Paper Mache Crackle Fabric Box Applying crackle finish to fabric images By Dea Shelton Supplies: Paper Mache Box 4 small knobs 1 large knob Ivory Acrylic Paint Burnt Umber Acrylic Paint 100% Cotton Image Sheets 2 step crackle medium Glazing medium by Golden Water based gloss varnish Elmer’s Glue-all (not school glue) Fibers and Other embellishments Step 1 Base coat Paper Mache box with two coats of ivory acrylic paint, let dry between coats. Step 2 Select 100% Cotton Fabric Images. Step 3 Cut out images with a small pair of scissors. Pre-do a layout by arranging images on box. Peel iron on adhesive from back of images, leaving just the cotton fabric. Step 4 Apply Elmer’s glue to back of image and immediately adhere to box, clean up any excess glue with a damp sponge. Arrange images in a staggered fashion to show more interest. Once all images are glued down on box, let dry. Step 5 While your box is drying, paint a coordinating color onto your large and small knobs. the knobs will go on the bottom of the box as feet and the top as a handle. Let dry between coats. Once dry apply two coats of water based gloss varnish. Step 6 Once your box is dry (remember it may feel dry, but if it is cold to the touch it is still wet), apply a generous amount of crackle step 1 with a fine paint brush to the box lid and base. Let dry. Step 7 When step one, crackle medium, is dry, apply a generous amount of step 2. Let dry, generally overnight. You will see cracks forming on the surface. Step 8 Mix Golden Glazing medium with burnt umber acrylic paint in a 50/50 ratio and brush onto box and lid, immediately wipe off, with soft rag, until you see just the cracks on the fabric and box. If you want more glazing medium removed, you can dampen your rag. Let dry. Step 9 Apply two coats of gloss water based varnish to your box and lid, let dry between coats. Step 10 Glue, using Elmer’s glue-all, large knob onto box lid, and four small knobs as feet. Let dry. Step 11 Add your embellishments, charms, rhinestones, fiber, and more with Elmer’s glue-all. Tips & Tricks Put your varnish on with a soft brush to avoid brush strokes and air bubbles. Change the color of your charms and pearls by wiping on alcohol inks with a soft rag, permanent markers also work. If your paint is cool to the touch it is not dry.