How to Transfer a Drawing by Hand

A transfer technique may be used to apply a drawing to a canvas.

You can preserve an original drawing by creating a transfer. A lot of work goes into a single drawing and the good news is that there is a way to create multiple copies without using a copier. Duplicate your artwork using transfers to experiment with different techniques of color, texture and painting styles. This way any work that went into to the drawing will not be lost or ruined. You may also use the transfer technique to create multiple copies to give as gifts or to sell.

Things You'll Need

• Pen or Charcoal
• Paper or Canvas
• Stylus (optional)

Instructions

1. Turn the drawing over on a clean surface. Using the side of a pencil or charcoal, rub the back of the drawing so it is covered with lead or charcoal.

2. Place the graphite-covered side of the drawing on top of the paper or canvas onto which you want to transfer the drawing.

3. Using a sharp object such as a stylus or a pencil, carefully trace over the drawing so the rubbed pencil side will transfer onto the paper.

4. Lift up the paper and there will be a light outline of the drawing. Go over the drawing with a pencil or pen to reinforce the lines.

5. Erase any excess rubbing marks that might have gotten on the paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Use tracing paper instead of the original artwork by tracing over the artwork and then create the pencil or charcoal rubbing on the back of the tracing paper.

References

• Drawing: Techniques to Trace, Transfer and Copy Sketches and Drawings