How to Use Transfer Sheets - Other Tips

A transfer sheet is a clear film with a design printed on one side and a light adhesive on the other. It can be placed on a flat surface or wrapped around objects. There are a variety of techniques you can incorporate when using your transfer sheets to create different effects. All of these techniques can be used individually or simultaneously, and they can be used at any point during your process. Feel free to experiment. One technique you can use to enhance your design is to add paint. You can apply the paint at any stage during your process. For our purposes we will add the paint first.

Apply paint to your pendant. You can create texture in your background by using different application techniques when applying your paint. Blotting the paint on with a brush, using heavy brush strokes and using a swirling motion are all great ways to achieve this effect.

Allow paint to dry completely. When using paint under a transfer, make sure the paint is completely dry before adding your transfer. Otherwise, the paint will shift and create cracks underneath the transfer sheet. Do not try to speed up the drying process by placing it under a UV light, as the paint will dry unevenly. To protect your design while it's drying, cover with a bowl or plastic dish.

Once the paint has dried, apply your transfer.

Brush a thin layer of Nunn Design Sealant over the dried image. Let dry. Make sure to apply sealant over the edges to ensure a good hold. Allow to dry thoroughly.

Another option to try is adding stamps using Stazon Ink. Rubber stamping gives you many more options for your designs and can add a lot of detail to your piece.

After getting the ink on the stamp, apply directly to the desired surface. You can apply your stamp at any point during your process, meaning under the transfer, on top of the transfer and even on top of your resin. Do not rock the stamp or press down hard. Doing so will produce a thick blurred image. If you make a mistake, you can quickly rub it off. Or, if the ink has already begun to dry, use a stamp cleaning solution to wipe it off.

USEFUL NOTES: If you are applying a rubber stamp to a painted or rough surface, try a design that does not need to be fully transferred to create the desired effect. For example, try a leaf or vine pattern instead of a detailed butterfly or bird. A stamp cleaner will not be able to clean these types of surfaces and you could ruin your design.

Once the stamp has been placed, apply your sealant.

Once the sealant is completely dry, apply your transfer.

Apply a thin coat of sealant over the transfer to hold it in place.

You can leave the component as is, or for a high-gloss finish, apply a coat of Gel du Soleil or other resin coating.

If adding resin, allow it to cure under a UV lamp per the bottle's instructions. If you do choose to apply resin, be sure that the sealant is completely dry before applying.

Transfers can also be layered. Layering transfers can create an almost 3D effect.

Apply a transfer to your surface.

Apply a thin layer of sealant over transfer. You can also add a layer of resin at this point to create a deeper layered effect. If adding resin allow it to cure under a UV lamp per the bottle's instructions.

Once the sealant and/or resin has dried completely you can add another transfer.

Apply a thin coat of sealant over the transfer and allow it to dry completely.

Leave the component as is, or for a high-gloss finish, apply a coat of Gel du Soleil or other resin coating. If adding resin, allow it to cure under a UV lamp per the bottle's instructions. If you do choose to apply resin, be sure the sealant is completely dry before applying.

If you find that you are having problems with air bubbles as you apply the resin, try taking the nozzle off the bottle and pouring the resin instead. After pouring, you have plenty of time to tip your design and spread the resin or to wipe away mistakes. The resin won't start hardening until after it is placed under a UV light. If after the resin has cured you notice dust or fingerprints, sand these off and add another coat of resin on top as the resin will dry crystal clear even after the sanding process.