Furniture Makeover Inspiration: 4 Stunning Transformations with IOD's Summer Collection
Today we're sharing four inspiring furniture makeovers from our talented IOD Artisans. From a library inspired dresser covered in miniature books to a whimsical nightstand adorned with storybook illustrations, these projects showcase just how versatile the Summer Collection can be.
Whether you love layered paint finishes, elegant transfers, intricate moulds, or timeless paint inlays, the IOD Summer Collection offers endless possibilities for furniture artists and DIY enthusiasts alike. These projects are the perfect inspiration to get your creative juices flowing and make your own take on their tutorials, or let it inspire you to make something totally different.
Let's dive in!
01 | How to Create a Library Dresser with IOD's NEW Bookish Mould
Book lovers, this one is for you.
Vonnie from Vonboo Furniture Designs transformed the upper section of a display cabinet into a faux library using the new Bookish Mould. By replacing the cabinet glass with solid panels, she created the perfect canvas for dozens of handmade resin and air dry clay book castings.
Each miniature book was individually painted and embellished using elements from the Primrose Isle Transfer, Athenaeum Foil Transfer, and The Connoisseur's Library Labels Stamp. The result is a breathtaking piece that looks like shelves filled with colorful antique books.
What makes this project especially impressive is the attention to detail. Every book spine is unique, creating a realistic and collected library feel that invites viewers to take a closer look.
Featured IOD Products:
Make It Your Own
Try using the Bookish Mould on smaller furniture pieces like side tables, secretary desks, bookshelves, or cabinet inserts. You could also create decorative book stacks, wall art, or shadow boxes for a charming literary touch.
02 | Elegant Sideboard Makeover with Alfred Peats & Co. Paint Inlay
Sometimes a single product is all it takes to completely transform a piece.
Karen chose the Alfred Peats and Co. IOD Paint Inlay to revive a well-loved sideboard, drawing inspiration from the rich wallpapers of the late 1800s and early 1900s. After experimenting with color combinations on sample boards, she settled on a dramatic blend of deep plum and vibrant blue to create a bold yet sophisticated backdrop for the inlay.
The intricate floral pattern instantly elevates the piece, while additional details like the Vintage Textures Stamp add layers of depth and authenticity. Finished with wax and subtle distressing, the sideboard feels both elegant and timeworn.
Featured IOD Products:
Make It Your Own
Try the Alfred Peats and Co. Paint Inlay on buffets, dressers, console tables, or even built in cabinetry. Experiment with different paint colors beneath the inlay to create a completely unique look that complements your home.
03 | How a Floral Transfer Completely Transformed This Cabinet
If you love romantic furniture, this makeover is sure to inspire.
Alena from Latina Patina took a simple French cabinet and transformed it into a soft, whimsical statement piece using the Flowers by the Poets Transfer. A beautiful combination of sage green, peachy pink, and olive tones provided the perfect backdrop for the delicate florals.
One of the things we love most about this project is how thoughtfully the transfer elements were arranged. Alena combined florals with birds and butterflies to create a design that feels organic and effortless while still being visually striking.
This project is a wonderful reminder that sometimes a carefully placed transfer can completely change the personality of a piece.
Featured IOD Products:
Make It Your Own
The Flowers by the Poets Transfer works beautifully on wardrobes, hutches, dressers, bedside tables, and even painted kitchen cabinets. Adjust the paint palette to suit your style, from romantic cottagecore to vintage farmhouse.
04 | Nightstand Makeover with IOD Little Lark Paint Inlay
This charming nightstand makeover proves that smaller projects can make a big impact.
Jonathon Marc Mendes used the new Little Lark Paint Inlay to transform a pine bedside cabinet into a whimsical piece filled with storybook charm. Inspired by one of the project examples featured on the packaging, he embraced a layered approach that combined aged wood, soft painted finishes, and carefully placed paint inlay elements.
The top was heavily distressed and color washed to create the look of weathered timber, while the lower portion was painted in a soft duck egg blue blend. Using the lacquer application method, Jonathon arranged and applied multiple paint inlay elements before finishing the piece with wax, and distressing.
The finished nightstand feels as though it came straight from the pages of a vintage illustrated book.
Featured IOD Products:
Make It Your Own
Little Lark is perfect for smaller scale furniture pieces like nightstands, children's furniture, side tables, sewing cabinets, and decorative storage boxes. Save leftover pieces from the inlay pack to use on future projects or coordinating decor.
Ready for Your Next Furniture Makeover?
Whether you're drawn to the intricate details of the Bookish Mould, the timeless elegance of Alfred Peats and Co. Paint Inlay, the romantic beauty of floral transfers, or the whimsical charm of Little Lark, these projects demonstrate how versatile the IOD Summer Collection can be.
The best part? Each project starts with a piece that many people would overlook and transforms it into something extraordinary.
Find your favorite IOD products through your local stockist and start planning your next furniture makeover today.
We'd love to see what you create! Share your projects with the IOD Creative Tribe and inspire fellow makers.