Effects and Mediums

Do Artisan Enhancements™ Transfer Gel image transfers and decoupage need to be sealed?

Yes. Images and decoupage materials applied using Transfer Gel need to be sealed to protect the finish. We recommend sealing with Transfer Gel, Clear Topcoat, or Clear Finish. Make sure to use a proper varnish brush when applying Transfer Gel as a varnish. Transfer Gel as a varnish is thicker than Clear Finish and Clear Topcoat making brush strokes more visible and harder to control. Transfer Gel has a semi-gloss – glossy finish when used as a varnish. For a more consistent, even, or matte sheen - we recommend using Clear Topcoat or Clear Finish. See Tip Sheets for Clear Topcoat and Clear Finish for application instructions.

Note: Wax and Scumble maybe used over Transfer Gel techniques. To add an additional layer of wax or Scumble, first seal the image transfer or decoupaged surface with one thin coat of Clear Topcoat sealer. Allow the surface to cure a minimum of 72 hours before wax or Scumble application – for best results allow 1 week of Clear Topcoat cure time before wax or Scumble application. Follow wax manufacturer’s instructions for wax applications. Follow Scumble Tip Sheet for Scumble applications.

What types of materials can be decoupaged?

A variety of materials including wallpaper, scrapbook paper, wrapping paper, and fabric can be used as materials to be decoupaged.

Can Artisan Enhancements™ Transfer Gel be used as a decoupage medium?

Yes! Transfer Gel can be used as a decoupage medium and varnish. For full decoupage application and dry time instructions, review the Transfer Gel Tip Sheet.

What tools are recommended to remove paper backing of Transfer Gel transferred images?

A spray mist bottle with a fine mist setting is a must-have for reverse image transfers. Mist the paper lightly to moisten the paper fibers. To remove backing, we recommend starting with your fingertips. If necessary, a very fine sandpaper can be used to start the paper pulp (250-800 grit). For extra stubborn paper, try Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scour Pads (blue). Word of Caution: When using sandpaper or scour pads, go slowly and lightly, do not use too much pressure. Excessive pressure can accidently completely remove the image or distress the painted finish below the transfer.

For full application and paper removal instructions, review the Transfer Gel Tip Sheet.

How do I get rid of the white “Halo” around my Transfer Gel image transfer?

After removing the paper pulp, after the surface has dried, occasionally a white “halo” will appear around the transferred image. To remove or reduce the halo, lightly sand the dried image with a fine grit (250-800). The light sanding loosens the fine paper pulp fibers creating the halo. Next, lightly mist the halo area. Slowly, using fingertips, work edges very gently removing excess paper pulp around the halo. Do not use too much pressure when sanding or when rubbing with your fingertips. Excessive pressure can accidently distress the painted finish below the transfer.

Can I use Artisan Enhancements™ Transfer Gel to seal image transfers?

Yes! Transfer Gel can be used as a varnish. However, make sure to use a proper varnish brush when applying Transfer Gel as a varnish. Transfer Gel as a varnish is thicker than Clear Finish and Clear Topcoat making brushstrokes more visible and harder to control. Transfer Gel has a semi-gloss – glossy finish when used as a varnish. For a more consistent, even, or matte sheen - we recommend using Clear Topcoat or Clear Finish.

Do surfaces need to be sealed before applying transfer images with Artisan Enhancements™ Transfer Gel?

If painting/staining/layering before application, make sure the basecoat of paint/stain/layers are completely dry before application of Transfer Gel. For best results let surfaces dry overnight before Transfer Gel application. Note: Raw, stone, and untreated surfaces may need to be sealed with Artisan Enhancements™ Clear Topcoat prior to Transfer Gel application. These types of surfaces absorb too much of the medium resulting in a weaker bond between the surface, gel, and image. Additionally, some paint formulas re-open readily with the reintroduction of moisture. If you’re concerned about the paint re-opening, seal the painted surface with Artisan Enhancements™ Clear Topcoat or Clear Finish prior to Transfer Gel application.

What type of printer ink and paper do you recommend for image transfers?

When using Transfer Gel, images should be printed/copied using a commercial or laser printer. Ink Jet and water-soluble inks are not recommended. If using original artwork, photography, or water-soluble ink: Make laser copies of the original works to be used with Transfer Gel techniques.

If copying or printing an image, a 24-28 lb. copier paper is a good paper stock thickness. If the paper is too thin, it can get too saturated with the Transfer Gel medium and occasionally tear during application.  Some decorative papers can also be transferred such as thick wrapping and scrapbook paper. Always do a test piece to make sure inks and prints do not bleed prior to Transfer Gel application.

What types of images and ink can be used for Artisan Enhancements™ Transfer Gel image transfers?

When using Transfer Gel, images should be printed/copied using a commercial or laser printer. Images should be mirrored/reversed prior to printing/copying. Ink Jet and water-soluble inks are not recommended. Some decorative papers can also be transferred such as thick wrapping and scrapbook paper. Always do a test piece to make sure inks and prints do not bleed prior to Transfer Gel application.