A method of applying a surface decorative layer on a surface of an article by water pressure transfer in which transfer film 316 which has a print pattern 340 comprising a first area 312A having an ink layer and a second area 312B having no ink layer and has a whole outer surface formed thereon has an activating agent 320 applied onto the surface of the transfer film 316 to activate the ink and to collect a surplus portion of the activating agent in a convex form in the second area, whereby a three-dimensional unevenness is imparted onto the surface of the article.