1. Design

How to Cut Heat Transfer Vinyl on Cricut Maker: Easy Guide

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Hey crafters! Hope you are doing well! Today, I have come up with an interesting topic on how to cut heat transfer vinyl on Cricut Maker. If you are going to make your first project or just want some clarity on the use of HTV, you have come to the right blog!

A few years ago, when I was new to crafting, I was unable to figure out between vinyl and infusible ink sheets. Also, I used to think that I could use all types of materials on any project. But, I learned that the right material can really give an outstanding result. I learned everything about materials while making different types of projects. When I created the project myself, I could really see the difference, and I could decide which one to use in my project.

Besides, I will show you how to cut iron-on using Cricut Maker with step-by-step instructions. To learn more about this, let’s delve into this blog.

Step 1: Choose a Cricut Machine in the Design Space

As you already know, this blog is about how to cut heat transfer vinyl on Cricut Maker, so I am going to choose the Cricut Maker in the Design Space app. For this tutorial, the Cricut software is a must. Without this software, we can’t make a single cut on any materials.

To select this machine in your Cricut Design app, follow the instructions given below:

  1. First, open the Design Space app.
  2. Then, you need to go to Canvas. 
  3. Navigate to the upper right corner and click onthe Dropdown arrow.
  4. Next, select the machine you want to use.
  5. For example, here I am choosing Cricut Maker.

Step 2: Add the Design

There are many options available to add the design. You can either create one or upload an SVG file. You can easily get this file from Cricut Access. Once you are ready with your design, you can resize it according to your project.

 

Once the design is completely ready, you need to click on the Make It button located in the upper right-hand corner.

Step 3: Preparation Before the Cutting Process 

Now, we have to do some preparation; then, I will teach you how to cut heat transfer vinyl on Cricut Maker. So far, you might have created your design, and now it is ready to be cut. But there is one thing you should not forget, which is Mirroring the design. Yes, mirroring a HTV design is a must.

Once you have mirrored the image, you need to hit the Continue button.

After that, you will need to set the material. As you proceed ahead, you will see a list of custom materials. Select the materials you are going to use. For example, I am choosing iron-on vinyl, i.e., heat transfer vinyl.

After that, you have to place the material on the mat. While placing it on the mat, make sure the shiny side is facing down on the mat.

Finally, you need to load the mat by pressing the flashing arrow button. Once done, you are ready to learn how to cut heat transfer vinyl on Cricut Maker in the next section.

Step 4: Cut the Cricut Heat Transfer Vinyl

Here, you need to ensure that you have installed the fine-point blade in your Maker cutting machine. Once the tool is inserted, you can press the flashing C button on your Maker machine to begin cutting the heat transfer vinyl.

 

So, that’s how easy it is to cut the heat transfer vinyl on Cricut. After cutting it, you can easily place it on your blank shirt. But, you will need a Heat Press, such as a Cricut EasyPress. This tool will help you preheat the project and transfer the vinyl onto the project.

FAQs

Question 1: Can I cut the heat transfer vinyl using my hand?

Answer: Yes, you can cut the heat transfer vinyl with your hand, and you don’t need any type of cutting machine such as Cricut Maker, Explore, or Joy series. All you need to use is a pair of scissors or a craft knife. However, cutting it using your hands is only useful when your designs are not that intricate. For intricate designs, I would suggest you use a digital cutting machine.

Question 2: Should I mirror heat transfer vinyl?

Answer: Yes, you should always mirror your heat transfer vinyl whenever you are going to cut it on Cricut. In addition, you will need to place the materials facing the downside on the mat and cut it from the back with your design. After that, press it with the transfer sheet upside down on your blank shirt. As a result, it will adhere to your shirt or other blank properly.

Question 3: What is the advantage of using heat transfer vinyl?

Answer: There are numerous advantages of using these materials, as they provide a high degree of stretch and rebound. Due to this, it is suitable for apparel and other items that are flexible, such as clothes or sports jerseys. Also, there are multiple color options available so that you can customize your clothes or items accordingly.

Final Words

You might have cleared your concept of how to cut heat transfer vinyl on Cricut Maker. In this blog, I have included a total of 4 steps to explain the process of cutting iron-on vinyl, which is also known as heat transfer vinyl. Also, the HTV provides its own benefits and is very suitable for fabrics or sports jerseys. In addition, the Cricut Maker can easily cut the iron-on vinyl using the fine-point blade. So, follow easy steps and learn to cut heat transfer vinyl for Cricut.