How to Transfer Images to Fabric Mending Tape
Before the advent of inkjet printers and specialty transfer papers, transferring images to fabric using mending tape was one the simplest options. Crafters, quilters and sewing hobbyists have used this method to give their final products a one-of-a-kind look. An iron-on fusible fabric used to mend or patch clothing, mending tape is inexpensive and readily available at sewing centers, craft stores and larger retail stores. The major drawback to using mending tape is that the images don't always transfer clearly or cleanly.
Things You'll Need
- Iron
- Iron-on mending tape
- Copy machine
- The images you wish to transfer
- Fabric
Instructions
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1
Make photocopies of the images you wish to transfer. Place the photocopy on a flat surface.
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2
Lay the mending tape, adhesive side down on top of the image.
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3
Lightly iron the image on high heat (wool) setting without steam for 30 seconds.
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4
Peel the paper backing off the mending tape right away. If the mending tape cools, it will be difficult to remove the paper backing off of it. Reheat with the iron and then peel off backing. Discard the paper backing.
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5
Place the mending tape on the fabric you want to transfer the image to. Applying pressure, iron for about 30 seconds on a higher heat (cotton) setting.
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6
Peel the tape off the fabric immediately.
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Tips & Warnings
This technique can be used with either color or black-and-white photocopies, but it works best with black-and-white images.
Mending tape is not a reliable transfer medium. Sometimes the transferred images are blurred or incomplete. Do a test sample on an extra piece of fabric before transferring the image to your work in progress.
