How to Make WD-40 Graphite Transfer Sheet Tracing Paper

Turn ordinary 80-pound copy or lined paper into graphite transfer paper.

Graphite transfer paper is used to transfer artistic designs to canvas, paper and wood. The use of graphite transfer paper rather an oil-based transfer paper allows you to conceal the drawn lines with acrylic paint. Oil-based lines do not cover when painted with acrylic paints. The paint separates from the lines, thus leaving a mark. Make graphite paper at home using WD-40 and a graphite stick. The graphite paper keeps indefinitely if stored properly.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• 80-pound paper (copy paper)
• Graphite stick

Instructions

1. Cover a flat smooth work surface with a layer of newspaper.

2. Place a sheet of 80-pound paper in the center of the newspaper. Spray a light coat of WD-40 over the paper. Hold the WD-40 can 12 inches from the paper. Move your hand back and forth to create an even layer of spray. Allow the paper to dry completely. This may take up to 30 minutes.

3. Lay the long edge of the graphic stick on the top-left corner of the paper. Push down on the graphite stick and draw it down the paper, parallel to the edge. Place the edge of the graphite stick next to the first line. Pull the edge of the graphite stick down the length of the paper. Repeat the process until the page is covered.

4. Look for white marks and spots that show through the graphite on the paper. Repeat step 3 until all white marks and spots are covered. The transfer sheet is now ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the transfer sheet with the graphite side of the paper facing up. Place a clean piece of paper the same size over the top of the graphite. Lay the covered graphite tracing paper in a safe location for storing.