How to Transfer an Image to Metal

Two ways to get a photo onto metal

There are two broad routes. You can do a DIY transfer, where you print a photo on paper and use a transfer medium to move the ink onto a sheet of metal. Or you can order a professional metal print, where a lab prints your digital file directly onto a coated metal panel, usually aluminum.

The DIY route is cheap and fun, and gives a handmade, slightly rustic look. The professional route is more consistent and generally more durable, but costs more. Prices for both vary a lot by size and supplier, so check current quotes before deciding.

What a photo printed on metal is called

Most labs call it a metal print or an aluminum print. Many are made with a dye-sublimation process, where the image is infused into a coated metal surface, though processes differ between suppliers. A DIY version is usually just described as a photo transfer to metal.

What you need for the DIY transfer

Exact products vary, but a typical kit looks like this:

• A flat piece of clean metal, such as a thin aluminum or steel sheet
• A paper print of your photo (see the note on printers below)
• A photo transfer medium or gel from a craft supplier
• Rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth
• A foam brush or old gift card for spreading
• A soft sponge or cloth and water
• A clear sealer spray suitable for your surface

Always follow the instructions on your specific transfer product, since drying times and paper recommendations differ.

Prepare your image first

• Mirror the image. In most gel transfer methods the print goes face down, so the photo ends up reversed unless you flip it. Mirror (flip horizontally) the image in your editing software before printing; our overview of common photo editing apps lists free options that can do this. This matters most if the photo contains text.
• Use good resolution. Aim for a sharp, well-exposed file. A rough guideline is about 300 pixels per inch at the final size (see best DPI for website images for how pixels and print size relate), though DIY transfers are forgiving and can look soft anyway.
• Boost contrast slightly. Transfers can look lighter or less contrasty than the original, so a small increase in contrast and brightness can help. Do a test on scrap metal if you can.
• Check your printer type. Some transfer mediums work best with laser prints and others with inkjet prints. Check the product directions. Plain printer paper is common, but thickness can affect results.

If you are creating an image for an iron-on transfer, the idea is similar: you will usually need transfer paper made for your printer type, you will usually need to mirror the image, and you should follow the paper’s heating instructions. Note that iron-on transfers are designed mainly for fabric, not bare metal.

Step-by-step DIY transfer

1. Clean the metal. Wipe it with rubbing alcohol to remove oils and dust, and let it dry. Light sanding may help the medium grip on very slick metal, but only if the product directions suggest it.
2. Trim the print. Cut the photo to the size you want, trimming off any border.
3. Apply the medium. Spread an even, fairly generous layer of transfer medium over the printed side of the photo or onto the metal, depending on the product instructions. Cover all the way to the edges.
4. Press the photo face down. Lay it on the metal and smooth from the centre outwards to push out air bubbles and extra medium. A card or scraper helps.
5. Let it dry. Leave it undisturbed. Many products suggest several hours up to a day, but follow the label.
6. Remove the paper. Dampen the back of the paper with water, wait a moment, then rub gently in small circles with your fingers or a sponge. The paper pills away and leaves the ink on the metal. Stop when the paper is gone but before you scrub the image.
7. Let it dry again and check. Cloudy or white patches usually mean some paper fibre remains. Dampen and rub lightly again.
8. Seal it. Once fully dry, apply a thin coat of clear sealer in several light passes. Follow the sealer’s directions for drying times.

Common problems and fixes

• Bubbles or wrinkles: Usually trapped air or an uneven layer of medium. Smooth more firmly from the centre next time.
• Image rubs off: The paper may have been scrubbed too hard, or the medium was too thin or not fully dry. Use a gentle touch and a thicker, even layer.
• Cloudy look: Leftover paper fibre. Dampen and rub again lightly, then seal.
• Peeling at the edges: The metal may have had oil on it, or the medium did not reach the edges. Clean thoroughly and cover edge to edge.
• Faded colours: Try a darker, more contrasty print, and consider a different paper or printer type.

Sealing and caring for the piece

A sealer helps protect the surface from moisture and scratches. DIY transfers are usually best for indoor display and are less durable than professional metal prints. Keep them away from damp spots and direct sun, and wipe gently with a dry or barely damp soft cloth.

Ordering a professional metal print instead

If you want a sharp, long-lasting result, upload a digital file to a print service that offers metal prints. Many online labs offer this, and some retail photo services may too. If you are wondering whether a particular retailer such as a pharmacy chain prints photos on metal, check that retailer’s photo section or ask in store, since product lines change.

Before ordering:

• Check the recommended file size and resolution for the print dimensions.
• Preview how the crop looks, since edges may be trimmed.
• Compare finish options. Some labs offer glossy and matte-style metal surfaces, and our guide to glossy vs matte photo prints covers how those finishes behave under light.
• Ask about mounting, such as hanging hardware or standoffs.

DIY vs professional

Printing onto wood

The same transfer-medium idea is often used for wood. Sand the wood smooth, wipe off dust, apply medium, press the mirrored photo face down, let it dry, rub off the paper, and seal. Wood grain shows through, which can give a warm, vintage look. As with metal, test on a scrap first.

If you are thinking about how metal or wood pieces fit into a larger display, our guide to a photo collage wall covers layout and spacing.

Frequently asked questions

How do I create an image for an iron transfer?

Choose a sharp, high-resolution photo, mirror it, print it on transfer paper made for your printer type, and heat it according to the paper’s instructions. Iron-on is designed mostly for fabric, so for metal, a gel or transfer medium is more typical.

Does Walgreens print photos on metal?

Retail photo offerings change, so check the store’s current photo products online or ask at the counter. If it is not offered, dedicated online print labs commonly provide metal prints.

How do you print onto wood?

Use a transfer medium with a mirrored paper print, as described above, or order a wood print from a photo lab that offers it.

What is a photo printed on metal called?

Usually a metal print or aluminum print.