Gluing stamps to a table top

by Zsi Cockman
(Busselton WA)

Hi,

I have a whole lot of really old stamps and was thinking of gluing them to a table top. I was going to do it with Mod Podge and then maybe pour a coat of resin over it so it has a smooth top. Do you think this will work? Does Mod Podge stick to wood? And as it's for a table with cups and spills will the Mod Podge last?

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Hi Zsi

I rarely alter furniture as I make far more cards and scrapbook pages and 3d papercraft items, but I shall give you the following information.

Yes, I believe Mod Podge could be used to adhere your stamps to wood and for the first coat of sealant (be careful though - the Mod Podge may cause some of the colours to run on your stamps) but after that I would use resin or varnish on top to make a waterproof seal. Mod Podge will wear off over time and can be dissolved by water eventually. Be very careful to allow your coats of adhesive to dry thoroughly before adding fresh coats.

Also, I would still be careful to use a drink coaster or something similar for placing hot or cold drinks on the table even after it has cured (dried for a long time). Dried resin or varnish can still be scratched or dented even when thoroughly dried.

I have used Mod Podge for various projects that will not get wet. I also like to use Crystal Effects from Stampin' Up! as a sealant as it has a high gloss finish but it is still not strong enough for a furniture finish. Here are a few other sealed finish ideas if you would like to see them:

• Altered Box
  
• Seal a printed photo
  
• Name Tags

I hope this information helps! Let me see a photo of your finished project when you can.

Susan