Transfer Magic
Transfer Magic is a new to me product that lets you transfer computer generated images to your work using a transparency film and a ink jet printer. I found this product because of my new interest in engraving. It can't be used as a etching resist but it is great for engraving patterns and piercing. At $35 for a small 4 ounce bottle it seems a bit pricey but it goes a long ways. I really don't think I will ever use it all.
A Sheet of Images
Here is a sheet of images ready for transfer. The transparency material is for use with inkjet printers. Laser printer transparency material will not work. The ink never sets.
Removing Oxidation
The material I am using for this practice plate is a brass alloy with the trade name "New Gold". The brass is considerably harder than half hard copper and for me it is better to practice engraving on. Copper tends to be too sticky. I am using plastic wool to remove all surface oxidation.
Scuffed Practic Plate
After using the plastic wool the piece has a scuffed surface.
Cleaning the Surface
I then clean the surface using denatured alcohol.
Applying Transfer Magic
Using a clean Q-tip apply a THIN coat of the Transfer Magic. Blow on it to quickly dry it. The surface will turn hazy as the Transfer Magic drys.
Select Your Image
Check your image for fit and cut it from the sheet.
Tape In Place
Use Scotch Tape to tape it down. I only tape one edge.
Hinge
You create a hinge. This is important because in the next step you will want to check the progress of the transfer and be able to return the sheet to registry.
Burnish
Firmly burnish the image down. With the hinge you can inspect your progress and return the transparency material for further burnishing of areas you might have missed.
Transfered Image
Your pattern is now transferred. Notice the ink is gone from the transparency material. The image is fairly durable but with enough rubbing it will come off. If you mess it up it can easily be remove using denatured alcohol. You remove the Transfer Magic as well so you need to start over.
Epson Transparency Material
According to the vendor of Transfer magic all Inkjet inks and transparency films are not created equal. He recommend using an Epson Injet printer that uses the Epson T060120 black ink cartridge and Epson transparency film S041064. Most Epson printers use that black cartridge. Other printers/inks and inkjet transparency films may work but since I already had an Epson printer that uses the recommended cartridge I had no reason to test any others.
For more information on Transfer Magic E-Mail Tom at transfersolutions@commspeed.net . I have no affiliation with this product,I just wanted to share what I have found to be excellent tool.
