Mirror PDF for PCB Toner Transfer
Flip your circuit board design for DIY PCB etching
Drop your PDF here or browse
Max file size: 50 MB
How to Use This Tool
- Upload your design - Drop your PDF file or click to browse. Works with any PDF up to 50MB.
- Click Mirror PDF - We'll flip your design horizontally (left becomes right).
- Print on glossy paper - Use a laser printer to print on glossy magazine paper or dedicated transfer paper.
- Transfer & etch - Iron onto copper-clad board, then etch to create your PCB.
Why Mirror Your PCB Design?
The toner transfer method works by printing your circuit layout with a laser printer, then transferring the toner to a copper-clad board using heat. Since the printed side faces down against the copper during transfer, your design must be mirrored.
Your final PCB design should be a mirrored black-and-white image of the copper pattern for the bottom layer of the PCB. Without mirroring, all your traces, pads, and component footprints will be reversed.
Pro Tip
For best results, use 600 DPI resolution and print on glossy magazine paper or the waxy backing from label sheets. The toner needs a non-porous surface to release cleanly during transfer. Always do a test transfer first!
When to Mirror Your PCB
- Bottom copper layer - Always mirror the bottom layer - this is the side that faces down during transfer.
- Single-sided boards - For simple single-sided PCBs, mirror the entire design before printing.
- Double-sided boards - Mirror the bottom layer; the top layer orientation depends on your alignment method.
- SMD component side - If placing SMD components on the bottom, ensure pads are mirrored for correct orientation.
When NOT to Mirror
- Top layer (some methods) - Depending on your double-sided alignment technique, the top layer may not need mirroring.
- Silkscreen/legend layer - Component labels and reference designators typically aren't mirrored.
- Direct UV exposure - If using photoresist with the film on top, mirroring depends on your film orientation.
- CNC milling - For CNC-milled PCBs, mirroring usually isn't required.
Works with Popular PCB Design Tools
Export your design as PDF from any PCB software including:
- KiCad (free, open source)
- Eagle / Autodesk Eagle
- EasyEDA
- Altium Designer
- Fritzing
Toner Transfer Tips
- Clean the copper - Scrub the copper-clad board with fine steel wool or sandpaper, then clean with isopropyl alcohol.
- Use proper paper - Glossy magazine paper, photo paper, or Pulsar toner transfer paper works best.
- Iron at high heat - Set your iron to maximum (no steam). Apply firm, even pressure for 2-5 minutes.
- Soak and peel - Soak the board in warm water until the paper releases, then gently peel away.
- Touch up if needed - Use a permanent marker to fix any broken traces before etching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to create an account?
No! This tool is completely free and requires no signup. Just upload, mirror, and download.
Is my file secure?
Yes. Your files are automatically deleted from our servers after 1 hour. We don't store, share, or analyze your designs.
Can I use an inkjet printer?
No, the toner transfer method requires a laser printer. Inkjet ink is water-based and won't transfer properly. The toner from laser printers is a heat-activated wax that releases onto copper.
What resolution should I use?
600 DPI is recommended. At 300 DPI, traces thinner than 0.17mm (about 7 mils) may be unreliable. Avoid traces thinner than 0.2mm for best results.
My design software has a mirror option. Should I use both?
No! Use either this tool OR your software's mirror setting, but not both. Mirroring twice will give you the original (non-mirrored) result, and your PCB will be backwards.
What etchant should I use?
Ferric chloride is traditional, but a mix of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is cheaper and transparent so you can see the etching progress. Always follow safety precautions with chemicals.
Can I mirror an image file instead of PDF?
This tool is specifically for PDFs. If you have a PNG or other image, you can convert it to PDF first, or use an image editor like GIMP (Tools > Transform > Flip).