How to apply Décor Transfers

How to apply Décor Transfers

PREPARING YOUR SURFACE:

  • The surface must be clean and dry - remove any dirt, dust, grease, wax etc.
  • If your surface has wax on it, the transfer may not adhere - you will need to remove the wax with mineral spirits or similar products, prior to applying the transfer (NB. if the wax has cured for 30 days or more and is perfectly clean and dry, you can apply the transfer).
  • Proper prep work before painting is required or the transfer may pull your paint up - we recommend scuff sanding, and priming if necessary, before painting and transferring, for optimal adhesion.
  • If you are applying the transfer to a newly painted or stained surface, it must be fully dry before applying the transfer - we recommend waiting 12-24 hours after you paint or stain (NB. some chalky paints prevent adhesion so will require sealing with top coat prior to applying the transfer).
  • If the surface is too slick, the transfer may pull up from the surface or not transfer properly - we recommend lightly scuff sanding, when possible, to ensure the transfer has something to adhere to.

SEALING/PROTECTING THE TRANSFER:

  • Use a water-based polyurethane or furniture wax to seal your transfer (if choosing the seal with wax, ensure to apply it after applying the transfer, not before). Please scroll down for a list of recommended water-based top coats.

APPLYING THE TRANSFER:

  • Take care when unrolling the transfer sheets, as they may roll up, separate from the backing paper, and/or stick to itself - if the transfer sticks to itself, that portion will not be salvageable.
  • Transfers work best at room temperature and are best applied indoors.
  • They can be cut into smaller sections for easier application.
  • Once ready to apply, separate the layers and carefully position the transfer where you would like it to go, then press the transfer flat using the palm of your hand.
  • Using the supplied wooden stick or a Redesign With Prima Transfer Tool {Transfer Tool}, rub the transfer onto your surface.
  • Slowly peel away the clear acetate sheet, checking for adhesion - should any parts not adhere, put it back down and rub again over those areas.

APPLICATION PRO-TIPS:

  • Choose your positioning first, before separating the transfer layers.
  • If only ever so lightly applied, it it sometimes possible to very carefully peel back off and re-position if necessary. Once adhered properly however, it is not possible to remove it without damaging it.
  • Once applied, re-lay the acetate over the transfer and rub over the edges once again to 'burnish' them (remove the halo).
  • Transfers can be layered for aesthetic effect or to fill in/cover areas.
  • Transfers on glass/mirrors do not need sealing.

STORING TRANSFERS:

  • Keep transfers in their tubes until you are ready to use them.
  • Store them in a dry, cool area.  Optimal temperature for storage and application is 15-24 degrees Celsius.

RECOMMENDED WATER-BASED TOP COATS:

  • Annie Sloan Clear Wax
  • Fusion Waxes (Clear & Coloured), Beeswax, Toughcoat, Stain & Finishing Oil
  • General Finishes Polyacrylic, High Performance Top Coat
  • Minwax Water-based Polyacrylic, Water-based Polyurethane
  • Modern Masters Dead Flat Varnish
  • Rustoleum Matte Spray, Matte Topcoat Sealer
  • Wise Owl Synthesis Paint Varnish, One Hour Enamel