High Tech:
Photo Transfer Basics
Add images to fabric--
and create a truly unique piece!
Technically Speaking
Selecting the Fabric
Images
The Transfer Process
An Easy Out
Remember the Copyright
Iron-on Transfers
Resources
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High Tech: Photo Transfer Basics |
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N A N C Y Z I E M A N | |
Add images to fabric-- and create a truly unique piece! |
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| Introduction
Technically Speaking Selecting the Fabric Images The Transfer Process An Easy Out Remember the Copyright Iron-on Transfers Resources |
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| Introduction | Something wonderful happened when technology began letting us put images onto fabric. People began incorporating photographs of family and friends--plus images from marriage licenses and diplomas--into garments, scrapbooks and quilts. Photocopiers and computer printers are lending new ways to discover the joys of sewing and quilting. |
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| Technically Speaking | The term "photo transfer" is misleading because we aren't
limited to transferring only photographs. Anything copied or scanned, even
three-dimensional objects such as leaves, feathers or buttons can be turned into a fabric
image. There are two methods of transferring images to fabric. The first copies or prints the image onto an iron-on transfer paper and then it's ironed onto the fabric. The second method prints directly to fabric prepared for printing.
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| Selecting the Fabric | Images will show up best on white, cream or pastel fabrics. Subtle
tone-on-tone, small print or marbled fabrics also will work--avoid dark colors or busy
prints. The image will be sharper on fine-woven fabrics; smooth silks, satins and sateens
give a rich "painterly" result. Linen or textured fabrics can be used, but the
image won't be as clear; test the fabric to see the results. To print the image, you'll need fabric prepared for printing sold in fabric and office supply stores. Products also are available to prepare your own fabrics, which will increase your choices. For iron-on transfers, the fabric must be able to withstand 350° to 375° heat. Read the transfer paper instructions to learn how to prepare the fabric for the process you've chosen. |
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| Images | Avoid using dark images as they tend to get darker during the transfer
process. Images with good contrast between the lights and darks will work better. Use an image just the way it is or alter it in some way. Play with color--give a black-and-white photograph an antique-looking sepia tone by adjusting the color on the photocopier. Use permanent markers, colored pencils or textile paints to fill in, accent or personalize photographs. Make collages or cut away distracting backgrounds. Image editing software can manipulate and change digital images on the computer. For more information, see Resources at the end of this article.  |
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| The Transfer Process | Transfer papers and fabric are not created equal. Try several different
brands and evaluate the following:
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An Easy Out  |
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If you'd like to incorporate
images in your work but don't have the equipment, there are companies who'll do the work
for you. Some copy shops provide this service--check to see if they'll use your transfer
paper or fabric, or only their own. Another option is to send the images to companies who
print photos onto fabric and then send them back to you. (See Sources
at the end of this article.) Take advantage of their expertise. Tell them what you're
making and how you'll use it so they'll know the best process to use. |
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| Remember the Copyright | |
If you didn't create the picture, drawing or document, you don't own the
right to copy, distribute or sell it. You do have the right of "fair use," which
means you can copy an image and print it on a pillow for your own use, but you can't make
more pillows for resale. If the image is copyrighted, you must get permission in writing
from the copyright owner. For more information about these regulations, contact the U.S. Copyright Office, Library of Congress, 101 Independence Ave. S.E., Washington, DC 20559-6000, (202) 707-3000, www.lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/. There are thousands of copyright-free clip art or computer click art images available. Check the source for any restrictions that may apply. Also check the Library of Congress and your local library for photo sources in the public domain. |
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| Iron-on Transfers | When making iron-on transfers, the image must be reversed, especially if
the original has text in it. Use the mirror-image option available on most photocopiers
and printers, then test the transfer to be sure the image is correct after ironing it to
fabric. Pressing Pointers With practice, you can get excellent results with iron-on transfers. Most transfer papers recommend a dry iron at its highest setting (cotton/linen). Iron just the fabric first to warm it up--transfers adhere better to a hot surface.
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Nancy Zieman, host of public television's Sewing With Nancy©, invites your questions and ideas. Sewing With Nancy© is sponsored in part by Sew News magazine.
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| Credits, Resources & Sources |
A special thanks to June Tailor who supplied the projects for photography. Resources Sources |
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