Image transfer on metal

[terri37 8]

I've been experimenting with using 5x7" metal panels, the type that are made for roof flashing. It's fairly straightforward to coat the panels and get the printed photo to transfer, but it's quite a delicate process to remove the paper backing and get a clear image.

This is one of the more successful attempts, taken last year during a London trip.

Another challenge is photographing these so the lovely metallic sheen from the panel can show through. Here's a quick snap of how it looks in natural light when held at an oblique angle - the process is really quite beautiful!

 

[KJ_North]

Very interesting thanks for sharing

 

[cgw119 145]

A couple of my deranged pals are learning the daguerreotype process. Ah,,,those fragrant mercury vapors!
Mirrors with a memory.

 

[terri37 8]

Very interesting thanks for sharing

Thanks!

 

[terri37 8]

A couple of my deranged pals are learning the daguerreotype process. Ah,,,those fragrant mercury vapors!
Mirrors with a memory.

I think this is fabulous! lf they have access to the chemistry and the tools needed, why not?

They look surreal - gorgeous.

 

[MartinCrabtree111 5]

I've always wanted to do Daguerreotype however the toxic nature of the process and my luck preclude actually doing it. They are stunning.

 

[terri37 8]

I've always wanted to do Daguerreotype however the toxic nature of the process and my luck preclude actually doing it. They are stunning.

Agreed - respect to those who experiment! Me, I'll continue to grub around for surfaces to slap an image on. Less toxic.

 

[HughGuessWho100 15]

Oh my. I'm always looking for something less conventional to do with my photos. I am definitely going to give this one a try. Are you using the heat press method, the acetone method or what?

 

[terri37 8]

Are you using the heat press method, the acetone method or what?

Thank you. I'm simply coating the clean panel with fluid matte medium, then placing a laser print of the image over the medium and giving the print a light burnishing, then letting it dry.

I don't apply heat or acetone to the surface. Once dried, a quick spray with a water bottle softens the paper fiber so you can start to gently peel off the copy paper, revealing the transfer underneath. I like to apply varnish to the transfer once all the paper is removed to protect the transfer.

 

[HughGuessWho100 15]

Thank you. I'm simply coating the clean panel with fluid matte medium, then placing a laser print of the image over the medium and giving the print a light burnishing, then letting it dry.

I don't apply heat or acetone to the surface. Once dried, a quick spray with a water bottle softens the paper fiber so you can start to gently peel off the copy paper, revealing the transfer underneath. I like to apply varnish to the transfer once all the paper is removed to protect the transfer.

Thank you for the info. When you say "fluid matte medium" is there a particular kind or brand you use? In doing a Google search and looking on Amazon there seems to be many different kinds or types. Does it matter? Any recommendations?

 

[terri37 8]

I use Liquitex. Fluid medium seems to work best for metal panels. You can use gel medium (I like Golden) for canvas, paper, etc.

 

[HughGuessWho100 15]

Thank you. I'm gonna give a try.

 

[terri37 8]

Thank you. I'm gonna give a try.

Have fun! It's a slightly addictive process.