I cut my first vinyl lettering using my Cricut!
It was my first, surely not my last. In fact, I’m afraid in a few months my home might look like the Cricut threw up! But it’s fun and I have so many empty spots on my wall!
I know I’ve said it before, and I’ll probably say it again, I love my Cricut! I opened the box just a couple weeks ago and I think I’m addicted. A “Cricut Crazy!” There are so many things you can do with this thing! I’ve noticed (a lot) recently that many stores are carrying these vinyl quotes. I’ve picked up several and even thought about buying them, but never could find quite what I was looking for. But now that I have my machine, I can “write” whatever I want and make it as big or small as I want.
Here is how. . .
Materials you will need are:
1. Vinyl – You can find vinyl like this at craft stores such as Hobby Lobby or Michaels but the colors are limited. You can also buy it in bulk on line and there are many more color choices.
2. Transfer tape or contact paper. I used contact paper (because it is less expensive) which worked just fine. People swear by the transfer tape though. Maybe one day I’ll try it.
3. Craft stick.
I started with the word “family” using the Opposites Attract cartridge.
To create the letters:
1. Cut the vinyl to fit the cutting mat.
2. Securely place the vinyl on the mat. Do NOT remove adhesive backing.
3. Load in the machine.
4. Type the letters to cut.
5. Be sure the settings are appropriate for cutting vinyl.
6. Press the cut button and let the machine do the work!
(It’s that easy)
Once the machine has finished cutting, unload the mat and and peel back the vinyl starting at one corner. Your letters will remain on the sticky mat.
1. Cut a piece of contact paper (or transfer tape) that is larger than the area of the cut letters.
2. Remove adhesive backing of contact paper and carefully place the sheet sticky side down on top of the letters.
3. Use the craft stick edge to smooth contact paper over letters pressing firmly over each letter.
4. Slowly peel the contact paper off mat. The vinyl letters should stick and the adhesive backing should remain on your sticky mat.
1. Place the sheet of contact paper on designated wall area. A penciled line on the wall can help ensure letters are straight. Remove air bubbles under the sheet with the craft stick pressing firmly over letters to make sure they stick to the wall.
2. Slowly peel contact paper off the wall. Letters should remain on the wall as the contact paper is removed. If they do not, reapply the letter and contact paper and smooth over again with a craft stick and try again.
Finished product. . .
I love this thing!
Looks wonderful! Just a tip: if you plan on using a lot of vinyl, try ebay. There are sellers who will sell like 10 rolls of various colors. You get to pick your own colors and its MUCH cheaper. I recently discovered vinyl, and once you start, its hard to stop.
Great blog!!!
http://craftsandcrap.blogspot.com/
great advice! i have had my cricut for awhile and love it! i have used it more than i expected! this little tip will make my life easier! thanks for sharing!
You’ve got me thinking now! … and I have 2 machines
Thank you for your tutorial- I got a cricut at a thrift store ($12.99!!) and I have no idea how to use it! I’ll be doing this this week!
Beautiful! What other cartridges did you use for other words?