Hi friends! Sharon from I Restore Stuff is sharing a beautiful way to turn a thrifted find into custom farmhouse-style wall art. Using a horse rub-on transfer, a coordinating stencil, and a simple stain wash technique, this project transforms an ordinary wooden frame into a statement piece that's perfect for horse lovers and rustic home décor enthusiasts.
If you enjoy giving thrifted items a second life, this easy makeover is a great project to try.
Start with a large wooden frame and a pre-painted MDF board. Make sure the paint on the MDF board is completely dry before beginning your design.
To give the frame a soft, weathered finish, mix Fusion Mineral Paint Elmwood with water to create a stain wash. Adjust the mixture until you achieve the look you want.
Apply the stain wash evenly over the frame, allowing the natural wood grain to remain visible. Set the frame aside and let it dry completely.
Position the large horse design from the Wild Horse Rub-On Transfer onto the MDF board. Leave enough room at the top for your stencil wording.
Using the Essential Rub-On Transfer Tool, burnish the design thoroughly until it transfers completely onto the surface. Carefully remove the backing sheet.
Take your time during this step to ensure every detail transfers cleanly.
Once the horse transfer is in place, position the "Wild and Free" stencil from the Wild & Free Horses Set above the horse.
Using a Stencil Brush and Elmwood paint, apply light layers over the stencil opening. Build coverage gradually for the cleanest results.
Apply a second coat if needed to make the lettering stand out more prominently.
After all paint and transfer elements have fully dried, place the completed MDF board back into the stained frame and secure it in place.
The combination of the rustic wood finish, detailed horse artwork, and coordinating sentiment creates a timeless farmhouse-inspired piece perfect for any room.
This simple thrift flip combines stenciling, transfers, and a custom stain finish to create a one-of-a-kind décor piece with rustic charm.
This project was created by Sharon Hankins of I Restore Stuff, known for her creative furniture makeovers and thrifted transformations.
Ready to create your own horse-inspired décor? Shop the Wild & Free Horses Set and the Wild Horse Rub-On Transfer to get started on your next project.
Want to see the entire makeover from start to finish? Watch Sharon walk through the process and share her tips for creating this beautiful horse-inspired wall art.
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