Transferring image design onto metal surface

[Onojutta]

Anyone have any good ways to transfer a design on paper onto a metal surface for engraving?

I’ve tried the acetone method but to no avail; the printers I have access to must not use the right kind of ink. The surface I am trying to transfer to is cold rolled sheet metal for practice, but eventually will be brass.

 

[Walkingeagle]

Never done it before but a member on here has posted a series of videos in “how to” build a lancaster rifle. Perhaps this will help? Or maybe a different segment in his series?
Walk

 

[dave_person]

Hi,
This shows the method I use involving Tom White's "Transfer Magic".
https://www.muzzleloadingforum.com/threads/building-a-chambers-isaac-haines-rifle-kit.116533/page-6
You really should visit https://engraverscafe.com/forums/hand-engraving-forum.1/

dave

 

[Onojutta]

Thanks for the replies. While searching the internet for Tom White's Transfer Magic, I came across a DIY solution using Bullseye shellac thinned with denatured alcohol. I printed my practice image on the inside of a sheet of clear laminating plastic with an inkjet printer. Then I used the method described in dave's thread to transfer the inked image to the metal. The ink transfer wasn't quite as crisp, but it got the job done in a pinch. A few seconds with the heat gun dried the ink so it wouldn't smear.

 

[dave_person]

Hi,
White's solution is likely the same thing but I suspect he experimented with the balance of lacquer to alcohol for best results. I use Pictorico transparency sheets and an HP ink jet printer. I believe Epson's work a bit better. It is really important that the metal surface is very clean before coating with transfer solution. Use acetone or 97-99% alcohol for cleaning.

dave