My First Attempt Using Waterslide Decal Paper

by - January 15, 2013

I've been super curious about using waterslide decal paper in my crafts.  As luck would have it, my boys needed it for their Cub Scout derby cars.  I found some on eBay and put aside a few sheets for them and for myself.  I tried it last night and I can tell you, I'm already hooked!

I used this thrift store terrarium that I picked up last week.  It was black but I gave it some coats of white paint over the weekend. 
To do the waterslide method, you, of course need the special paper.  I bought inkjet sheets for mine.  I printed this wonderful image from the Graphics Fairy onto the sheet.  No need to reverse or mirror the image for this paper.
I gave it a couple of coats of clear spray paint to seal in the image.  Once your spray paint is dry, fill a shallow bowl with water.  Put your image in for 1 minute.  Mine curled at first so I had to hold it down.  I also wasn't sure how the decal came off so I started trying to peel the white paper.  Nope, the decal is a see-through film so that's what you're looking to separate from the paper backing.
Peel the film from the backing - be careful because it curls rather quickly.  Add it to your surface and use a sponge to work out the air bubbles.  That took a little time and my corners kept folding under but I carefully unfolded them so everything sat flush.

I have to say I love this method more than the Mod Podge method which I just haven't been able to master.  I have a few more sheets left and I can't wait to brainstorm some new places to use them.  Email me if you need any more tips!

Linking to The Graphics Fairy: Brag Monday.

Jeanine

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7 comments

  1. Lola and BeaJanuary 15, 2013 at 1:02 PM

    I am so glad you found my blog and left me a message. I love your blog, and your Etsy shop is so cute. I could spend hours there. You are amazing and totally inspiring.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Kathy @ Creative Home ExpressionsJanuary 15, 2013 at 2:49 PM

    Such a pretty terrarium! The image fits the bottom perfectly, too!

    ReplyDelete
  3. DonnaJanuary 15, 2013 at 6:54 PM

    I love, love, love your terrarium! I must say this is my favorite all time project of yours! I would love to try the water slide method, though it does sound confusing. Maybe I'll get brave some day and give it a whirl. The image you used is perfect!!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Old Time CindyJanuary 15, 2013 at 7:33 PM

    I've wondered about using those decals, thanks for sharing. Your project is really cute...perfect to share over at our Country Whites Weekend this Friday.
    Farmhouse hugs,
    Cindy

    ReplyDelete
  5. Carlene @ Organized ClutterJanuary 15, 2013 at 8:53 PM

    I have never attempted a transfer. I think I like the printer ready sheets. Your terrarium is cute.

    ReplyDelete
  6. AngelaJanuary 16, 2013 at 5:11 AM

    Isn't it great that new products keep popping up for us crafters to try new methods and get amazing results like your pretty terrarium.
    I love your blog and tutorial, thanks.
    xoxo
    Angela.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble ChristmasJanuary 16, 2013 at 7:00 AM

    Looks great!!

    Thanks so much for your visit!!

    Hugs,
    Debbie

    ReplyDelete

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