Back to the Basics with IOD Paint Inlays: Guide, Tips & Tutorials

Back to the Basics with IOD Transfers: Guide, Tips & Tutorials
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Today, we’re getting into the essentials of IOD Paint Inlays—everything from inspiration to application tips and techniques. When you’re done, you’ll have the basic tools to beautify your decor and feel confident while working with Paint Inlays!


If you’re brand new to IOD Paint Inlays, welcome! And if you’ve used them for years, you’re still in the right place. We’ve gathered our most helpful tips, tutorials, and resources from the IOD team and our wonderfully talented Artisans, so you have a go-to guide whenever you need it. Grab those inlay sheets you’ve been saving for someday… and let’s make something beautiful together.

The Basics

What are IOD Paint Inlays?

IOD Paint Inlays aren’t synthetic transfers or decals—they’re real, artisan-quality paint that becomes embedded into your surface during application, giving you a finished piece that feels collected over time. 


They’re a beautiful way to upcycle decor and furniture with detailed artistry, and that authentic hand painted look. You can often get 2–3 uses out of a single inlay sheet, each impression lending a fainter, more-aged look. Talk about value! 

Paint Inlay Application & Sealing

How do I use IOD Paint Inlays?

STEP ONE: ARRANGE YOUR DESIGN

Play around with the layout of your designs on your project until it feels just right. 

STEP TWO: TRIM AS NEEDED

Using the grids on the back side of the inlay sheet, trim your inlay as needed and set it aside. If you are using a repeat pattern and lining the pattern up continuously, then trim the excess margin on each sheet. 

STEP THREE: PAINT YOUR PROJECT

On an appropriately prepared surface, apply a generous and even coat of mineral-based chalk-type paint. Work in small sections to manage the paint-drying window as you work, generally not larger than 12"x16". 

STEP FOUR: APPLY THE PAINT INLAY SHEET

While the paint is still wet, lay the paint inlay sheet, design side down (grids are printed on the back for easy identification of front and back), into the wet paint, keeping it taut. 

STEP FIVE: ENSURE GOOD CONTACT 

Spritz lightly with an even mist of water. Using a smooth, damp sponge, a soft, folded cloth, or the small IOD Silicone Paint Blade, gently pat down with even, light pressure to ensure the design makes good contact with the painted surface. Avoid excessive movement or dragging of the Paint Inlay sheet once it is laid down, as this can cause blurring or smearing. 

STEP SIX: REPEAT STEPS 3-5 FOR REPEAT PATTERNS 

Repeat steps 3-5 to complete your design, lining up your sections as appropriate. The gridlines help match pattern edges when needed. 

STEP SEVEN: ALLOW TIME TO TRY 

Allow the Inlay to dry to the touch. Drying times can vary anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on conditions. 

STEP EIGHT: REMOVE THE PAINT INLAY

When ready to remove the Paint Inlay sheets from your surface, spritz evenly with water, and allow 30 seconds to absorb; this helps the backing release. Starting at one corner, gently pull the paper up, keeping it at a low angle. It should come up easily without tearing. If it does not, spritz a second time and wait a moment, then try again. 

STEP NINE: PERSONALIZE THE DESIGN (OPTIONAL)

If desired, you can use water to blend out or soften the design, because the pigment is still movable and active. You can even add additional colors.

STEP TEN: ALLOW TIME TO DRY

Once you’re happy with the Paint Inlay design, allow your project to fully dry. Dry time will vary depending on the thickness of the paint coats, the amount of water used in the process, the room temperature, and weather conditions. If the surface is cold to the touch, it is not completely dry. To be sure, wait 24 hours. 

STEP ELEVEN: SEAL YOUR PROJECT 

There are a few different ways to seal your Paint Inlay. Let’s get into it in the section below. 

What can I use to seal IOD Paint Inlays? 

When it’s time to seal your work, you have a few good options to choose from. It all depends on the one that fits your comfort level and the finish you’re after. 

  • Spray on a water-based sealer of choice using a spray gun designed for paints and finishes.
  • Apply a brushed-on water-based polyurethane-type sealer directly over your work. This method is likely to result in some pigment migration; this is minimized by avoiding overworking.
  • Create a “mistable” setting spray using a 50/50 mix of water and your favorite water-based sealer. Apply with a fine spray mister. Allow it to dry completely and then apply your brushed-on sealer.
  • Set your work initially with a commercially available spray-on sealer or artist's fixative. Allow it to dry completely and apply your finish of choice.
  • You can also use wax to seal your piece. Apply according to the manufacturer's directions and buff to a sheen as usual.
  • Some oil-based finishes can be applied directly by brush to the surface without reactivating. Test in a small area before applying. Note that most oil-based finishes tend to discolor to amber with time, and that is most noticeable on light colors.

Will a Paint Inlay ever dry if it’s not sealed? 

Paint Inlays dry fairly quickly. Wait until your design is completely dry before sealing, but keep in mind it will remain “active” until it’s sealed, meaning water can still reactivate the pigment.

Store & Care For Paint Inlays 

How do I store my IOD Paint Inlays? 

Store your Paint Inlays in their original packaging at room temperature in a dry spot until you’re ready to use them. Handle the sheets gently, and keep them completely dry before application.


After use, lay the sheet flat pigment-side up and let it dry fully. If you saved the protective tissue sheets, place them between your inlay pages for safekeeping. Once everything is dry, slip the sheets back into the packaging so they’re ready when you want to come back for a second (or even third) impression. 

Can IOD Paint Inlays be used more than once? 

Those “leftover” Paint Inlay sheets still have pigment on them, so you can often get a beautifully faded second impression, and depending on your colors and technique, sometimes even a third. 


Important note: For the most consistent results with a basic application, use a chalk-type paint that doesn’t contain polymers. (Polymer-based paints and topcoats can absolutely be used too; timing and results just vary, so be sure to check out our tutorials for those special techniques.)

How long can you store sheets between applications? 

In theory, Paint Inlays can be stored indefinitely. Just keep them flat, dry, and tucked away in a low-humidity spot.

Tutorials & Inspiration for All Levels 

Beginner


Intermediate


Advanced 


Miscellaneous Yet Resourceful Tips 

How to use sample boards for practicing with Paint Inlays?


Before you commit a Paint Inlay to a big piece (like a dresser), take a few minutes to make a sample board. It’s the easiest way to see how the inlay behaves, how it looks over different paint colors and finishes, and to work out any little technique tweaks on a smaller scale before you’ve poured hours into the “real” project. Sampling might feel like an extra step, but it actually saves product, time, and heartache in the long run. Check out this blog post to learn more about how to use sample boards in your creative process. 


Pro tip: Label your samples with the paint color/type and topcoat used, then tuck them into a sample drawer for future projects. You’ll thank yourself later!

If you're just kicking off your creative journey, have no fear—our Product 101 pages are packed with straightforward techniques to set you up for success. We're thrilled to accompany you as you explore and create. For more how-tos and creative inspo, make sure to browse through the rest of our blog.


Once you've crafted your final piece, share it with our Facebook Creative Tribe! This community is not just a showcase but also a supportive hub for when you hit those creative roadblocks. And remember, your local stockist is always ready to assist with IOD supplies and expert advice. We're excited to see what you'll bring to life!

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Back to the Basics with IOD Paint Inlays: Guide, Tips & Tutorials

Back to the Basics with IOD Transfers: Guide, Tips & Tutorials
Pin this article to save for later

Today, we’re getting into the essentials of IOD Paint Inlays—everything from inspiration to application tips and techniques. When you’re done, you’ll have the basic tools to beautify your decor and feel confident while working with Paint Inlays!


If you’re brand new to IOD Paint Inlays, welcome! And if you’ve used them for years, you’re still in the right place. We’ve gathered our most helpful tips, tutorials, and resources from the IOD team and our wonderfully talented Artisans, so you have a go-to guide whenever you need it. Grab those inlay sheets you’ve been saving for someday… and let’s make something beautiful together.

The Basics

What are IOD Paint Inlays?

IOD Paint Inlays aren’t synthetic transfers or decals—they’re real, artisan-quality paint that becomes embedded into your surface during application, giving you a finished piece that feels collected over time. 


They’re a beautiful way to upcycle decor and furniture with detailed artistry, and that authentic hand painted look. You can often get 2–3 uses out of a single inlay sheet, each impression lending a fainter, more-aged look. Talk about value! 

Paint Inlay Application & Sealing

How do I use IOD Paint Inlays?

STEP ONE: ARRANGE YOUR DESIGN

Play around with the layout of your designs on your project until it feels just right. 

STEP TWO: TRIM AS NEEDED

Using the grids on the back side of the inlay sheet, trim your inlay as needed and set it aside. If you are using a repeat pattern and lining the pattern up continuously, then trim the excess margin on each sheet. 

STEP THREE: PAINT YOUR PROJECT

On an appropriately prepared surface, apply a generous and even coat of mineral-based chalk-type paint. Work in small sections to manage the paint-drying window as you work, generally not larger than 12"x16". 

STEP FOUR: APPLY THE PAINT INLAY SHEET

While the paint is still wet, lay the paint inlay sheet, design side down (grids are printed on the back for easy identification of front and back), into the wet paint, keeping it taut. 

STEP FIVE: ENSURE GOOD CONTACT 

Spritz lightly with an even mist of water. Using a smooth, damp sponge, a soft, folded cloth, or the small IOD Silicone Paint Blade, gently pat down with even, light pressure to ensure the design makes good contact with the painted surface. Avoid excessive movement or dragging of the Paint Inlay sheet once it is laid down, as this can cause blurring or smearing. 

STEP SIX: REPEAT STEPS 3-5 FOR REPEAT PATTERNS 

Repeat steps 3-5 to complete your design, lining up your sections as appropriate. The gridlines help match pattern edges when needed. 

STEP SEVEN: ALLOW TIME TO TRY 

Allow the Inlay to dry to the touch. Drying times can vary anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on conditions. 

STEP EIGHT: REMOVE THE PAINT INLAY

When ready to remove the Paint Inlay sheets from your surface, spritz evenly with water, and allow 30 seconds to absorb; this helps the backing release. Starting at one corner, gently pull the paper up, keeping it at a low angle. It should come up easily without tearing. If it does not, spritz a second time and wait a moment, then try again. 

STEP NINE: PERSONALIZE THE DESIGN (OPTIONAL)

If desired, you can use water to blend out or soften the design, because the pigment is still movable and active. You can even add additional colors.

STEP TEN: ALLOW TIME TO DRY

Once you’re happy with the Paint Inlay design, allow your project to fully dry. Dry time will vary depending on the thickness of the paint coats, the amount of water used in the process, the room temperature, and weather conditions. If the surface is cold to the touch, it is not completely dry. To be sure, wait 24 hours. 

STEP ELEVEN: SEAL YOUR PROJECT 

There are a few different ways to seal your Paint Inlay. Let’s get into it in the section below. 

What can I use to seal IOD Paint Inlays? 

When it’s time to seal your work, you have a few good options to choose from. It all depends on the one that fits your comfort level and the finish you’re after. 

  • Spray on a water-based sealer of choice using a spray gun designed for paints and finishes.
  • Apply a brushed-on water-based polyurethane-type sealer directly over your work. This method is likely to result in some pigment migration; this is minimized by avoiding overworking.
  • Create a “mistable” setting spray using a 50/50 mix of water and your favorite water-based sealer. Apply with a fine spray mister. Allow it to dry completely and then apply your brushed-on sealer.
  • Set your work initially with a commercially available spray-on sealer or artist's fixative. Allow it to dry completely and apply your finish of choice.
  • You can also use wax to seal your piece. Apply according to the manufacturer's directions and buff to a sheen as usual.
  • Some oil-based finishes can be applied directly by brush to the surface without reactivating. Test in a small area before applying. Note that most oil-based finishes tend to discolor to amber with time, and that is most noticeable on light colors.

Will a Paint Inlay ever dry if it’s not sealed? 

Paint Inlays dry fairly quickly. Wait until your design is completely dry before sealing, but keep in mind it will remain “active” until it’s sealed, meaning water can still reactivate the pigment.

Store & Care For Paint Inlays 

How do I store my IOD Paint Inlays? 

Store your Paint Inlays in their original packaging at room temperature in a dry spot until you’re ready to use them. Handle the sheets gently, and keep them completely dry before application.


After use, lay the sheet flat pigment-side up and let it dry fully. If you saved the protective tissue sheets, place them between your inlay pages for safekeeping. Once everything is dry, slip the sheets back into the packaging so they’re ready when you want to come back for a second (or even third) impression. 

Can IOD Paint Inlays be used more than once? 

Those “leftover” Paint Inlay sheets still have pigment on them, so you can often get a beautifully faded second impression, and depending on your colors and technique, sometimes even a third. 


Important note: For the most consistent results with a basic application, use a chalk-type paint that doesn’t contain polymers. (Polymer-based paints and topcoats can absolutely be used too; timing and results just vary, so be sure to check out our tutorials for those special techniques.)

How long can you store sheets between applications? 

In theory, Paint Inlays can be stored indefinitely. Just keep them flat, dry, and tucked away in a low-humidity spot.

Tutorials & Inspiration for All Levels 

Beginner


Intermediate


Advanced 


Miscellaneous Yet Resourceful Tips 

How to use sample boards for practicing with Paint Inlays?


Before you commit a Paint Inlay to a big piece (like a dresser), take a few minutes to make a sample board. It’s the easiest way to see how the inlay behaves, how it looks over different paint colors and finishes, and to work out any little technique tweaks on a smaller scale before you’ve poured hours into the “real” project. Sampling might feel like an extra step, but it actually saves product, time, and heartache in the long run. Check out this blog post to learn more about how to use sample boards in your creative process. 


Pro tip: Label your samples with the paint color/type and topcoat used, then tuck them into a sample drawer for future projects. You’ll thank yourself later!

If you're just kicking off your creative journey, have no fear—our Product 101 pages are packed with straightforward techniques to set you up for success. We're thrilled to accompany you as you explore and create. For more how-tos and creative inspo, make sure to browse through the rest of our blog.


Once you've crafted your final piece, share it with our Facebook Creative Tribe! This community is not just a showcase but also a supportive hub for when you hit those creative roadblocks. And remember, your local stockist is always ready to assist with IOD supplies and expert advice. We're excited to see what you'll bring to life!

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