Transform your furniture into timeless pieces with the Classical Cameo Paint Inlay, a collaboration between Annie Sloan and Iron Orchid Designs. Inspired by Greco-Roman motifs like laurel wreaths, profile cameos, and architectural flourishes, this inlay brings an authentic, hand-painted look to your projects.
Of course it has to be the right piece of furniture. This inlay may look a little odd on an IKEA laminate wardrobe! Lucia had this tired dresser that was a typical dark wood, which lent itself very well for the style. With some Duck Egg Blue and Canvas chalk paint sje applied two coats and then added the inlay.
They are quite simple to use. Just follow these steps:-
1. Plan Your Design
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Lay out your inlay sheets and trim them as needed using the gridlines on the back. For seamless patterns, trim off the margins.
2. Prepare Your Surface
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Apply a generous, even coat of chalk-type paint. Work in sections no larger than 30cm x 400cm to prevent the paint from drying too quickly.
3. Apply the Inlay
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While the paint is still wet, place the inlay sheet paint-side down (gridlines facing up) onto the surface.
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Mist the back of the paper lightly with water.
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Use a damp sponge or soft cloth to press the inlay gently, ensuring full contact without shifting.
4. Let It Dry
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Allow the inlay to dry completely. Drying times may vary based on climate and paint type. In the Algarve it's pretty quick, less than an hour!
5. Remove the Carrier Sheet
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Lightly mist the paper again and wait about 30 seconds.
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Gently peel back the paper from a corner at a low angle. If it resists, mist again and wait a bit longer before trying.
6. Customize Your Design (Optional)
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Before sealing, you can manipulate the design using water to blur edges or add additional paint for a personalised touch.
7. Seal Your Project
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Varnish: Matt or Satin, whichever you think feels right. We generally apply two coats to the surfaces that will be used a lot and one to the others.
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Wax: Apply a generous amount and rub it in gently , like applying handcream then wipe off any excess with a lint free cloth. Buff the following day if you want a sheen.
♻️ You can reuse your inlay simply allow the sheets to dry completely, then store them flat, pigment side up, in their original packaging. After a few uses they will fade, but this can give you a beautiful faded, vintage look.
Buy the Classical Cameo Paint Inlay by Iron Orchid in our Alcantarilha store.
Happy Painting 🎨