Experiment: My First Tape Transfer

I joined an art ephemera swap and received an image of a fashion model but the background looked transparent and I was fascinated by how this effect was achieved. I gushed my thanks and appreciation, and my new art friend took the time to walk me through her process.

Here’s my friend’s tape transfer image

The unique plasticky feel combined with the see through effect called to me and I couldn’t wait to find her a home! Note to newbies/Reminder for vets: Art friends adore sharing their processes—don’t hesitate to ask!

Here she is on my page

Tape Transfer Process in 10 Easy Steps

Step One

Choose an image from a magazine, glossy paper works well, darker images.

Step Two

Fussy cut as close as you enjoy.

Step Three

Use washi to tape image on one side to blotter or table (I taped right side in three places.)

Step Four

Two-inch-wide packing tape is fine but will leave a seam/overlap, but this can make for an interesting effect. Wider tape will help with options for seam or no seam.

Step Five

Tape at top to blotter and slowly push tape down image from top to bottom and try and press out any air bubbles.

Step Six

Remove washi and tape the right side of image the same as left, overlap where tapes join just a little so image won’t split there later.

Step Six

Pull off blotter or table, then trim some of the excess tape around edges.

Step Seven

Use a pan or dish long enough to lay flat and submerge image with warm water.

Step Eight

Some images may only need to soak for an hour and others overnight before the paper backing begins to slough off. Rub gently to remove paper, change water as needed.

Step Nine

Remove image from water and lay flat to dry. Paper towels and a heavy book help.

Step Ten

Once dry, trim as close to image as you prefer, gently dry rub any remaining paper off back of image.

Supply List

• Magazine image
• Packing tape
• Scissors
• Washi tape (if available)
• Pan/ tray to hold image flat
• Water

Taping Image Step by Step

Soaking image

End Result and a Page

I created a black and white page (gelli print stencil background) but I wanted the image to have a pop of color (gelli print) and matched it with the color behind found poem.
This was a satisfying experiment and one I will definitely try again! This image was from a glossy fashion magazine and the paper backing came off easily, not all images are the same, but it’s so much fun to experiment!

Hi! I’m Laura, a Central Florida based art journaler who loves getting messy with collage or my gelli plate and exploring new mediums or techniques.
Find me here: @wowva64