Abstract: The present invention provides a method of decorating a surface of an item that has an area adapted to display a design. The method comprises spreading onto the area a quantity of a viscous surface preparatory composition that has an initial first state that allows it to be spread onto the surface and is curable to a final state that forms a stable layer adhered to the surface. A pattern sheet is provided with the pattern formed thereon in a medium that will transfer onto the surface of the preparatory composition when in the initial state. The preparatory layer is contacted with the pattern sheet and the pattern thereon for a sufficient time to allow the medium to transfer onto the preparatory layer. After the transfer pattern has been transferred thereon yet before the preparatory layer has cured into the final state, the pattern sheet is removed from contact with the viscous preparatory layer. The preparatory layer is then cured into the final state thereby fixing the transferred pattern.