The cutting process was always demanding and required much attention since it might make your project either good or poor. One of the best ways to get any crafter up and running will be to cut vinyl with the help of Cricut. Especially due to its universal application, the Cricut is being used by many all over the world, only because of its accuracy in cutting varied material types.

You may be wondering how to cut out the design properly using this machinery. Do not fear, as we have got you covered; in this guide, we will walk through, the process of how to cut vinyl using a Cricut Machine.

Types of Cricut Vinyls

There are basically two types of Cricut vinyl,  includes:

1. Adhesive Vinyl 
2. Heat Transfer Vinyl, or HTV

Adhesive Vinyl Types

Adhesive vinyl comes in two different types:

1. Permanent Vinyl
2. Removable Vinyl

Choosing the Right

Permanent Vinyl

Permanent vinyl is the best option for outdoor projects and items because they won’t be required to be removed or changed often.

Removable Vinyl

Unlike, the permanent, removable vinyl is a great option for indoor projects and temporary applications where you might need to change the design frequently. 

Heat Transfer Vinyl Types

Heat Transfer Vinyl or HTV comes in eight different types which include

1. Standard HTV
2. Universal HTV
3. Stretchable HTV
4. Glossy HTV
5. Glitter HTV
6. Metallic HTV
7. Flock HTV
8. Pattern HTV

Choosing the Right

Standard HTV

It is one best types of heat transfer vinyl for general fabric use.

Universal HTV

This type of HTV is Ideal for a wide range of fabrics and low-temperature applications.

Stretchable HTV

Stretchable HTV is perfect for stretchy materials like sportswear.

Glossy HTV

This vinyl provides a great shiny and attractive finish.

Glitter HTV

This HTV can be used to add sparkle and fun to your projects.

Metallic HTV

If you love metallic finishes, this type of HTV can provide a shiny and chrome-like effect.

Flock HTV

Flock HTV offers a unique, textured look.

Pattern HTV

This type can be used to add stylish patterns to your designs.

Step-By-Step Guidelines

Preparing Your Design

Initially, in your first step, you need to prepare the design. Cricut machine support is familiar with a lot of design software like Cricut Design Space. Follow these steps to prepare it:

• Open Cricut Design Space on your computer or mobile device. Install it from the Cricut website, if you don’t have one.

• You can create your design using the software’s tools or if you don’t know how to design, you can upload a pre-made design. Cricut Design Space supports various file formats, including SVG, PNG, and JPG.

• You can adjust the dimensions within the software.

• Select the vinyl type you’ll be using from the material settings because this will help the Cricut machine apply the correct cut settings for your project.

Preparing Your  Vinyl

Now, it’s time to prepare your vinyl for cutting. Here’s what you need to do:

• First, measure and cut a piece of vinyl, slightly larger than your design, and also ensure that your vinyl covers the entire area of the cutting mat.

• Now, place the vinyl sheet onto the Cricut cutting mat, making sure that it is smooth and free of wrinkles. The shiny side of the vinyl should face up, while the backing side should be in contact with the mat.

• Insert the cutting mat into the Cricut machine, aligning it with the rollers. Press the “Load” button to secure the mat in place.

Cutting the Vinyl

Now you’re ready to cut your design:

•  Choose the appropriate settings for your vinyl type on the Cricut machine and through the automatic process machine will adjust the blade depth and pressure accordingly.

• Once the settings are set click the “Go” button in Cricut Design Space to begin cutting. The Cricut machine will exactly follow, the design you’ve created and cut it through the vinyl.

• Keep an eye on the machine as it cuts for any problem.

Weeding the Design

After the cutting process is complete, the next step is to weed your design:

• Gently peel the vinyl sheet from the cutting mat and be careful not to tear the design.

• Use a weeding tool to remove the excess vinyl from around your design. Make sure to peel off only the negative or unuseful side, so that only the design is left.

• Inspect your design for any errors or areas that might need touch-ups.

Applying the Vinyl

Once the weeding process is complete, now there is a time to apply vinyl:

• Clean and dry your targeted surface and free it from any dust and other particles. 

• Cut the transfer tape larger than your design, and then carefully place it over your vinyl design.

• Peel the vinyl design from its back and apply it on the surface. You can also use the scraper tool to brush out any bubbles or wrinkles so that the vinyl attaches properly.

• Now, remove the transfer tape starting from one corner.

Our Insights

At Craft Vinyl, we always say you should use a Cricut when you cut out vinyl for professional projects because the possibilities in custom decals and personalized gifts are endless. 

With a little bit of practice and experimentation, soon you will be a whiz at custom designs for your home, gifts, and business. See what fun you can have with vinyl! Enjoy Crafting!