I just love IOD transfers. They give you the ability to take something simple and make it spectacular! Take these windows, for example. I had a couple of vintage windows and thought I would dress them up. Here’s what I rounded up for this project:
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Vintage windows
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window cleaner
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IOD transfers, Barr & Sugden (now retired) and Botanists Journal
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painters tape

I started off by cleaning the old windows. I washed them down with water first, then followed up with a good cleaning with window cleaner. I cleaned both sides of the glass, and sanded any loose paint from the frame as well.
The next step was to trim the transfers so they would fit on the glass. Keep the paper backing in place as you play around with placement. The great thing about the new IOD transfers is that there are grid lines that help you get a straight cut.


Get your images centered and tape the transfer in place. I like to use painter tape so it’s easy to remove when I’m finished. After the transfer is taped in place, I slide the backing paper out from behind and gently press the transfer down.


Now the transfer process begins. Each transfer includes a plastic stick that you use to rub the transfer in place. You can tell that the color lightens when the ink transfers from the plastic to the glass. I gently lift the plastic and rub along the lifted edge to expedite the transfer. If you miss a spot, lay the plastic back down and rub again. I keep this process up, moving across the transfer.


Once the transfer has fully released from the plastic, it’s time for the big reveal. Remove the plastic to see your work. Take a soft cloth or shop towel and “burnish” the transfer, gently rubbing the entire surface to ensure that all edges have stuck down well.
And that’s it! It’s not possible to seal the transfers on glass without affecting the look of the clear glass. I recommend that customers clean with a slightly damp cloth and gentle motion.


Does the window need sealing after the transfer is applied?
No, if you apply a sealer it will show on the glass. Just use a soft cloth to gently clean the window when needed.
Can I hang this transfer on a window outside. Is there a sealer to use over transfer
Using transfers on a window is a popular decorating trend. However, they are not UV resistant so will fade in direct sunlight. We typically don’t seal the transfer on a window since the sealer would be apparent on the glass. Just clean with a soft cloth.
I would like the exact transfer/s you did on this window pane. I don’t see it in products? Tia
Hey Pam! The white Barr and Sugden transfer has been retired and is no longer available. I do have the Botanist Journal transfer in stock in the new format here: https://mybluestarantiques.com/product/botanists-journal-transfer/
Thanks for letting me know you couldn’t find it. I’ve fixed the links in the post. Have a great day!
Hi Cindy, I have an antique window and this transfer. I will let you know how it turns out. My window has separate panes so I will have to cut mine up. Yikes!
Oh, I’d love to see how that turns out!!
How much would one pay for a dressed up vintage window like this?
I tend to sell these for $65