Patent Publication Number: US-2016221304-A1

Title: Methods and apparatus for image transfer

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/233,959, entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE TRANSFER,” filed on Aug. 14, 2009, the specification of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This patent document pertains generally to image transfer articles and methods. More particularly, but not by way of limitation, this patent document pertains to image transfer articles providing various decorative effects and associated transfer methods. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Expressing creativity can bring about feelings of great satisfaction and self-worth. Finding a desired mode of self-expression can often be more difficult than creating the expression itself. Image transfer technology has been, and continues to be, an ever-increasing mode of popular self-expression that allows one to find or create an image that satisfies a personal creative drive or at the least, to have a personalized image that is unique to the individual end user. This image, upon creation, can subsequently be transferred to a desired receptor element, which can be worn, carried, or displayed. 
     OVERVIEW 
     Although image transfer technologies have been in use for many years, these technologies remain difficult for the average end user to apply. Additionally, current image transfer technologies configured for at-home use do not provide images having internal decorative patterns. Further yet, these images can be limited to pre-created template options, which likely differ from a user-desired or user-created image. The inventors of the present patent document have recognized the limitations of the art as it currently stands, and have addressed these needs. 
     Image transfer articles, sheets and methods are disclosed. The image transfer articles and sheets can include or be configured to receive an image comprising one or more markings. The image can be capture on one or more ink or other marking receptive layers of the image transfer articles or sheets. By way of example, but not of limitation, the ink or other marking receptive layers can be configured to receive one or more markings from a printer, a copier, a marker, a pencil, a crayon, a dye sublimation process, a thermal pigment transfer process, or other toner, ink, or pigment-based imaging methods or apparatus. In various examples, the image transfer articles provide decorative features in addition to the image. Such decorative features can include article portions bearing elements such as, but not limited to, metallic flakes, metallic-like flakes, glitter materials, sparkle materials, luminescent materials (e.g., having a glow-in-the-dark effect), pearlescent materials, reflective materials, or combinations thereof, any of which can be revealed during the creation process by the end user. 
     To better illustrate the image transfer articles, sheets and methods disclosed in this patent document, a non-limiting list of examples is provided here: 
     In Example 1, an image transfer article comprises a resin or adhesive layer; a marking receptive layer; and a decorative layer, including surface-coated mica, positioned between the resin or adhesive layer and the marking receptive layer. 
     In Example 2, the image transfer article of Example 1 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer includes polyurethane. 
     In Example 3, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1 or 2 optionally further comprises a silicone liner proximate the resin or adhesive layer, opposite the decorative layer. 
     In Example 4, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-3 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes an ethylene acrylic acid dispersion. 
     In Example 5, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-4 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer comprises a metallic layer including carbon black. 
     In Example 6, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-5 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer comprises a metallic layer including a plurality of metalized polyester particles. 
     In Example 7, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-6 is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer comprises a plurality of metalized polyester particles. 
     In Example 8, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-7 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer comprises a metallic layer including a luminescent pigment. 
     In Example 9, the image transfer article of at least one of Examples 1-8 is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer comprises a luminescent pigment. 
     In Example 10, an image transfer sheet includes a plurality of image transfer articles as recited in at least one of Examples 1-9, and is optionally configured such that each image transfer article is at least partially defined by a die cut extending around a perimeter thereof, with each die cut extending at least through the marking receptive layer and the decorative layer. 
     In Example 11, an image transfer sheet comprises a releasable liner or substrate; and one or more image transfer articles disposed on the releasable liner or substrate, each image transfer article including, a pre-formed image, and a resin or adhesive layer disposed between the releasable liner or substrate and the pre-formed image, wherein each image transfer article has a perimeter defined by at least one die cut extending through the resin or adhesive layer to the releasable liner or substrate, the at least one die cut allowing each image transfer article to separate from the releasable liner or substrate. 
     In Example 12, the image transfer sheet of Example 11 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer comprises a luminescent pigment. 
     In Example 13, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 11 or 12 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer comprises a plurality of metalized polyester particles. 
     In Example 14, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 11-13 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer separates from the releasable liner or substrate and attaches directly to a receptor element to transfer the pre-formed image. 
     In Example 15, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 11-14 optionally further comprises a decorative layer disposed between the pre-formed image and the resin or adhesive layer, and wherein the die cut penetrates the decorative layer. 
     In Example 16, the image transfer sheet of Example 15 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer comprises mica. 
     In Example 17, the image transfer sheet of Example 16 is optionally configured such that the mica is coated with titanium oxide. 
     In Example 18, the image transfer sheet of Example 16 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer includes carbon black. 
     In Example 19, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 15-18 is optionally configured such that the decorative layer comprises a plurality of metalized polyester particles. 
     In Example 20, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 11-19 optionally comprises a marking receptive layer configured to receive the pre-formed image and disposed on above the resin or adhesive layer, and wherein the die cut penetrates the marking receptive layer. 
     In Example 21, the image transfer sheet of Example 20 is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer comprises a plurality of metalized polyester particles. 
     In Example 22, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Example 20 or 21 is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer comprises a luminescent pigment. 
     In Example 23, a method comprises coating a base layer with a resin or adhesive layer; coating a marking receptive layer above the resin or adhesive layer, such that the resin or adhesive layer is disposed between the base layer and the marking receptive layer; and die cutting through the marking receptive layer and the resin or adhesive layer. 
     In Example 24, the method of Example 23 is optionally configured such that coating the base layer with a resin or adhesive layer includes coating the base layer with a resin or adhesive layer comprising a plurality of coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. 
     In Example 25, the method of at least one of Examples 23 or 24 optionally further comprises coating a decorative layer on the resin or adhesive layer, the decorative layer disposed between the resin or adhesive layer and the marking receptive layer. 
     In Example 26, the method of Example 25 is optionally configured such that coating a decorative layer includes coating a decorative layer comprising mica. 
     In Example 27, the method of at least one of Examples 25 or 26 is optionally configured such that coating a decorative layer includes coating a decorative layer comprising titanium oxide coated mica. 
     In Example 28, the method of at least one of Examples 25-27 is optionally configured such that coating a decorative layer includes coating a decorative layer comprising a plurality of coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. 
     In Example 29, the method of at least one of Examples 25-28 is optionally configured such that coating a decorative layer includes coating a decorative layer comprising a luminescent pigment. 
     In Example 30, the method of at least one of Examples 25-29 is optionally configured such that coating a decorative layer includes coating a decorative layer comprising carbon black. 
     In Example 31, an image transfer sheet comprises a base layer; a resin or adhesive layer disposed on the base layer; a marking receptive layer disposed above the resin or adhesive layer; and one or more image transfer articles, each article having a perimeter and including a portion of the image transfer sheet, the perimeter of each image transfer article defined by a set of perforations extending through the base layer, the resin or adhesive layer and the printable marking receptive layer, wherein each image transfer article is configured to be separable from the remaining portions of the image transfer sheet at the set of perforations. 
     In Example 32, the image transfer sheet of Example 31 optionally comprises a release layer disposed between the resin or adhesive layer and the base layer. 
     In Example 33, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31 or 32 is optionally configured such that the set of perforations define a rectangular shape. 
     In Example 34, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-33 is optionally configured such that the set of perforations define a circular shape. 
     In Example 35, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-34 is optionally configured such that the one or more image transfer articles include at least a first image transfer article defined by a first set of perforations and a second image transfer article defined by a second set of perforations. 
     In Example 36, the image transfer sheet of Example 35 is optionally configured such that the first image transfer article has a first shape defined by the first set of perforations and the second image transfer article has a second shape defined by the second set of perforations. 
     In Example 37, the image transfer sheet of Example 36 is optionally configured such that the first shape and the second shape are substantially similar. 
     In Example 38, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-37 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes a copolymer dispersion. 
     In Example 39, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-38 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer. 
     In Example 40, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-39 is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer includes a polyamide material. 
     In Example 41, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-40 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes a plurality of coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. 
     In Example 42, the image transfer sheet of Example 41 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes carbon black. 
     In Example 43, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 41 or 42 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer includes a luminescent material. 
     In Example 44, the image transfer sheet of at least one of Examples 31-43 is optionally configured such that the resin or adhesive layer comprises a polyamide copolymer; ethylene acrylic acid; and a wax emulsion. 
     In Example 45, an image transfer sheet comprises one or more perforated, separable image transfer articles, wherein each image transfer article includes, a silicone liner; a resin or adhesive layer disposed on the silicone; and a marking receptive layer disposed above the resin or adhesive layer. 
     In Example 46, the image transfer sheet of Example 45 optionally comprises a plurality of coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles disposed in the marking receptive layer. 
     In Example 47, a method comprises coating a base layer with a resin or adhesive layer; coating a marking receptive layer above the resin or adhesive layer, wherein the marking receptive layer is disposed on the resin or adhesive layer; and perforating the base layer, the resin or adhesive layer, and the marking receptive layer. 
     In Example 48, the method of Example 47 optionally comprises coating the base layer with a release agent disposed between the base layer and the resin or adhesive layer. 
     In Example 49, the method of at least one of Example 47 or 48 is optionally configured such that the base layer with a resin or adhesive layer includes coating the base layer with a resin or adhesive layer comprising a plurality of coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. 
     In Example 50, the method of at least one of Examples 47-49 is optionally configured such that coating the base layer with a marking receptive layer includes coating the base layer with a marking receptive layer including, a polyamide copolymer; ethylene acrylic acid; a wax emulsion; silica; and a polymethyl siloxane modified wax emulsion. 
     In Example 51, an image transfer sheet comprises a base layer; and a marking receptive layer including, marble; poly(ethylene oxide); polyethylene wax; and a hot melt, wherein the marking receptive layer is configured to transfer an image to a receptor element and further configured to dissipate the image upon washing the receptor element a predetermined number of times. 
     In Example 52, the image transfer sheet is optionally configured such that the marking receptive layer is configured to dissipate the image upon a single washing. 
     In Example 53, the image transfer article, sheet, method or kit of any one or any combination of Examples 1-52 is optionally configured such that all elements or options recited are available to use or select from. 
     These and other examples, advantages, and features of the present image transfer articles, sheets and methods will be set forth in part in following Detailed Description. This Overview is intended to provide non-limiting examples of the present subject matter—it is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation. The Detailed Description is included to provide further information about the image transfer articles, sheets and methods disclosed in the present patent document. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings, like numerals have been used to describe similar components throughout the several views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes have been used to represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present patent document. 
         FIG. 1  pictorially illustrates a method of transferring an image transfer article, including an image, to a receptor element, according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an image transfer article, including an image, according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a cross-sectional view of another image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a cross-sectional view of another image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a cross-sectional view of another image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a cross-sectional view of another image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 8A  illustrates an image transfer sheet, including a plurality of distinct image transfer articles separated by one or more die cuts, according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 8B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an image transfer sheet taken along a line similar to line B-B of  FIG. 8A , according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates an image transfer sheet, including a plurality of distinct images separated by perforations, according to at least one embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an example image transfer article  100  including a received image  102 . The image  102  can be captured on one or more ink or other marking receptive layers  101  of the image transfer article  100 , either before or after purchase of the article from a retailer. Subsequently, the image transfer article  100  can be applied to a receptor element  103 , such as a t-shirt, gym bag, apron, pillowcase, jersey or other display means, and the image  102  can be attached and adhered thereto. Other options for the receptor element include, for example, any textile, leather, ceramic, wool, glass, plastic, metal or canvas material. 
     The present image transfer article  100  provides outwardly-viewable decorative features  190  in addition to the image  102 . Such decorative features  190  can include article portions bearing elements such as, but not limited to, metallic flakes, metallic-like flakes, glitter materials, sparkle materials, luminescent materials (e.g., having a glow-in-the-dark effect), pearlescent materials, reflective materials, or combinations thereof. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of an example image transfer article  200 , including a received image  202 . The image transfer article  200  further includes one or more layers  204  possessing functional properties, decorative properties, or both functional and decorative properties. In the example shown, the image transfer article  200  includes a releasable liner or substrate  205  as one of the layers  204 . In various examples, the releasable liner or substrate  205  supports other image transfer article layers during fabrication, imaging (i.e., a marking process), or image transfer. For instance, during image transfer, the releasable liner or substrate  205  can provide a heat barrier when the image  202  is being adhered to a receptor element. As another example, during fabrication, coating techniques such as dipping, painting, spraying, gravure, off-set, reverse roll, extrusion or melt extrusion, or coating apparatus such as Meyer rods, slot dies, rollers, knifes or other blades, curtains or slides, can be used to apply image transfer article layers  204  to the releasable liner or substrate  205 . 
     Due to the structural configurations of the present image transfer articles  200 , a hand iron may be used to apply the image  202  to a receptor element within the confines of one&#39;s own home. As a result, a consumer is not locked into the narrow choice of apparel at commercial copy service locations. Instead, the consumer can simply copy, print or otherwise reproduce a desired image onto a present transfer article  200 , select from a wide variety of fabric garments readily available in retail stores or within the home, and effectuate an image transfer. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article  300  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The image transfer article  300  can include one or more of an ink or other marking receptive layer  310 , a decorative layer  311 , and a resin or adhesive layer  312 . In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  310  is configured to receive ink or toner from a printer or copier source. In other examples, the marking receptive layer  310  is configured to receive one or more markings generated by a marker, a pencil, a crayon, a dye sublimation process, a thermal pigment transfer process, or other toner, ink, or pigment-based imaging methods or apparatus. In various examples, the image transfer article  300  can include a releasable liner or substrate  305 . The releasable liner or substrate  305 , if present, can provide a base layer. Coatings applied to the base layer can form the decorative  311  and functional layers (e.g., the resin or adhesive layer  312  and/or the marking receptive layer  310 ) of the image transfer article  300 . 
     The process of applying an image to a receptor element depends, at least in part, on the structure of the image transfer article  300  bearing the image. In various examples, as noted above, the image transfer article  300  can include decorative features  390 , which, depending on their concentration, may form an opaque, semi-opaque, or other non-transparent layer. Using the chemical formulations disclosed herein, decorative image transfer articles having good clarity, sharpness and color are possible. In such examples, the image can be located above the non-transparent layer including the decorative features  390  and removal of the releasable liner or substrate  305  can expose a layer  312  including a resin or adhesive. The resin or adhesive layer  312  can be applied directly to a receptor element, such as a t-shirt, gym bag, apron, pillowcase, jersey, or other textile, leather ceramic, wool, glass, plastic, metal or canvas display means, when being transferred thereto and before the heating and/or pressure portion of the image transferring process. After applying the adhesive layer to the receptor element, the previously-removed releasable liner or substrate  305  or another releasable overlay article can be used to cover a top exposed surface of the image transfer article  300  and provide a heat barrier during the transfer process. After the heat and/or pressure are applied, the liner or substrate  305  or other removable overlay article can be peeled away from the image at various hot or cold temperatures and discarded. In some examples, the exposed surface of the image transfer article  300  is an ink or other marking receptive layer  310  bearing a received image. This configuration is sometimes referred to as a “peel first” image transfer article or structure. 
     In some examples, the releasable liner or substrate  305  is configured to remain as part of the image transfer article until post-transfer (to a receptor element), and provides a heat barrier during the heating and/or pressure application portions of the image transferring process. In one such example, the ink or other marking layer  310  bears a mirrored image, which can be applied directly to the receptor element, such as a t-shirt or other textile article, when being transferred thereto and before the heating and/or pressure portions of the image transferring process. After applying the ink or other marking layer  310  against the receptor element, heat and /or pressure are applied, and subsequently the releasable liner or substrate  305  can be removed (e.g., peeled) from the other layers of the image transfer article  300 . This configuration is sometimes referred to as a “peel after” image transfer article or structure, a “regular” image transfer article or structure, or a “reverse image” or “mirror” transfer article or structure. 
     In various examples, the resin or adhesive layer  312  can include an adhesive compound to attach the image to the receptor element. Compounds used for the resin or adhesive layer  312  can include, but are not limited to, an ethylene copolymer such as ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), ethylene methacrylic acid (EMAA), or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). In some examples, the EAA or EMAA includes a melt index from about 5 to about 2500, such as from about 10 to about 1300. In some examples, the EAA or EMAA includes an acrylic acid concentration from about 0% to about 30%, such as from about 1% to about 20% for emulsion purposes. In some examples, the EAA, EMAA or EVA includes a melt point temperature between about 43° C. to about 160° C. In some examples, the resin or adhesive layer  312  comprises EVA with a vinyl acetate content of about 3% to about 45%. In some examples, an EVA resin or adhesive layer also includes a wax emulsion to provide better adhesion and flexibility to the image transfer article  300 . In some examples, an EVA resin or adhesive layer  312  includes a carboxylic element to provide increased adhesion and toughness to the image transfer article  300 . 
       FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article  420  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2  and including a portion exhibiting pearlescent effects  490 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The cross-section shows that the image transfer article  420  can include one or more of a releasable liner or substrate  405 , a resin or adhesive layer  421 , a decorative layer  422 , and optionally an ink or other marking receptive layer  423 . If no distinct ink or other marking receptive layer  423  is present, a resin or adhesive layer  421  including EAA with or without a cross-linker (e.g., XAMA®7 (polyfunctional aziridine)) can receive markings, such as laser jet markings, for example. 
     The resin or adhesive layer  421  can operate to attach an image received by the image transfer article to a receptor element. As discussed above, the resin or adhesive layer  421  can be coated onto a top surface of the releasable liner or substrate  405  and can include an ethylene copolymer, such as, but not limited to, ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), ethylene methacrylic acid (EMAA), or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). 
     The decorative layer  422  can include pearlescent materials  490 , such that when the image transfer article  420  is applied to a receptor element, the transferred image includes a pearlescent background. In some examples, the pearlescent decorative layer  422  can be coated onto the resin or adhesive layer  421 . In some examples, the pearlescent decorative layer  422  includes a urethane polymer and a pearlescent pigment, such as coated mica particles. In some examples, the pearlescent decorative layer  422  includes an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosufactant in addition to the urethane polymer and pearlescent pigment. Optionally, the pearlescent decorative layer  422  can include iridescent-effect inorganic particles detectable via light or temperature. In some examples, the pearlescent pigment can be coated with the resin or adhesive layer  421  or the ink or other marking receptive layer  423 , such that one or more defined layers are formed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. 
     In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  423  can be coated onto the decorative layer  422 . The ink or other marking receptive layer  423  can comprise pores for receiving ink jet or laser jet ink, for example. One or both of the ink or other marking receptive layer  423  or the decorative layer  422  can also include at least one binding composition in an amount sufficient to chemically bind the ink within the layer. In various examples, the at least one binding composition includes a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 30° C., which the present inventors have found can reduce or inhibit flaking and cracking of a transferred image. The ink or other marking receptive layer  423  can optionally further include one or more of isopropyl alcohol, an ultrafine copolyamide, SMA (Styrene Maleic Anhydride resin), colloidal alumina, colloidal silica, polyester, a polyamide copolymer, polyurethane (optionally including surfactants such as Triton X-100, Triton 405, CT110, or Surfynol), acrylics with a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 70° C., vinyl acetate, polyethylene oxide (with or without plasticizers, such as up to about 30% plasticizer), a cationic polymer, an ionic or non-ionic die-fixing agent, a polymeric ammonium compound or surfactants including an oxtylphenol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant and an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosurfactant, silica particles, cationic silica, clay, cationic-modified silica (e.g., JETCOAT®30) or other cationic polymer. Additional components such as inorganic fillers, anti-curl agents, surfactants, plasticizers, humectants, UV absorbers, optical brighteners, light fastness enhancers, polymeric dispersants, dye mordents or leveling agents, may also be present in the ink or other marking receptive layer  423 . 
       FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article  530  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2  and including a metallic effect  590 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The cross-section shows that the image transfer article  530  can include one or more of a releasable liner or substrate  505 , a resin or adhesive layer  531 , a decorative layer  532 , and optionally an ink or other marking receptive layer  533 . If no distinct ink or other marking receptive layer  533  is present, a resin or adhesive layer  531  including EAA with or without a cross-linker (e.g., XAMA®7 (polyfunctional aziridine)) can receive markings, such as laser jet markings, for example. 
     The resin or adhesive layer  531 , if present, can include materials to adhere a received image to a receptor element. In some examples, the receptor element includes a building wall, such as when the image transfer article  530  is used as a wallpaper. As discussed above, the resin or adhesive layer  531  can be coated into a top surface of the releasable liner or substrate  405  and can include an ethylene copolymer, such as, but not limited to, ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), ethylene methacrylic acid (EMAA), or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). 
     The decorative layer  532  can include metallic or metallic-type materials  590  (e.g., titanium oxide and/or dioxide coated mica or tin oxide coated mica) such that when the image transfer article  530  is applied to a receptor element, the transferred image includes a metallic effect, either in the background of the image or integrated with or about a received image. In some examples, the metallic decorative layer  532  can be coated onto the resin or adhesive layer  531 . In some examples, the metallic decorative layer  532  can include a urethane polymer, a pearlescent pigment or carbon black. In some examples, the metallic decorative layer  532  can include an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosufactant in addition to the urethane polymer, pearlescent pigment or carbon black. Advantageously, the metallic decorative layer  532  can be formed without requiring a chemical reaction to take place. As a result, non-complex manufacturing and non-expensive manufacturing techniques can be used to create the metallic decorative layer  532 . 
     In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  533  can be coated onto the decorative layer  532 . The ink or other marking receptive layer  533  can comprise pores for receiving ink jet or laser jet ink, for example. One or both of the ink or other marking receptive layer  533  or the decorative layer  532  can also include at least one binding composition in an amount sufficient to chemically bind the ink within the layer. In various examples, the at least one binding composition includes a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 30° C., which the present inventors have found can reduce or inhibit flaking and cracking of a transferred image. The ink or other marking receptive layer  533  can optionally further include isopropyl alcohol, an ultrafine copolyamide, SMA (Styrene Maleic Anhydride resin), colloidal alumina, colloidal silica, polyester, a polyamide copolymer, polyurethane (optionally including surfactants such as Triton X-100, Triton 405, CT110, or Surfynol), acrylics with a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 70° C., vinyl acetate, polyethylene oxide (with or without plasticizers, such as up to about 30% plasticizer), a cationic polymer, an ionic or non-ionic die-fixing agent, a polymeric ammonium compound or surfactants including an oxtylphenol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant and an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosurfactant, silica particles, cationic silica, clay, cationic-modified silica (e.g., JETCOAT®30) or other cationic polymer. 
       FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article  640  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2  and including a sparkle effect  690 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The cross-section shows that the image transfer article  640  can include one or more of a releasable liner or substrate  605 , a resin or adhesive layer  641 , a decorative layer  642 , and optionally an ink or other marking receptive layer  643 . If no distinct ink or other marking receptive layer  643  is present, a resin or adhesive layer  641  including EAA with or without a cross-linker (e.g., XAMA®7 (polyfunctional aziridine)) can receive markings, such as laser jet markings, for example. 
     The resin or adhesive layer  641 , if present, can operate to attach an image received by the image transfer article to a receptor element. As discussed above, the resin or adhesive layer  641  can be coated onto a top surface of the releasable liner or substrate  605  and can include an ethylene copolymer, such as, but not limited to, ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), ethylene methacrylic acid (EMAA), or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). 
     The decorative layer  642  can include metallic particles or metallic-like particles  690  such that when the image transfer article  640  is applied to a receptor element, the transferred image includes sparkles integrated with or about a received image. In some examples, the decorative layer  642  can be coated onto a top surface of the resin or adhesive layer  641 . In some examples, the decorative layer  642  can include a urethane polymer and the sparkle material. In some examples, the sparkle material includes metallic or metallic-like particles with particle sizes of about 0.004 inches or less. In some examples, the sparkle material includes coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. In some examples, the decorative sparkle layer  642  includes an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosufactant in addition to the urethane polymer and sparkle material. 
     The ink or other marking receptive layer  643  can be coated onto the decorative layer  642 . The ink or other marking receptive layer  643  can comprise pores for receiving ink jet or laser jet ink, for example. One or both of the ink or other marking receptive layer  643  or the decorative layer  642  can also include at least one binding composition in an amount sufficient to chemically bind the ink within the layer. In various examples, the at least one binding composition includes a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 30° C., which the present inventors have found can reduce or inhibit flaking and cracking of a transferred image. In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  643  can optionally further include isopropyl alcohol, an ultrafine copolyamide, SMA (Styrene Maleic Anhydride resin), colloidal alumina, colloidal silica, polyester, a polyamide copolymer, polyurethane (optionally including surfactants such as Triton X-100, Triton 405, CT110, or Surfynol), acrylics with a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 70° C., vinyl acetate, polyethylene oxide (with or without plasticizers, such as up to about 30% plasticizer), a cationic polymer, an ionic or non-ionic die-fixing agent, a polymeric ammonium compound or surfactants including an oxtylphenol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant and an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosurfactant, silica particles, cationic silica, clay, cationic-modified silica (e.g., JETCOAT®30) or other cationic polymer. 
       FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of an image transfer article  750  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The cross-section shows the image transfer article  750  can include one or more of a releasable liner or substrate  705 , a decorative resin or adhesive layer  751 , and optionally an ink or other marking receptive layer  752 . If no distinct ink or other marking receptive layer  752  is present, a decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  including EAA with or without a cross-linker (e.g., XAMA®7 (polyfunctional aziridine)) can receive markings, such as laser jet markings, for example. In various examples, the base releasable liner or substrate  705  can include a release agent, such as silicone. In some examples, the releasable liner or substrate  705  does not include silicone. 
     The decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  can operate to adhere an image received by the image transfer article  750  to a receptor element. In some examples, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  is coated onto the releasable liner or substrate  705 . In some examples, as discussed above, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  includes an ethylene copolymer, such as, but not limited to, ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), ethylene methacrylic acid (EMAA), or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). 
     In addition to resin and the associated adhering function, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  can also include one or more decorative materials. In some examples, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  includes a glitter material  790 . The glitter material can include metallic or metallic-like particles with particle sizes of about 0.002 inches, for example. In some examples, the glitter material can include coated aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles. In some examples, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  can include luminescent materials  790  such that upon transfer of an image to a receptor element, the image, or portions thereof, glow in the dark including fluorescent and/or phosphorescent material such as, for example, alkaline earth aluminates. In some examples, the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751  can include both glitter particles and glow pigment. 
     The ink or other marking receptive layer  752  can be located proximate the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751 , opposite the releasable liner or substrate  705 . In various examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  752  is coated onto the decorative resin or adhesive layer  751 . The ink or other marking receptive layer  752  can include one or more of a polyamide copolymer, polyurethane, amide solids, ethylene acrylic acid, micronized polyethylene wax, a poly-dimethyl siloxane modified wax emulsion, or polyvinylpyrrolidone. The ink or other marking receptive layer  752  can optionally further include one or more of isopropyl alcohol, an ultrafine copolyamide, SMA (Styrene Maleic Anhydride resin), colloidal alumina, colloidal silica, polyester, a polyamide copolymer, polyurethane (optionally including surfactants such as Triton X-100, Triton 405, CT110, or Surfynol), acrylics with a glass transition temperature (T g ) between about −40° C. up to about 70° C., vinyl acetate, polyethylene oxide (with or without plasticizers, such as up to about 30% plasticizer), a cationic polymer, an ionic or non-ionic die-fixing agent, a polymeric ammonium compound or surfactants including an oxtylphenol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactant and an ethoxylated non-ionic fluorosurfactant, silica particles, cationic silica, clay, cationic-modified silica (e.g., JETCOAT®30) or other cationic polymer. 
     Upon transfer and application of a received image to a receptor element, the ink or other marking receptive layer  752  can provide a “soft touch” to the transferred image, such that it is difficult to discern by touch where the perimeter of an image transfer article begins and ends on a receptor element, such as a fabric or other textile material. The “soft touch” nature of the transferred image can provide more comfort where the receptor element is worn by a user, such as a t-shirt or infant clothing for example, and can be made possible through the use of a wax emulsion. The present inventors have found that the incorporation of a wax emulsion into one or both of the ink or other marking receptive layer  752  or the resin or adhesive layer  751  can provide better flexibility and feel to the image transfer article  750 . 
     In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  752  can include decorative materials such as glitter particles, glow pigment, or both glitter particles and glow pigment. In the illustrated image transfer article  750 , an image can be applied to the ink or other marking receptive layer  752  as a mirror or reverse image of the image that is expressed after the image is transferred to a receptor element. Optionally, the glitter particles, glow pigment, or both the glitter particles and glow pigment are located in a layer distinct from the resin or adhesive layer  751  and the ink or other marking receptive layer  752 . 
       FIG. 8A  illustrates an image transfer sheet  860 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The image transfer sheet  860  can include a releasable liner or substrate  805 , one or more layers  864  on the liner or substrate  805 , and one or more depth-controlled die cuts  865  at least partially defining one or more individual image transfer articles  866 . The image transfer sheet  860  can include an ink or other marking receptive layer  863  positioned above the releasable liner or substrate  805 . In some examples, the ink or other marking receptive layer  863  includes ink indicia forming an image  867  thereon. In some examples, one or more of the images  867  are added by a user of the image transfer sheet  860 . Such images may be applied using an ink jet printer for example, but the addition of an image  867  is not so limited. Manual drawing with a pen, spray paint, brushing, stenciling or other marking instrument include other non-limiting examples of how a user may add an image to the ink or other marking receptive layer  863  of the image transfer sheet  860 . 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an image transfer sheet  860  taken along a line similar to line B-B of  FIG. 8A , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The image transfer sheet  860  can include a releasable liner or substrate  805  and one or more layers  864  making up one or more image transfer articles  866 , each including one or more of a resin or adhesive layer  861 , a decorative layer  862 , and optionally an ink or other marking receptive layer  863 . The cross-sectional view of the image transfer sheet  860  further illustrates a controlled-depth of one or more die cuts  865 . The depth-controlled die cuts  865  can penetrate the ink or other marking receptive layer  863 , the decorative layer  862 , and the resin or adhesive layer  861 . 
     Upon applying an image to the ink or other marking receptive layer  863 , whether pre-printed prior to purchase or printed by a user, the die cuts  865  can allow each image transfer article  866  to be individually released from the liner or substrate  805 . In various examples, an individual image transfer article  866  can be removed from the sheet  860 , thus separating it from the releasable liner  805 . The image transfer article  866  can then be applied to a receptor element such that the resin or adhesive layer  861  contacts a surface of the receptor element. A heat barrier, such as a tack resistant silicone overlay sheet, can be placed over an exposed image  867  received by layer  863  of the individual image transfer article  866 , and heat and/or pressure can subsequently be applied to attach the image  867  to the receptor element. The applied heat and/or pressure can melt portions of the resin or adhesive layer  861  to attach the image  867  to the receptor element, the heat can also melt resin at or near the ink or other means forming the image to encapsulate and embed the ink therein. The heat barrier can then be removed, post application of heat and/or pressure, revealing the transferred image on the receptor element. 
     In various examples, the image transfer sheet can include one or more die cuts that defines one or more image transfer articles, each including one or more of a releasable liner or substrate, a resin or adhesive layer, or and an ink or other marking receptive layer, such as is described in association with  FIG. 7 . The die cuts can penetrate the ink or other marking receptive layer and the resin or adhesive layer. Application of an image to a receptor element can include applying the ink or other marking receptive layer to the receptor element, applying heat and/or pressure to the releasable liner or substrate and removing the releasable liner or substrate to reveal the image on the receptor element. In such examples, the image applied to the image transfer sheet, or the individual image transfer articles, is a reverse image of that revealed once the image is transferred (post application of heat and/or pressure) to the receptor element. 
     In various examples, a die-cut image transfer sheet is included in a kit of pre-printed image transfer sheets (i.e., image transfer sheets printed prior to purchase at a retailer). Pre-printed die cut image transfer sheets may or may not include an ink receptive layer. In some examples, images are applied to the image transfer sheets using ink jet printers, offset printers, flexographic printers and the associated inks (e.g., non-plastisol inks), thermal wax ribbon printers and copies, laser toner copiers, etc. In various embodiments, pre-printed image transfer sheets include one or more of the following features or components: luminescent pigments, titanium oxide and/or dioxide coated mica, tin oxide coated mica, carbon black, metallic particles such as aluminum metalized polyethylene terephthalate particles, or a vanishing resin or adhesive layer as further described below. 
     In use, the pre-printed image transfer articles can simply be peeled from the die cut image transfer sheet, after purchase, positioned on the receptor element, and then heated to transfer the pre-printed image via either a “regular” or “peel first” method, as discussed above. In some examples, a disposable barrier (e.g., a tack resistant silicone overlay sheet) is used between the heat source and the image transfer article when transferring the image. 
     In some examples, pre-printed image transfer sheets are included in a kit. In some examples, a pre-printed image transfer sheet kit includes one or more image transfer sheets bearing images related to a particular theme, such as a holiday, special occasion or a composite image where each image transfer article of an image transfer sheet is a portion of the composite image. The kit can further include instructions on a how to transfer the image to a receptor element, such as instructions and options on how to properly position image transfer articles on the receptor element for a composite image. In some examples, the kit can include one or more disposable heat barrier sheets. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an image transfer sheet  970 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The sheet  970  includes a plurality of image transfer articles  976  at least partially defined by one or more perforation cuts  975 . One or more layers of the sheet  970  are shown peeled back from a releasable liner or substrate  905  at a corner of the sheet to illustrate the perforation cuts  975 , which extend through all the layers of the image transfer sheet, including the releasable liner or substrate  905 . The perforated cuts  975  can allow removal of an individual image transfer article  976  from the sheet  970 . As an example, the image transfer article  976   a  is shown removed from the sheet  970 . 
     Options for image transfer sheets  970  including one or more image transfer articles  976  at least partially defined by perforation cuts are numerous. In some examples, removed image transfer articles  976  include the releasable liner or substrate  905 , as well as, other functional or decorative layers of the image transfer sheet  970 . In some examples, each image transfer article  976  includes one or more of an ink receptive layer, a decorative layer, a resin or adhesive layer, a decorative resin or adhesive layer, or a releasable liner or substrate  905 , such as the combinations and options described throughout this patent document. In various some examples, the image transfer sheet  970  includes pre-printed images, images printed by the user, or pre-printed images and areas on each image transfer article allowing additional image application by the user. It is to be understood that various sized and shaped image transfer articles can be created with the depth-controlled die cuts or perforation cuts without departing from the scope of the present subject matter including, but not limited to, shapes associated with birthdays, anniversaries, holidays or religious occasions, for example. Previously, end users have been limited to using a pre-set design or a single image that they have printed to the image transfer sheet. This invention opens up an entirely new method for end users to customize their end product. The end user can now configure a unique image regardless of whether they are using a pre-printed set of images or printing their own. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an image transfer article  1080  taken along a line similar to line A-A of  FIG. 2 , according to at least one example of the present subject matter. The article  1080  can include a base layer  1082  (e.g., releasable liner or substrate) and an at least partially vanishing layer  1081 . In some examples, the vanishing layer  1081  includes one or more layers coated on the base layer  1082 . In some examples, the vanishing layer  1081  is back-treated, such as with a corona treatment or water. The image transfer article  1080  is configured to receive an image, such as from an ink jet printer, and transfer the image to a receptor element, for example a t-shirt. The transfer process transfers the image and the vanishing layer  1081 . 
     The vanishing layer  1081  is configured to hold or sustain the image on the receptor element until the receptor element is washed a predetermined number of times (e.g., a single washing or multiple washings). In some examples, the pores of, and binding composition amounts within, the vanishing layer  1081  are adjusted to achieve the predetermined washout number. In various examples, the vanishing layer  1081  includes a thermoplastic, water-soluble resin which provides a low bond to receptor elements, such as fabric, and is ink-jet printable. The water-soluble nature of the resin can allow received ink or other image pigment to wash out after the predetermined number of times. The thermoplastic nature of the resin allows for easy heat transfer with low bond. In use, the received image pigment acts as a collating agent that, when washed out, takes at least a portion of bond with it. In various examples, at least one binding composition in a low concentration relative to the vanishing layer  1081  weight is used to chemically bind the image pigment within the layer without precluding washability and dye drying. 
     Upon washing the predetermined number of times, the image disappears, thus allowing the t-shirt to be redecorated with another image, such as via the image transfer articles and methods described throughout this patent document. Such an image transfer article  1080  allows temporary decoration of receptor elements such as, but not limited to, t-shirts, hats, socks, hand bags and backpacks. In one example, temporary decoration of a receptor element may include decorating a receptor element with a holiday theme, washing the receptor element to erase the holiday theme after the holiday and then repeating the temporary decoration of the receptor element for subsequent holidays or events. 
     In various examples, a temporary image transfer kit can include one or more pre-printed vanishing image transfer sheets (including one or more articles at least partially defined by one or more die or perforation cuts) or articles that include a theme, such as, a Halloween theme or a birthday theme, for example. In some examples, the kit can include a receptor element upon which to transfer the pre-printed images of the vanishing image transfer articles or sheets. In some examples, each vanishing image transfer article or sheet can include a base layer coated with a vanishing layer solution including water, isopropyl alcohol, fine particle marble, poly(ethylene oxide) having a molecular weight between about 100,000 to about 8 million, a large particle polyethylene wax and a hot melt. In some examples, the base layer is coated twice to form the vanishing layer. 
     EXPERIMENTAL EXAMPLES 
     In order that the present image transfer articles, sheets and methods can be more fully understood, the following examples are given by way of illustration but not limitation. 
     Experimental Example 1 
     Articles or Sheets Including Pearlescent Effects 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams per 
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 square meter (gsm) dry) 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Resin or  
                 Formula 
                 In some examples, between about 2.5 to 75; 
                 40.00% 
                 26 
               
               
                 Adhesive Layer 
                 A 
                 in some examples, between about 6 to 60; 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 and in some examples, between about 12 to 35 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Decorative  
                 Formula 
                 In some examples, between about 19 to 82; 
                 51.94% 
                 32 
               
               
                 Layer 
                 E 
                 in some examples, between about 24 to 59; 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 and in some examples, between about 26 to 30 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ink or Other  
                 Formula  
                 In some examples, between about 2 to 80; in 
                 26.50% 
                 30 
               
               
                 Marking 
                 C 
                 some examples, between about 4 to 45; and 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Receptive Layer 
                   
                 in some examples, between about 6 to 30 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Example 2 
     Articles or Sheets Including Metallic 
     Effects 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams per  
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 square meter (gsm) dry) 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Resin or  
                 Formula 
                 In some examples, between about 2.5 to 75; 
                 40.00% 
                 26 
               
               
                 Adhesive  
                 A 
                 in some examples, between about 6 to 60; 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 and in some examples, between about 12 to 35 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Decorative  
                 Formula 
                 In some examples, between about 19 to 82; 
                 51.85% 
                 32 
               
               
                 Layer 
                 D 
                 in some examples, between about 24 to 59; 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 and in some examples, between about 26 to 30 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ink or Other  
                 Formula 
                 In some examples, between about 2 to 80; in 
                 26.50% 
                 30 
               
               
                 Marking  
                 C 
                 some examples, between about 4 to 45; and 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Receptive 
                   
                 in some examples, between about 6 to 30 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Example 3 
     Articles or Sheets Including Sparkle Effects 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams per  
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 square meter (gsm) dry) 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Resin or  
                 Formula A 
                 In some examples, between about 2.5 to 
                 40.00% 
                 26 
               
               
                 Adhesive 
                   
                 75; in some examples, between about 6 to 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 60; and in some examples, between about 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 12 to 35 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Decorative  
                 Formula B 
                 In some examples, between about 19 to 
                 51.97% 
                 34 
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 82; in some examples, between about 24 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 to 59; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 about 40 to 46 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ink or Other  
                 Formula C 
                 In some examples, between about 2 to 
                 26.50% 
                 30 
               
               
                 Marking  
                   
                 80; in some examples, between about 4 to 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Receptive 
                   
                 45; and in some examples, between about 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 6 to 30 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Example 4 
     Articles or Sheets Including Glitter Effects 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams per  
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 square meter (gsm) dry) 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Decorative  
                 Formula F 
                 In some examples, between about 5 to 
                 36.06% 
                 55 
               
               
                 Resin or 
                   
                 130; in some examples, between about 10 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Adhesive  
                   
                 to 90; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 about 20 to 65 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ink or Other  
                 Formula G 
                 In some examples, between about 4 to 
                 33.00% 
                 34 
               
               
                 Marking 
                   
                 100; in some examples, between about 8 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Receptive  
                   
                 to 75; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 about 15 to 45 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Example 5 
     Articles or Sheets Including Glow Effects 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams per  
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 square meter (gsm) dry) 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Decorative  
                 Formula I 
                 In some examples, between about 3 to 
                 39.54% 
                 36 
               
               
                 Resin or  
                   
                 108; in some examples, between about 10 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Adhesive  
                   
                 to 80; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 about 15 to 45 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ink or Other  
                 Formula G 
                 In some examples, between about 4 to 
                 33.00% 
                 34 
               
               
                 Marking  
                   
                 100; in some examples, between about 8 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Receptive 
                   
                 to 75; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 about 15 to 45 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
               
                 Optionally, EAA/EVA/PE can be coated from about 6 gsm to about 70 gsm, plus 20% glow pigment. 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Example 6 
     Articles or Sheets Including Vanish Effects 
       
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Coat Weight (grams  
                 Coating 
                 Approx. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 per square meter (gsm) dry 
                 Solids 
                 Rod Size 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Vanishing  
                 Formula H 
                 In some examples, between about 3 to 110; 
                 22.90% 
                 42 
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 in some examples, between about 5 to 85; 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 and in some examples, between about 10 to 50 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Optional  
                 Formula H 
                 In some examples, between about 3 to 
                 22.90% 
                 26 
               
               
                 Second  
                   
                 110; in some examples, between about 5 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Vanishing  
                   
                 to 85; and in some examples, between 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Layer 
                   
                 about 10 to 50 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Coated on releasable liner or substrate 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Experimental Formulas 
       
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula A 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) 
                 100.00000% 
               
               
                   
                 Dispersion or EVA Melt Extruded 
                   
               
               
                   
                 or Blend EVA/EAA or 
                   
               
               
                   
                 EVA/Surlin 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 38% to 42% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula B 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Polyurethane Dispersion 
                 50% to 90% 
               
               
                   
                 Glitter 
                 10% to 35% 
               
               
                   
                 Surfactant 
                 0% to 2% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 50% to 54% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula C 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 R.O. Water 
                 48% to 52%  
               
               
                   
                 Silica 
                 2% to 22% 
               
               
                   
                 Non-Ionic Surfactant 
                 0% to 2%  
               
               
                   
                 Polyamide Polymer 
                 3% to 30% 
               
               
                   
                 Polyurethane Dispersion 
                 9% to 40% 
               
               
                   
                 Dye Fix 
                 0% to 15% 
               
               
                   
                 Surfactant 
                 0% to 2%  
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 24.5% to 28.5% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula D 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Polyurethane Dispersion 
                 50% to 90% 
               
               
                   
                 Metallic Effect Pigment 
                 18% to 22% 
               
               
                   
                 Carbon Black Dispersion 
                 0% to 2% 
               
               
                   
                 Surfactant 
                 0% to 2% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 50% to 54% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula E 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Polyurethane Dispersion 
                 50% to 90% 
               
               
                   
                 Metallic Effect Pigment 
                 18% to 22% 
               
               
                   
                 Surfactant 
                 0% to 2% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 50% to 54% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula F 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) 
                 94% to 98% 
               
               
                   
                 Dispersion or EVA Melt Extruded 
                   
               
               
                   
                 or Blend EVA/EAA or 
                   
               
               
                   
                 EVA/Surlin 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Glitter 
                 2% to 6% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 34% to 38% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula G 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Water 
                 35% to 39%  
               
               
                   
                 Isopropyl Alcohol 
                 1% to 5%  
               
               
                   
                 Polyamide Polymer 
                 3% to 30% 
               
               
                   
                 Wax 
                 1% to 15% 
               
               
                   
                 Amine 
                 0% to 2%  
               
               
                   
                 Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Polymer 
                 13% to 17%  
               
               
                   
                 Wax 
                 5% to 45% 
               
               
                   
                 Wax 
                 0% to 17% 
               
               
                   
                 Water Soluble Polymer 
                 0% to 25% 
               
               
                   
                 Surfactant 
                 0% to 2%  
               
               
                   
                 Cationic Polymer 
                 0% to 30% 
               
               
                   
                 Silicone Wax 
                 0% to 20% 
               
               
                   
                 Silica 
                 2% to 22% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 31% to 35% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula H 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 R.O. Water 
                 68% to 72%  
               
               
                   
                 Water Soluble Polymer 
                 0.2% to 20%  
               
               
                   
                 Inorganic Pigment 
                 0% to 25% 
               
               
                   
                 Silica 
                 1% to 23% 
               
               
                   
                 Polyamide Polymer 
                 2% to 40% 
               
               
                   
                 Wax Dispersion 
                 0.5% to 22%  
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 21% to 25% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     
       
         
           
               
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Formula I 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Raw Material 
                 Weight Percentage 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Acrylic Acid Copolymer 
                 50% to 97% 
               
               
                   
                 Dispersion 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Glow-In-The-Dark Pigment 
                  3% to 25% 
               
               
                   
                 Solids: 38% to 40% 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Closing Notes: 
     The present image transfer articles, sheets and methods provide decorative effects, that have not been a part of the standard image transfer process, incorporating metallic flakes, metallic-like flakes, glitter, sparkle, luminescent materials (e.g., having a glow-in-the-dark effect), pearlescent materials, reflective materials, or combinations thereof. Further, the invention allows for a new degree of creativity for the end user by providing the ability to uniquely create their own images by placing the pre-printed or personally made images into their own design. Accordingly, image transfers that meet high quality standards with respect to decorative materials, brightness, color options, uniqueness, clarity without bleeding or mottling, opacity, dry strength and wet strength are now possible. 
     The above Detailed Description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the Detailed Description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” The present subject matter may be embodied in specific forms other than those described above or illustrated by the appended drawings. Upon reviewing the present patent document, embodiments and other descriptions of the present subject matter, variations and other implementations that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter will be apparent to one of routine skill in the this field. Such variations and other implementations are considered part of the present invention and within the scope of the appended claims. 
     Referred to herein may be trade names for materials including, but not limited to, polymers and optional components. The present subject matter is not intended to be limited by the materials described and referenced by a particular trade name. Equivalent materials may be substituted and utilized in the apparatus and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. 
     In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, references to “an,” “one,” or “various” embodiments are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate more than one embodiment. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
     In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, assembly, device, article, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. 
     The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.