TRACE

PATTERN CATEGORIES

Making an iron-on transfer from a tracing:

To trace designs you will need a hot-iron transfer pen or a hectograph pencil, and ordinary tracing paper.
These are available at most sewing and arts & crafts super stores.

Sulky brand pens come in a variety of colors, including white for use on dark colored fabrics. These can
be purchased online. Visit their website for more information at: www.sulky.com/transferpen/

Tracing paper is recommended for several reasons. It's helpful to see the accuracy of your lines, how
much of the design has been traced, and whether you've missed any details. Also, if you make a mistake
you haven't spoiled your printed pattern, it remains pristine in the event that you should wish to use it
again. Tracing paper also allows you to see your design as it will look when you position it on your cloth.

1. Find a smooth flat surface to work on. Place a sheet of tracing paper over the design and tape the
corners down so neither shifts while you are working. Trace the entire design with transfer pen or pencil.

NOTE: The PDF and FREE embroidery designs are provided in reverse and will transfer correctly when
traced as they appear.

2. Once the entire design has been traced, you're ready to transfer it to cloth. Always do a small test
design (draw a leaf or a flower for instance) to make sure your iron is hot enough and the cloth you're
using doesn't scorch. Any combination of natural fiber cloth, such as cotton, linen, hemp, is ideal. Do not
use synthetics, they will melt.

3. Place your traced design face down onto your cloth. Smooth it out and pin the corners. Use a dry
iron (no steam) on the cotton or wool setting (high) and stamp the design the amount of time needed
according to your test results. *Usually between 3-6 seconds. Avoid sliding the iron back and forth over
the transfer as this may cause it to slip and the lines may blur.

*Always lift one corner at a time to make sure that the entire design has stamped evenly. To darken any
areas that are too light, replace the tracing paper carefully and re-apply the iron as necessary.

Tracing directly onto cloth using light:

Light from a window or electric light box can also be used. Tape the pattern down and place the cloth
over it. Trace onto cloth with a washable fabric marker or pencil. Useful for very large designs.