Speedball Graphite Paper - Pack of 2

Speedball Graphite Paper is a classic artist’s transfer paper, sometimes called tracing transfer paper or graphite tracing sheets. It allows you to place your drawing on top, trace with a pencil, pen, or stylus, and create a clean guide on your final surface below.

The black graphite surface produces visible lines on light and mid-tone materials, making it especially useful for canvas painting layouts, woodburning patterns, decorative furniture work, mural planning, sign lettering, and ceramic surface design. It saves time, reduces proportion errors, and keeps your original sketch intact.

Compared to improvised methods like soft pencil rubbing on the back of paper, dedicated graphite transfer paper delivers more consistent coverage and cleaner lines. It’s also neater and more controlled than chalk-based alternatives when working on rigid surfaces like wood or metal.

Best suited for artists who want accuracy in lettering, illustration transfers, decorative painting, pyrography layouts, mixed media groundwork, and DIY décor projects. If you are working on very dark surfaces, a lighter-coloured transfer option may be more appropriate.

Explore compatible tools to refine your transfer process: Mona Lisa Double Ended Stylus

Place the graphite side face down onto your project surface. Position your drawing on top and secure both layers with low-tack tape to prevent shifting.

Trace firmly using a pencil, pen, or stylus. Periodically lift one corner to check line transfer before continuing.

Works on canvas, primed panels, wood, metal, paper, fabric, leather, plastic, ceramics, and other smooth or lightly textured surfaces. Very rough textures may produce broken lines.

If transferring onto fabric or porous materials, test in a hidden area first to ensure the graphite line behaves as expected. Final sealing or painting over transferred lines will depend on your chosen medium.

Storage: Keep flat in a dry area to prevent creasing. Avoid excessive heat or humidity that may affect paper condition.

Studio Safety: Avoid direct contact with the graphite surface to reduce smudging. Wash hands after extended use, especially before handling light-coloured materials.

What is graphite transfer paper used for?

It’s used to transfer drawings, lettering, and patterns onto another surface. Artists commonly use it for canvas layouts, wood projects, and decorative painting.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s a simple, low-barrier tool that helps beginners achieve accurate proportions without freehand stress.

Can professionals use this for large projects?

Absolutely. Many muralists and decorative painters use transfer paper to scale and repeat detailed designs efficiently.

Will the graphite lines smear?

Graphite can smudge if heavily handled. Seal or paint over lines once your transfer is complete.

Does it work on fabric?

Yes, on many fabrics. Always test first to ensure the line quality meets your expectations before committing to the full design.

Can I reuse the sheets?

Yes, until the graphite coating becomes too faint for clean transfer. Longevity depends on pressure and frequency of use.

Is this the same as carbon paper?

It functions similarly but is designed for artistic use. Some artists search for “graphite paper” or “transfer paper,” while others use the US spelling “graphite transfer paper.”

Is this available in Canada?

Yes. Wallack’s ships across Canada and also offers in-store pickup in Ottawa.