Today, we’re reviving a standard shadowbox into a vintage beauty using the IOD Vintage Brooches Mould, Decor Inks, and Vintage Textures Stamp. Think rich layers of texture, dreamy hues, and just the right touch of luscious gold leaf.

The Vintage Brooches Mould features an intentionally bare center, offering a perfect little canvas for a delicate Paint Inlay, a personalized touch with the Insignia Stamp, or (in this case) a dainty bloom from the Catharina Transfer. Whether displayed as a standalone statement or tucked into a thoughtfully curated gallery wall, this piece is bound to capture hearts.

Grab your IOD products and supplies by using the store locator and finding a stockist near you.

IOD Products Needed: 

• Vintage Textures Stamp

• Vintage Brooches Mould

• Catharina Transfer

• 8 x 8 Wood Blank

• IOD Decor Ink

• IOD Ink Pad 

Other Supplies: 

• Resin
• Gold Leaf Paint
• Thick and Quick Glue

Step-by-Step Guide

STEP ONE: PAINT THE SHADOWBOX

First things first—let’s give the interior of our shadowbox a little love! Begin with a beautiful sage green chalk paint, brushing it onto the innermost section and the sides for a cozy backdrop. Once that’s done, let it dry completely before moving on to the next color—we don’t want our paints mingling when we use the next color.

Next up, grab your cream chalk paint and give the “frame” and edges a fresh coat—go ahead and hit the back too if you’re feeling extra fancy! If a little sneaks onto your sage green, no worries—just do a quick touch-up and let everything dry together.

STEP TWO: ADD TEXTURE WITH IOD DECOR INK AND STAMPS

Now for the fun stuff—let’s add some age and character! We’re breaking out our IOD Decor Inks to create a beautifully vintage aesthetic. For this project, we mixed a custom brown (10 drops Turmeric , 1 drop Black, and 4 drops Tomatto —feel free to tweak the mix to your liking!). No worries if you don’t have these shades on hand— Stone Grey Ink would be equally gorgeous!

Load up the long strips of your Vintage Textures Stamp with ink—these will mimic those perfectly imperfect chippy edges that naturally come with age and wear. How much aging you add is totally up to you! We kept it on the subtle side, focusing mostly on the edges.

Once you’ve worked your way around the frame, apply your ink pad directly to the frame, concentrating on the corners and the inside edges. Can’t quite reach those interior corners? No problem! Grab a Q-tip, dab it onto the ink pad, and work it into the nooks and crannies. This little detail goes a long way!

STEP THREE: CREATE YOUR CASTINGS

Time to pour your resin. If you’ve got the dry time (we didn’t with filming), you can absolutely use IOD Air Dry Clay instead! Just be sure to let your brooch dry completely under a damp paper towel—trust us, your patience will pay off. It needs to be fully dry so you can apply your transfer. Apply a transfer on wet air dry clay is a no go!

For resin users, glove up and mix a 1:1 ratio, then pour into your favorite brooch mould (or more—because a set of three would make the most darling collage! 😍). Let it cure fully before moving on. 

STEP FOUR: PAINT THE BROOCH INTERIOR

Next up, give the interior of your brooch a coat of that same dreamy cream chalk paint you used on your frame. Apply a nice, even coat, then let it dry completely before moving on.

STEP FIVE: APPLY GOLD LEAF PAINT

Now for a little shimmery goodness! Grab your gold leaf paint and a fine art brush, then carefully trace around the edge of your brooch. Take it slow—deep breaths, a steady hand, and enjoy the process! If a little gold wanders where it shouldn’t just do a quick touch-up. Let it dry completely before moving on.

Depending on the type of paint you’re using, you may want to seal the interior of your brooch before applying the transfer. It’s not a must, but it can help the adhesion process—especially with certain paints.

STEP SIX: PREP & APPLY A TRANSFER 

Now for the really fun part—time to bring in that Catherina transfer! Snip out one of the smallest floral bouquets, then flip the transfer upside down onto your brooch (grid side up, backing still in place!). Grab a pen and gently trace around the oval, pressing into the grooves to get that perfect shape. Once you’ve got your outline, cut out your transfer.

Now, remove the backing and hover over your brooch, lining it up as best you can. When it’s just right, use your applicator to ease it into those curves.

Finish with your favorite water-based sealer, but avoid the gold paint (sealers can dull that gorgeous gleam!).

STEP SEVEN: GLUE YOUR BROOCH

Last step! Grab your thick and quick glue and apply a generous amount to the back of your brooch—no skimping here! Press it firmly into place inside your shadowbox, making sure it’s centered and secure. And just like that, you’ve created a darling little piece brimming with vintage charm! 😍

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!