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In this video we’ll show reveal some various tricks and suggestions for achieving better
image transfers.
There are many resources for prints that work well for transferring images.
Ink jet printers can be used, however their water sensitivity makes the process more complex
and tends to result in a blurred image.
Standard laser printers or photocopy machines are ideal.
20 pound “bond” paper is normally used in most photocopiers and works well.
The best acrylic mediums for transferring images are Polymer Medium (Gloss), GAC 500
and Fluid Matte Medium.
However, avoid using anything thicker, because thick gels do not penetrate as readily as
a medium, and are more difficult to spread.
By measuring, you’ll know how much material to use for future projects and reduce waste,
while insuring adequate adhesion.
This container holds about 1 fluid ounce of medium. The actual amount used will vary based
upon the surface texture and absorbency.
Trimming excess white space reduces paper rubbing time and provides an overall cleaner
look.
Pour the medium into the center and then a wide, flat brush to spread it out.
It is critical to achieve a uniform coating onto the substrate, especially the edges.
This insures good adhesion and that the entire surface dries at the same rate.
Coat both paper and substrate, and then attach.
A sheet of plastic helps reduce the damp paper from grabbing the applicator and also getting
medium on the topside of the paper.
Using a dough scraper, squeegee or other rigid and smooth plastic applicator, push out air
pockets and excess product. Always work from center out.
Use a lot of pressure with the squeegee to assure good contact of image to surface. You
want to “marry” the image to the surface.
Peel up a corner, and if the image is coming up with the paper, lay it back down and wait
a bit longer.
As the paper loses its transparency, it’s time to peel the paper off.
The pulling angle is important. Pull slowly and carefully. You should see most of the
paper coming off, but with the image remaining on the surface.
Allow 1 to 2 minutes before rubbing off the remaining paper. Removing residual paper can
be done with fingers, but also experiment with various fabrics to reduce finger fatigue.
Continue to remove paper fibers, working around the entire image. Avoid concentrating in one
area, as the acrylic is still sensitive enough for the ink to come off with the rubbing.
When it appears that most of the paper has been removed, stop rubbing, and let it dry.
The dry surface will reveal any remaining fibers. Lightly re-wet the surface and remove
the last vestiges of paper.
Be careful not to overdo it, as it is still easy to rub through the image.
A coat of acrylic medium can be used to clear up the remaining paper fibers. For the best
clarity, carefully saturate the surface with acrylic medium.
Images can be touched up and painted with acrylics as desired. The use of a U.V. – Protecting
Varnish is also suggested to increase the longevity of the printed materials.
Here’s one final tip for transferring over uneven surfaces.
On very textural surfaces a foam roller works better than a squeegee because it conforms
to the surface. Press the damp paper into the cracks and crevasses but avoid tearing.
Once the paper has been removed, a close-up shot reveals the image follows the texure
nicely!
For more information, please visit www.goldenpaints.com