TUTORIAL - Water Slip Decals

Here goes, my first tutorial (as requested by Emma).

You will need:

• PC and Printer
• Graphics program (although you could use Word, using the drawing toolbar)
• Inkjet or Laser Water-slide Decal Paper (depending on what type of printer you have)
• Spray Acrylic Varnish
• Bowl of water
• Dry cloth or small squeege
• Item that you are placing the decal on (I used plates, see earlier post - but you can use these on soap, candles, glass, wood and so much more)

1. First you need to work out the size of image you are going to use. Measure out on the item to make sure you don't create anything too big or too small.


2. Print out you design on to the shiny side of the decal paper, just as normal - no need to change any of your printer settings.


3. Leave the design to dry for at least 30 mins.


4. Spray 3 thin coats of acrylic varnish over the design to make sure the ink is sealed onto the decal paper. Less is more at this stage. If you use too much varnish the decal will become hard and not work properly.


5. Once dry (time can vary) cut around the design with craft knife or scissors.


6. Place cut out decal in bowl of water for upto 30 seconds. gently feel the decal between your fingers. If you can feel the backing paper slipping then the decal is ready to use.


7. Shake off the excess water and get ready to gently apply onto surface of the item you are decorating.


8. Put one end down first and gently tease the backing paper from underneath, away from the end you placed down.


9. Smooth over the decal with a dry lint free cloth to smooth away any air bubbles.


10. Leave to dry for 24hrs then varnish for extra protection.

TAA DAH ! Here's one I made earlier

I get my supplies at www.craftycomputerpaper.co.uk - check them out they have everything. And a fab video tutorial if mine is rubbish!

Tracey