Tracing & Transferring Patterns
By Angie Felix

Whether it’s a snowman you found in your favorite paper-crafting magazine or a paper pieced truck you want to add to a layout, patterns are incredibly useful in all kinds of projects. The key to using patterns is in knowing how to get themfrom the book or magazine where you found them in to the paper you want them on.

It’s simple: You’ll use a special paper to trace the pattern and a special paper to transfer the pattern directly onto your patterned or solid paper.

Realistic Scrapper LeNae Gerig finds that the hardest part for many is finding transfer paper. Transfer paper, also called graphite paper, can be found at any art supply store or large craft store such as Michaels. Transfer paper allows a line drawn to go through from one surface to another.

Tracing paper is also necessary. This paper is an opaque-white paper similar to tissue paper that you place over a pattern and trace the pattern onto. Tracing paper typically comes in pads and is found at an art or craft store with the drawing supplies.

To Trace
Lay a piece of tracing paper over the pattern you wish to use and go over all the outlines and dotted cutting lines. LeNae recommends using a pencil when tracing with tracing paper. By using a pencil and an artist’s eraser, you can easily erase any mistakes. You may also want to trace the interior detail lines from the pattern or draw them freehand after the matting process.

Transfer the Pattern
First, place the tracing paper on top of your patterned paper. Slip transfer paper underneath the tracing paper and go over the traced lines with a pencil or stylus. LeNae suggests that you should always place your transfer paper ink side down on your patterned paper to transfer the image. She also points out that it is not necessary to push hard as you’re going over your traced lines, as tracing paper is very thin and could tear easily.

If you’re unsure of transferring the pattern directly onto the patterned paper, flip the tracing paper over and place it on the backside of the patterned paper. Slip transfer paper underneath the tracing paper and go over the lines with a pencil or stylus.

LeNae recommends using a stylus instead of a pencil so you’re not actually making additional marks on the pattern. A stylus has a point at each end, one with a tiny metal ball. Use this side to avoid piercing your paper and draw a nice, smooth line.

Now you’re ready to start using patterns—you can make your own die cuts, cut out shapes or try your hand at paper piecing!