Whether you’re new to Cricut crafting or just haven’t tried an iron on yet, this tutorial is the perfect starting place to get you ready to dive right on in!
Matt and I will be walking you through exactly how to create a custom t-shirt using Cricut Everyday Iron On… And trust me, it’s SO easy!
Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cricut Machine (we’ll be using the Cricut Explore Air – more on that in just a second!)
- Cricut Iron-On
- Cricut EasyPress2
- Cricut EasyPress Mat
- Cricut Weeding tools
First things first, if you haven’t chosen a Cricut Machine yet, the Cricut Explore family is the perfect starter machine. It is ideal for basic projects and cuts iron-on, adhesive, and paper products like a dream.
If you’re wanting to do more advanced projects, you may want to consider upgrading to the Cricut Maker which can cut thicker materials such as chipboard and basswood. It also comes with Cricut’s Adaptive Tool System that allows you to swap in new tools as they become available – meaning you won’t have to upgrade your machine again any time soon!
Step 1: Design
Start by creating your design in Cricut DesignSpace.
Today we’re creating a simple design using the Text Tool. Type out what you’d like your design to say, move it around to create the layout you want, adjust the size to fit your shirt, and press the “Make It” button.
When working with heat transfer vinyl you want to cut your design in reverse, so remember to ALWAYS mirror your design before you start cutting!
Step 2: Cutting
Now it’s time to load your vinyl onto your mat. When working with iron on vinyl you always place the vinyl shiny side down when you put it on your mat.
To load your mat onto your machine align it up against the wheels, putting just a little bit of pressure against the wheels so that it has good tension, then press the load button (the button with the arrows).
Once your mat has successfully loaded into the machine, you’ll see the flashing C button telling you you’re ready to cut.
Now it’s time to let your machine do the work!
Step 3: Weeding
Once your machine has finished cutting, you’re ready to weed away the excess vinyl and reveal your final design!
You can start at one corner and gently peel away the excess vinyl using your fingers or a weeding tool. Don’t forget to remove the small inside areas of each letter as well.
Step 4: Press and Peel
Now that your design has been weeded, you’re ready to press it onto your shirt.
For this project, we’re using the extra-large 12×10 EasyPress2 and the extra-large EasyPress Mat.
Place your design on your t-shirt and apply a bit of pressure. The evenly heated plate of the EasyPress will adhere your vinyl to your t-shirt in 60 seconds or less.
To find the exact time and temperature for the type of iron on vinyl you’re using, CLICK HERE.
Cricut Iron-On is a cool peel material, so you’ll want to give it a minute or two to cool down before peeling away your carrier sheet.
And that’s it! See, I told you it was easy! So, what are you waiting for, grab your supplies, and get started on a project of your very own!
If you enjoyed this tutorial, head over to YouTube to see this project in action! And while you’re there be sure to subscribe to my channel for lots of crafting tips, tricks, and more tutorials just like this one!
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