A direct image-recording material has a layer of a thermosensitive layer formed on a thin substrate. The substrate comprises an organic polymeric material that is substantially transparent and colorless and has a thickness no greater than about 10 .mu.m. Preferred embodiments of the invention further include a support sheet with an interposed first adhesive layer on the thermosensitive composition layer. Other preferred embodiments further include a second adhesive layer and a backing sheet, which may be releasable, on the support sheet.