11 Best Canvas Transfer Paper In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide

canvas transfer paper

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Are you looking for a good-quality canvas transfer paper for drawing, crafting, or even for business? You are in the right place! Transferring images may seem easy, but the quality may suffer if you use low-quality transfer paper.

In this blog post, we will compile a list of the best canvas transfer paper on the market so you can have an informed decision when buying one.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Printers Jack Iron on Heat Transfer Paper

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Runner-Up: Outus Graphite Carbon Tracing Paper for Canvas
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Best for White Surfaces: My Artscape Graphite Transfer Paper
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Best for DIYers: Ueerdand Black Graphite Transfer Paper
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Most Versatile: Arteza Graphite Transfer Paper
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Best Set: Outus White Carbon Transfer Paper
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Best Budget: Paperzoid Carbon Paper for Tracing
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Best for Painters: Raimarket Carbon Graphite Transfer Paper
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Best for Crafters: Psler Carbon Transfer Paper for Tracing
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Best for Fabric: TransOurDream Iron on Heat Transfer Paper
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Best Professional-Grade: NuFun DIY Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric
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1. Best Overall: Printers Jack Iron on Heat Transfer Paper

Painting of women transferred on fabrics

Why We Think It’s Great

  • FADE RESISTANT: The images don't peel and vanish after many washes.
  • WIDE APPLICATIONS: Use this transfer paper on fabric and canvas surfaces.
  • EASY TO USE: It doesn't require a complex process; beginner-friendly.
  • SPECIAL COATING: Easily bond it to the fabric.
  • EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE: Conveniently raise any problem with the product.

What We Don't Like

  • It’s difficult to determine which is back and which is front.
  • The images may crack when not properly used.

What Our Editors Say

"We think this product is one of the best transfer papers on the market because it is compatible with various surfaces, including canvas. Although it is widely used for fabric, you can also use it for canvas printing, T-shirt printing, and many DIY projects.

We also love the result produced by this transfer paper as it is vibrant and durable, making it stand out and last. Ensure to read the instructions before starting, as you may confuse the back side from the front. Overall, we recommend this to artists and entrepreneurs.”

Sheet Size: 8.3 x 11.7 inches | Number of Sheets: 20

Related: The Best Watercolor Paper

2. Runner-Up: Outus Graphite Carbon Tracing Paper for Canvas

a side-by-side image of carbon paper graphite

Why We Think It’s Great

  • HANDFUL OF SHEETS: Allow you have enough spare sheets for your projects.
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Erase the pattern quickly off the paper and wood.
  • REUSABLE: Stamp the pattern repeatedly on other surfaces.
  • EXCELLENT COMPATIBILITY: Use it on paper, wood, canvas, ceramic, and clay. 

What We Don't Like

  • It’s difficult to erase on rough and uneven surfaces.
  • The sheets are thin and need extra care when used. 

What Buyers Say

“These transfer papers are great! I downloaded coloring sheets, traced them onto small canvases, and drew them with permanent markers. They made for a great paint party and take-home favor. The ink transferred a little by my hand pressing as I traced, but erased off the canvas with an eraser.”

Sheet Size: 8.5 x 11 inches | Number of Sheets: 30

Related: The Best Paper for Oil Pastels

3. Best for White Surfaces: My Artscape Graphite Transfer Paper

side-by-side images of graphite transfer paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • PREMIUM GRADE QUALITY: Allow you to transfer images easier.
  • PRODUCES WHITE LINES: Transfer patterns on darker surfaces. 
  • GRAPHITE BASED: Unlike ink based, this material is easier to erase.
  • REUSABLE SHEETS: You can use the sheets more than once. 

What We Don't Like

  • You need to press hard to achieve a good outline.

What Our Editors Say

"Like any other transfer sheets, you can use this product repeatedly to save money. It includes 20 sheets at an affordable price, making it perfect for those who want to try it for the first time.

If you are looking for a transfer paper that works for various surfaces, My Artscape Graphite Transfer Paper is the way to go. You can use it on fabric, wood, canvas, glass, metal, etc."

Sheet Size: 8.27 x 11.69 inches | Number of Sheets: 20

Related: The Best Embossing Paper

4. Best for DIYers: Ueerdand Black Graphite Transfer Paper

a side-by-side image of carbon paper black graphite paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • 200 SHEETS: Create many projects to your heart’s content.
  • ERASABLE: Gray lines can be removed from the paper and smooth wood.
  • WIDE APPLICATION: Use it on canvas, paper, wood, glass, metal, or ceramic.
  • DURABLE: You can use the sheet more than once. 
  • NO SMUDGE: Leave your canvas smooth and clean.

What We Don't Like

  • It’s not erasable on an uneven surface.
  • Requires light pressure to get the best results.

What Buyers Say

"If you need a transfer paper kit to get started, this is perfect! Plenty of sheets for my needs, and the tracing tools make it much easier. Transfers great doesn't erase or fade when working on a project."

Sheet Size: 8.3 x 11.8 inches | Number of Sheets: 200

Related: The Best Paper Marbling Kits

5. Most Versatile: Arteza Graphite Transfer Paper

a side-by-side image of Arteza graphite transfer paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • EASY TO USE: This transfer paper for canvas is ideal for first-time users. 
  • NO SMUDGE GUARANTEE: Easily erase images if you have made a mistake. 
  • EXCELLENT VERSATILITY: Use it on various surfaces, such as wood, leather, canvas, and more. 
  • GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE: If you have any issues with the product, the company can replace them.

What We Don't Like 

  • The paper requires a light press when transferring. 
  • Darker lines are not erasable.

What Our Editors Say

"You can get 60 sheets of transfer paper at an affordable price, which is awesome! We also like that the lighter lines are erasable, so you can rework it easily when you make a mistake.

If you use this paper for darker lines and worry about not erasing them, you can purchase a plastic eraser like a white mono Tombow to help the darker lines fade."

Sheet Size: 9 x 13 inches | Number of Sheets: 60

Related: The Best Paper for Color Pencils

6. Best Set: Outus White Carbon Transfer Paper

a side-by-side image of white carbon transfer paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • COMES WITH MORE SHEETS: Enough sheets for your projects, guaranteed to last a while.
  • QUALITY MATERIAL: This enables you to use the transfer paper more than once without wrinkling or breaking.
  • VERSATILE: Use it for craft projects, paintings, sketching, watercolor paper, wood, canvas, paper, glass, metal, ceramic, and more.
  • EASY TO CLEAN LINES: Rework your patterns when they get smudged.
  • VARIETY OF STYLUSES: Make thick and thinner lines for the best canvas prints.

What We Don't Like

  • The sheets can be too thin for some users.
  • It requires a hard press to be visible on dark surfaces.

What Buyers Say

"I got this paper to transfer patterns to fabric for embroidering, and it works well! The variety in stylus sizes is nice, and the lines transferred cleanly to the cotton I used.

I was so fortunate to find this big package of white carbon paper. Certainly could not find in the big box stores. Now I can share with friends and have plenty for my craft room."

Sheet Size: 8.3 x 11.7 inches | Number of Sheets: 105

7. Best Budget: Paperzoid Carbon Paper for Tracing

a side by side images of carbon paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • CLEAN & BOLD LINES: Make your lines visible and vibrant.
  • REUSABLE: Allow you to stamp the images on various surfaces repeatedly.
  • WORKS ON MANY SURFACE: Use it on canvas, paper, wood, glass, metal, ceramic, ad other surfaces. 
  • CONVENIENT: It doesn't require a hard press when transferring images. 

What We Don't Like

  • It’s not erasable as other graphite transfer paper.
  • The sheets are thin.

What Buyers Say

"Highly recommended! Add my vote to the many great reviews this Paperzoid carbon paper has earned. I used it to trace a drawing for use as a finished watercolor painting, and it was fantastic!"

Sheet Size: 8.5 x 11 inches | Number of Sheets: 30

Related: Watercolor Painting Ideas for Beginners

8. Best for Painters: Raimarket Carbon Graphite Transfer Paper

Raimarket Carbon Graphite Transfer Paper

Why We Think It’s Great

  • SUFFICIENT QUANTITY: Includes 100 sheets providing you with enough spare and replacement.
  • COMFORTABLE & STURDY STYLUS: This enables you to stamp images more easily.
  • GREAT VERSATILITY: You can use this transfer paper on canvas, cardboard, paper, wood, glass, metal, and ceramic.
  • AFFORDABLE: Suitable for beginners and those with a tight budget.
  • THICK SHEETS: Allow you to use the paper without tearing. 

What We Don't Like

  • The outlines are not visible on a lighter surface.
  • Marks are hard to remove.

What Our Editors Say

"When it comes to durability, these graphite sheets stood out to us. We like that you can transfer the images to many surfaces without worrying about tearing the paper off.

Another thing we love about this product is you can use them right away out of the box because it has all the tools needed to start."

Sheet Size: 9 x 13 inches | Number of Sheets: 112

9. Best for Crafters: Psler Carbon Transfer Paper for Tracing

carbon transfer paper on a white surface

Why We Think It's Great  

  • EXCELLENT COMPATIBILITY: You can use this transfer paper on various surfaces such as canvas, cardboard, paper, wood, glass, and metal.
  • SAVE MONEY: This enables you to use it repeatedly without tearing.
  • EQUIPPED WITH STYLUS: Allows you to create patterns and designs easier. 
  • DURABLE: Use it on canvas board and metal surfaces without breaking.
  • AFFORDABLE: You can have more than enough sheets without spending a lot. 

What We Don't Like

  • The sheets are quite thin.
  • It can be challenging to separate the sheets.

What Buyers Say

"Works perfectly for transferring drawings to watercolor paper. I trace the picture with a plastic knitting needle, and it works. A small blunt needle also works well if you don’t have a knitting needle. You can use each sheet over and over again."

Sheet Size: 8.27 x 11.81 inches | Number of Sheets: 30

Related: 30 Cool Sketch Ideas

10. Best for Fabric: TransOurDream Iron on Heat Transfer Paper

a side-by-side image of transfer paper and a cat portrait

Why We Think It’s Great

  • UPGRADED MATERIAL: This lets you cut the paper with ease.
  • RESIZEABLE: Fit the image to any canvas size.
  • VIBRANT COLOR: Make your design stand out.
  • VERSATILE: You can use it for fabric and canvas.
  • WIDE APPLICATIONS: Perfect for use in your business or gift ideas to loved ones.  

What We Don't Like 

  • It’s not user-friendly.
  • This transfer paper is more expensive than others.

What Our Editors Say

"We like using this transfer paper for art projects and cloth printing business. Its versatility separates it from similar products on the market.

We also appreciate its longevity, as the color becomes more brilliant after washing. Although this transfer paper requires many processes, you can master them with proper instructions."

Sheet Size: 8.5 x 11 inches | Number of Sheets: 20

Related: The Best Paper for Copic Markers

11. Best Professional-Grade: NuFun DIY Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric

a side-by-side image of transferred images

Why We Think It’s Great

  • EXCELLENT COMPATIBILITY: It enables you to use it with any canvas printers, cutters, and even copy machines.
  • BEGINNERS-FRIENDLY: Includes clear instructions for easy transfer.
  • HIGH QUALITY: The transferred images won't peel off easily.
  • VIBRANT COLOR: You can have bright and colorful images that stand out. 
  • PARCHMENT PAPER INCLUDED: Makes transferring images a breeze. 

What We Don't Like

  • It may not work perfectly with small details.
  • More expensive than similar products.

What Buyers Say

“This transfer paper is better than any product I have tried of its caliber. It’s versatile because you can use it with an inkjet printer or laserjet. I even ran this paper through a copy machine, which worked like a charm. The backing is easy to peel off, which makes working with this product much more efficient.”

Sheet Size: 8.5 x 11 inches | Number of Sheets: 25

Related: The Best Stack Paper Cutters

Final Verdict

Canvas transfer paper is essential for efficiently transferring images to various surfaces. They are compatible with canvas, metal, cloth, and many more surfaces.

We highly recommend the Printers Jack Iron on Heat Transfer Paper. Although it is widely used for fabric, you can also use it for many surfaces, including canvas. This makes it beneficial not only for artists but also for those who have a printing business. 

How to Use Canvas Transfer Paper for Beginners

Using a canvas transfer paper for the first time may be challenging for some. But with comprehensive instructions, you can master the process in the long run.

  1. For acrylic painting, you first need to lay a sheet of transfer paper on the canvas. Make sure the shiny side is facing down. 
  2. Put the image you want to trace on top of the graphite paper. You can use tape to hold the pattern in its place.
  3. Use a pencil or stylus to trace the lines of the image.
  4. After tracing all the lines, lift the traceable and graphite paper off the canvas to see the result.

Check out this video to see how to use canvas transfer paper.

https://youtu.be/3WEswQIQu8M?t=160

Best Canvas Transfer Paper Buying Guide

When choosing a transfer paper, you need to consider a few factors to ensure you get the result you expect from a certain product.

  • Purpose

Many transfer papers are on the market, but not all are created equal. Some products work for both canvas and fabric.

If you are looking for a transfer paper that you can use specifically for canvas, graphite or carbon transfer paper is your best bet. On the other hand, if your purpose is for t-shirt printing, you can go for iron heat transfer paper.

  • Versatility

When buying transfer paper, try to find one you can use for various surfaces. It could be for fabric, canvas, metal, etc. After all, you'll never know when you need it for a particular purpose. This will help you save money in the long run by not buying a separate transfer paper for each surface. 

  • Quantity

Does it have enough sheets in the package? Some transfer paper sets include 30 sheets, while others offer up to 100.

Some brands may offer more sheets, but they are a bit pricey. But it will be fine if you don't mind spending extra. Remember, there are plenty of options available, so choose wisely. 

  • Surface Type

Transfer paper comes in various types, so it's important to identify the canvas or fabric to which you'll be transferring your images.

For instance, use transfer paper made for light fabrics if you're working on a white surface. On the other hand, use transfer paper made for dark surfaces if you're working on a black canvas.

Transfer Paper for Canvas FAQ

a woman using transfer paper

1. What is the best transfer paper for canvas?

The best transfer paper for canvas depends on the surface you will be working on. If you plan to use it for a white surface, you should go for carbon paper which can produce darker and more visible lines. Graphite transfer paper is the way to go if you work on a dark surface.

2. Does transfer paperwork on canvas fabric?

Yes, canvas transfer paper can be used on fabric and many other surfaces. But if you want to use it solely for fabric, we recommend buying one specifically designed for that purpose.

3. Can you draw on transfer paper and then iron it on?

You can draw an image on the transfer paper and iron it on the fabric. Just place your image facing down the cloth and iron it, lift the image, and voila!

4. What is a transfer paper used for?

Transfer paper is used for arts and crafts projects. It is a piece of sheet coated with wax and is pigmented, either dark or light. It is used to transfer images on various surfaces such s fabric, canvas, and more. 

Why Trust Glytterati?

Our editors are passionate about art and crafting projects, so we only recommend products we genuinely believe in. We provide honest, unbiased reviews of the best art supplies, and we often consult with industry experts to make our content professional and friendly, even for beginners. So if you're looking for new ways to improve your creativity, we can help!

Read Next: The Best Paper Types for Art Projects

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