How to Transfer a Sketch to Canvas (2 Easy Ways)

Steps

1. 1. Lay Graphite Transfer Paper Dark Side Down on the Canvas

   Graphite paper is a thin sheet with one dark, chalky side and one shiny side. The dark side is what transfers.

   Tip: Test which side is dark by rubbing a corner on scrap paper.

   

2. 2. Tape the Sunflower Printout Over the Graphite Paper

   Place your printout on top of the graphite paper, right side up, exactly where you want the design to land. Jasmine sets the sunflower toward the left so the lettering fits on the right.

   Tip: Clear tape lifts off canvas cleanly. Press it down only lightly.

   

3. 3. Trace the Sunflower Petals With a Sharp Pencil

   Sharpen your pencil to a fine point. Trace over every line of the design with normal writing pressure.

   Tip: Keep your other hand flat on the printout so nothing shifts while you trace.

   

4. 4. Trace the Shine Bright Lettering on the Printout

   Move on to the lettering with the same steady pressure. Follow the outside edge of each letter so you end up with an outline to fill with paint later.

   Tip: Tracing only the outline of thick letters saves your hand and time.

   

5. 5. Lift the Paper to Reveal the Graphite Transfer on Canvas

   Before you take everything off, lift one corner of the printout and the graphite paper and check for missed lines. When you are happy, peel off the tape and remove both sheets.

   Tip: Lift gently so the corners of the canvas don't pick up smudges.

   

6. 6. Shade the Back of the Printout With a Pencil for No-Paper Transfer

   No graphite paper? Flip your printout face down.

   Tip: Hold the printout up to a window to see the lines through the back.

   

7. 7. Tape the Shaded Printout Face Up on the Canvas

   Turn the printout back over so the shaded side faces the canvas. Position it where you want the design and tape it down with a few pieces along the edges.

   Tip: Tape all four sides on a larger printout.

   

8. 8. Trace the Sunflower With Heavy Pencil Pressure

   Trace every line again, this time pressing much harder than you did with graphite paper. The pressure pushes the shading on the back onto the canvas.

   Tip: Pressing hard tires your hand fast. Shake it out between sections.

   

9. 9. Peel Back the Printout to Check the Pencil Transfer

   Lift a corner to check, then remove the tape and the printout. The design is on the canvas, but lighter than with graphite paper.

   Tip: Go over very faint lines on the canvas with a light pencil touch before painting.