By skyforbes 
This post and photos may contain Amazon or other affiliate links. If you purchase something through any link, I may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Any supplies used may be given to me free of charge, however, all projects and opinions are my own.
Have you ever wanted to learn how to transfer an image to canvas? If the answer is yes, then you are in the right place! You can transfer a photo to canvas in minutes right in your own home. Make your own framed canvas art with our tutorial and just a few dollars. After all, a quick, easy, and inexpensive project makes my heart flutter! Ready to dive in and make your own? Just follow along below!
Want to iron-on a design instead? Try our tutorial for making a reverse canvas here.
How To Transfer An Image To Canvas Video Tutorial
Want to see a quick video of this project? Just click play on the video below to watch the entire process from start to finish.
Can’t watch the video or miss some of the steps? You can also follow along below.
How To Transfer An Image To Canvas
Are you ready to make some super inexpensive art for your home? Tired of paying high prices for custom canvases of your pictures?
Well, I have a solution for you. You can easily add your pictures to a canvas with either t-shirt transfers or printable heat transfer vinyl. Then just make a reverse canvas to create framed art that everyone will love!
Yes, it really is that easy!
Supplies Needed For How To Transfer An Image To Canvas
Step 1: Remove Canvas From Frame
Start by removing the canvas from the frame. Flip it over and remove the staples with a screwdriver and a pair of pliers. Then separate the canvas from the frame.
Step 2: Stain Frame
Stain the frame with the color of your choice. Paint on the stain, allow to sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a rag. Allow this to dry completely.
Step 3: Print Photos
While drying, you can transfer your picture to the canvas piece. Print your photo onto your transfer paper using a printer. Be sure to mirror your design and print with the best quality for your printer.
Step 4: Iron Photo Onto Canvas
Then put the t-shirt transfer face down onto the canvas. I am transferring this to the creamy off-white side but this same method will work with either side. Please note that you can see directions for printable heat transfer vinyl here if you are using it.
Then follow the directions on your package of transfers to complete the process. I had to iron in both directions for a certain amount of time.
Step 5: Peel Off Carrier Sheet
After you have ironed your transfer, start slowly peeling back your carrier sheet to reveal the design on your canvas.
Once the backing is removed, it is time to add the frame to finish this one off!
Step 6: Staple Canvas To Frame
Add the frame where you want it on your picture. Then secure with staples in the back. I like to secure with one staple in the center of each side as well as one in each corner.
Step 7: Cut Away Excess Canvas
Then cut away all of the excess canvas with a craft knife.
Step 8: Add More Staples
Once this is removed, add additional staples to completely secure.
Step 9: Display Canvas
Then your project is ready to hang or display!
You are going to love this project and how easy it is to make. This is one of my favorite gift ideas! Find an image, print it, transfer it, and you have a gift that your family and friends will never forget. Plus, you can find the canvases so cheap that this will be one super inexpensive gift as well!
Be sure to make a few of these now and get the method down. Then stock up on canvases for the holidays. You will have a stack of inexpensive gifts in no time at all.
Did you know that you could transfer a photo to canvas? Well, you can! And the process is so easy that anyone can do it! Pick up some t-shirt transfers and try this one for yourself. You will be so glad that you did!
FAQs About How To Transfer An Image To Canvas
Here are questions I frequently see readers ask about how to transfer an image to canvas. If you have a question but don’t see it answered down below, please leave it in the comments so I can answer it for you.
Where Is The Best Place To Buy The Blank Canvas?
Anywhere! I grab mine from the craft store but Dollar Tree has them sometimes.
What Kind Of Printer/Ink Do You Need For This ”How To Transfer An Image To Canvas” Project?
A regular inkjet printer is perfect for this project!
Would An EasyPress Work For This Or Do You Think An Iron Is The Best Bet?
An EasyPress would definitely work! It would probably make it easier!
What Settings Would You Recommend For A Heat Press?
There should be settings on whatever heat transfer paper you buy.
If I Print A Picture At Walmart, Can I Transfer It Like You Did?
No. It needs to be printed on the t-shirt transfer material in order to work.
Is There Any Reason Why You Could Not Reapply The Canvas Back To The Frame (Just As It Was Before After The Photo Is Transferred To It)?
I think that would work! I have also pressed it without removing it from the frame. Just add a book or something hard to the inside to press against. The only thing is the frame on some of these is not flat and you might get imperfections.
5 More Photo Crafts
Did you love learning how to transfer an image to canvas, and are looking for more photo crafts? Then check out the projects below!
Learn how to make a banner with photos for a wedding or parties! Easy to make with a printable template to cut your photos!
Do you loving paint and taking photos? Then learn how to turn all those photos into fun paint by numbers using this tutorial!
Make a set of these DIY photo coasters! Includes a video tutorial on applying your images to wood as well as sealing with epoxy resin.
Grab a few pieces of wood, your favorite photos, and this secret supply to transfer photos to wood in minutes! Learn what the secret supply is by checking out this tutorial!
Learn how to make DIY photo gifts that are perfect for mom for Mother’s Day! Cute photo keychains as well as jewelry that any mom or grandma would love!
