IBP: Photo Transfer - 4 Techniques

Like I mentioned last week, this episode is one of my all time favorites. I set out to learn how to do the amazing photo transfers I see all over Pinterest and before I knew it I had tried out four different transfer techniques...some I would do again and others I think I'll skip. Check out the Photo Transfer episode on My Craft Channel.

Here's the links to the blogs referenced in this episode:
Includes notes and tips on what worked and didn't work for me. 

Technique #1 - Tissue Paper Transfers: I loved this technique and after mastering how to feed the tissue paper taped to card stock through my very temperamental printer I could see so many ideas to do with this simpler transfer technique. Only limitation is you can only do a print as large as you can run through your printer, but it does work on an inkjet printer just fine.

Sarah's Never Ending Project Blog

My Finished Tissue Paper Transfer Sample

Supplies Needed: Canvas or surface you'd like to place image; Mod Podge; Foam Brush; Tissue Paper (I used the same supply I stuff in gift bags); Scotch Tape; 8 1/2 x 11 piece of Cardstock; Printer

Technique #2 - Wax Paper Transfers: I almost didn't share this technique but then figured it was easy enough to share in this episode. I cannot say it enough times...place printed image on surface and rub immediately after printing so ink doesn't dry out and don't forget to REVERSE any lettering.

My Finished Project using Wax Paper Transfer Technique

You can view another quick and easy YouTube video tutorial on this technique.

Supplies Needed: Avery Label Sheet (remove labels); Ink Jet Printer; Surface to Transfer Image To; Brayer or Burnishing Tool (spoon, bone folder, popsicle stick)

Technique #3 - Transparency Transfers: I thought this was one of the most challenging techniques I tried mainly because I didn't have time to practice it and the surface you're transferring to DEFINITELY made a difference.

Better Home & Gardens Online Article

Supplies Needed: Gel Medium; Brush; Transparency Sheet: Printer (ink or laser); Transfer Surface

I had no problem transferring to smoother surfaces like the piece of wood below (see image below) but I could not get it to work on canvas very well. Timing, how your burnish it and surface are key factors.

Technique #4 - Gel Photo Transfers: This technique was probably the most commonly shown whenever I clicked through on any of my pins I saved. The key is the GEL MEDIUM. I found the best step by step and examples on A Beautiful Mess blog. Another key note, this technique does not work with ink jet print outs...so you do have to run to the copy store and make your copies on a laser copier (which doesn't work in the middle of the night). Another great thing is they should dry for about 6+ hours...or just leave overnight...once dry you can proceed.

A Beautiful Mess Blog Tutorial 

Supplies Needed: Canvas or Wood Base; Gel Medium; Printer (laser only); Brush; Photo to Copy; Water Spray Bottle or Sponge

My Finish Project using Photo to Canvas Transfer Technique

To check out more amazing Photo Transfer Techniques, visit my BOARD on Pinterested called IBP: Photo Tranfers.  

Be sure to join me next week when I have a couple CUTE friends stop by and help me out with some fun ideas you can do with your kids!! 

Disclaimer: Pinterest is a great place to find inspiration but not all pins lead to blogs. I tried to only pick those ideas that I could find the original creator and give credit to. Please take a moment and check out these great blogs because without them I wouldn't have content to talk about on the new My Craft Channel show Inspired by Pinterest.  If you've never been to Pinterest and would like to check it out, you need an invite to the site to gain access (I don't know why). Just leave me a comment with your email and I'll send you an invite. However, I cannot be responsible for the time you will be spending on Pinterest!!

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