Inkjet Transfer Crafts
Inkjet transfers are not just for fabric, nor does the transfer method have to involve ironing. Print onto non-absorbent paper and transfer using pressure to reproduce the look of vintage photos. Print onto a mixed media collage using Mod Podge as the transfer medium. Use iron-on transfers on wood to create a painted effect. These techniques can ignite your creative spark and spur you to think about printing outside the box---or even on it.
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Basic Procedure
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Check the orientation of your artwork, such as a digital photo, because it will be flipped when you transfer it to a surface. To check, print a preview on standard printer paper and hold it up to a mirror. Adjust and preview again until you are satisfied. Load the transfer paper into the paper tray, ensuring that the print side is oriented in the correct direction. Print the artwork onto the paper. If you are using iron-on transfer paper, let the ink dry and carefully cut out the transfer, leaving a ¼-inch edge. Transfer the artwork onto the surface as instructed for the project.
Rustic Photo Effects
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Create a rustic vintage photo effect by printing onto a non-absorbent surface and then transferring the picture using pressure onto a smooth surface, such as photo paper. For the printing surface, use sheet protectors, glassine, wax paper or recycle the paper left after removing sticky labels. After printing, place the image face down onto the receiving paper and press firmly with a book or other flat surface. You can also use this technique to give a rubber stamped look to paper crafts projects by printing a design that uses a single color.
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Mixed Media Collage
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Lay collage materials, such as newsprint or handmade paper, onto canvas or wood in a pleasing design. Use Mod Podge to adhere the pieces to the surface, ensuring that you also apply Mod Podge over the top of the collage so that your design is protected. Let it dry thoroughly. Add brightness and 100 percent contrast to your chosen artwork to convert to black and white (not grayscale). Print the artwork onto standard printer paper. Cover the artwork with Mod Podge and press face down onto the collage. Rub gently with your fingers to remove air bubbles. Wait 15 to 30 minutes, then spray the back of the printed artwork with water and gently remove. Rub excess paper off of the collage with your fingers. Add additional collage elements, such as text or paint, if desired. Protect the collage with a clear, UV-resistant finish.
Wood Prints
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Apply iron-on transfers to wood just like you would to T-shirts. For example, use dark T-shirt transfer paper and plain pine. After printing, place the iron-on transfer face down on the wood, peel off the back, place parchment paper on top and iron for 15 seconds on the high setting. Then fold a pillowcase in half, place on top of the parchment and iron carefully in 30-second intervals with hard pressure. Do a quick check of the image between the 30-second intervals to make sure the paper isn't burnt or bubbled. When cool, seal with a protective finish.
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References
- Photo Credit Patrick Ryan/Lifesize/Getty Images
