Abstract: The invention relates to a process for decorating a composite article including the preparation of a decorated complex to be assembled with a reinforcement structure of the article made of a resin, that is capable of flowing when heated, during a subsequent cycle of hot pressing, wherein it includes a first cycle, during which the transfer of a decoration is undertaken using the method for imprinting sublimate ink(s) on the first surface of a layer made of a transparent or translucent plastic material; and a second cycle during which one undertakes, by means of an adhesion film, the hot or press assembly, on the first surface thus decorated, of a contrast sheet made out of a material selected from the group constituted by the non-anodized aluminum, the synthetic dry fiber, wood. The invention enables the decorative patterns to be developed by means of varied and very attractive backgrounds effects, such as woven, metallized or grained backgrounds, depending upon the type of contrast sheet used.