00232 Decoupage

So I'm still thinking about making this backgammon board and as soon as the stools are finished, I'll probably be able to crack on with it. The only issues I seem to be having with it are that I can't decide how to press on with the playing surface. I need to make a decision as to how I'm going to place the markings on the board.
One idea is using decoupage to stick bits of paper onto the surface. I'd then cover the surface of the board in a varnish or an epoxy coat. The only problem then is whether I varnish the surface before or after the board is assembled. If I use decoupage, the bits of paper will be raised from the flat of the playing surface and I really want it to be smooth, this means having to pour varnish on the surface and letting it set to give an even finish. Then, of course, I'd have to make sure the rebate in the frame is large enough to take the increased thickness of the board and I'd also be wondering how scratch resistant the surface would be.

Anyway here's a picture of some bits of magazine stuck to paper as an experiment: