skip to main content

Computer Crafts

Transfer fabric pattern to paper

22 years ago

I'm trying to figure a way to match the fabric of the window treatment in my kitchen to placemats.... But I don't want fabric placemats, I want laminate/plastic/vinyl/wipe-able placemats....and the fabric on the curtains is way too big to fit on a placemat. I need to somehow shrink it AND transfer it to paper and then laminate it.

I'm wondering if Kinko's has really big copiers that I could put the fabric on, shrink the pattern (and keep the colors reasonably true) and copy it onto a photo paper (that is placemat size or larger) and then they could laminate it for me. Actually, I'm sure that such a thing is possible but I don't actually need $20 placemats. Would it be cost-prohibitive, do you think?

Does anyone have a better idea or experience with such a venture?

Thanks,Sarah

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

Red_Confetti
22 years ago
Do you have a digital camera? Just take a picture of your fabric, manipulate the image to any size you want, then continue with your plan as above (print on cardstock, laminate, etc.).

You can buy laminating sheets, or use clear plastic that comes in rolls, or have the laminating done at a printing shop. (Or do you have a Xyron machine - that would work.) Just depends on how thick you want the laminating plastic and how much you want to spend.
jillzey
22 years ago
You can always call Kinko's and ask. If the area you want to copy is larger than 11x17 it could be pretty pricy for color.

I think Red Confetti has the best idea. Hang the fabric flat against a wall and shoot as straight on as possible to minimize the distortion. Shoot at as high a resolution as possible. If you want the placemats larger than you can print at home, Kinko's can print the digital files for you. Call them for details of file type and resolution that will give the best result with the equipment they have.
Related Discussions
Transfer paper stuck to ironing board cover
Q
Comments (3)
Thanks, barnmom. I tried a little goof off last night, and then ironed a clean white cloth repeatedly. After pressing, I leave the cloth place till it cools a little, then peel it off. If I remove the cloth right away while it's still very hot it doesn't stick at all. Same thing if I use steam. I think it's going to take many more passes, but ironing a scrap fabric does seem to be the way to do it.
...See More
Looking for Harlequin or Diamond Pattern Paper
Q
Comments (5)
Here are a couple more options: 1) Have you considered using harlequin fabric instead of paper? Check at your favorite fabric shop, or eBay. 2) Are you adept at a draw program? If so, you can create your own harlequin pattern in your chosen colors and print it!
...See More
Having a memory lapse here.....can you help
Q
Comments (4)
Thanks for trying but that's not it........I posted on the one I'm looking for....Am I going to have to start keeping a journal of my post...lol...just so I can't remember where I've been and what I've talked about...Is this what old age is all about.... patti
...See More
Do you know how to transfer an image to fabric?
Q
Comments (11)
I knew I could count on this forum to come up with some suggestions. The first thing I'm going to try is one of the ideas from vintage image craft, using parchment paper and my own fabric. If this doesn't work, I'll look for some of the printable fabrics. I did a little research on my own, too. I came up with a product called Omni-Gel, a photo transfer liquid. However, it looks like I can only get it on-line from JoAnn's. With this, I think I can transfer the image to a larger piece of fabric and avoid having to do any piecing, but I'm so anxious to get started on this project, I think I'll give the parchment paper a try. I'll let you know if it works. In the meantime, if anyone has ever used the Omni-Gel, I'd love to hear from you.
...See More

Related Stories

DECORATING GUIDES Wake Up Tired Furniture With Paint, Paper and Fabric

Give ordinary pieces a new spin with crafty updates, like a fresh tabletop, decorated sideboard and wall-size pinboard

HOUZZ TOURS My Houzz: Colors and Patterns Energize a 1950s Ranch

By Angela Flournoy

Bright fabrics and artwork against white walls create a cheerful vibe in an airy Texas rambler

BASEMENTS Basement of the Week: Kicky Colors and Patterns Promise Fun

By Becky Harris

Snag a peek at a basement makeover happily inspired by a fabric swatch and done for less than $10,000

DECORATING GUIDES Cool Wallpaper Spotted: Wait, No It's Fabric!

By Jen L'Italien

Woodsy-modern pattern adds whimsy and color to a baby-friendly bathroom

Guest Picks: Fun Fabrics to Perk Up Your Place

By Barbara Matson

Go for striking patterns and rich colors to stir up drama, add a whimsical touch or tie a room together

HANUKKAH DIY Dreidel Wall Hanging Puts a New Spin on Hanukkah Decor

By creative jewish mom.com

Create a custom silkscreen-like decoration with this playful pattern, fabric and freezer paper — no sewing machine required

TASTEMAKERS Design Tastemaker: Amy Butler's Playful Patterns

By Living Small: City & Small Space Consulting

Butler's signature Midwest modern style brightens bedding, curtains, wallpaper, rugs and much more

DECORATING GUIDES 10 Ways to Reuse Wrapping Paper

By Vanessa Brunner

Don't just toss your prettiest paper in the trash or recycling bin — gift wrap scraps can make wonderful home decor

DECORATING GUIDES Paper Chase: Wallpaper Through the Ages to Today

By Elements of Style

Get on a decorating roll with a wall covering that's been around for centuries but comes in more exciting designs than ever

KITCHEN DESIGN Kitchen Counters: Recycled Paper Surprises With Durability and Warmth

By Ivon Street Studio

Sturdier than you might think, this postconsumer countertop material also has major environmental cred

Sponsored

Custom Home Works

10 Reviews

Franklin County's Award-Winning Design, Build and Remodeling Expert