podge. Thank you so much for the post.

    • Lucy 7 April, 2015 at 9:51 pm

      I think PVA is PVA- if it is white and gloopy then give it a go!

  • Alvin 7 April, 2015 at 10:23 pm

    Thank you for the idea! This is great!

  • Kelly Cheetham 8 April, 2015 at 7:54 am

    thank you thank you thank you soooooooo much for this I have been debating on wether to give in and purchase some mod podge as every craft I wish to try States to use it or just use watered down pva I now know what I will be trying ☺️

  • DIY Decoupage Dress Form & Homemade Modpodge Recipe - Most Ardently. A blog by Nicóle OleaMost Ardently. A blog by Nicóle Olea 18 April, 2015 at 5:55 am

    […] I didn’t have enough Modpodge left to complete this project, and waiting the 10-12 days for Amazon to deliver it to me just wasn’t an option. So I turned to Pinterest and discovered a ton of recipes for Modpodge, the one I used was so simple.  I can’t believe I’d not made some sooner.  I found the recipe on this delightful blog called Lulatastic. […]

  • baesicblogger 28 April, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    This is really helpful because I can’t find any in Australia and almost all of the diys on pinterest and youtube use some of this. Thanks so much!!

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  • Lia 11 May, 2015 at 4:53 am

    You go girl! 😉

  • Tammy 15 May, 2015 at 12:12 am

    what is PVA?

    • Lucy 18 May, 2015 at 11:24 am

      It is white, sloppy, sticky craft glue. DO you call it Elmers?

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  • Julia 5 August, 2015 at 6:20 am

    Awesome! Hellmann’s mayo IS the best, so how could you be wrong about the Mod Podge?

    • Lucy 5 August, 2015 at 8:30 am

      Well, yes EXACTLY!

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  • Borei Design 28 August, 2015 at 7:19 am

    I’m probably too late commenting on this by going to try anyway…I have been reading around different modge podge recipes and I’ve seen on alot of sites that they were saying that the home made version flakes and yellows over time. Does anyone know if that is true?

    • Lucy 28 August, 2015 at 8:05 am

      I’ve been using this for five years now and it hasn’t- I know it’s been used for decades and it actually isn’t known for yellowing (by people who don’t use mod podge!) my only question is weather people have used varnish in it to make it waterproof and it hasn’t been a non-yellowing varnish?

  • Breena 5 September, 2015 at 10:48 pm

    Thank you so much for this!!! 😀 You are a life (money) saver! Haha

  • Stella 10 September, 2015 at 5:04 am

    Thank you so much for sharing this tips…….its really helpful and cleared my doubt……I do wonder too what so special with this mod podge glue that sell very expensive……now i got the answer….ha ha

  • Helen Thomas 28 September, 2015 at 2:16 pm

    Thank you so much for the recipe for this, was just about to order some thinking it is something (magical) when I have plenty of pva. X

  • Lemuela 13 October, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    Thanks so much for the tip. I’ve been looking everywhere for the recipe but this sounds like the best one yet. But to make the gloss, can i use olive oil instead? Thanks

    • Lucy 13 October, 2015 at 8:05 pm

      Wow that has never even occurred to me! Let me know if it works!

  • Suzanne 26 October, 2015 at 1:43 am

    So pleased to read this! Keep hearing of this wonder glue and thinking.. Hmm.. Sounds like pva to me. What’s the difference. Price only apparently! 🙂

  • The Teal Pumpkin Project ~ Functional Living Solutions 1 November, 2015 at 5:48 am

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  • Liz 18 November, 2015 at 2:26 pm

    Thanks for the informative blog post– which I realize is a few years old– however, I think you were in error to write that Mod Podge has only come around quite recently- it was invented, and first marketed in the 1960s. Since PVA glue has been around since around 1912, more time went by between the invention of Mod Podge and this blog post than time between its invention and the advent of PVA glue, it isn’t as truthful as it could be to say that Mod Podge is a quite recent product. It has become more popular in recent years. Nevertheless, smudged word choice does not negate that this post is incredibly useful and interesting to read- I will try your ratio/recipe next time I need some!

    • Lucy 18 November, 2015 at 7:47 pm

      Yes, i guess I should clarify that it seems to have only recently reached its status as the only decoupaging glue to use hehehe. Hanks for your input!

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making | What's Up Doc? 8 December, 2015 at 2:21 pm

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  • Izack Madd 11 December, 2015 at 12:14 pm

    Hi,

    I first of all love your outlook and the truthful view on things over rated. No sure your right with the Mayo as I’m sure it’s Heinz ketchup. But that’s another debate.

    I would like to add a couple of caveats about what you’ve written here. Modern “white”PVA isn’t the same as elmers. As one dries clear the other dries brown to yellow.

    Second modern PVA isn’t everlasting. If you look there is a use by date. About 12months as after airborne fungi get in even with added fungicides they slowly start to multiply getting a new influx of oxygen each time you open the bottle. So will eventually end up looking like a slimy green fur coat. And smell foul.

    Also modern water based varnishes are not waterproof not even if they shout it out in ten foot high letters. As they absorb surface water slowly leaving a nasty water stain weeks later under the varnish.

    I no these things as a former cabinetmaker and avid crafter from way back when crafting was done through need not choice. And it’s not a dig at modern things but because I’ve used them extensively for many years before and after the changes of modernity. Yes PVA was everlasting but not any more. So long as these things are worked with then you’ll be fine.

  • Izack Madd 11 December, 2015 at 12:25 pm

    Hi,

    An improvement I forgot to mention if you add a few drops of dishwasher rinse agent or washing up liquid. Very little is needed and I mean literally drops not tsp. But you’ll have to experiment to find the best ration of what you choose. But it will overcome the issue of beading on many surfaces. As it breaks the surface tension and allows the glue to soak in at its own rate. DONT be tempted to rub it in just leave it be and it will either soak right in or spread out as normal “modgepodge”. Also gum glycerin can ad a shine to the finished product but not to my liking as it can also prevent drying.

  • carrie-ann 8 February, 2016 at 1:51 am

    Hiya, I know I’m late to the party here but I just wanted to say thank you for this post. Thankfully I had never bought modge podge as I always thought it was just an America thing and couldn’t get it in Scotland. But I found this today as I want to modge podge ny new platform shoes. Cant wait to get started, also cheers for the tip about waterproofing with varnish. X

  • Ricci 10 February, 2016 at 11:53 am

    Thanks for the great tip and the wonderful belly laugh!

  • Leslie 29 February, 2016 at 8:00 pm

    Hi Lucy, I just found your blog because I was researching how to make home made MP. I have one question for one of the ingredients that needs clarification. I have heard the words Varnish and Polyurethane used interchangeably and I was wondering if what you mean by Varnish is really Varnish or if it is Polyurethane. Thank you so much for your time in answering, and thank you for a really fun site 🙂

  • DIY Decoupage Dress Form & Homemade Modpodge Recipe | NICOLE OLEA 12 April, 2016 at 9:47 pm

    […] I didn’t have enough Modpodge left to complete this project, and waiting the 10-12 days for Amazon to deliver it to me just wasn’t an option. So I turned to Pinterest and discovered a ton of recipes for Modpodge, the one I used was so simple.  I can’t believe I’d not made some sooner.  I found the recipe on this delightful blog called Lulatastic. […]

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making • DIY Tips 13 April, 2016 at 4:27 am

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  • fiona Grant 19 April, 2016 at 2:54 am

    Brilliant post…have been and bought a 5 litre bottle of PVA for £6.99…will last for ages. Will follow recipe on here to water down.
    It’s people like this that take time to share tips that save loads of money by not being taken in with a brand name…
    Thank you ♡

    • Lucy 19 April, 2016 at 9:52 am

      So good to hear from you! *high fives*

  • Gillian 4 May, 2016 at 10:58 am

    I did the water down pva glue thing a few days ago. Thouhght i needed mog podge but you just confirned im riggt! Def going to add some varnish x

  • Home Office Decor Series #4: Ink Transfer on Canvas – altercontroldelight 21 May, 2016 at 8:00 am

    […] Saver I had lying around somewhere… and, it worked! Finally, although I haven’t it yet, here is a recipe for making your own Mod […]

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  • Alexia 19 June, 2016 at 8:34 am

    How long does it take to dry? Would it be good to use to put pictures on wood?

  • Mary Maxey 8 July, 2016 at 2:46 pm

    I’ve always used PVA and water. Mod Podge was invented when I started crafting and I didn’t even know what it was. I never used an exact ratio just added water and stired. Next time I will use ratio. I usually make it thin let each coat dry thoroughly and add several coats.

  • Tom 22 July, 2016 at 2:53 am

    Hello
    Thank you for the Mod Podge cheat.
    A word of caution, Not all PVA glues are the same, Some are brittle when dry and will sand easily some are not, some have a quicker drying time etc
    Some have more water content.
    Your recipe might not work as well if using a more diluted or some other version.
    As you use the “Yellow Moon” PVA I have no idea if that is a runny PVA or a very thick one.

    I find mixing PVA down to the consistency of single cream is usually the best mix for papier mache and other paper related crafts.

    • Lucy 22 July, 2016 at 10:03 am

      Thank you for this! I was under the understanding that PVA was a standard, but that perhaps “white glue” was where it got a little unstandardised? Great advice though, thank you!

  • Larain 24 July, 2016 at 11:29 am

    Thank you so much for this. I live in Australia and if I can fin Mod Podge it is so expensive. I have a table top just crying out for some fabric, I can now make it look the way I want.

    Larain

  • 50 Things You Can Start Making – foodfunandrecipies 5 September, 2016 at 1:51 pm

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  • Alison 10 September, 2016 at 11:03 am

    Hi I was just wondering if you can use this homemade mod lodge on glitter glasses and jars please

    • Lucy 12 September, 2016 at 8:55 am

      definitely!

  • Therese 12 September, 2016 at 10:15 pm

    So glad I found this thank you. I have seen waterproof pva for sale in Wickes, a builders trade shop and now I’m wondering if that also could be watered down into mod podge? Hmmm

    • Lucy 13 September, 2016 at 9:44 am

      Yep, that will work great!

  • Keith Davis 13 September, 2016 at 3:57 am

    You have confirmed my suspicions about Modge Podge. I’ve been using neat PVA so watering it down should make it a lot easier.
    Is it possible to make home made Modge Podge with a satin or mat finish?

    • Lucy 13 September, 2016 at 9:44 am

      I would say this comes out at a satin effect. It is not high gloss – can be made by adding varnish. I a not sure about matt! Let me know if you experiment!

  • Keith Davis 18 September, 2016 at 2:43 am

    I experimented using 3 parts PVA, 1 part water and 1 part flour and water paste mix. The result is matte finish, the next project I’ll halve the amount of flour paste and hopefully this will produce a satin type finish.

    • Lucy 18 September, 2016 at 3:48 pm

      Awesome thanks Keith!

  • sandra 9 October, 2016 at 11:37 pm

    Hi thinking of putting glitter on the stems of glasses can I use mod podge (ur recipe of course) then cover with glitter is it also feasible to then spray with laquer x

  • Elenor Carroll 20 October, 2016 at 2:35 am

    Now I’m annoyed as I just bought some and my children have a mahoosive pot of PVA in the cupboard!
    ah well, you live and learn….

  • Terry 21 October, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    I am so glad I found this, I have just had an email from another site showing how to transfer pictures to wood using Mod Podge. So I thought ok that looks cool, lets see what M P is. And hoorah sixth result down on google search I find your page.What a saviour you are, thank you.

  • Dawn 22 November, 2016 at 2:33 pm

    Can you use your home made mod podge for string xmas trees? Think of doing some for this xmas with the kids.

  • Carol Badenhordt 2 December, 2016 at 11:40 am

    Firstly, you are hysterically funny!!!! Not to mention very clever and resourceful. I personally am not very DIY friendly at all – but you make it sound so easy that I’m gonna give it my best shot…. If nothing else, I’ll continue to follow you posts just because they are so amusing and we’ll written 🙂 you go girl!

    • Lucy 3 December, 2016 at 9:18 am

      Ha THANKS

  • Filly 7 December, 2016 at 2:29 am

    A super duper THANKS! Going to try mine and see how it works out 🙂

  • Richard King 31 December, 2016 at 7:48 am

    I was suprised to see how thick your PVA glue was… The stuff I get from Wicks is very thin – more like a single-cream consistency. Does the viscosity really matter??

  • 50 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making – AmraMedia 29 March, 2017 at 8:11 am

    […] Homemade Mod Podge – If you are a keen crafter and go through tonnes of Mod Podge, then why not have a go at making some for yourself? You will be surprised at how much you will save. […]

  • Cinderella Pumpkins - A Dabbling Girl's Blog 10 April, 2017 at 8:02 am

    […] Once the balloons were blown up and tied with various rubber bands, ribbons, twine, etc., and the paper was also stripped into thin pieces, I started looking for a “glue” recipe.  In the end I decided against the recipe suggested on the Instructables page, and instead decided to use White PVC glue mixed with water (i.e. the cheap alternative to Modge Podge) […]

  • Crocheted Lace Crowns - Unique Party Favours - A Dabbling Girl's Blog 11 April, 2017 at 7:34 am

    […] for what is nothing more than white PVA glue mixed with water and so, once again, followed the DIY “modge podge” recipe I used […]

  • Bianca 4 May, 2017 at 11:36 am

    Hi,
    I was wondering of you know what an alternative is to Mod Podge photo transfer, just your recipe or do I need to add anything?

    Thanks,
    Bianca

  • Boffo 20 May, 2017 at 9:20 am

    Hi! Thanks for this! I recently entered the world of paper arts and quilling, and used expensive Mod Podge, and was wondering if Elmer’s could be substituted! Now I know just how to do it! I did the background with tissue paper and glue.
    https://scontent-ort2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18447140_10155295390972766_4939863206510803590_n.jpg?oh=93ee12e6748dd5c2cff2af68675c5d0d&oe=59BA5762

    • Deborah Stewart 26 June, 2017 at 11:54 am

      That’s beautiful! I hope you don’t mind that I pinned it to my paper crafts board as an example of quilling.

  • Deborah Stewart 26 June, 2017 at 12:11 pm

    I’m not sure that our (North American) PVC glue needs watering down to make it like Mod Podge. Your glue is so thick! I’ve noticed the same thing with your house paint while watching those room do-over shows. The consistency of both our glue and our house paint is closer to pancake batter!

  • B. Baker 10 August, 2017 at 12:15 am

    Can I use the home made “Mod Podge” for outdoor mosaic projects?

    • Lucy 21 August, 2017 at 6:49 am

      Only if you varnish afterwards 😀

  • BeckyD 17 October, 2017 at 6:36 am

    Can I use the homemade ‘mod podge’ to adhere fabric to wood, then once it has dried, use fast drying polyurethane to seal the fabric?

    • Lucy 17 October, 2017 at 4:30 pm

      Yep, thats the best combo!

  • RELL 4 November, 2017 at 12:55 pm

    Lucy, you are my new BFF. Your humour and honesty is fantastic. My husband wondered what I was laughing at 🙂 You have made my latest project much more achievable and less expensive. Huge thanks.

    • Lucy 9 November, 2017 at 10:31 pm

      Hehe Lol. Thanks!

  • Jenny 15 November, 2017 at 7:31 pm

    Hi,

    Just love your page. I am sooooo excited to be making tile coasters with my own photography and want to know if its OK to use photo paper for the photo then you home made mod podge over the top of the print. If so, what do you then use to seal the coaster to make it water proof.

  • 45 Things You Should Stop Buying & Start Making At Home : Healthy Holistic Living 14 December, 2017 at 7:42 am

    […] Homemade Mod Podge – If you are a keen crafter and go through tonnes of Mod Podge then why not have a go at making some for yourself, you will be surprised at how much you will save. […]

  • Kathy Sumrall 12 March, 2018 at 9:52 am

    Thank you SO MUCH for the Mod Podge recipe! I have a problem getting a smooth final coat. Do you have any suggestions fr a perfect finish?

    Kathy

  • Lea-anne Martin 14 March, 2018 at 10:23 pm

    Well, thank God I found this page. Not sure why I would want to water down my PVC glue anyways, but thanks for the sensible advice. Now I can keep my money in my wallet where it belongs, hahaha!

  • Linda 9 May, 2018 at 3:15 am

    Hi ! I love this homemade idea. I already make my own texture paste so much cheaper to use homemade. I saw a version of Mod Podge that leaves a project ‘antiqued’ or yellowed slightly. They used a black and white photo and applied this particular Mod Podge and it aged the finished project . Can you advise me on how to make this too ? Would you simply add a dark yellow ink or paint to the home made recipe ?

  • How to Waterproof a Painting for Outdoors - Strange, Weird & Wonderful 13 May, 2018 at 3:37 am

    […] Mod Podge has both an outdoor sealer and a clear acrylic sealer, while it may seem like a good idea to use the outdoor sealer, it isn’t.  The outdoor sealer can leave behind a sticky film on your canvas that looks terrible.  The clear sealer works just as well and it is much easier to use.  If you want you can use both, but use the acrylic sealer first to seal in the painting and avoid the sticky residue. […]

  • Sheran Walker 4 October, 2018 at 9:29 am

    I knew it was a con. Been crafting with white glue and water for over 50 years.

  • Vaya Condios 23 October, 2018 at 8:44 pm

    Thank You so much, I need this product and because it is so expensive to buy in craft stores and other craft supplying department stores I thought I’d try my luck on line to see if it can be made, and sure enough I stumble upon this site.
    I can’t thank you enough for sharing this, I’m only on a pension so you have really saved me, I am ever so grateful.
    Many Blessings to you.

  • Amy 16 December, 2018 at 8:33 am

    Your blog is so delightfully hilarious!!
    So glad your post was the first to show in my Google search for homemade mod podge… just moved into a quaint cottage and I’m decoupaging an entire wall with retro prints, the laundry cabinet doors and my seasonal decor wall and tableaux.

  • Tanya 18 December, 2018 at 8:38 pm

    omaaaaayygasshh… i was like readint the comments and realized that it was posted ages ago… and as mentioned was reposted from a post more ages ago… HAHAHA kinda find it funny… but btw thank you very much as I was thinking that mod podge was very expensive.. and it is here i. our place… it is a 2 day wage for a regular employee in our country 🙁

  • DIY Decoupage Dress Form & Homemade Modpodge Recipe | NICOLE OLEA 2 January, 2019 at 2:52 pm

    […] I didn’t have enough Modpodge left to complete this project, and waiting the 10-12 days for Amazon to deliver it to me just wasn’t an option. So I turned to Pinterest and discovered a ton of recipes for Modpodge, the one I used was so simple.  I can’t believe I’d not made some sooner.  I found the recipe on this delightful blog called Lulatastic. […]

  • Christopher Smith 12 February, 2019 at 2:18 am

    I was looking into Mod Podge for a paper mask project, when I stumbled upon this. DOUBLE JACKPOT! Not only did I get a good honest review of the product, I also got the water to glue ratio that everyone mentions, but never actually specifies! Thank you

  • A Dozen Easter Egg Decorating Ideas | The Children's Rooms Blog 15 April, 2019 at 11:34 pm

    […] For instructions on how to make your own basic Mod Podge, along with how to pimp it to make the gloss version, visit Lulastic […]

  • Vicki Jones 16 April, 2019 at 10:00 pm

    Everyone talks about PVA glue as being a white sticky glue. Is that the same as craft glue which is clear?
    Thanks
    Vicki

  • Fenni 18 April, 2019 at 2:26 am

    Thank you, thank you!
    I was just looking for a Mod Podge, running around left and right, but couldn’t find any in our local stores. So happy that I bumped into your idea! Can’t thank you enough!!