Solvent Transfers
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Solvent Transfers
by djeucalyptus on January 15, 2007
Table of Contents
Solvent Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Intro: Solvent Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Step 1: Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Step 2: Taping down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Step 3: Apply solvent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Step 4: Burnishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 5: Lift paper and check progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 6: Remove paper and let dry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 7: Additional cautions and suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Related Instructables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Intro: Solvent Transfers
Every time I use this technique, people always ask how it's done, and I've always had a bit of difficulty explaining it. They say a picture's worth a thousand words.
Hopefully this will help a bit.
The applications for this technique are nearly limitless. I've used and seen it used on business cards, journaling, book covers, I created an entire book "typeset" using this
method (and most people thought it was actually done with letterpress). Explore.
Step 1: Materials
The list of materials:
- Paper (or other porous surface to transfer on to)
- Paper with the desired image/text to transfer
- Masking Tape
- Solvent
- Burnishing device
For the paper, I used Rives BFK, a neutral, smooth surfaced thick paper. Thicker, more absorbent paper will take the ink better, and the smoother the surface, the more
evenly the transfer will lay down. Interesting effects can be had with different surfaces.
For tape, I usually use white "artist's tape" which is acid free and generally the least adhesive. Any masking tape will do, and it's possible to transfer without tape, but the
tape makes it a ton easier.
For the solvent, the easiest and simplest way to go is with a blender pen, designed for blending when using markers. I used a Chartpak Blender (P-0 201) a link for info,
but can usually be found locally at a good art supply store.. Despite the nontoxic seal on the pen, the blender pen is filled with Xylene, which means it should be used in a
very well ventilated area, and with a respirator if you're sensitive. Any other solvent can be used (i've heard of good results with Citrus-solv) but Xylene seems to work
better than anything. If you plan on doing an extensive amount of transfers, you can purchase a can of Xylene at the local hardware store for not much more than the
price of a blender pen. Use a glass jar (Xylene can destroy plastic) and a brush to apply.
And lastly, for the burnisher, if you have a Bone folder (traditionally used for bookbinding and other book-arts) it works as the best tool as you can achieve the greatest
control and precision. again, a link, but one can usually be found at a good art supply store. A spoon or other hard object will work as well.
The first photo shows all possible materials you could use, while the second photo shows the basic materials, which are more portable, cleaner, and a bit safer to use.
Image Notes
1. The bone folder, used for burnishing, and available at art supply stores with a
bookmaking section.
2. Chartpak blender pen.
3. Generic metal spoon to use in place of a bone folder for burnishing. Don't use
any plastic or other synthetic spoon, as Xylene often eats through plastic.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Image Notes
1. This is the simple and portable solvent transfer kit, with all you really need
for the process.
2. masking tape
3. paper (or other surface) to transfer to.
4. image to transfer
4. paper to transfer onto.
5. Glass jar to hold the xylene if not using a blender pen. Be sure to use glass, as
Xylene will eat through many plastics.
6. Brush for applying xylene if using straight (without a blender pen)
7. Straight Xylene, available at hardware stores. Use caution, as Xylene is
damaging to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Take precautions when using.
8. masking tapes. White artists tape and blue painters tape. I prefer white, but
nearly any tape could be used.
9. Paper with image to transfer.
5. Bone folder
6. Blender Pen
Step 2: Taping down
To ensure proper registration and to make things generally easier, it helps to tape down the paper you're transferring from, face down (ink side down). In many cases,
when possible, it helps to tape down the paper you're transferring to as well.
As i mentioned in materials, I usually use white "artist's tape" as it's easy to work with and safe for all papers, but just about any tape should work well.
Image Notes
1. Both sheets are taped down to the work surface to ensure nothing moves during the transferring process.
Step 3: Apply solvent
Carefully apply the solvent via a blender pen or brush. Several thin coats work best, but be careful not to over-saturate the paper, or the ink will bleed.
Image Notes
1. ChartPak blender pen. Note you can see where solvent has been applied by the translucency of the paper.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Step 4: Burnishing
Using the bone folder or spoon, rub the back of the paper after applying the solvent to transfer the ink onto the paper. Apply firm pressure in a smooth and even manner.
Too fast may cause the solvent-saturated top paper to either rip or move, blurring the transfered image.
Image Notes
1. burnishing with the bone folder. Note you can see where the solvent has been applied, as it often makes the paper translucent.
Step 5: Lift paper and check progress
To check your progress ( proper amount of solvent, pressure, etc.) gently and carefully lift up the untaped corners of the paper to visually inspect the transfer. Repeat
steps 3 and 4 where needed.
Image Notes
1. lift gently and slowly so as not to unsettle the toner or mis-align the papers.
Step 6: Remove paper and let dry
Carefully lift the paper, remove the tape, and set the transferred image aside to dry in a well-ventilated area. Note that the image pictured is not necessarily the perfect
transfer - merely a test to help illustrate the possibilities.
That's all there is to this simple process, but there are nearly limitless applications of this method to create a variety of effects. Play around and see what you can come
up with.
Be sure to read the final step for notes and cautions on images.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Image Notes
1. The semi-finished project. Note the variations in saturation controlled by both solvent application and burnishing pressure
Step 7: Additional cautions and suggestions
With this process, ink-jet prints are almost always unsuccessful. Toner works infinitely better (copiers and laser printers), and other printed materials like magazines and
newspapers will work to a varying degree.
If you make the copies / prints yourself, it's suggested to let the pages sit for at least a day or two to give the toner time to set fully into the paper. It ensures a cleaner
transfer. Fresh toner (and toner oversaturated with solvent) will often dissolve and release into the air in almost feather-like fragments, which can cause streaks and lines
(as seen in this image).
Oversaturation of solvent will also cause the toner to bleed, as seen in certain areas of this image. Experiment to see what works most effectively.
Image Notes
1. whispy, hair-line toner marks from fresh toner, and from pulling the paper away fast without thorough burnishing. Sometimes a desired effect.
2. blurriness caused by oversaturation of the solvent.
Related Instructables
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Artwork (via
Acetone Toner
Transfer) by
mehmehmeh
Packing Tape
DIY Carbon
Image Transfers Paper by
by
fearme36
threecheersfornick
Save Your
Paintbrush in
the Paint Can by
TimAnderson
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
plastic bottle to
keep a wet paint
brush by hellvig
Created a
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Paper by nick3pg
Comments
40 comments Add Comment
melonbee says:
Oct 4, 2007. 2:40 PM REPLY
Can I do a transfer onto fabric, like a T-shirt?
DrCoolSanta says:
Nov 6, 2007. 5:09 AM REPLY
You want to transfer it on T-Shirts, you need transfer on T-shirt paper, which costs around a dolar, print the image left side right, you should have this
option in printer settings, and then iron the paper on you clothes, and peel of the white paper.
threecheersfornick says:
Mar 24, 2008. 6:46 PM REPLY
Sorry, but that's not all true. Normal paper, xylene/blender pen and an inkjet/photocopied image will work fine.
DrCoolSanta says:
Jul 19, 2008. 10:36 AM REPLY
Well, atleast we don't get xylene pens in here
beehard44 says:
Nov 21, 2010. 6:19 AM REPLY
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons glycerin
5 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol
use that and just dab a cotton soaked with the refill recipe (that)
cpotemkin says:
Jul 10, 2009. 11:43 AM REPLY
A little lesson from when I was learning this process... be sure to mirror your image before printing. Otherwise, the image (or text) will come out backwards
on your receiving material.
beehard44 says:
Nov 21, 2010. 6:01 AM REPLY
but using the reversed image on the paper, you can use that to generate your final image by repeating the same stuff as above
mdog93 says:
Jun 24, 2009. 11:56 AM REPLY
can you transfer onto a t-shirt, im guessing yes but it will wash off. is that right? mdog
djeucalyptus says:
Jun 27, 2009. 4:50 PM REPLY
theoretically it could work... I've seen it done on fabric several times. but the process doesn't really give any sort of permanence. maybe some sort of
fabric fixative? if you try it and figure something out, let me know!
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:05 AM REPLY
cool, sp can you buy proper fabric fixative? I know of some homemade fixatives that you can use like salt and stuff but i don't know how affective they
are.
killerjackalope says:
Jun 27, 2009. 5:30 PM REPLY
It would work really well as a guide, followed by fabric ink added on, alternatively it's possible the ink may be soluble aswell, in which case you could
print on to paper by refilling a cartridge with fabric ink, if the consistency's right. Then using this process...
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:08 AM REPLY
is fabric ink the same as fabric paint or is the ink thinner. and i have never trusted refilling cartridge becuase i worry they might leak or block up
your printer and ruin it or something. I would worry the fabric ink might do something bad to my printer.
killerjackalope says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:26 AM REPLY
Well it could ruin a set of cartridges but the right consistency would make it fairly trustable, A cheapo printer might be a better option
considering the cost of cartridges...
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 11:22 AM REPLY
yeah but i wouldn't wana buy a printer just to try this because if it doesn't work I wouldn't want to do it again but if it did work i might make
lots in batch and sell them or sumthin.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
gkalem2011 says:
Dec 17, 2008. 4:13 PM REPLY
does this work with photos too. Like family pictures in color or black in white
djeucalyptus says:
Dec 18, 2008. 12:02 AM REPLY
yup. it will work with anything as long as it's toner from a copier. Actual photographs (or inkjet prints) won't work... but anything from a copier will do the
trick.
stbride says:
Sep 1, 2008. 3:10 PM REPLY
I have used this technique for years -- see http://www.ietextiles.com/houses.htm (and other artwork in the gallery also). Just a few months ago I tried to buy
toner for my old dual-process copier on which I created original images for use in my artwork and learned it is no longer available.
I am musing about other ways to get a simalar effect..
Brigid Manning-Hamilton
www.ietextiles.com
spinach_dip says:
Jan 17, 2007. 7:21 AM REPLY
Can ink from gel pens be transferred?
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:41 AM REPLY
10 seconds, I'll try.
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:44 AM REPLY
Djeucalyptus is right, it only sort-of works.
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:51 AM REPLY
Ahem. I was wrong. It doesn't work at all. HOWEVER, you can sort-of get a transfer if you write and then burnish really fast. The ink stays wet for
a little while, and you can transfer it while it's wet. But I suppose you probably don't care anymore, since you asked over a year ago.
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 19, 2007. 10:22 AM REPLY
I haven't tried, but given the nature of the gel, I'm not sure it would transfer cleanly. It might be worth a shot - could be interesting.
UltraMagnus says:
May 15, 2008. 5:33 AM REPLY
ok..... i must admit, at first i thought "wtf did he not just print onto the good paper in the first place" but, i can see how it would be useful to transfer onto wood
etc now.... perhaps mention that the beginning of the instructable?
deadwhale says:
Jan 15, 2007. 9:46 PM REPLY
I've used essentially the same method to transfer graphic designs to copper. Once transferred, the design made a great resist for etching.
Marche says:
Apr 1, 2008. 7:34 PM REPLY
Bold is NOT cruse control for cool.
threecheersfornick says:
Mar 24, 2008. 6:47 PM REPLY
Great instructable. It's just dissapointing that you got around to it before me.
Carlsburg says:
Aug 24, 2007. 5:39 PM REPLY
To do a turpentine transfer, make copies of text on a Xerox machine (Note: If you want them to appear in the right direction, you'll need to write the words
backwards or have them reversed by computer or other means). The cheaper the Xerox machine, the better your transfer will be. Take your Xerox copy and
lie it face down on the collage or on another piece of paper and apply a good amount of turpentine to the back of the sheet. Rub down using the back of a
spoon and slowly peel away the copy. The turpentine melts the ink of the Xerox onto your surface creating a great effect for any collage or mixed media
piece.
hooloovoo33 says:
Im sorry....but im not sure exactly what you use this for? Except maybe for art.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Jan 15, 2007. 6:55 PM REPLY
orangos says:
Aug 16, 2007. 4:27 PM REPLY
A lot of woodcut artists use it to transfer copies of their sketches -- scaled up or down to fit the block -- onto the block for cutting. Some say it's better than
tracing or copying by hand, as it preserves the spontaneous nature of the original sketch.
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 15, 2007. 8:49 PM REPLY
any art or artistic application. graphic design, posters, advertising, bookmaking, etc. Simply an artistic device.
winchester883 says:
Aug 15, 2007. 10:32 PM REPLY
you can also use lacquer thinner in place of xylene. it's an old printmaking toner transfer trick for putting and image onto a wood block for relief type work.
kinetic_elite says:
Jan 19, 2007. 12:55 AM REPLY
Have you tried etching plastic surfaces (plexiglass) with xylene?
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 19, 2007. 10:24 AM REPLY
huh. for some reason, that never occured to me... not sure why not. I might have do dig up some plexi and try it later today.
winchester883 says:
Aug 15, 2007. 10:13 PM REPLY
there are two types of plexi. i don't know why. so you might want to make sure to experiment on both types. it should say right on the label.
mll3 says:
Jan 21, 2007. 10:28 AM REPLY
For a less-toxic alternative ... try wintergreen oil. I think it can be found at drug stores, often used as an anti-inflammatory rub.
outofthewoods says:
Jan 17, 2007. 3:28 PM REPLY
This is great! I can't wait to try it! I am a paper crafter and rubber stamper and I already have all the supplies, I just never thought to use them this way.
Thanks!
stone3408 says:
Jan 16, 2007. 4:15 PM REPLY
I've had a great deal of success with acetone and transfering images to cloth.
royalestel says:
Jan 16, 2007. 8:09 AM REPLY
Yeah, I used this technique to transfer an image to a white eraser. Then I engraved around the image and created a custom stamp that way. Didn't work that
well, but I was pleased that I thought of it myself. I'm sure a more patient engraver would have gotten and perfect stamp.
Scrupulous says:
Jan 15, 2007. 6:58 PM REPLY
Nice. I imagine this works for color?
djeucalyptus says:
yep. works for anything with commercially printed color inks or color toner/laser prints.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Jan 15, 2007. 8:47 PM REPLY
All
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Home
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Solvent Transfers
by djeucalyptus on January 15, 2007
Table of Contents
Solvent Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Intro: Solvent Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Step 1: Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Step 2: Taping down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Step 3: Apply solvent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Step 4: Burnishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 5: Lift paper and check progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 6: Remove paper and let dry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Step 7: Additional cautions and suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Related Instructables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Intro: Solvent Transfers
Every time I use this technique, people always ask how it's done, and I've always had a bit of difficulty explaining it. They say a picture's worth a thousand words.
Hopefully this will help a bit.
The applications for this technique are nearly limitless. I've used and seen it used on business cards, journaling, book covers, I created an entire book "typeset" using this
method (and most people thought it was actually done with letterpress). Explore.
Step 1: Materials
The list of materials:
- Paper (or other porous surface to transfer on to)
- Paper with the desired image/text to transfer
- Masking Tape
- Solvent
- Burnishing device
For the paper, I used Rives BFK, a neutral, smooth surfaced thick paper. Thicker, more absorbent paper will take the ink better, and the smoother the surface, the more
evenly the transfer will lay down. Interesting effects can be had with different surfaces.
For tape, I usually use white "artist's tape" which is acid free and generally the least adhesive. Any masking tape will do, and it's possible to transfer without tape, but the
tape makes it a ton easier.
For the solvent, the easiest and simplest way to go is with a blender pen, designed for blending when using markers. I used a Chartpak Blender (P-0 201) a link for info,
but can usually be found locally at a good art supply store.. Despite the nontoxic seal on the pen, the blender pen is filled with Xylene, which means it should be used in a
very well ventilated area, and with a respirator if you're sensitive. Any other solvent can be used (i've heard of good results with Citrus-solv) but Xylene seems to work
better than anything. If you plan on doing an extensive amount of transfers, you can purchase a can of Xylene at the local hardware store for not much more than the
price of a blender pen. Use a glass jar (Xylene can destroy plastic) and a brush to apply.
And lastly, for the burnisher, if you have a Bone folder (traditionally used for bookbinding and other book-arts) it works as the best tool as you can achieve the greatest
control and precision. again, a link, but one can usually be found at a good art supply store. A spoon or other hard object will work as well.
The first photo shows all possible materials you could use, while the second photo shows the basic materials, which are more portable, cleaner, and a bit safer to use.
Image Notes
1. The bone folder, used for burnishing, and available at art supply stores with a
bookmaking section.
2. Chartpak blender pen.
3. Generic metal spoon to use in place of a bone folder for burnishing. Don't use
any plastic or other synthetic spoon, as Xylene often eats through plastic.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Image Notes
1. This is the simple and portable solvent transfer kit, with all you really need
for the process.
2. masking tape
3. paper (or other surface) to transfer to.
4. image to transfer
4. paper to transfer onto.
5. Glass jar to hold the xylene if not using a blender pen. Be sure to use glass, as
Xylene will eat through many plastics.
6. Brush for applying xylene if using straight (without a blender pen)
7. Straight Xylene, available at hardware stores. Use caution, as Xylene is
damaging to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Take precautions when using.
8. masking tapes. White artists tape and blue painters tape. I prefer white, but
nearly any tape could be used.
9. Paper with image to transfer.
5. Bone folder
6. Blender Pen
Step 2: Taping down
To ensure proper registration and to make things generally easier, it helps to tape down the paper you're transferring from, face down (ink side down). In many cases,
when possible, it helps to tape down the paper you're transferring to as well.
As i mentioned in materials, I usually use white "artist's tape" as it's easy to work with and safe for all papers, but just about any tape should work well.
Image Notes
1. Both sheets are taped down to the work surface to ensure nothing moves during the transferring process.
Step 3: Apply solvent
Carefully apply the solvent via a blender pen or brush. Several thin coats work best, but be careful not to over-saturate the paper, or the ink will bleed.
Image Notes
1. ChartPak blender pen. Note you can see where solvent has been applied by the translucency of the paper.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Step 4: Burnishing
Using the bone folder or spoon, rub the back of the paper after applying the solvent to transfer the ink onto the paper. Apply firm pressure in a smooth and even manner.
Too fast may cause the solvent-saturated top paper to either rip or move, blurring the transfered image.
Image Notes
1. burnishing with the bone folder. Note you can see where the solvent has been applied, as it often makes the paper translucent.
Step 5: Lift paper and check progress
To check your progress ( proper amount of solvent, pressure, etc.) gently and carefully lift up the untaped corners of the paper to visually inspect the transfer. Repeat
steps 3 and 4 where needed.
Image Notes
1. lift gently and slowly so as not to unsettle the toner or mis-align the papers.
Step 6: Remove paper and let dry
Carefully lift the paper, remove the tape, and set the transferred image aside to dry in a well-ventilated area. Note that the image pictured is not necessarily the perfect
transfer - merely a test to help illustrate the possibilities.
That's all there is to this simple process, but there are nearly limitless applications of this method to create a variety of effects. Play around and see what you can come
up with.
Be sure to read the final step for notes and cautions on images.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Image Notes
1. The semi-finished project. Note the variations in saturation controlled by both solvent application and burnishing pressure
Step 7: Additional cautions and suggestions
With this process, ink-jet prints are almost always unsuccessful. Toner works infinitely better (copiers and laser printers), and other printed materials like magazines and
newspapers will work to a varying degree.
If you make the copies / prints yourself, it's suggested to let the pages sit for at least a day or two to give the toner time to set fully into the paper. It ensures a cleaner
transfer. Fresh toner (and toner oversaturated with solvent) will often dissolve and release into the air in almost feather-like fragments, which can cause streaks and lines
(as seen in this image).
Oversaturation of solvent will also cause the toner to bleed, as seen in certain areas of this image. Experiment to see what works most effectively.
Image Notes
1. whispy, hair-line toner marks from fresh toner, and from pulling the paper away fast without thorough burnishing. Sometimes a desired effect.
2. blurriness caused by oversaturation of the solvent.
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http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
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Comments
40 comments Add Comment
melonbee says:
Oct 4, 2007. 2:40 PM REPLY
Can I do a transfer onto fabric, like a T-shirt?
DrCoolSanta says:
Nov 6, 2007. 5:09 AM REPLY
You want to transfer it on T-Shirts, you need transfer on T-shirt paper, which costs around a dolar, print the image left side right, you should have this
option in printer settings, and then iron the paper on you clothes, and peel of the white paper.
threecheersfornick says:
Mar 24, 2008. 6:46 PM REPLY
Sorry, but that's not all true. Normal paper, xylene/blender pen and an inkjet/photocopied image will work fine.
DrCoolSanta says:
Jul 19, 2008. 10:36 AM REPLY
Well, atleast we don't get xylene pens in here
beehard44 says:
Nov 21, 2010. 6:19 AM REPLY
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons glycerin
5 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol
use that and just dab a cotton soaked with the refill recipe (that)
cpotemkin says:
Jul 10, 2009. 11:43 AM REPLY
A little lesson from when I was learning this process... be sure to mirror your image before printing. Otherwise, the image (or text) will come out backwards
on your receiving material.
beehard44 says:
Nov 21, 2010. 6:01 AM REPLY
but using the reversed image on the paper, you can use that to generate your final image by repeating the same stuff as above
mdog93 says:
Jun 24, 2009. 11:56 AM REPLY
can you transfer onto a t-shirt, im guessing yes but it will wash off. is that right? mdog
djeucalyptus says:
Jun 27, 2009. 4:50 PM REPLY
theoretically it could work... I've seen it done on fabric several times. but the process doesn't really give any sort of permanence. maybe some sort of
fabric fixative? if you try it and figure something out, let me know!
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:05 AM REPLY
cool, sp can you buy proper fabric fixative? I know of some homemade fixatives that you can use like salt and stuff but i don't know how affective they
are.
killerjackalope says:
Jun 27, 2009. 5:30 PM REPLY
It would work really well as a guide, followed by fabric ink added on, alternatively it's possible the ink may be soluble aswell, in which case you could
print on to paper by refilling a cartridge with fabric ink, if the consistency's right. Then using this process...
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:08 AM REPLY
is fabric ink the same as fabric paint or is the ink thinner. and i have never trusted refilling cartridge becuase i worry they might leak or block up
your printer and ruin it or something. I would worry the fabric ink might do something bad to my printer.
killerjackalope says:
Jun 29, 2009. 9:26 AM REPLY
Well it could ruin a set of cartridges but the right consistency would make it fairly trustable, A cheapo printer might be a better option
considering the cost of cartridges...
mdog93 says:
Jun 29, 2009. 11:22 AM REPLY
yeah but i wouldn't wana buy a printer just to try this because if it doesn't work I wouldn't want to do it again but if it did work i might make
lots in batch and sell them or sumthin.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
gkalem2011 says:
Dec 17, 2008. 4:13 PM REPLY
does this work with photos too. Like family pictures in color or black in white
djeucalyptus says:
Dec 18, 2008. 12:02 AM REPLY
yup. it will work with anything as long as it's toner from a copier. Actual photographs (or inkjet prints) won't work... but anything from a copier will do the
trick.
stbride says:
Sep 1, 2008. 3:10 PM REPLY
I have used this technique for years -- see http://www.ietextiles.com/houses.htm (and other artwork in the gallery also). Just a few months ago I tried to buy
toner for my old dual-process copier on which I created original images for use in my artwork and learned it is no longer available.
I am musing about other ways to get a simalar effect..
Brigid Manning-Hamilton
www.ietextiles.com
spinach_dip says:
Jan 17, 2007. 7:21 AM REPLY
Can ink from gel pens be transferred?
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:41 AM REPLY
10 seconds, I'll try.
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:44 AM REPLY
Djeucalyptus is right, it only sort-of works.
threecheersfornick says:
Jul 19, 2008. 11:51 AM REPLY
Ahem. I was wrong. It doesn't work at all. HOWEVER, you can sort-of get a transfer if you write and then burnish really fast. The ink stays wet for
a little while, and you can transfer it while it's wet. But I suppose you probably don't care anymore, since you asked over a year ago.
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 19, 2007. 10:22 AM REPLY
I haven't tried, but given the nature of the gel, I'm not sure it would transfer cleanly. It might be worth a shot - could be interesting.
UltraMagnus says:
May 15, 2008. 5:33 AM REPLY
ok..... i must admit, at first i thought "wtf did he not just print onto the good paper in the first place" but, i can see how it would be useful to transfer onto wood
etc now.... perhaps mention that the beginning of the instructable?
deadwhale says:
Jan 15, 2007. 9:46 PM REPLY
I've used essentially the same method to transfer graphic designs to copper. Once transferred, the design made a great resist for etching.
Marche says:
Apr 1, 2008. 7:34 PM REPLY
Bold is NOT cruse control for cool.
threecheersfornick says:
Mar 24, 2008. 6:47 PM REPLY
Great instructable. It's just dissapointing that you got around to it before me.
Carlsburg says:
Aug 24, 2007. 5:39 PM REPLY
To do a turpentine transfer, make copies of text on a Xerox machine (Note: If you want them to appear in the right direction, you'll need to write the words
backwards or have them reversed by computer or other means). The cheaper the Xerox machine, the better your transfer will be. Take your Xerox copy and
lie it face down on the collage or on another piece of paper and apply a good amount of turpentine to the back of the sheet. Rub down using the back of a
spoon and slowly peel away the copy. The turpentine melts the ink of the Xerox onto your surface creating a great effect for any collage or mixed media
piece.
hooloovoo33 says:
Im sorry....but im not sure exactly what you use this for? Except maybe for art.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Jan 15, 2007. 6:55 PM REPLY
orangos says:
Aug 16, 2007. 4:27 PM REPLY
A lot of woodcut artists use it to transfer copies of their sketches -- scaled up or down to fit the block -- onto the block for cutting. Some say it's better than
tracing or copying by hand, as it preserves the spontaneous nature of the original sketch.
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 15, 2007. 8:49 PM REPLY
any art or artistic application. graphic design, posters, advertising, bookmaking, etc. Simply an artistic device.
winchester883 says:
Aug 15, 2007. 10:32 PM REPLY
you can also use lacquer thinner in place of xylene. it's an old printmaking toner transfer trick for putting and image onto a wood block for relief type work.
kinetic_elite says:
Jan 19, 2007. 12:55 AM REPLY
Have you tried etching plastic surfaces (plexiglass) with xylene?
djeucalyptus says:
Jan 19, 2007. 10:24 AM REPLY
huh. for some reason, that never occured to me... not sure why not. I might have do dig up some plexi and try it later today.
winchester883 says:
Aug 15, 2007. 10:13 PM REPLY
there are two types of plexi. i don't know why. so you might want to make sure to experiment on both types. it should say right on the label.
mll3 says:
Jan 21, 2007. 10:28 AM REPLY
For a less-toxic alternative ... try wintergreen oil. I think it can be found at drug stores, often used as an anti-inflammatory rub.
outofthewoods says:
Jan 17, 2007. 3:28 PM REPLY
This is great! I can't wait to try it! I am a paper crafter and rubber stamper and I already have all the supplies, I just never thought to use them this way.
Thanks!
stone3408 says:
Jan 16, 2007. 4:15 PM REPLY
I've had a great deal of success with acetone and transfering images to cloth.
royalestel says:
Jan 16, 2007. 8:09 AM REPLY
Yeah, I used this technique to transfer an image to a white eraser. Then I engraved around the image and created a custom stamp that way. Didn't work that
well, but I was pleased that I thought of it myself. I'm sure a more patient engraver would have gotten and perfect stamp.
Scrupulous says:
Jan 15, 2007. 6:58 PM REPLY
Nice. I imagine this works for color?
djeucalyptus says:
yep. works for anything with commercially printed color inks or color toner/laser prints.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Solvent-Transfers/
Jan 15, 2007. 8:47 PM REPLY
