The moment I first laid eyes on the steampunk owl design transfer, I knew it had to be part of my Halloween decor!
The gears, feathers, top hat and overall vintage charm really spoke to me but I didn't have the right piece of furniture to showcase it....plus.....do I really need Halloween "furniture"?
So instead, I decided to turn it into a show stopping piece of wall art! The best part about this project is GLITTER!!!
In today's project, I'll show you how to take a simple decor transfer from flat to FANCY on this wall art with just a little paint and glitter!
If you are a new reader, hello and welcome to the Fancy Fam! With over a decade of furniture painting experience, I can honestly say that sharing my projects through this blog is still my favorite way to inspire! I've got years worth of fun and creative ways to update your home decor and furniture through paint! If this sounds like something you'd like to have delivered to you every Sunday be sure to sign up for my weekly newsletter here!
Supplies Used: Steampunk Owl Decor Transfer on Wall Art
Glitter of Choice
You can also shop my favorite products and tools in my Amazon influencer list here.
This post may contain affiliate links. I could make a commission at no charge to you if you purchase my recommended products. Please read my disclosure here and my privacy policy here.
My favorite way to start all canvas art projects!
I started with a piece of wall art that had been recycled several times already! It began as wooden wall art from Hobby Lobby and was most recently spray painted by Zadie for her room....which lasted about 3 weeks because she redecorates when the wind blows in any given direction! LOL! It was the PERFECT size for this project!
I began this process on a live broadcast asking for words of encouragement for those affected by the recent storm Helene.
The process of burying words or a secret message in your art is known as Pentimento.....and it's something I always do on my canvas work.
Custom blended backdrop
I created a custom blend of grays as the backdrop....using French Linen, Hurricane Gray, and Caviar.
I love using the Big Daddy natural bristle brush for this blending technique. Its such an affordable tool and one that I use a lot!
How to turn a decor transfer into stunning wall art
Once completely dry, I applied the SteamPunk Owl transfer using my push/pull technique and the wooden stick provided.
I recommend burnishing really well....which just means rub gently over the transfer to make sure its adhered well and any and all bubbles have been pushed out.
The transfer will need to be clear coated as they are porous and will lift and peel over time if not. So top coat and let dry.
Elevating the Decor Transfer Wall Art with Glitter!
I then applied a small amount of the same clear top coat to his hat and immediately sprinkled it with black glitter.
I repeated this process on his glasses, gears and talons....using glitter in black, gold and copper. I am blown away at how much this elevated this project!!! The addition of sparkle and texture is always a good thing....but to add it to the otherwise neutral/moody palette of this transfer.....really brought it to life!
I fully intended to add a real feather to his hat and even some sort of chunky item to his necklace. I could have added gears and bolts as well....but I just ran out of time.....AND I felt like it was pretty fabulous as is!
The glitter is protected with a spray can clear top coat.
The Finished Look: Steampunk Owl Decor Transfer to Show Stopping Wall Art
I hope this gets your creative wheels spinning! Furniture design transfers come in all sorts of designs and sizes....making the possibility of embellishing them plenty!
I have painted over many design transfers when the color palette wasn't vibing with my project. But the thought of adding glitter and other materials to them just occurred to me and I'm reeling with ideas!
More Inspiration: Canvas Art Projects
Want to try some canvas art of your own? I have gathered some of my favorite canvas art projects for your inspiration!
Butterfly Girl on Canvas - the story of inspiration and evolution
Frida Art - a project for my Riverside Retreat family
Release - butterfly bursting off the canvas
My HeART - 2023 Riverside Retreat artwork
Llama Canvas Art - fun custom art for a tween's room
Pineapple Art - Be brave. Be Bold. Be The Best You.
Textured Heart - artwork you want to reach out and touch
Angel Wings - textured and dripping in gold
If you are feeling stuck, try my overcoming blank canvas paralysis strategies.
Click on any photo below for more up-close photos and all the design details
JOIN ME FOR MORE...with Curiously Creative
If you enjoyed this and want more of a deep dive into home decor and DIY processes, I would love it if you joined my exclusive online creative group, Curiously Creative. I show up LIVE to guide you through every step of updating, upcycling, crafting, and creating on-trend home decor and gift-giving ideas!
Want more fancy furniture & design?
Save & Share on Pinterest!
Please please please share my steampunk owl wall art project and follow me on Pinterest!
