Furniture transfers are a popular option for breathing new life into older or bland furniture pieces. If you are a Do-it-yourself person like me or an interior designer, If you're looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and creative way to refresh any furniture item, then just grab a furniture transfer sheet. In this guide, we cover what furniture transfers are, how to use them properly, and why you should always reach for a furniture transfer when making over your furniture.
What are Furniture Transfers?
Furniture transfers are essentially decorative decals or images that you do directly on the surface of furniture. From floral patterns and vintage art to abstract designs and quotes, they have every style, color, and design. Normally, transfers would be printed directly onto a thin, clear sheet, allowing you to apply detailed designs without any paintbrushes or stencils. Simple turning into a custom high-end looking piece with little effort.
Benefits of Using Furniture Transfers
There are a few reasons why furniture transfers are so popular:
- Easy to Use: The best thing about it is that no artistic skills are required to use it. Applying for a furniture transfer is as easy as following simple instructions, so you don’t need to be an expert.
- Affordable: Like other forms of customization, furniture transfers are often a cost-effective way to achieve a high-impact transformation on the cheap, certainly less expensive than painting or upholstering.
- Versatile Design Choices: Transfers can be traditional or modern. This means there is a design to suit every style and taste.
- Long-Lasting: Your new transfer will not peel or fade when properly applied; it can last for years!
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Furniture Transfers
- Choose Your Design: Select a transfer that compliments your style & piece of furniture. But you can find them online or at your local craft stores.
- Prepare the Furniture: Dust, dirt, and oils need to be wiped off the surface of your furniture. It will give you the best results if you sand it with fine and then apply a primer.
- Cut and Place the Transfer: Cut out your transfer to suit your furniture. Remove the backing, place the transfer on the surface, and smooth out any wrinkles.
- Apply and Smooth: Use a burnishing tool, credit card, etc. to smooth the transfer down onto your surface, pressing out any air bubbles.
- Seal the Transfer: For longevity, coat the transfer with a sealing product such as polyurethane. This prevents damage to the design.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Furniture Transfers
- Work on a Smooth Surface: Furniture Transfers is a Life Hack Although if your furniture is textured or damaged, sand it down (or fill in gaps) before applying the transfer.
- Practice on Small Areas: Whenever approaching new furniture transfers, try on something smaller at first just to get a feel of the technique.
- Consider Layering Designs: A look that allows some transfers to be layered. Combine various patterns, colors, and styles for a unique piece.
Popular Furniture Transfer Styles
- Vintage and Antique: Ideal for giving a piece of furniture a rustic or weathered appearance.
- Floral and botanical: great for evoking a gentle, love-inspired feel.
- Geometric and Modern: Best for contemporary or minimalist décor.
- Typography and Quotes: Gives your space character through inspirational or humorous quotable phrases
Best Furniture Pieces for Transfers
You can use furniture transfers on many surface types. Some of the most common ones are as follows:
- Dressers: Use the designs on the drawers; they pop.
- Tables: A chic transfer can instantly modernize a top or side table.
- Cabinets: Make cabinet doors beautiful.
- Chairs and Benches: Place transfers on the seat or back for a beautiful touch.
Where to Buy Furniture Transfers
The internet is full with quality furniture transfers. Here are some trusted places:
- Shop Beds: carries a full range of styles in many brands.
- Etsy: Perfect for niche styles and artisan designs.
- Specialty Craft Stores: Some craft stores carry some popular transfer brands.
Final Thoughts
Furniture transfers are an amazing way to create a whole new feel to old or boring furniture, and with endless designs to choose from, they can suit any style. Transfers offer a budget-friendly, easy way to achieve an RTW look, whether florals or modern patterns are your style. Try doing this, and see how your furniture becomes the masterpiece of the area!