I have been playing around with a lot of mediums lately, one being iron on transfers. I had bought some the other day, but they are pretty expensive if you only make one item per sheet. So I thought I would try an alternative. The only thing I had around was wax paper, so I gave it a try and it worked GREAT!
I am betting that I’m not the first person to try this, but if you have never tried it, here are a few things I took away from trial and error.
I used an old wooden pizza peel, wax paper, an inkjet printer and a credit card.
I found that if you wet the wood a little, it would make the transfer darker. Just make sure it’s not too wet, then the ink will run (a happy balance).
Cut the wax paper to the size of printer paper.
I used a graphic from The Graphics Fairy…she has the BEST blog!! Check it out for some really great stuff!
You will need to reverse the image. Most computers have the program “Paint.” If you aren’t sure just do a search for it in your start bar. Open the picture you want to flip, then go to “Image” in the top bar. There is a drop-down option for “Flip/Rotate.” That should reverse the image for you.
Put the wax paper in the printer and make sure it’s under the rollers, but not too far in. If you put it on top of printer paper, you can use the paper as a guide on how far the wax paper needs to be in the printer.
Stand close to the printer and help guide the wax paper out. OH, and make sure there are no wrinkles!! It can cause the wax paper to get jammed.
You will have to work quickly, but once you set the wax paper down you CAN NOT move it.
Try to line up the paper then gently lay it on the surface you want to transfer it to. Holding the wax paper firmly down, use a credit card to gently scrap the surface.
Then carefully remove the paper. It will still have ink, so be careful not to drag it.
Here are the two sides of the board, the first one is without getting the board wet and the second one is damp. You can see that the second is much darker but the paper moves easily so it smeared a little. It all depends on the look you want.
This project takes about 10 minutes and is super cheap. I think I will be using this A LOT. It works on fabric too, but the thread has to be really tight for the best results.
Hopefully, I have taught you something you didn’t know! 
And join me next Wed., Sept. 7th for a Transfer Link Party!!
~Angela
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{ 258 comments… read them below or add one }
Well, you did teach me something I didn’t know. I’m alwasy looking for new transfer methods. I think both sides of your board look nice. Thanks for sharing. (Found you at At the Picket Fence).
Girl! Cheap and cool! Right up my alley! I love it! Love, Me
That looks so good. Great directions, too. I love old pizza peels and am looking for some truly old ones. Thanks for sharing at WOW.
I saw you on “You’re Talking Too Much” linky party…wow, I have some wood cutting boards & wax paper already, WOO HOO, Thanks!
I need some more followers on my blog too, If you follow me, I’d be very grateful.
Thanks,
Amy
Very cool project and great tutorial! I have one question, did you use an inkjet or laser printer?
Brittany
Brittany, sorry I forgot to include that! It is an inkjet printer. I will add that to my directions…THANKS!
~Angela
Definitely use inkjet. A laser printer will melt the waxed paper!
Ours is a Brother inkjet printer and it did not work…all it managed to do was make it where we needed to clean the printer about 5 times before we could manage to get even halfway decent copies out again. Thanks for the directions though. Enjoyed trying it!
Lorie, sorry it didn’t work for you. If you have any empty label pages with the waxy film, they work too.
What so you mean by a label page? Sorry I’m not sure what that is.
I’m glad Brittany asked that question. So many transfers only work with lasers. Can’t wait to give this a try! I’d never heard of it and love trying new things. Thanks so much!
I suppose you would have to reverse print the letters so that they would transfer correctly?
Karen, yes you would have to reverse the letters. If you are using The Graphics Fairy, most of the time she has a transfer image attached.
how can you reverse the print?
Coriann,
That’s actually a common question!! I need to update my post. Most computers have the program “Paint.” If you aren’t sure just do a search for it in your start bar. Open the picture you want to flip, then go to “Image” in the top bar. There is a drop-down option for “Flip/Rotate.” That should reverse the image for you. Hopefully that will help!
~Angela
Thank you…. Once you said something I was able to figure it out right away! and the sad part is that it was so simple i dont know why i didnt figure it out on my own
Most printers have, once you hit file print, preferences they have an option to print as mirror. this is an easier option. Check your printer settings first.
You should add this tidbit to the directions. “Reversing the image” was my first question, and having never worked with transfers before, had no idea that there might be an option to download a “transfer image”, or even that you could reverse an image using “Paint”. Thanks for sharing, though…we’re moving to a new house that we have to renovate, soon, and I imagine I will be using lots of these kind of tips.
Kathy, I will add it to the instructions. Thanks!!
Sounds like an easy peasy project, Angela, and it has such a great result! Your peel looks wonderful. I had misplaced the tutorial I previously had for a transfer- this is easier. I’ll be sure to look for you at CL in a few weeks.
Sue
You are BRILLIANT! I can’t wait to give this one a try. Thanks for the great tute and tips, girl!
Great idea! You are a clever lady, Angela. I popped over from BJ’s blog. Glad to find you. I’m now following.
I’m interested in one of the cheese dome/plates like BJ bought. Do you still sell these?
~ Sarah
Sarah, that was the only one I had. If I ever see anything else like it, I’ll let you know!
Thanks for the transfer tutorial. I have yet to try this, but it’s on my list!
I am your newest follower and plan on linking to the Transfer Link Party this week.
Thank you for sharing.
Mandy
http://www.projectqueen.org
Hi, just found your blog. Loved your instructions! I have been wanting to try this. I actually liked both looks, the paler one looks very vintage. I am now a new follower.
definitely trying this! you’re a genius!!
That is a cool transfer method. I really want to try that on some things. Is it washable? I was thinking of using it on a rolling butcher block cart, but it would obviously need to be wiped off frequently.
Deborah, I tried it with water and it didn’t fade, but I didn’t use soap. I don’t know how well it would work on a surface that you use. If it is just on a part that you wipe periodically, it might work. You’ll have to let me know what you decide!
~Angela
Would this work on t-shirts?
Christian, I haven’t tried it on t-shirts, but it worked on a tea towel. I havent’ washed it yet, though. Let me know if you try it!
~Angela
I tried it on a dish towel, works wonderfully, Bad news is it washes out. I wonder how you could set the ink, tried iron but that didnt work. Any ideas?
Dorothy, I’m really not sure? I wonder if soaking it in vinegar might help. (Not sure if it would bleed?) Sorry, I’m not much help!
I did this on my kitchen towels. I scanned some of my kids old artwork, transferred the image as she instructed, then traced with a marker to “set”. It was easy to transfer, washes perfectly and I have their artwork to keep forever. Hope this helps.
This is GREAT!!! I didn’t know about this!! I missed the transfer party.
The links were all gone for me to see, too. I wonder why? You have a fun blog! 
Hi found you through Kathysue and you are brilliant! I love love love this idea and am going to give it a try. You make it look so easy, I just love the finished product, it looks like an old cutting board from a chateau in France!! Fabulous and so happy to discover your blog.
Stop by doing an amazing giveawawy for the most beautiful French telephone table!!
Wow , it is an understatement If say I love this project!On my list already!!thanks!
Hi I found you on Pinterest. What a great easy way to transfer. I had thought of wax paper before but never tried it now I will. Did you try it on painted furniture? Thanks for great tutorial I’m a new follower.
have you tried it on canvas? Just wondering if it works on other mediums.
I was wondering the same thing.
I haven’t tried it in canvas, but my guess is it would work. It hust needs a fairly flat and stable surface.
I found this floating around on pinterest and followed the link back to here. I dont know you but I sure do love you for thinking of this. Muah!
omgosh..i am so super excited to try this…I have some wooden signs i want to make for my home. have you tried with different colors?or onto painted surfaces?
Great tips, I’m always searching for cheap easy ways to do transfers, I will be trying this out! Thanks
I love this idea!!! The boards are so cute!
XO
Kristin
Love this idea! Do you know if it will work on a painted surface?
Great idea! I love the rustic look
Would you have to reverse the image before printing it out so that the ink is on the side of the wood?? I’m confused by how it works but i love the idea! Thanks!!
Ashely, yes you have to reverse the image. Most programs have the option, but if you get the image from Graphics Fairy she normally has a transfer option.
Well, who said you couldn’t teach an old dog new tricks!? I found you through Kristen and I am your newest follower. I have a new grandbaby contest going on today (yesterday’s post) Pop by and take a guess if you have the chance. Hugs- Diana
What a great idea, I am going to have to give this a go. I was also wondering that you may be able to make the board more washable by using a heat gun and then the wax would melt into the board, not sure if this would work or not, just an idea!!
Sam, I was thinking that butcher’s wax might work. I haven’t given it a try, yet.
i’m in love with this idea…..thank you for sharing the tutorial as well….humm, something i’m going to consider trying. i love the way yours looks all gathered behind your stove & how convieniently accesible. oxox, tracie
Found you through Pinterest and I love it. I was wondering if it would work on wood that has been sealed or if maybe you could seal the wood over it?
Kim, I think sealing it would be OK. I haven’t tried it, but as long it’s clear it should work.
I hope you don’t mind, but I am sharing this over at my blog tonight – thanks for the great inspiration! Take care, Laura
To get the wax paper easily through the printer, adhere the wax paper to a piece of printer paper with repositional adhesive spray.
Thanks, Beth! I had thought about trying that, but didn’t have any at the time. I am assuming it will work with printing directly onto fabric, too? Have you tried using it on fabric?
How do you reverse the print? I’ve asked several people and none have been able to help me. I love this idea and cant wait to try it!
Gail, I had some trouble figuring that out too! Most computers have the program “Paint.” If you aren’t sure just do a search for it in your start bar. Open the picture you want to flip, then go to “Image” in the top bar. There is a drop-down option for “Flip/Rotate.” That should reverse the image for you. Hopefully that will help!
~Angela
Hi Angela,
Is this Pizza tray still usable? Or is it intended to be just for decoration now? How permanent is the transfer?
I was wondering if you sprayed it with Crystal Clear if it could be usable after wards.
Great idea, it is very cute. I was thinking this would be a good gift idea for my mom.
Thanks,
Laura
Laura, I had orginally made it just for decorative purposes. I tried sanding off the first one I did, and had some issue. I would say it’s pretty permanent.
I am not familiar with Crystal Clear, is it food safe? Good luck with your gift, I hope it turns out great!
~Angela
So smart & clever. Thanks for sharing …. found you via Pinterest.
Cheers!
Carrie
lifestylefilesblog.com
hmm..would this work for transferring onto plastic?
Brittany, I haven’t tried that!! Let me know if you do and it works!
~Angela
I tried this. The printer kept eating my wax paper. I even tried taping it to a piece of computer paper. Giving up. lol
Amber –
Try ironing the wax paper to a regular sheet. Just do the corners where you are not printing and put a towel between the iron and the wax paper. This will give the wax paper the heft of the printer paper.
Another idea – if you look into the printer from the output slot – can you see rollers? Is there a way to prop the rollers up with cut up zip ties? I have an Epson and to print on non-Epson paper (like transparancies) I had to use cut up zip ties to lift the rollers out of the way so they would not touch the paper.
In the case of the Epson there is a bar to wedge my tie on to lift the roller.
Anyway – I hope that makes sense and works for you!
First off, great tutorial! Thanks so much for sharing! Second I was reading a few of the comments and wanted to mention that I have printed directly onto fabric before using an inkjet printer (same idea cut freezer paper to the size of printer paper and iron the wax side to the the fabric then run it through) anyhow, it you soak it in vinegar, it sets the ink, but for some strange reason it only works on the black ink…the color inks dissolved off. about sealing the wood after doing this, lowe’s carries sealers in a spray paint and you can’t get either gloss or matte…I would imagine that those would be your best bet to keep the ink from running when you seal it…I don’t know how well they work because I haven’t used them yet, but just wanted to mention that they may be a better option that using a brush…anywho, sorry if those ??? were already answered by other readers…I didn’t read all the comments, but just wanted to throw in my two cents! Thanks again for the great tute!
btw I meant to say you ***can*** get them in the spray paint form…
Brilliant!!
Brilliant, Angela! Great tutorial – you make it look so easy. The pizza peel turned out beautifully, too. I found you on Pinterest and have repinned this to my Crafts and DIY board. Thanks so much, Lady!
xoxo
Joy
For those of you who still aren’t sure about how to print lettering in reverse – Most printers will have an option in the print dialogue box. For my HP printer, you click on Preferences (on the main dialogue box); Click on the “Finishing” tab, and then select the “Mirror Image” check box.
In Photoshop, you just transfer your image horizontally (or just the layer that your text is on if you don’t want any images reversed as well).
Hope this helps!
Looks like a great idea, can’t wait to try it,wonderful instructions also.
Thanks
Saw this on Pinterest! Very cool!
I really enjoyed watching this project. Very easy to follow instructions. Thank you.
Hi there! Just found your page through the graphics fairy =) I was wondering if this same technique would work with a laser printer? I don’t have an inkjet =(
I imagine that the wax paper wouldn’t even go through the machine. It would probably jam. Laser printers are pretty persnickety.
thanks so much! I am going to try this soon!
Thanks for this. I too have discovered the Graphics Fairy and really love her artwork. This week I used it for the first time on a miniature stool I found that already had old paint on it. I sanded it back to a shabby look and used the Mod Podge method to transfer the French letter design. I’ll try your method next time. To see the stool I made over, go to http://irestorestuff.blogspot.com/. Thanks.
Would this work on glass?
Jen, I havent’ tried it? My thought is it would wipe off. If you weren’t going to use water on it, it might work? Let me know if you try it!!
~Angela
MUITO OBRIGADA! ESTOU ENCANTADA! PARABÉNS!
I was unsuccessful with this project. Will have to find another way to do transfers.
Shannon, sorry to hear that! It can be a little tricky. Hopefully you will have more luck with some of the other methods!
I love this idea and can’t wait to try it. Does it matter which side of the waxed paper you use? Thanks for the idea and the great Graphics Fairy tip, she is wonderful!
Thanks for the info! I’m going to try this with fabric for my next custom made purse!
help me!!! I love this transfer via wax paper, and I finally learned today how to open it in ‘Paint’ to flip it…but now it prints so small, I’ve made several attempts to try and enlarge it via ‘Paint’ but it still comes out too small. but I can clearly see this is gonna work out, once I get the drift of it. thanks………..
Angela, I’m not sure what version of Paint you have but under “Image” there should be a “Resize” option. You should be able to increase the size with this option. If you can’t get it to work, let me know and I can do it for you!
Just shoot me an e-mail: unexpectedelegance@gmail.com
~Angela
I did this! And I recomend NOT doing this in a laser jet! I absolutly ruined mine. My husband explained that laser jets heat up SO much that the wax melts and then hardens in the rollers. We have now bought a ink jet so we will see. I am a little hesitant though!
Just tried this on an old wood cutting board and it came out awesome! Thanks for the great idea! It was super easy to do!
I’M SO GLAD!! I’ve heard lots of people tell me how it didn’t work and I was getting worried that maybe I shouldn’t have posted about it. Thanks for letting me know and I would love to see a picture if you get a chance. My e-mail is unexpectedelegance@gmail.com
~Angela
had a question…love this idea and have tried it several times….the ink always bubbles on the wax paper and no matter how careful i am it smears badly on dry or damp wood….so much that it doesnt look good at all….am i doing something wrong? anyone have any ideas??
Leigh, I’m not sure about the bubbling. Are you using an ink jet or laser printer? I have heard that laser printers get too hot (might be the problem?). The smearing is something that is pretty tricky. I normally hold the paper at top and bottom and slowly lay it down, top to bottom. If you have someone to help, hold it securely as you lay it down and have the other person scrap it with the card. Hopefully, that will help!
~Angela
Thanks for responding!!
we have an inkjet printer, its a few months old if that has any bearing on the way it works….i get alot of bubbles on the surface of the paper, maybe if i am just extra careful i can transfere the image without smearing! I really love this idea!!
maybe try printing on “Draft” You should get less ink that way.
Awesome idea! I can’t wait to give this a try. I have been very disappointed with the Citri-Solv method. I hope it will feed through my printer. . . I have one of the newer one that does not allow hand feeds.
I’ll cross my fingers for you!!
Let me know if it works, I am looking for some successful projects to feature!
~Angela
I am guessing that you will need to print your graphic in mirror reverse if it word at least right? Love this btw!! I will be trying it out soon!!
Yes, you will have to reverse the image. I would love to know how it turns out!
~Angela
Wow, the print looks amazing! I’ve never seen this before and am pretty excited now to try it out! Thanks so much for sharing the tutorial.
You’re welcome!! Let me know if you try it!
~Angela
Did you try this on glass?
Doris, I haven’t tried it on glass. My thought is that it won’t stick because the surface needs to be porous…but it’s worth a shot! Let me know if you decide to try it!
~Angela
Love this! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Mrs. Limestone!! I was so happy to see your comment…it made my day!
I loved this idea, but I was having a lot of trouble with the waxed paper not feeding through the printer. After several tries (some of which worked fine but others which jammed up the printer), I found a solution which is easier to work with AND foolproof. I took a sheet of clear “overhead” printer sheets (teachers use them to print something for students to see on an overhead projector). It is rough on one side and smooth on the other. I printed on the smooth side. Perfect! And the ink washes off so it can be re-used!
Thanks for trying it out! I have used transparencies too, but this is just for someone who only has household things and no budget!;) Sorry, it didn’t work out for you!!
I love this and must try it! I’ve printed on fabric before and I taped the fabric to a piece card stock to stabilize it. Worked perfectly.
P.S. I hope you don’t mind if I add it to my Pinterest board. If you do, let me know and I will take it down.
Maureen, I would love for you to share it!
Thanks!
Angela
Have you ever tried this on glass?
I haven’t? Not sure about it drying? Let me know if you try it!
~Angela
Theres a better way…use regular printer paper…reverse the image before you print (print options) Place paper on wood or what ever you want image on. Tape in place. Brush paper with wet paintbrush… enough to wet but not to tear paper. Then take sharpie pen CAP and rub transfer – gently not to tear paper. Go in both directions with cap. I can email u a pic of the wooden plaques I did. Not to dark, not to light. No smearing. Perfect !
This method did not work for me. I tried 2 different printers and the ink isn’t coming out dark enough on my wood. I can’t wait to try the wax paper method
Have you tried this on painted furniture (or any painted surface)? I would like to transfer an image to a painted table top
Jeanne, I haven’t tried it but I know it’s possible because others have commented about doing it. good luck with your project!
~Angela
Hi! This is great – remember doing something similar as a child. That was many many years ago. Anyway, you are so artistic, wondering if you know a technique such as this that would transfer onto glass? I am working on a project and need something really vintage looking on a picture frame glass. Well, best to you and your artistic endeavors! Lorane, txwoodcarver.
Lorane, I don’t have any suggestions for glass. I know you can buy glass paint. If it’s an image you could paint, you could just put the image behind the glass and trace it in paint. Good luck! Let me know how it turns out.
~Angela
I love this! Will definitely have to try it!
Jen, let me know if you do!
ok i know i am a bit late to the party but i have been decorating my sons room and wanted to see if it would work on a wall over paint (just for the ‘stencil’) and then paint over the top of it just so that its right…before i try it do you think it may work??
I haven’t tried it myself, but I’m pretty sure it work. That might have to be my next project!
I tried this and gave up on trying to get the wax paper to go through my inkjet printer. Instead I printed it on my regular computer paper (reversed) and put it on my wood cutting board. I took a wet washrag and put it on top of paper like you would a temporary tattoo. Then I took my iron on the highest setting and went over the rag until was almost dry. The results were about like your paddle without water. Even though the methods weren’t exactly the same I still wanted to thank you for giving me the idea. I love my new cutting board!
Sabrina, I’m so glad you found a way to make it work! I know some other people have had trouble with this method too, so it’s refreshing to know you worked through it!!
My printer ate up the wax paper. I can’t imagine it doesn’t do that to everyone. I also tried the regular paper, wet cloth and iron method and nothing. Im getting frustrated bc i have a graphic i need to get placed on a painted table. Any more suggestions? THANKS!!!!
I’m sorry, it’s not working for you! Freezer paper or a transparency is the only other thing I can suggest. Here’s a link from someone who used a freezer paper method.
http://home-frosting.blogspot.com/2011/08/before-and-after-nightstand.html
Let me know if you get it to work!
~Angela
What IS freezer paper? Isn’t it just wax paper?
Sangria, it’s a little different. It’s white and heavier, but still has a shiny side.
Do you print your image on the waxy side or the paper side??
Linda, yes on the waxy side. It take a while to dry, so that is how you are able to transfer it. Hope it works for you!
Hi – looks perfect, but where do you buy the wax paper ? Is it something special ?
I’m not sure where you live, but wax paper is sold in our grocery stores. It’s used when baking. You could also use freezer paper. The surface just need to be slippery, so the ink won’t dry too quickly.
Thanks for stopping by!
Angela
Wax paper continuously got jammed in my printer. Gave up on this because we just bought this printer and I wasn’t about to break it.
Bummed.
That stinks!! Sorry it didn’t work, I guess it all depends on the printer. I have a really cheap one!
You can inkjet print directly onto fabric. Just iron the fabric onto freezer paper…. this will give it the body it needs to go thru the printer. Print. Peel off the freezer paper and viola!!! I always press with high heat to make the image permanent. No need to reverse images!!!
Thanks, Ann!! I will try that!
~Angela
I suppose you have to use a specific side of the paper for it to work properly?
Karen, you want it on the waxy side. Hope it works for you!!
~Angela
my sister and I tried for hours today to get a method to work using freezer paper, waxed paper, etc. My inkjet printer would just shoot out the transparency with nothing printed on it. Waxed paper had same results. freezer paper would not transfer.
what are we doing wrong?
Gena, I’m not sure? It’s pretty weird that nothing is on the printing on the wax paper or transparencies. The only thing I can think of is it might be a setting, but if it’s printing the same image on the freezer paper, I’m stumped.
Hello, first thank you for posting such a great tutorial. I have a question though. I did try this the other night and my image barley transferred to my cutting board. Does it matter which side you print the image onto the wax paper? I ask because mine didn’t turn out very well, wet or dry, (I did it twice) and wondered if I perhaps printed on the wrong side.
Thanks!
Dana,
I’m not sure why it’s so light? The wax paper should be waxy on both sides, but if for some reason yours has one side that is slicker, I would use that side. When I did mine, the ink stayed very wet for a long time. It might be the amount of ink your printer puts out, too? Sorry, I’m not much help!
I shall have to try this, it looks really nice. Thank you..
This is a great idea!! Can you seal it and what with so is doesn’t wear off.
Lori, you can seal but if you use a spray sealer it might run. I would use a butcher wax.
The first one I did I tried to sand it and it wasn’t coming off, so you might be OK?
Good luck!
~Angela
I love this idea! Is there a way to do this using a laser printer, as I do not have an inkjet?
Christa, I haven’t tried it on an inkjet but I’ve read some comments that say it doesn’t work. Sorry!
~Angela
You can actually print on fabric with an inkjet printer if it is cut to paper size and ironed onto freezer paper (waxy side). Both should be the size of a piece of paper. Once the fabric is printed, pull off the freezer paper and iron the back side of the fabric with a warm (not hot) iron. You will want something under the fabric when you iron it “in case” some ink comes off. I’ve not had that problem. My mother makes quilts using this technique. She gets some really unique fabric this way.
Thanks, Robin! That’s a great to know!
i tried ironing to set the ink and it washed out…someone told me to let the ink dry for 24 hours before washing….going to give it a go….for items that are transfered onto wood if you use a butcher block sealer it is food safe and washable….i use the brand Watco, its oil based so clean up is with mineral spirits, but that is what makes the item washable afterwards….love it……
Is the ink permanent (won’t wash or rub off) or does it need to be “sealed” with something? Found your link on Pinterest!
how is this when something is washed? does the ink smear at all?
You might want to try this method. Use an Avery Label Sheet instead of wax paper. First you will want to remove all the labels and borders. Your graphic should transfer to the label sheet by feeding it through your inkjet printer like you would if it were regular printer paper. Once your graphic is printed on the sheet, lightly wet your subject with a sponge. You should be able to burnish your picture onto the surface with the back of a spoon or credit card. (I haven’t tried this yet) but if it works, it might be easier than using a sheet of wax paper that may get jammed in the printer. (*note – use that slightly damp sponge to remove any remaining ink that remains on the avery label sheet and reuse. Good luck! I hope this makes sense.
I am excited to try this, I have a question about after you print on the wax paper how long do you have to transfer the image? Do you do it while it is still wet, or do you let the ink dry? Also I tried another method using freezer paper. I had a couple pieces of wood to play with. I found that the piece of wood that was smoother worked well. The other piece that was a LITTLE more rustic did not work at all.
I really love that you take the time to answere all the questions.
Found you on pinterest.
Kathie, I haven’t done this project in a while but from what I remember I transferred it right away. Hopefully it will work for you!
~Angela
Thanks for the tip. It is Fabulous!!!!
Lynnae, you are welcome!
What a great idea! I have two projects that have been sitting in my head for a while now. I now know how I will do them. Thank you so much for sharing. I love what you have done with your kitchen. Looks great. I will be stopping by more often!
wanted to let you know you can also do a transfer with copy paper. You get your transfer picked out and under your print properties select the mirror image and print. then u wet the wood. Not too wet just little more than damp. lay your paper down image side down. wet the paper but just a little more than damp. take the nose of pen cap and trace the transfer. press hard but try not to tear the paper. Lift transfer off and there it is.
Kalie, thanks for the tip!
Thanks so much for this tutorial. I was trying to do another method of wetting the paper, but wasn’t having any luck. It took a while to get it printed on the wax paper without it coming out of the printer smudged. At one point, I ran out of black ink. Even though it printed using other colors, the ink came out in little droplets instead of one smooth image. I read above that someone else had that problem. I would check on the ink settings. At first I tried wetting the wood, but it bled too much. Working with the painted and then sanded dry wood worked perfectly. Thank you!
Neesa, I’m so glad it worked for you! A lot of people have trouble. My printer is so cheap, but it works great!
OMG this actually worked! I put a vintage Costa Rican stamp on a cutting board from Costa Rica and it looks fantastic. Thanks so much for posting this!
Jennie, I’m so glad it worked for you!!!!
I saw in your instructions you have to work fast. Does this mean you cant make the transfer ahead of time and store them? I have a craft party coming up and have ideas for people to do small crafts at different stations and thought this might be kind of fun. But if i cant let the transfer sit it wouldnt work.
Kasi, I’m not sure how well they would “keep?” My best suggestion, would be to try a small image on a scrap piece of wood in advance. I would love to know if this works for you!
Thanks!
Angela
This is brilliant!!! I will be trying this very soon!!!!
Came across you via The Graphics Fairy. Absolutely amazing idea (and thrifty too). Thanks so much for the tutorial!
Alex, thanks for stopping by!!!
Hi! Great idea. I was wondering which side of the wax paper should be facing up when running through the printer.
Danielle, whichever side is the shiniest/slickest. You just want the ink to not stick to it. Hope it works for you !
Hi! this is a brilliant idea, but i was wondering what font you used for the word “cafe”
Jordan, I got the whole graphic from the Graphic Fairy’s website. You can always Google fonts to find free ones that might work, if you need something specific. Hopefully I helped!
Does anyone know if you can apply lacquer or polyurathane over the ink without it smearing?
Allison, I haven’t tried it but I think it might bleed. A paste might work?
Hello Angela,
Thanks so much for the great tutorial. I found you via The Graphics Fairy! I’m now a new follower and hope you’ll stop by for a visit and join my Frugal Treasures Tuesday party. Hope your weekend is going well.
Barbe
Worked perfectly!!! Thanks for the awesome tutorial! So glad I ran across your site and I can’t wait to spend some time exploring all the cool things you do!!!
Tried it…. jammed my printer. Tried to tape it to paper… jammed my printer. Tried to iron it to paper like you mentioned… didn’t work. Any other suggestions?? I would love to try this. Most transfer methods I’ve seen require a laser printer, and I have an inket…. so I would love if this worked. My printer you have to feed from the bottom, so I cant hand feed it… suggestions??
going to try now . I have just found you on pininterest. Thankyou
OMG I haven’t seen this before! Very cool! It makes me want to run out and get wax paper right now! Do you think it would work on a cutting board? Would it get too cut up? What do you think? Have you tried it yet? Love your site! Here is mine!
http://www.thecraftysailorwife.com
Does this work with color ink as well? I want to put sepia toned pictures on wood and the only way I know to do this is use transfer tape or packaging tape and soaking the paper in water. To do this, I have to use toner ink. Has anyone tried this with color in using color ink from a regular home printer?
The best transfer method I’ve used (and have tried them all). I’ve used this on plain wood, painted surfaces, clay pots…I love it!
I seal the transfers on wood with paste wax. You can also use a spray sealer such as clear Krylon spray paint. On fabrics, I use a hot iron to set it. Before you wash, you can mist/spray vinegar directly onto it to help keeping it from fading.
Thanks for the great tip!
Have you ever tried to use scrapbook velum? It is heavier and would go through printer easier but didn’t know if it would work or not. Thanks for posting such a cool idea.
Donna
Can I stain on top of this or will it run?
I tried this and it worked GREAT. So super easy. Just hoping it will stay if I put a coat of stain over it?!?!
Randi, I think the stain will make it run? I would use the stain first then do the transfer and if you need to seal it, use a wax or paste?
I tried this method to make a tray for a friend’s wedding…. But the concern I ran into was the ink would get smudged during printing and there weren’t clean prints to actually use. Any tips/ideas? I tried doing “best quality” “fast draft” etc and nothing helped.
Michelle, I know some people have trouble with different printers. My only suggestion is to try to clean the rollers if you can. My guess is there is ink on them and it’s transferring to the wax paper? I’m not sure if that’s the case, but I can’t think of any other solutions? Good luck and I would love to know if you get it to work!
Ok, this inspires me to ask a question ….
I’m doing my backsplash in beadboard wallpaper. If you’ve not used it or are familiar with it, it’s thick and has a sort of foamy texture. I plan to paint it with a high quality enamel to seal it well. I would love to stencil something on it, as if it were old wood that had been stenciled years ago. A transfer would certainly be more affordable and a much larger selection (graphics fairy has everything you could ever want. ever.) but I’m wondering how much pressure you used with the card? I’m afraid the wallpaper would “dent”. Is there another transfer method I could use?
I thought about a projector and tracing it, but I want it weathered and somewhat faded, like the transfer would be.
Beth, depending on how well your printer works with the wax paper you could probably make it work. The less pressure the more it will look “aged.” I would definitely try it out on a scrap before you do it on your new wall, but make sure when you test it you are using the same angle. My worry is it will be harder to do on a wall. Definitely do it with another person and painters tape might be good to keep it from slipping. I’d love to know if you try it!!
Hey i’ve been looking for a cheaper version on how to transfer stuff and i will definitily be trying this but just curious can you wash the item you transfered onto after and it won’t come off?
Anna, it won’t come off on wood for sure. I’m not sure about fabric?
I just tried this and it worked great! I made a toy box from an old wine crate for my dog and matched the fonts in the original design. I love it, thanks!!
Love this method but it kept jamming ing the printer so I tried parchment paper. Worked worlds better! You should try it!
I’ve used a similar method to transfer news paper print to a nail ,, wonder soaking the wood (surface) would help to minimize the smearing
** soaking the wood surface in alchohol
How do you seal it? Thanks!
I’m so excited about using this method. I wonder if it would help to leave the wax paper on the transfer object for a few hours to let the image dry.
YOU are Awesome!! I too have been looking for something like this. I wanted to make my own Marine shirts cause our oldest in right now and we have 7 kids and wanted to make t-shirts. Also I love vintage looking signs. Any advice about the transfers for t-shirts PLEASE let me know. Thank you Stef
LOVED this idea, I was so happy to find it since I had been working on some signs that I found at our thrift store, and I could never find the perfect method to have the decorative type on my signs… I also wanted to say that my transferring worked on a painted surface just fine. I tested it first on the back, but the text came out nice and dark, even over the paint.
Thanks again!!!
Everyone that is having trouble with the wax paper…do this instead: Take any of your Avery or other brand label sheets and peel off all the labels/borders. You are left with a wax paper with paper backing that fits and goes perfectly through the printer. Still just for inkjets, no laser.
I have tried it with avery clear transfer paper, with the clear sheet still on it and my printer just spit it out…….I will try by peeling it first……pray it works
Sangria, sorry it’s not working! It sounds like your printer is refusing to cooperate!
Hope it works for you soon!
This is a great idea! I am going to try it on a t-shirt. Do I need to wet my shirt first, as you did the wood as well? (:
Lisa, when I tried it on fabric I just got a damp cloth and patted the surface I wanted to transfer it to. It was barely damp. It worked well for me, but I haven’t tried t-shirt material. I would try it on a scrap first just to be safe.
Is this waterproof??
Jennifer, on wood it will not was off with water. On fabric it fads. Hope that helped!
I’m wanting to do this on a guitar pick but would I need to seal the print with anything so it doesn’t rub off onto my fingers?:Px And if so what should I use?
Emma,
If the pick is made of wood, once it dries it shouldn’t come off. If the wood you are using has a finish on it, you will need to sand it pretty good before you use the transfer. If the pick is plastic, I’m not sure if this will stay permanently. Hope this works for you!
I found your site through The Graphic Fairy DIY site. I have an old antique wood chair that had the seat caned (ripped out years ago) so I cut plywood and covered it with foam, batting and a cream and black checkered fabric, now I want to use some of Karen’s great graphics and some old black and white photos transferred onto flour sack pillows to sit on my cute new chair! Not to worried about washing them, because the older they get the better they will look! Thanks for sharing this great tutorial!
Crafty Hugs,
Pendra
pendrasplace.blogspot.com
Do you have any ideas on how to use an iPad to get an image and reverse it? Thanks, great idea.
Mari, I’m not sure about images in general on the Ipad. I only use mine for internet and generally stay away from even typing on it!
Sorry, I’m not much help!
This didn’t work. I tried it over and over and over last night, and the results were consistently horrid. I have an inkjet printer, the images print okay on wax paper, then they are either way too light on the wood, or they blur, or they smear, or only parts of the image transfer, or a combination of the above. I tried wetting the wood different amounts, not wetting it, printing with different amounts of ink (draft, regular, high quality, everything), trying color ink, using black ink only, printing on both sides of the wax paper to see if that made a difference, transferring the images right away, waiting a while to transfer the images, everything I could think of. I wasted $20 worth of little wood pieces from the craft store trying to get even just one halfway decent image. Just awful.
Laura, I’m sorry it didn’t work.
Laura – That sucks for you. I tried, followed the directions exactly and it turned out simply perfectly! I am actually doing a series of these for little Christmas gifts with amazing vintage graphics from the graphics fairy. I even did multiple images on uneven, rustic reclaimed wood planks that are stained a dark color and it still turned out amazing every time. I just followed the directions exactly. You’re clearly doing something very wrong!!! It’s super easy! Are your hands really shaky or something? Do you move the image around after you lay it down? It’s truly quite hard to mess this up. Your failure at this project is obviously not a reflection on the writer’s tutorial… which is wonderful, clear, concise and simple to follow. Thanks for the great instructions!!!!
- a different Laura
hi, i was thinking about doing this on some big letters for my sister for christmas, but the letters are painted..
i was wondering if this idea would work on painted wood, or does it work just on plain wood?
thanks
Lauren, it should work on painted wood. Some people have had trouble with how dark it comes out. I would just test it first on a piece of scrap or an area that won’t matter if it gets messed up. All printers are different!
Good luck!
This is a cool idea – I didn’t read all the comments, just enough to see that people were having trouble with the waxed paper jamming in their printers. You could try taping the leading edge of the waxed paper to a normal sheet of paper and then feed that through the printer.
I enjoy your blog!
I was just wondering how the transfer held up after it was dry? If it gets wet does it come off? Can you use the cutting board? Love the Idea and am going to try it. I just wanted to know
Stephanie, on the pizza peel it never came off or faded. The wood didn’t have any finish on it, so I’m not sure if it has a finish how it will hold up. I just used mine for decorative purposes, so I’m not sure how food safe it would be. Hope some of that helped!
~Angela
Hi, I am trying this on a project and wanted to see if once I print it on the wax do I have to transfer immediately or can that part wait a day before transferring. I want to print it at home but then would go to another location to transfer. Sounds strange, I know but it is a Christmas project for a family member! Thanks
Carol, I haven’t tried it this way. My only suggestion would be to do a test run. Use a smaller version on a piece of scrap material. Sorry, I’m not more help!
Wahhhhhhh….it didn’t work!!!! I got all the way up to loading my wax paper in my printer then i hit print…….and it jammed over and over again!! I even taped it to a blank sheet of paper and wahhhhhhhhh it didn’t work! I even bought those clear transfer papers at staples and it too just got swept up by the rollers of the printer and got spitted out without printing anything on it!!!! The print that I have is quite detailed and so this is the best method I think to get all them pretty details on my cabinet door cuz there’s no way imma trace it all with a sharpie no thanx! Is my project doomed!!???
Signed,
Desparately seeking transfer method
OK…..OH….MY….GOD!!!!! There was a person that commented on here to spray adhesive on a regular blank sheet of paper and paste the wax paper onto it…then cut the edges to make it even with the paper width. CAN I JUST SAY “THANK THE GOD LORD THAT IT WORKED!!!!!!!!” All my frustration of spending 4 hrs the other day is gone and now this is easier than ever! And on top of it all….it transferred so dark enough onto my chalk paint painted cabinet doors that I won’t even need to go over it with a sharpie or black paint! I’m freaking out is so good!!! Seeing that I have an addictive personality….I’m gonna do this to EVERYTHING in the house!! ANGEL-A u awsome lady u!!!! Thanx so much for making the effort to post this and show us ur wicked pizza board!
Dang. Wish this worked for transfering to glass. I mean it transfers, but it always wipes right off the glass. LOL
found you on pinterest! i wonder if this would work on wood letters (without finish or laquer) and transfer black and white photos… i know color wasnt working too well for ppl up above but did anyone try actual images instead of just letter? i know images work well with the nail polish transfer method.. i wonder if this method will do the same? anyone try it? let me know
I haven’t tried images. My suggestion, would be to do a small version on a scrap of wood. Hope it works for you!
~Angela
Hi! I am wanting to transfer onto a cheap folable white box (you know the kind you rush to get at the dollar store at Christmas time to get the job done) I am a college student and can’t afford to get canvas for the transfer I would like to do and thought using half of a gift box would be a cheap alternate……will this method work on things other than wood?
Lexy, I think it would work. It will all depend on how slick the box is. Hope it works for you!
Will it work on fabric if you use a color image? Like maybe a US flag or something in color.
Randi, the colored ink does not wash very well. If you are doing a project that doesn’t need to be washed, it will probably work.
would it work the same if you used a shirt? please blog on that! thanks!
Amber, it works on some fabrics. It will need to be a very tight weave. I had actually started working on a post a few months ago about using this technique on fabric. I guess I need to finish it!
Hi Angela,
I just discovered you and am excited to play around with transfers. Have you done anything on tin or tin cans?? Applying heat would be tricky. Would you paint the surface first? Acrylic paint?
Thanks!!
Just a FYI…my daughter and I could not get this to work – the wax paper would not go through the printer at all until we attached it to piece of printer paper…then WAAAA-LAA!!!! Went through first time! Now, here’s to hoping we figured out which side of the wax paper was the right one
Thanks Angela for the great tutorial! I referenced you in my blog if you want to check it out!
http://loftymoments.weebly.com/1/post/2013/01/diy-wall-quote-using-wax-paper.html
THANKS!
FYI …. I do not recommend anyone with a Kodak All in one print try this. I did it and it ruined my printer. I had to go buy a new one. The wax from the wax paper sicks to or clogs the printer head. My printer was working fine before I feed the wax paper through it and then it wouldnt print anything after I did it. Just a blank page. I replaced all the ink cartridges twice with new ones even took out and cleaned the printer head. Nothing worked, so Im just giving a warning!
Thanks for sharing – great technique!
Hello Angela, it’s really nice to see this thread is still so alive!
I have been loving image transfer forever and since Polaroid no longer makes my beloved 669 (and there are just NO substitutes ), i’ve been playing with different transfer techniques. This one is full of potential for my work and I’m so excited. Your tutorial is succinct, beautifully shot and very well written. I have tried this method with two of my printers, with no success (yet!). I’m not sure if I missed it somewhere but may I ask which printer and inks you find works best for this technique? Thanks Angela, and when i do get some interesting results I’ll be sure to let you know.
Megan, I have a very cheap printer. It’s an HP Deskjet 1000. (I think it was under $30.) The only other advice I have is to try using the Avery label pages. After you have used all the labels, save the backer. It has a wax finish on it and is sturdier than the wax paper. You can reuse it a few times, too. Just wipe it with a damp paper towel.
Good luck!
Angela
what side of the wax paper do you print the image on?
Carrie, you want to print on the “waxy” side. The kind I used, it seemed to work on both sides.
Can you do this on painted wood?
Connie, it does work on painted surfaces!
Hi Angela! What a great project, I can’t wait to try it! Do you think that if I use a double sided tape it might keep the transfer from moving and smudging? I’ll give it a go and see how it turns out
Melanie, I think that might work. The whole trick is not getting it move, so laying it down carefully is the most important part. Let me know how it works!
Angela
Loved this idea! The wax paper did not work for me unfortunately. But came up with an idea that worked beautifully! I used a ‘sheet protector’ left over from my childrens school projects. I placed a piece of typing paper in the sheet protector and had to trim the the one edge that had the holes in it (exactly to the size of the paper). I then taped this side – top, bottom and middle. Ran it through my printer and it worked brilliantly! I ran the credit card over it and wha la! Took a paper towel and was able to wipe off it off and now can re-use it!
Tammy, that’s awesome! Glad it worked!
Tried this tonight and putting the wax paper by itself was a bust. Then I used spry adhesive to glue the wax paper to printer paper and had no problem! I used some French typography on some old chippy boxes I had painted, sanded, painted, sanded, added crackle, painted and sanded one more time and they look fantastic. I dampened the surface slightly first so the ink would be darker and it was just right. Thank you so much for the tutorial!
Just wondering if any of the wax rubs off… I’m wanting to stain the wood after the transfer, and I’m afraid if the wax rubs onto the wood it will not accept the stain. Has anyone tried this?
I know other people have stained over the transfer and it worked fine. I don’t think you would have any trouble, but you might want to test it first.
Hey there. You are probably getting tired of answering questions on this topic..BUT:
I am wondering if it makes a difference on how the paper is fed through the printer? Some home printers have the drawer underneath, and others you stack the paper horizontally in a tray. That is probably one of the reasons why this works for some but not others.
My printer has the drawer, what type do you have?
Lora, I have a printer that feeds from the top. It probably will make a huge difference! Mine, I can make sure it feeds into the printer, and you probably won’t be able to do that with a drawer.
I found you on pinterest and knew I would use this idea for a classroom auction project. I had all the kids draw pictures of them selves and then scanned them in, printed them on was paper (just taped the top edge to (cardstock) and rubbed them on a small toy chest. It was so easy! Thank you for sharing your brilliance!
April, I’m so glad it worked for you!!!
Can you do this on fabric as well, and then trace it over with fabric paint/marker to make sure it stays permanently??
Adrianna, I have had it work on fabric. It works better with a tighter weave.
Has anyone tried this on a tile? I have a smooth, porous tile (like sandstone) that I would like to transfer to. It is about 4″ round. Would it be hard to line up the print with the tile?
I haven’t heard of anyone trying tile? If it’s porous enough it would probably work. Let me know if you try it!
Pamela, it is the sheets that have sticky labels that you can print on from your computer. They are found with the office supplies. After you use the labels there is a slick backing that the labels were on. It’s very similar to wax paper, just sturdier. Hope that all made sense!!
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