When you have a printed image that you want to transfer onto canvas fabric you have several options. The main factors to consider are the complexity of the design, the number of colors involved and the kind of finish you desire. This makes a great project for a tote bag or wall art.
Transfer Kit
If you want to transfer a photograph onto canvas, such as for a family portrait to hang on the wall, purchase a canvas transfer kit. Print your actual-size photo using a laser printer. If you don't have a high-quality laser printer at home, take the digital photo file to your local print shop and get an inexpensive print out. Follow the directions in the kit. It will include a special transfer medium that you paint over the print out, special transfer paper and the canvas.
Iron-On Transfer Paper
Packets of photo transfer paper designed for use with a home printer are widely available in office supply stores. Remember to use imaging software to reverse the image so it transfers the right way around. Just print the mirror image of the photo or artwork from your computer onto the paper. To transfer the image, follow the specific directions on the paper's packaging. Usually you simply place the print out face down onto the canvas and press the back of the paper using a warm iron. When you peel the backing away, the image will remain on the canvas. This type of paper is less expensive (per transfer) than a kit and allows you to transfer images onto any fabric item. The disadvantage is that sometimes the images can crinkle and rub away from the surface over time. For a canvas on the wall this isn't really a problem, as it will be left alone. For a canvas item you wish to use and launder, however, the iron-on transfer may deteriorate over time, even if the packaging promises it won't.
Screen Printing
Screen printing at home is achievable with a homemade screen, although it is easier to purchase a kit. The advantage is that you can use the screen many times for many different projects and to print on almost any surface as well as canvas. The disadvantage is that it usually limits you to one color of ink. More expensive kits come with special chemical products that enable you to make a stencil from your own print out. The stencil is used with the screen. Place the screen over the canvas, apply ink to the top side and spread it smoothly over the screen with a squeegee. The ink will be pushed onto the canvas through the screen and stencil, leaving an exact replica of your chosen image. Screen printing may take a little practice, but the results are professional looking and long lasting. Experimenting with screen printing enables you to try different artistic and creative effects.
