Dry transfer

The dry transfer technique was used in Letraset lettering sheets

Dry transfer is a term used to describe decals which can be applied without the use of water or other solvent. Sometimes they are called rub-ons or rubdowns due to the method of application. The decal itself is on a backing material such as paper or plastic sheeting much like a transparency. The dry transfer is placed in the desired location with the backing side up. The decal is then applied by burnishing the backing with a stylus or similar object such as a ballpoint pen. The contact side of the decal includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive; the combination of heat  and pressure causes the decal to stick better to the new surface than to the backing; when the backing is removed, the decal remains. This allows for ink only where needed even if the pattern is delicate, because the backing supports the decal until and as it is applied.

See also

• Letraset
• Kalkitos