The Story Behind the Design: Saint Germain Transfer

There's something very special and stunning about Saint Germain. The intricate details, the soft light, and delicately contrasting shadows dancing across each bloom, it’s as though you've stepped into a quiet Parisian garden. This one’s full of vintage sophistication, and we’re so excited to share a little more of the story behind it.
The artwork comes from a set of gouache floral studies tucked inside a book called Saint Germain, Volumes 1 and 2, dated around 1896. The artist remains a mystery, but the illustrations are a mesmerizing celebration of the floral form.
The artist worked out of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a neighborhood nestled in the heart of Paris’s 6th arrondissement. Now, Saint-Germain isn’t just any old Parisian quarter. For centuries, it’s been a hub for French art, intellect, and culture. A haven for reflection and creativity, it has seen some of history’s greatest writers, thinkers, and artists, and still draws us in with its charm and abundance. You can feel every bit of that goodness in these floral illustrations.
Saint Germain is one of those transfers that's beautiful on everything from vintage rolling pins and trays to a full-size vanity, armor, or bed frame. The variety of floral sizes in the set means it’s just as dreamy for small decor as it is for furniture flips. Our small decor crowd will be giddy with all the possibilities!
There's something about these florals that feels timeless and bold all at once, like they were meant to be passed down and treasured. We can't wait to see what you create with this one. 💕
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!