How to transfer detailed designs?

[Craigg64]

Hi People

I have seen someone use Magic Mesh to transfer detailed designs.
What are some of the other methods people are using?

[lindamac]

Someone mentioned blue painters tape.

[papasue]

I'm a BIG user of Blue Painter tape to hold down the paper edges when I cut but it doesn't work well for transferring images from mat to paper because it sticks too well and tears or pulls up the top layer. FirstCuts mesh is probably still the best answer.

I got some of the wallboard tape and it seems to work fine too.

[firstcut]

Craig,
The mesh was a breakthrough because there really wasn't anything else that would transfer paper safely from mat. Some scrappers use removable tape (blue core post it kind) but it isn't strong enough to pull items off the mat and is harder to handle than the mesh, plus is narrow so inconvenient for larger designs. It is an option once you get the pieces off the mat, but I don't see it in stores much anymore, whereas the mesh is cheap and easy to find.
When you are talking about vinyl, there are many options...commercial transfer tape, contact paper, painters tape, and press n seal, for instance.
BTW, I have a new video of the mesh technique up:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CzSF0f8JJ4

[deliacm]

I just use the USG Tile Backer Tape from Home Depot....so inexpensive and it works everytime. The only downfall would be that I can't put it on a picture to secure placement, as it leaves residue on pictures. But, for moving things from a Cricut mat to the page, it's AWESOME!!

[firstcut]

Yes, Christina, this looks to be the same thing as the drywall mesh. I just found Duck brand in a 6 in wide roll at Walmart which is perfect for bigger images. Ace Hardware also has 8 x8 inch sheets. "Magic Mesh" is supposed to be photo safe and it is just drywall mesh, but I'd be afraid to use it on photos, for the same reason you mention, though I've not tried it.

[Craigg64]

Thanks for the replys people
I went to our major hardware chain here in Aust (Bunnings) and found in the paint section the dry wall (Gyprock here in Aust) tape for around $4 for a roll.
They also had large patches to fix holes in walls, for around $4 also.
I haven't tried them yet but I am sure they are the same as you all use in USA

Thanks again for the replies
Craig

[ssummers]

I have often wondered how to transfer detailed designs because I can never get them lined up. I am off to buy some tape to give this a try. Thanks for the suggestion and this wonderful board for sharing.