How to
Transfer a pattern to dark fabric
If you have dark fabric that you’d like to embroider, you might be wondering how to do it. The good news is that you don’t need to be a pro or have special tools to transfer your patterns.
All you need is the right supplies and patience. With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to transfer your pattern onto the dark fabric in no time.
So grab your supplies, your pattern, and your fabric and get ready to transfer!
In this article I will explain 4 ways to transfer patterns to dark fabric:
1. Stich n Stitch Paper
This is a great time saver as you can print a pattern directly onto the paper with your home printer. Trim the excess away from around the pattern.
Remove the peel off backing and stick it onto your fabric. As a bonus it also acts as a stabilizer.
Embroider to your heart’s content and rinse the stabilizer away with water when you are done.
2. Use (white) carbon or transfer paper
First take note of how carbon and transfer paper differ from each other:
Carbon paper has a waxy side and the transferred lines aren’t as easy to erase.
Transfer paper is cleaner and the lines are easier to remove.
After placing the carbon/transfer paper color side down against your fabric and taping your pattern over it, use a ballpoint pen or a steel-ball stylus to go over all the pattern lines, applying a good amount of pressure to transfer them. Peel back all the layers and your pattern is transferred!
3. Use chalk
Print or create a reversed version of your pattern. The easiest way (if you aren’t computer savvy) is to tape the pattern face down to a light box (or bright window) and trace the pattern on the reverse with a pen/pencil.
Go over reverse side with chalk. Don’t be shy – you want all the lines to be chalked well. Once the pattern is reversed and taped onto the fabric, use a pencil or stylus to go over it again.
The lines may be pale but a good remedy is to use a white gel pen or dressmaker’s pencil can help to make them more visible. Just note that the white gel pen won’t come out – you need to precise when using it.
4. Trace it by using a light box or bright window
You can transfer your pattern with a light source if your dark fabric is lightweight and transparent enough. Hold you fabric up to the light and if it transparent enough for you to see kind of through it, try this option.
Tape your pattern to a bright window or light box, and then tape your fabric over it. Use a white gel pen or dressmaker’s pencil to transfer the pattern and you’re done!
Transferring patterns onto dark fabric can be a bit intimidating but with the right supplies, the task is surprisingly do-able.
Whether you choose to use carbon or transfer paper, chalk, or a light source, with a bit of focus and tenacity, anyone can master the skill of transferring patterns onto dark fabric.
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