How to Create Transfer Patterns
Handicrafts such as embroidery, cross-stitch, quilting and other needlework require a pre-printed design on the fabric for the crafter to follow, but not all needlework projects include one. In the '50s and '60s, iron-on transfer pattern designs were popular for embroidering linens and towels, and some vintage patterns are still available today. However, creating your own custom transfer patterns from a traceable drawing or design is easy. With just a few tools, you will be able to build a personal collection of dozens of reusable transfer patterns.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Printer
- Regular printer paper
- Transfer pencil or pen
- Tape
- Transfer paper
- Vellum
- Pin
- Pounce tool
- Transfer powder
Instructions
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Make Iron on Transfer Patterns
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Go to a needlework site online such as Needlenthread.com for ideas or to print free pattern pictures or designs for needlework.
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Open the pattern's web page or download the file (usually in a printable format such as .pdf) for the design you choose.
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3
Adjust the design to a larger size or the size you need, either using the size options on the web page, or changing the design size in your printer's software.
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Print a copy of the design in black and white on regular, white printer paper.
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5
Place a piece of transfer paper over the printed design and tape in place.
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Use the transfer pencil to trace over all the lines, which will appear in red on the transfer paper.
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File the paper transfer to use later, or trim the paper around the design for easier ironing onto fabric.
Make Reuseable Transfer Patterns
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Tape or pin a piece of transfer paper or translucent vellum over the area to copy.
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9
With a pencil, trace the design outline onto the paper or vellum.
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Place the traced paper or vellum pattern on a foam pad to protect your work surface.
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Prick pinholes through the paper around the traced design using a pin or paper piercer to create a transferable pattern.
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Hold the paper up to light to make sure the design is complete.
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Take the "pricked" design pattern, and using a pattern pounce tool, press or pounce colored transfer powder through the pinholes to transfer a pattern on the fabric underneath.
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Keep the pricked paper or vellum to reuse the pattern in future projects.
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Tips & Warnings
For the prick and pounce transfers, use a specially formulated transfer powder to transfer the design.
Do not copy or print transfer patterns or graphics that are not copyright-free. Check for copyright information before using.
