Did you know you can transfer INKJET printed images onto wood? Yes . . . this inkjet photo transfer to wood is easy with Mod Podge and regular school glue.
Skills Required: Intermediate Beginner. You should have prior crafting experience before attempting this craft; preferably with Mod Podge. It’s not necessarily hard, but it can get tricky so it’s best if you have experience with the materials.
Yep, you heard right! You can do an inkjet photo transfer to wood with just Mod Podge. I love transferring images to wood – they make these personalized rustic little pieces that are perfect to just sprinkle around the house or to give as a small personalized gift.
You don’t need a laser printer or photo transfer medium for this tutorial. It’s different from the Mod Podge photo transfer medium in that it gives your image a clear background.
You might be wondering how the image goes from the inkjet printer/whatever you print out, and onto the wood. It’s magic! It’s actually not magic though.
The basic process is that you will print an image onto a stencil sheet (not photo paper) that has dried glue on top. You will apply Mod Podge to wood, then place the photo/stencil sheet face down into the Podge. 24 hours later, you’ll peel the stencil sheet from the wood and the photo will be left behind!
And this is how you transfer inkjet images to wood using Mod Podge.
Mod Podge Formula to Use
There are several Mod Podge formulas you can use – I recommend sticking with the basic formulas of Gloss, Matte, or Satin. It really doesn’t matter which, it’s all about the finish you like.
Stay away from the Outdoor and Fabric formulas, or any Mod Podge that’s a bit thicker. You want regular consistency medium for this project.
In addition, don’t get confused by the photo transfer formula. It’s not the same thing as regular Mod Podge at all. The transfer medium uses laserjet images and can’t be used decoupage.
Are you interested to see how I did this craft? I know you’ll use this technique for transferring photos all the time after I teach you. So read on!
Gather These Supplies
- Plastic stencil sheet
- PVA Glue (normal school glue)
- Mod Podge Matte or Gloss
- Sponge brush
- Ink Jet Printer
- Wood block
- Wood stain
- Sandpaper
This project does take time, but it gives fantastic image transfer results without the hassle of wetting the image and rubbing the paper off. The stencil sheet can also be used again!
What image would you transfer? Have fun crafting and don’t forget to follow me on social media or my blog for more ideas, freebies and tutorials!
Mod Podge Photo Transfer with Inkjet
Equipment
- Printer and paper
- Sandpaper
Materials
- Plastic stencil sheet
- PVA glue normal school glue
- Mod Podge Matte or Gloss
- Wood block(s)
- Wood stain
Video
Instructions
- Sand the wood block – you want the surface to be as smooth as possible for better image transfer. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth or wet cloth.
- Paint two thin layers of glue onto the shiny side of the stencil sheet. You can use transparency films as well, if that is what you have on hand.
- Once fully dry, print the image onto the glue covered stencil sheet with the printer. Allow the printed image to FULLY DRY before proceeding to the next step.
- Paint a layer of Mod Podge onto the wood block and carefully lay the image on top. Using the stencil sheet will allow you to align it much easier with the wood edges. Smooth slightly with your hands.
- Wait until the Mod Podge is dry on the inkjet transfer to wood (I let mine dry overnight – 24 hours is recommended). Lightly run the tip of a craft knife onto the sides of the wood before peeling to separate the image from the rest of the glue that dried. Peel carefully, again making sure the image is fully dry or it won’t transfer perfectly.
- Stain the sides and the back of the wood block and let that dry to finish.
Notes
This was inspired by another inkjet photo transfer we spotted at Photojojo! If you enjoyed this craft idea, let me know in the comments! Plus check out these other photo ideas here:
Breakfast in Bed Tray • Family Reunion Centerpiece • How to Transfer Photos to Wood • Modern Photo Blocks • Photo Keychain • Transfer Paper to Fabric • Transfer Photos to Fabric • Transfer to Canvas • Transfer to Furniture • Transfer to Glass • Transfer to Metal • Wooden Photo Blocks
Firstly, I’m really grateful to have these tutorials as a creativity resource. I was really excitedto see a photo transfer that didn’t require the Modge Podge Photo Transfer Medium (because I always forget to buy it). This particular craft takes time and requires lots of patience: You’ve Been Warned! For me, the waiting part wasn’t difficult. I did get a little confused with the whole “stencil” use, though it’s listed in the ‘materials needed’ listing. However, since this is a unique way of doing a photo transfer, I think having a video showing step-by-step instructions would have been very helpful. Still, it worked and I’m happy.
I love this idea!!! My mom loves family pictures and frames can get pretty pricey! I’m going to be snitching scrap pieces from hubby’s woodworking pile for this project….after all it’s eco friendly 😉
cant wait to try this
Can’t wait to try this for a special project.
It looks like a great project, but not something I would personally make.
!!
Works great for inkjet prints. Laser printers work well too. Made several of these for gifts.
The options are boundless with Mod Podge!!
Easy instructions for a more complicated project.
I had NO idea what you could do this to a transfer photo! I cannot wait to try this idea! We are stuck in the house today [due to wonderful Corona virus] and I plan to experiment today! Thanks for the detailed info on this project. What a fun idea!