DIY Network

Pulp Book Panels Iron-transfer images onto fabric for quick wall art. From "Creative Juice" episode DCRJ-209L

You can create original artwork for your home even if your artistic abilities are nonexistent. Simply scan or photocopy pulp-fiction art onto special transfer paper, use a hot iron to transfer the image, pop it in a frame and hang it!

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Pulp Book Panels

Materials:

4 images to transfer
4 sheets of iron-on transfer paper
iron
scissors
picture frame
light-colored cotton fabric (slightly larger than the frame)
masking tape
ruler
optional: rhinestones, sequins, glitter or fabric paint

1. Determine the size the images should be by dividing the height and width of the picture frame by 2 (e.g., 20"x20" divided by 2 = 10"x10"). Next, subtract 2" from each measurement (e.g., 10"x10" minus 2 = 8"x8"). The images need to be the same size as or smaller than the formulated measurement.

2. Scan or copy the images you want to transfer. Resize or crop the images to the measurement determined in step 1. Reverse the images if they have any lettering; otherwise, when the images are transferred, the lettering will appear backward. Following the manufacturer's instructions, print the images onto four sheets of iron-on transfer paper (figure A). (If you don't have a scanner and photo-editing software, a copy shop can enlarge and print the images onto transfer paper.) Trim the images.

3. To center the images on the fabric, find the lengthwise center of the fabric, fold and use your finger to press this centerline into the fabric (figure B). Find the crosswise center of the fabric, fold and use your finger to press this centerline into the fabric. Unfold the fabric to reveal four marked quarters (figure C).

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

4. Place and center each image into one of the fabric quarters, using a ruler to help center the images (figure D). Iron the images following the manufacturer's instructions (figure E). Remove paper backing (figure F).

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

Figure G

5. Use fabric glue to add embellishments like rhinestones, sequins, glitter, etc.

6. Wrap the fabric around the cardboard backing of the picture frame, centering the images. Use the masking tape to keep the fabric edges secured to the back of the cardboard (figure G). Fasten the fabric and cardboard backing into the frame.