How to Use Transfer Paper on Canvas

You can easily transfer designs to canvas by using the appropriate color of transfer paper. Transfer paper comes in white, gray graphite, red, yellow and blue. The most commonly used are the gray graphite for light surfaces and white for dark surfaces. The right color of transfer paper allows you to see the lines of your design when you are ready to paint.

Things You'll Need

• Grey graphite paper
• White or light colored canvas board
• Pencil or stylus
• Design
• Tape
• White eraser

Instructions

1. 

   Center the design over the prepared canvas and tape it into place. Only tape two sides of the design so you can slide the transfer paper underneath the design.

2. The gray graphite paper will be lighter on one side than on the other. Place the darker side of the transfer paper face down against the canvas surface when you slide it underneath the design. If your transfer paper isn't as large as the pattern, you will need to move it as you work. Keep this in mind as you transfer.

3. Start the transfer process by making a single mark on the corner of your design where the transfer paper sits underneath the pattern. The pressure used on the pencil or stylus will indicate how dark or light the transfer will be.

4. 

   Check the line quality for darkness as you continue to transfer the design. Do not remove your design until you have finished completely and viewed the transfer. This way you will not have to try to realign the drawing if you left something out.

5. Use the white eraser to remove any unwanted lines or marks on the canvas after you have removed the transfer paper and design from the surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Heavy pressure on grey graphite transfer paper makes dark lines that are difficult to cover. Store graphite transfer paper folded in a plastic bag or folder.