Host Kathi Cardinalli explains how to use fabric and photo transfers to create beautiful curtains
(see photo at right).
Materials:
color and/or black-and-white images to photocopy and transfer to fabric
scissors
photo heat-transfer paper (available at craft-supply stores or photo shops)
iron and ironing board
100-percent cotton or linen curtains or fabric to make into curtains
cafe-curtain clips
silk adhesive transfer paper (for lampshades)
Steps:
- After choosing your images, decide how many copies you'll need for your curtains. You can reduce or enlarge designs at a copy shop. Larger images will give you a real designer look.
- Cut out images and have them copied onto photo heat-transfer paper at a copy shop or on your computer.
- Cut out the images to be transferred.
- Iron curtains or fabric.
- Place cut images image-side down on the fabric in the chosen design pattern.
- Turn the iron on highest heat with no steam. Iron over the back of the image, using some pressure (figure A). Move the iron back and forth over the images for about 60 seconds, or follow directions on transfer-paper package.
- Remove iron and allow image to set on fabric for about 15 seconds. Peel off paper backing. If some sticks, run the iron back over the paper side and try again. Repeat the process until the entire curtain or fabric is covered with the design.
- Attach cafe-curtain clips (figure B).
- Utilize the same techniques with silk adhesive transfer paper. This paper has a sticky back, so the design can easily be peeled and stuck to a surface such as a lampshade (figure C).
Tips
- For a crackle finish, peel off the paper while it is still warm.
- If you choose images with words or numbers, be sure to mirror the image when making copies onto transfer paper. That way, when you iron these onto fabric, the letters or numbers will be correct.
- A series of black-and-white images on silk or linen fabric makes a dramatic statement.
- Themed images are great if you are trying to pull a room together.
- Look for retro images from the '40s to make unique curtains.
Resources computer scanner--ScanJet 4200C
Hewlett-Packard
Toll Free Phone: 800-752-0900
Website:
www.hp.com
Also in this Episode
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