Transfer an Image to Wood Using Gesso

Gesso transferring is a way of displaying an image on an alternate surface. By using gesso and a reversed image, the image will then take on the surface's texture. This can be applied to a number of mediums.

Steps

  1. Prep your wood (or other medium) with one even layer of white gesso. This can be brushed on, rolled on, or however you so choose to apply it, as long as it's even. If you're using any medium that has already had gesso added such as a canvas or canvas panel, skip this step. Let the gesso dry for a period of 24 hours.
  2. Pick your image. Using any image editor, flip your image horizontally. This will create the reverse image so that it will display properly after transferring.
  3. Print your image through a laser printer. Only laser prints will work properly with this transfer. Inkjet prints will smear and will stain skin if used with regular paper. However, inkjet prints on matte photo paper will work if so desired.
  4. Add another layer of gesso on top of your wood panel.
  5. While the gesso is still wet, place the image face down on the wood panel. Take a brayer and make sure the print is flat against the surface. Roll out any air bubbles.
  6. Let the image sit until the gesso is dry. It is usually safest to wait another 24 hours.
  7. Once the gesso has dried, it is safe to start removing the paper. Use water or wetted fingers to start taking off the paper. Use wetted fingers to rub the paper off gently. The image will start to show through. Continue this process as all of the paper may not come off the first time.
  8. Let the image dry.

Tips

  • Make sure gesso does not get rolled up on the breyer while rolling the print down. This can leave spots of gesso over the image that cannot be removed.
  • Don't pull the paper straight off instead of using water. This can leave spots of gesso showing through from under the image.
  • Slower is always better when in the removal stage. Going too quickly can cause the gesso from under the image to show through. There is always a possibility of the image being worn away from rubbing too aggressively.

Warnings

  • Gesso does not come out of clothing. Take precaution when layering it onto the medium.

Things You'll Need

  • White Gesso
  • Brayer
  • Large Brush
  • Wood panel (or any flat medium)
  • Laser printer (or copier)
  • Photo editing program

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