How to Transfer Image to Wood (Tutorials)

 How to Transfer Image to Wood (Tutorial)

I've had several requests, both on the blog and in person, for instructions on how to transfer an image to wood. I had a few scrap pieces laying around so I thought I'd write up a quick tutorial for everyone. 

Materials:
Wood
Mod Podge
Image: Printed out on a laser printer, in reverse {Check out The Graphics Fairy for free images}

 Find the image you would like to transfer. Adjust it to the correct size and reverse the image, especially if there is any wording involved.

I grabbed a few images I like from The Graphics Fairy

 

Print them out on a laser print. {I've tried printing with my ink jet but my images have come out with color streaks... greens and purples, not really the look I'm going for}

Remember REVERSE YOUR IMAGES

Trim off as much paper as you can

Notice I cut out even the middle part of the lock

Grab the wood you want to transfer your image on. Be sure it's painted or stained the color you want beforehand.

Brush on Mod Podge where your image will be placed.

Flip your image over, image face down, and rub onto the board.

I typically just use my fingers but I have used my brayer before for larger pieces. Some suggest using the back of a spoon which I tried for this tutorial and discovered I don't like it. I gouged my clock. That doesn't happen with your fingers or the brayer.

User error, I know, but still

Now the hardest part....  walk away for 24 hours. For my Vintage Wine Crate Coffee Table I left the images to dry for 24 hours however... there are exceptions to this rule. If you want your image to be a little rough... aged, we'll call it, then only leave the image on for 5-10 minutes. This is the technique I used with my Spoon and Fork Vintage Artwork.

Whichever technique you decide to use, when you're ready, soak the paper with a wet paintbrush.

I find it works best to wet the paper until you can make out the image coming through.

Rub the paper off at this point.

It will take some time and it will take numerous trips back to your wood to spot leftover paper. {It will be easier to spot when the paper dries.}

I recommend letting the wood sit for another 24 hours to make sure you've removed all the paper. If there is any paper left it will be noticeable even if you plan to put some kind of finish on it. So make sure all the papers removed.

Along the left side and top of the globe you can barely
see paper still hanging on.... it will be much more noticeable
when the paper dries, so make sure you get it all.

Yes, if you have a huge image your fingers might feel raw. It's the price we pay for great work though. ;)

"There are no mistakes, only happy accidents" ~ Bob Ross

Yes, initially frustrated with my spoon gouge, I have to
give it up to Bob, it added a nice aged affect to the clock

I hope this helps everyone and answers any question you  might have.... if not, let me know!

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