DIY Fall Market Transfer Crate (Easy Rub-On + Stenciled Reverse)
Join Sharon Hankins of I Restore Stuff as she transforms a simple wooden crate into a cozy fall accent. On one side, she applies the Autumn Market Rub-on Transfer. On the reverse, she paints a cheerful Sunflower & Vine Pattern. This versatile project is perfect for storing throws, towels, or seasonal produce.
Materials
- Wooden crate (Sharon used an IKEA crate), pre-stained in a warm brown (e.g., “Woodwick”).
- Autumn Market Rub-on Transfer
- Essential Rub-On Transfer Tool
- Sunflower & Vine Pattern Stencil
- Stencil Brush Set & acrylic paints (white, chestnut, yellow, green)
- Painters tape
- Lint-free cloth to wipe the surface clean
- Optional sealer: clear topcoat for durability
Side One: Fall Market Rub-On Transfer
1) Prep the crate
Lightly wipe the stained surface so the transfer adheres cleanly. Make sure it’s dry, dust-free, and smooth.
2) Dry-fit & mark the slat gaps
Position the transfer, flip it over, and mark where each crate slat has a gap. This prevents tearing and keeps the design neat.
3) Cut to fit
Trim along your marks with a ruler. Keep small pieces for accents or other projects.
4) Align & burnish
Reposition each cut section on the crate. Use the transfer tool to burnish until the design releases cleanly.
5) Add an accent
From the same sheet, cut “Open” and “Daily.” Burnish them onto the middle slat for extra charm.
Side Two: Sunflower & Vine Stencil
1) Tape down stencil
On the opposite side of the crate, secure the Sunflower & Vine Stencil with painters tape.
2) Base coat in white
Stencil the entire design in white paint with a stencil brush. This creates a solid base for brighter layers.
3) Chestnut sunflower centers
Once dry, dab chestnut brown onto the sunflower centers.
4) Yellow petals
Stencil each sunflower petal in a bright yellow for a cheerful pop of color.
5) Green vines
Finish the pattern by filling in the vine areas with green paint.
Helpful Tips
- Cut rub-ons for slats: Prevents tearing and keeps designs aligned.
- Stencil in layers: White base coat ensures brighter final colors.
- Use a dry brush: Dab off excess paint to avoid bleeding under the stencil.
- Double-sided crate: One design for fall, another for spring!
Final Reveal
A rustic market design on one side, cheerful sunflowers on the other — a truly versatile seasonal crate!
Ready to make your own?
Shop the Autumn Market Transfer • Get the Transfer Tool • Grab the Sunflower Stencil
Watch the Video Tutorial
Project and tutorial by Sharon Hankins (I Restore Stuff).