How To Make Image Transfers
Image transfers are great for making stickers, collages and a variety of different craft projects. These are surprisingly easy to make and all you need are materials that are readily available. I've found that the best image transfers come from thick paper that is highly pigmented. You can also use thin glossy paper and magazine paper, but the transfer will be a little more difficult to get with those. You can find really colorful images on tissue boxes and product packaging. The images in the picture above came from the cover of an old calendar.
Materials Needed:
- Paper with images
- Clear packing tape
- Water
Tools:
- Scissors
- Cup or bowl
Transfer Instructions
Step 1. Place the clear packing tape over the image you want in the transfer. I find that it's best to work with small increments and place the tape down little by little to avoid creasing and air bubbles. If you get creases, don't worry, it will make your transfer look a little rugged and you can still use it.
Step 2. Burnish the transfer really well so that the tape adheres to the image.
Step 3. Submerge the transfer in water and let it sit there for anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or so. The thicker the paper the more you will want to let it sit so that it's easier to remove the paper.
Step 4. Remove the paper from the back of the transfer. All transfers are slightly different. Sometimes the tape will just slide off the paper easily, other times you will have to rub the back of the image to get the paper off. If you have to rub it off, be gentle so that you don't accidently mar the image.
Step 5. Clean the image with water and allow to dry. You can now use your image transfers for whatever your crafty little heart desires. ^_^
Ideas for using Image Transfers
- Use transfer to make beautiful recycled stickers. Depending on the tape, sometimes they're sticky enough that you don't need any adhesive.
- Incorporate transfers to your handmade greeting cards for a unique card.
- Image transfers are great for decoupage. They are super thin and colorful so they can add interest to any project. Remember they have some transparency so you can either adhere them to a solid background or leave them transparent.
- You can also use them to make jewelry like in the images above. I made those pendants from a recycled hummus container and transfers.