The time has finally come, after 8 months owning a Cricut, I completed my first iron on vinyl project. In my previous post about planning a Construction Themed party, I had party outfits as an optional part of party planning. Since I have some time before the party, I am going to make birthday outfits using my Cricut.
What you will need:
- T-Shirts or the shirt of your choice. I used shirts that I purchased from Amazon in yellow and orange to go with the theme. Here is a link to the shirts I purchase.
- Iron on vinyl. Amazon has a ton of options. Here is a link to the vinyl I used. This was the first time using this vinyl.
- Iron. I have not used an iron in two years, since before the pandemic started. I realize it is time to get a new iron.
- Weeding tool. All the tools I use came with my Cricut.
- Cricut Maker. There are different Cricut models available, I have a Cricut Maker.
Vinyl Iron On Steps with a Cricut
Step 1– T-shirts.
I picked up some inexpensive shirts on Amazon. I washed the shirts before I started the project. (Update: My son still wears this shirt and it has held up really well!)
Step 2– Cricut Design Space.
I had a clear idea of how I wanted the shirts to look before I went into Cricut Design Space. I wanted “Birthday Crew” on the back with a safety cone.
Using Cricut Design Space was very challenging for me when I first purchased my Cricut. I had some serious doubts if I would ever be able to use the Cricut. But here we are! The design features are endless. My designs are still on the simpler side as I am learning all the features.
Using the “Text” feature, I wrote out “Birthday Crew” and sized to about 5 inches tall for my son’s shirt and about 4 inches for my daughters. I used the front “Tea Chest Stencil” for the words “Birthday Crew.” The font looks like it fit the theme in my opinion. Picking fonts is always a challenge to me, with so many options, I can never find the right font.
In the Images on Design Space, I found a safety cone. It really was that simple and I adjusted the sizes of the cone to fit the shirt.
Next get your Cricut mat ready. I used black iron on vinyl. Pick your piece of vinyl and place the vinyl shiny side down on your mat. This is is incredibly important. Press the “MAKE IT” Button on the top right corner of Cricut Design Space. Make sure to press the tab to MIRROR the image when you cut. You do not have to do this with very project but when using iron on vinyl, you have to. Load your mat then press the “Cricut” button and you are set!
Step 3– Weeding and Ironing.
Once you cut the design, take your time removing the excess vinyl. Place the design on the shirt, make sure the shirt is on a safe surface that you can iron on.
Ironing was the most challenging part for me. I learned make sure your iron is very hot. I started with the lowest setting and it did not transfer the vinyl to the shirt. Second, do not be afraid. I was so worried about burning the shirt or melting the vinyl, I was afraid to leave the iron on the shirt or push down on the iron. I held the iron on the vinyl for for 15-20 seconds, but had to go back ever the vinyl again.
Vinyl can be hot or cold peel. Check what kind you have before you peel the plastic off your image.
Step 4– Final Product.
I am thrilled with the shirts! Completely not necessary for a birthday party, but the shirts will be a fun addition to my son’s construction themed party!
My Tips for Iron on Vinyl Projects
*Tip- Always make sure to measure the shirt before you start on working in Design Space. This will help you get the size right for your project the first time (I have learned this lesson the hard way).
*Tip- When placing the vinyl on the mat, make sure to place the shiny side of the vinyl down on your mat.
*Tip- Don’t forget you need to MIRROR the image when you cut.
This was my first time using iron on vinyl with my Cricut and I can’t wait to do my next project! Now to search Pinterest for my next project idea!
Disclaimer: Links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
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