Sublimation is a process where crafters can print a design on materials like fabric, wood, metal, ceramic, or glass using heat and pressure. In order to create a brand-like and long-lasting sublimation design, Cricut machines are the smartest available devices and tools. Also, the sublimation process can help you create various amazing DIY products. But, if you are a beginner, you must know the correct process. In order to help you with that, this blog post will share all the nuts and bolts of how to do sublimation with Cricut. So, without causing any further delay, let's make your first sublimation project.
What Do You Need to Create a Sublimation Project?
Before you know how to do sublimation with Cricut, you must know the supplies you require to complete the project.
- A Cricut cutting machine.
- Sublimation ink and paper.
- A heat press.
- Cricut plotter.
- Parchment paper.
- Light grip mat.
- A Cricut heat press machine.
However, the supplies can differ from project to project. Also, you need weeding tools to finish the project.
The Process of How to Do Sublimation With Cricut Machines
Once you have gathered all the things you require to create the project, you can move with the process to create the project. However, to get more accurate results, you need to calibrate the Cricut cutting machine you are using. (Go to the below section of this blog to learn the Calibration process.)
Step 1: Create or Upload an Image in the Design Space
- First, you have to open the Cricut Design Space on your computer device. (also, make sure to download the ICC profiles on your PC to get outstanding results.)
- Then, you can upload the image or create a new design using the templates on the app.
- If you want to remove the background of the design, then choose the ‘Select' feature.
- Now, you are required to click on the option of Print Then Cut.
Step 2: Prepare the Image for Print
- Before you select the image, make sure you have mirrored the image.
- While preparing your design to print, make sure its size is not more than 9.25 by 6.5 inches.
- Also, you can add some text or other images if you want.
- After that, click on the Make it option.
Step 3: Print the Design on Sublimation Material
- Now, you can select the Cricut sublimation printer to print the design.
- Also, make sure you have turned ON the system dialogue option.
- After that, click on the Print option.
- You need to select the print quality to normal to get the result.
- If the pop-up, then choose the sublimation printer and fix the color correlation.
- Now, your printer will print the design.
Step 4: Cut the Design Using the Cricut Cutting Machine
- Load the printer design on your Light Grip Mat and feed it into your cutting machine.
- Next, press the “C” button on your Cricut machine to start the cut.
- Once the design is cut, it will be ready to sublimate on products like clothes, mugs, or others.
The Process to Sublimate the Design of a Product
Now, you can choose a product you like to stick to the design. We are taking the example of sublimation on a fabric using the Cricut Easy Press machine.
- Turn on the Cricut Easy Press and refer to the heat guide.
- Choose the product material and sublimation material to set the right temperature.
- After that, spread your fabric on an even table and remove any dirt from any. (Also, make sure there are not any creases on the fabric.
- Next, keep the design and then parchment paper on it.
- Now, with the help of your heat press, apply the heat and press in the right amount.
- Afterward, remove the press and parchment paper.
- Leave the design to cool down, and it will be ready to use after some time.
How to Calibrate Your Cricut Cutting Machine?
Calibration of the Cricut machine is necessary to get premium and error-free results while working on a DIY project. Hence, follow the below steps to do the Calibration of your Cricut machine.
Step 1: Log in to Your Cricut Account
- Initially, sign into your Cricut Design Space option and click on the Account Menu (☰).
- From the open menu option, select the Calibration option.
- Choose the option of Print Then Cut.
- Now, choose the printer you are using and then select Print.
- Take the printed calibration sheet and position it on the top left corner of the machine mat. Then choose Continue.
- Next, ensure that the Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker machine is ON. Also, connect to your PC via Bluetooth or using the USB cable.
- On the next screen, open the drop-down menu to choose your machine and choose the suitable material settings.
- Now, load the mat on the machine and press the Go button on the machine.
- After that, the machine will look for the calibration mark on the sheet, and then it will start the cut. (It will cut a small square in the center of the sheet.)
- Without unloading the mat from the machine, check if the cut touches the printed line.
Step 2: Select Yes Option to Start the Calibration
- The cut lines are perfect, then choose the Yes option to move forward. (If you select No, then it will try to cut the square more accurately and guide the calibration process once again.)
- Now, the machine will do the Calibration cut on the top and side of the sheet.
- Henceforth, inspect the cut without removing the mat from the cutting machine. (You will see some printed lines are not touching the cuts, and others will touch.)
- Open the Right and Top drop-down menu to specify the numbers and letters that are closer to the cut.
- Once the above process is done, then click on Continue.
- The machine will now cut around the large rectangle on the sheet. When the cut is done, unload the sheet and check the cuts.
- If you are happy with the cut, then you can move to the final process of Calibration.
- Now, the process of how to do sublimation with Cricut can be done.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sublimation in Cricut Crafting?
Sublimation is a process where you can transfer a design on materials like fabric, metal, wood, glass, and others using heat and pressure. To stick the design on the product, you need a Cricut heat press machine and other supplies. Also, you need to have the right knowledge of creating the layout and transferring it.
What are the Essential Crafters Required for Sublimation?
Some of the key supplies you need for the sublimation project are as follows:
- Sublimation ink and paper
- A Cricut cutting machine
- Any Cricut heat press machine.
- Parchment paper.
- Light grip mat.
- Cricut Mat.
- Weeding tools, and others.
Can You Use a Cricut as a Sublimation Printer?
Yes, you do not need an additional printer device if you are already using a Cricut cutting machine. The Cricut machine uses the Cricut Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets and uses the same sublimation process to transfer colored ink as any other printer device. So, don't worry about using a printer if you already have a Cricut Maker or Explore machine.
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