How to Transfer an Image onto Wood Step by Step

by Rafael Garcia · January 10, 2026

Practical guide to transferring an image onto wood step by step

Definition. Transferring an image onto wood consists of moving ink from a printed image directly onto a wooden surface using pressure, allowing the pigment to adhere permanently and visibly to the material.

Image transfer on wood. This DIY method makes it possible to reproduce photographs, illustrations, or text on wood without specialized tools. Although the finish differs from heat-transfer techniques, the result is natural and especially appealing on wooden surfaces.

Process of transferring an image onto a wooden block

Materials needed to transfer an image onto wood

🪵 Smooth wooden surface (concrete can also be used)
🧻 Wax paper or baking parchment
🖨️ Inkjet printer
💳 Rigid card (credit-card type)
🖌️ Protective varnish (optional)

How to transfer an image onto wood step by step

🪚 Prepare the surface
Make sure the wood is clean, dry, and smooth. A flat surface significantly improves the quality of the transfer.
🖨️ Print the image
Print the image using an inkjet printer on wax paper or baking parchment. The image must be printed in mirror format.
⚠️ Handle the paper carefully
Wax paper is very thin. Load it carefully into the printer to avoid paper jams, especially with automatic feeders.
📄 Transfer the image
Place the printed paper face down on the wood. Rub firmly and evenly with a rigid card.
🎨 Reveal the image
Carefully lift the paper. The ink will remain transferred onto the wood surface.
🛡️ Protect the finish
Apply a clear varnish to protect the image and increase its durability.

Final result of an image transferred onto wood

Detail of the image transfer process on wood

Example of an image transferred onto a wooden block

Summary table of the wood image transfer process

Stage	Action	Importance
Preparation	Sand and clean the wood	High
Printing	Mirror-print on wax paper	High
Transfer	Rub firmly with a rigid card	Very high
Protection	Apply varnish	Medium

Technical summary. Transferring images onto wood using wax paper is a simple and low-cost technique that allows ink transfer without heat or machinery. The final quality depends mainly on the applied pressure and the condition of the surface.

Source. Technical guide prepared by the Vilssa editorial team, specialized in architecture, design, and handcrafted processes.

To explore more content about image transfer on wood or discover additional creative DIY articles, you can use the Vilssa search engine.

As an external reference, you can consult this detailed tutorial on image transfer to wood.

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