Transfer Your Sketch with Gel Medium - by Karyn Raz

In a recent post, Jen Betton outlined many different methods for transferring your drawing. I'd like to demonstrate one that's great for preserving the initial gesture in your drawings. In short, you photocopy your sketch and use gel medium to secure it onto the surface you’ll be painting on. For me, that surface is usually wood, but this approach also works well on illustration board.

Note: this method is best for painting in acrylic. Painting on top of gel medium is not recommended if you’re using water-based paints like watercolors or gouache.

Here’s how it’s done.

1) Sketch.


2) Photocopy your sketch.

3) Cut the photocopy down to size.

4) Cover the surface you’ll be using with gel medium. I recommend Liquitex Glossy Gel Medium or Utrecht Matte Gel Medium. 

Use a flat, medium-sized brush.

Try to spread the medium evenly so it doesn’t clump.

5) Place the photocopy on the surface and press thoroughly. 

6) Apply another layer of gel medium onto the surface of the photocopy. 

7) Blow dry the surface, occasionally pressing to make sure the photocopy is flush with the surface.

Now you’re ready to paint!

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Karyn Raz makes art in Santa Monica, California.