How to Create Stunning Image Transfers Using Acrylic Paint in Mixed Media

Jan 22

Learn how to create stunning image transfers using acrylic paint. This versatile and budget-friendly technique is perfect for mixed-media art and art journaling.

This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through transforming your favorite images into unique, layered designs. These designs add depth and texture to your projects.

Try making image transfers using acrylic paint

What are Image Transfers?

Image transfers are a creative technique used for transferring images. These can include photographs, printed graphics, or text, allowing for seamless integration into your artwork. You can transfer these images onto various surfaces like paper, canvas, wood, or fabric.

This process generally uses mediums like gel and specialized transfer solutions, though we will use acrylic paint in this guide. By lifting the ink or toner from the original image, you embed it onto a new substrate. This method adds layers, texture, and a unique, handcrafted aesthetic to your projects.

See my *image transfer tutorial on creating backgrounds using laser printers

Supplies Needed:

How to Make Acrylic Paint Transfers:

Step 1: Find Your Image

Start by selecting a black-and-white image online.

Black-and-white image of tree branches used as the starting design for the acrylic paint image transfer process.

If needed, resize your image using an app, then print it. I recommend using a laser printer, but an inkjet will also work well.

Step 2: Add Paint to Your Image

Once you have your printed image, apply acrylic paint.

Applying green acrylic paint to a printed image of tree branches for the image transfer technique.

You can decide to use a single color or a variety.

For instance, I used different shades of green that complemented the branches in my design.

Step 3: Press Your Image Onto the Surface

Now it's time to transfer your painted image.

An open art journal displaying a faint transferred pattern of leaves created with acrylic paint.

Use a tool to burnish the paper, firmly pressing the image onto your chosen surface.

Using scissors to burnish paper after transferring an image with acrylic paint onto a mixed media art journal page

For my project, I transferred it into an art journal I’m currently working on.

Step 4: Mist the Back of Your Image

To assist with the next steps, mist the back of your printed image with water.

Spraying water onto a painted image transfer surface moistens the paper for removal.

(When I burned mine, paint seeped out the edges and got all over the back of the paper!)

Step 5: Remove the Paper

Gently rub off the moistened paper.

Using fingers to rub away the moistened paper, revealing the transferred image beneath.

As you do this, your image will gradually appear underneath.

And tada!

A completed image transfer in an art journal featuring vibrant green and yellow leaves over black branches

Helpful Tips:

Occasionally, you might accidentally rub off some parts of your image.

A close-up of the transferred image showing intricate details of leaves and branches.

If this happens, don't worry! Use a paint marker or Sharpie to touch up your image.

Enhancing the transferred image with a marker to add definition and fill in gaps

My Finished Journal Page

Here is what my finished journal page looks like:

A finished art journal page with a completed acrylic paint image transfer, featuring added embellishments like a golden tree and the word 'tree.'

What do you think? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments! 💬

Newspaper background with large text "Newspaper Transfer Collage." A colorful collage on cardboard features vintage women and hearts.

Also, check out my background tutorial on how to transfer newspaper print using scotch tape!

Text reads "SEE ALL THE Mixed Media Techniques" in red, gold, and purple fonts on a white background with a red border.

Text on a white background reads "LEARN ABOUT Creating Mixed Media" in gold and red. Surrounded by a purple rectangular border.

Ebook cover titled "30 Mixed Media Backgrounds Techniques" with vibrant art samples. Text offers instructions on mixed-media techniques.

Now that you’ve learned how simple and versatile acrylic paint image transfers can be, it’s time to bring your creativity to life!

Gather your supplies, choose an image that speaks to you, and dive into this exciting artistic process.

Remember to share your completed project in the comments or on social media. I’d love to see how you make this technique your own!

A collage of the step-by-step process for creating image transfers with acrylic paint, showing the initial image, painted surface, and final result.

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