How to Decorate Thrifted Tins with IOD Marche Des Fleurs Transfers

How to Decorate Thrifted Tins with IOD Marche Des Fleurs Transfers
Pin this article to save for later

You know that feeling when you're at a thrift store, you spot a beat-up old tin or a weathered watering can, and something in your brain goes I could do something with that? 🤭


Good news. You absolutely can, and the IOD Marché des Fleurs Transfer is about to become your new best friend.


In this post, IOD Artisan Connie shares five gorgeous ways to transform everyday vintage metal finds into charming cottage-inspired décor using layered florals, soft vintage finishes, and the timeless botanical beauty of Marché des Fleurs. Buckle up, buttercup, your thrift store haul is about to get a serious upgrade. 😍

Turn Everyday Finds into Beautiful Statement Pieces

Before we dive into the projects, here's something we love about the Marché des Fleurs Transfer: you don't have to use an entire sheet on one piece. Cut apart individual flowers and stems to create custom arrangements perfectly suited to each container. Layer blooms, extend stems around curves, wrap florals across edges, and the result looks hand-painted rather than applied. Every single project ends up completely unique.


💕 New to arranging florals with Marché des Fleurs? Before you dive in, check out our post How to Build a Bouquet with the IOD Marché des Fleurs TransferIt walks you through exactly how to cut, layer, and compose your florals for the most natural, gorgeous results. It's the perfect read before you start snipping.


Connie's Pro Tip: Don't toss your leftover scraps. Seal the sides and bottom of your transfer packaging with packing tape to create a simple storage envelope for the smaller pieces. Those itty-bitty florals make the perfect finishing touch on future projects. ✨

Spring Garden Trinket Dish

Preparing Your Surface for Success

Before applying transfers, it's important to prepare your project based on its existing finish.


  • Original metal surfaces can often be left untouched if they're clean and in good condition.
  • Spray-painted pieces provide a smooth base for vibrant transfers.
  • Chalk-painted surfaces should be sealed with a clear top coat and allowed to dry completely before applying transfers to prevent lifting the paint.
  • For particularly shiny metal, applying a clear primer first can improve paint adhesion if you plan to repaint.

Taking a few extra preparation steps ensures the transfer adheres beautifully and lasts for years to come. Worth it.


Watch the Full Tutorial

Project Inspiration

Vintage Red-Lidded Tin

This one is all about working with what you've got. By choosing raspberry-colored florals that complement the existing red lid, the container keeps its original personality while gaining a whole new look with depth through layered botanical details.

French Country Wood Board Upcycle

Bright Yellow Popcorn Tin

An old popcorn tin gets a full glow-up with spray paint and two coats of yellow chalk paint, then wildflower transfers wrap around the base for a cheerful, garden-inspired design. A light distress with 120-grit sandpaper, a clear top coat, and a touch of dark wax for subtle age and character. And just like that, a forgotten tin becomes something darling.

Two-Toned Vintage Pitcher

Sometimes one well-placed arrangement is all a piece needs. A classic blue-and-white painted pitcher becomes an elegant focal point with a single floral arrangement from the transfer pack. Dark wax settles into the details, emphasizing the texture and giving the piece an authentically aged appearance that feels completely intentional. Stunning!

Sage Green Storage Tin
This one is for the days when you want gorgeous results without a lot of fuss. A one-step paint with a built-in sealer means you can go straight to applying the floral transfers. No extra sealing step needed. The result is a beautiful decorative storage piece that looks like it took way more effort than it did. We love an efficient project. 🤭

DIY A Complete Whimsical Gallery Wall

Cottage Garden Watering Can

Sometimes less is more. Keeping the watering can's original finish preserves all its vintage personality, while a delicate morning glory transfer adds just enough color and interest to turn it into a charming garden accent. Simple, sweet, and completely gorgeous.

One Transfer Pack, Endless Possibilities

The Marché des Fleurs Transfer pack goes further than you'd think. And once you start, it's very hard to stop. 😅 Try your leftover florals on vintage coffee pots, old kettles, metal buckets, enamel pitchers, decorative planters, storage containers, and garden accessories. Mix and match elements across pieces to build a cohesive cottage-inspired collection throughout your home.


Supplies Used


IOD Products


Additional Supplies

  • Vintage metal tins, pitchers, or watering cans
  • Chalk-based paint or spray paint (optional)
  • Clear sealer or top coat
  • Clear primer (for shiny metal, if needed)
  • 120-grit sandpaper
  • Dark wax for aging effects
  • Packing tape (for storing leftover transfer pieces)

With just one transfer pack and a little imagination, you'll have endless opportunities to create timeless cottage-inspired décor that looks beautifully curated and uniquely your own.

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!

holiday plaques

How to Decorate Thrifted Tins with IOD Marche Des Fleurs Transfers

How to Decorate Thrifted Tins with IOD Marche Des Fleurs Transfers
Pin this article to save for later

You know that feeling when you're at a thrift store, you spot a beat-up old tin or a weathered watering can, and something in your brain goes I could do something with that? 🤭


Good news. You absolutely can, and the IOD Marché des Fleurs Transfer is about to become your new best friend.


In this post, IOD Artisan Connie shares five gorgeous ways to transform everyday vintage metal finds into charming cottage-inspired décor using layered florals, soft vintage finishes, and the timeless botanical beauty of Marché des Fleurs. Buckle up, buttercup, your thrift store haul is about to get a serious upgrade. 😍

Turn Everyday Finds into Beautiful Statement Pieces

Before we dive into the projects, here's something we love about the Marché des Fleurs Transfer: you don't have to use an entire sheet on one piece. Cut apart individual flowers and stems to create custom arrangements perfectly suited to each container. Layer blooms, extend stems around curves, wrap florals across edges, and the result looks hand-painted rather than applied. Every single project ends up completely unique.


💕 New to arranging florals with Marché des Fleurs? Before you dive in, check out our post How to Build a Bouquet with the IOD Marché des Fleurs TransferIt walks you through exactly how to cut, layer, and compose your florals for the most natural, gorgeous results. It's the perfect read before you start snipping.


Connie's Pro Tip: Don't toss your leftover scraps. Seal the sides and bottom of your transfer packaging with packing tape to create a simple storage envelope for the smaller pieces. Those itty-bitty florals make the perfect finishing touch on future projects. ✨

Spring Garden Trinket Dish

Preparing Your Surface for Success

Before applying transfers, it's important to prepare your project based on its existing finish.


  • Original metal surfaces can often be left untouched if they're clean and in good condition.
  • Spray-painted pieces provide a smooth base for vibrant transfers.
  • Chalk-painted surfaces should be sealed with a clear top coat and allowed to dry completely before applying transfers to prevent lifting the paint.
  • For particularly shiny metal, applying a clear primer first can improve paint adhesion if you plan to repaint.

Taking a few extra preparation steps ensures the transfer adheres beautifully and lasts for years to come. Worth it.


Watch the Full Tutorial

Project Inspiration

Vintage Red-Lidded Tin

This one is all about working with what you've got. By choosing raspberry-colored florals that complement the existing red lid, the container keeps its original personality while gaining a whole new look with depth through layered botanical details.

French Country Wood Board Upcycle

Bright Yellow Popcorn Tin

An old popcorn tin gets a full glow-up with spray paint and two coats of yellow chalk paint, then wildflower transfers wrap around the base for a cheerful, garden-inspired design. A light distress with 120-grit sandpaper, a clear top coat, and a touch of dark wax for subtle age and character. And just like that, a forgotten tin becomes something darling.

Two-Toned Vintage Pitcher

Sometimes one well-placed arrangement is all a piece needs. A classic blue-and-white painted pitcher becomes an elegant focal point with a single floral arrangement from the transfer pack. Dark wax settles into the details, emphasizing the texture and giving the piece an authentically aged appearance that feels completely intentional. Stunning!

Sage Green Storage Tin
This one is for the days when you want gorgeous results without a lot of fuss. A one-step paint with a built-in sealer means you can go straight to applying the floral transfers. No extra sealing step needed. The result is a beautiful decorative storage piece that looks like it took way more effort than it did. We love an efficient project. 🤭

DIY A Complete Whimsical Gallery Wall

Cottage Garden Watering Can

Sometimes less is more. Keeping the watering can's original finish preserves all its vintage personality, while a delicate morning glory transfer adds just enough color and interest to turn it into a charming garden accent. Simple, sweet, and completely gorgeous.

One Transfer Pack, Endless Possibilities

The Marché des Fleurs Transfer pack goes further than you'd think. And once you start, it's very hard to stop. 😅 Try your leftover florals on vintage coffee pots, old kettles, metal buckets, enamel pitchers, decorative planters, storage containers, and garden accessories. Mix and match elements across pieces to build a cohesive cottage-inspired collection throughout your home.


Supplies Used


IOD Products


Additional Supplies

  • Vintage metal tins, pitchers, or watering cans
  • Chalk-based paint or spray paint (optional)
  • Clear sealer or top coat
  • Clear primer (for shiny metal, if needed)
  • 120-grit sandpaper
  • Dark wax for aging effects
  • Packing tape (for storing leftover transfer pieces)

With just one transfer pack and a little imagination, you'll have endless opportunities to create timeless cottage-inspired décor that looks beautifully curated and uniquely your own.

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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