How to Hand Paint a Transfer Graphic Onto Wood Furniture.
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Let me start out by saying I am NOT an artist! I don't know how to paint on a canvas, unless you count that "Painting and Vino" 3 hours classes that are all the rage! Don't ever not try something because you think you don't have the skill. You may surprise yourself.
I refinish/paint vintage furniture. I came across this table from the 50's for $20 and thought I'd try something different. I had planned on just doing a straight graphic transfer but the transfer didn't take. I had painted the table in a chalk paint of a very pale, creamy yellow (Lambs Tail by DE).
After downloading the graphic from "The Graphics Fairy", I tried the transfer onto the painted top. I only got a very faint outline. Hmmmph! So, I outlined everything in a black sharpie marker.
And then I thought, hmmm, how hard can it be to paint in the colors??? I have some artist brushes. If it doesn't work out, I'll just sand the whole thing off and start over. It's only paint!!! So that's what I did. I used acrylic craft paint.
I didn't have the exact color of green that was in the picture, so I mixed what I had on hand. As you can see, I was a mixing fool!
It's a lot easier for me to copy something than trying to do it without visual help. Whatever I saw in the picture, I brushed it onto my table! I used a few different small brushes and just took my time. I was actually surprised that it worked!
Don't be trying to point out the differences on the wings! No they are not identical! Hardest part was probably the writing!
It made a cute little side table that I ended up selling.
Is there a graphic you like and think it would look good on something else? Give it a try. If you mess it up, you can always sand it off and start over. Or if you find that you just can't do it, then paint over it! But don't be afraid not to give it a try. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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2 of 7 comments
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Really lovely, & NOW I know what to do with that table I've been itching to get at!!! Thank you for the idea!
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I love your notes…. "I'll just sand it and start over…" But WOW!!!! What a beautiful table! AND your gifts and talents really show!
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