Usage Tips & Tricks

Trim the desired transfer to the size and shape using scissors before application. Once applied, craft knives and clay blades won’t cut through the material. Additional trimming after application should be done with scissors to cut through the transfer and the clay together.

Dampen the back of the transfer paper thoroughly with a few drops of tap water. Allow to sit for 30–60 seconds. Slide the backing away with your finger.

Place the image face-up over lightly colored clay. These transfers are translucent and the color of clay will show through and could alter the final look of the image. Use white clay to enhance the true colors in the image. Lightly colored metallic and pastel clays also work well for many images. Burnish (rub) the image onto the clay using your index finger. Start at one end of the transfer and burnish towards the other end to force out any air. If air bubbles appear, move them towards the edge by smoothing the transfer with a damp fingertip. If this doesn’t work, lift up the corner of the image nearest to the bubble,and reset it with your fingertip. Clay that isn’t completely flat and smooth may result in air pockets forming.

Seal the transfer with liquid polymer clay before baking. A very thin layer will leave a matte finish and a thicker layer will give a satin finish. Unsealed transfers may peel away from clay over time. Bake in a pre-heated oven according to the manufacturer’s directions for time and temperature using an oven thermometer.

For non-clay surfaces, wet the backing of the transfer and allow it to sit for 30–60 seconds. Blot excess moisture with a wipe or paper towel. Slide the backing off and smooth the transfer onto the desired surface and allow to dry. For items such as wood, glass metal, plastic, and paper maché, seal and protect the transfer, after the application has dried, by using 1–2 coats of Krylon Crystal Clear spray or a brush-on sealant such as decoupage fluid.

For paper and fabrics (non-washable projects), iron transfers (on highest heat setting) onto white or lightly colored fabric or paper after removing the backing. Be sure to use a Teflon® work sheet between the iron and transfer to prevent melting onto the iron. Experiment with different fabrics and papers until you find the one that works best. The sharpness of the image will depend on the surface of the fabric or paper that is used.

For use with clay, layer your transfers over Lisa Pavelka's Signature Series Clay Foils. Light colors work best.

Apply over stamped or mica powdered clay for unique effects.

For surfaces with curvature on all sides, cut small slits into the edges of the transfer to form fit. Conceal edges with a decorative border of clay or other material.

Always store unused transfers in a cool, dry place.