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Custom T-Shirts – Plan And Design Your Own!

Even though t shirts are easy to find, and you can get many existing designs, there’s something incredibly appealing about getting your own shirt made. You can get these made in a physical store or purchase them online.

Quick Navigation

Planning a Custom T Shirt Design

Choosing a Color Scheme

Finalizing the Design

Creating a Digital Image

How to Transfer Your Design

Using a Screen Printer

Using a Stencil

Finding Custom T Shirts Without Really Trying

Enjoying Your New Custom T Shirts

Of course, you could go the full customization route and design your own custom t shirt from the ground up. Whether you want to do this as a hobby or plan to turn it into a small business, you should know how to design t shirts. It won’t take long to become an expert.

Planning a Custom T Shirt Design

What exactly do you want to do with your custom t shirt? It could be a really cool new design to show off, or some kind of symbol to promote a brand that you’re working with. Whatever it is, the purpose behind the design should motivate the design itself.

If you’re advertising anything from a professional background, the point of the image should be to highlight the logo. Go for something simple but effective when you’re trying to push a product. If you’re promoting a sports team, ensure that you include the team’s colors when you create the shirt. If it’s for a music group, try to incorporate the style of music or the image of the band itself.

You could also start with a photo and work from there. Make sure to use a photo that you won’t have to credit to anyone else. If it specifically came from a stock photo with explicit free-use instructions, this is fine.

Choosing a Color Scheme

Contrast is one of the biggest things to consider when making a custom t shirt. You’ll need to think about how certain ink colors will blend with each other when going with lights vs. darks. There are some kinds of ink that will appear to stand out more than used on an actual shirt as compared to what they look like on a digital screen.

When working with lighter shirts, stay away from light blues and pinks, as well as anything with yellow. They’ll stand out on a shirt, but you won’t be able to tell what they say from a distance. If you need a shirt with a logo, you need that logo to be visible from as far away as possible.

If you go with pastel colors, throw in an outline of a darker color to make the text jump out. It will make the entire shirt easier to read.

A dark-colored shirt will look amazing when you use lighter ink. You do need to be careful, though, when using dark on dark. Shirts that are colored maroon, dark green, or dark blue can distort any ink when you go to print them.

Anyone that uses Adobe Illustrator will find that the Global Colors settings will help out a lot.

Finalizing the Design

Next, you can add dimensions into your existing design. After you have finished work on the coloring aspect, you might find that it still doesn’t “pop” enough. To give your shirt a bit more depth, you can add colors that are the same shade as what can be seen beneath it. This way, you can brighten your image and add to the dimensions.

Making a vector outline inside your software is a great way to resize anything in your design that you might need. If you’re using software that has a lot of customization options, like Gimp or Paint Shop Pro, you can start with an image and manipulate it however you like. The possibilities for t shirt choices are endless.

Get some balance throughout your design by combining all the parts into a whole. This might sound unnecessary, but you need to work with your image to give it some clarity. You might have a lot of smaller elements that need to be organized into a bigger canvas.

Make sure that everything comes together evenly on the t shirt. If the whole image is balanced, it will draw more attention to what you’re trying to convey.

As you finalize the design, figure out where it should be placed on the shirt. Do you want to center it, or create an image that ends up wrapping around? For a more professional display, something simple and in the middle tends to be the most effective. Don’t forget about the back of the shirt as a supplemental spot, too.

Creating a Digital Image

Once you have your design worked out, you can take what you’ve made on paper and feed it into your computer. Use a scanner or camera to transfer your sketches into your imaging program, where you can clean up any uneven lines. You can make adjustments with filters, brightness, and saturation if you need to.

Throw in some lines and splatter effects before you get any further. Ensure that the whole layout is consistent by keeping all of your measurements and proportions at an effective level.

If something isn’t working for you, you can create more sketches from scratch inside your imaging program. Add color inside your tablet if you want to take the image with you to work on the go. You never know when inspiration might strike you, especially if you notice a color scheme while you’re out walking or on the train.

When working with fonts, you need to complement the design and not take away from it. Using the wrong type of font can completely take a viewer out of the image and ruin the entire concept. Use any filters you have on the font as well as the image and check to see that your layers are properly applied inside Photoshop.

You can find tons of fonts on different websites. Many are free as long as you aren’t using them in a commercial property like a film or video recording. If you’re an expert in design, you might even consider making a new font from the bottom up. It’s hard to argue against the effectiveness of an original font to bring in awareness.

How to Transfer Your Design

You have several options for how to move your image from printer to an actual t shirt. Obviously, you want to start by having a blank t shirt for printing. From here, your supplies will depend on how you want to print your image.

Using a Screen Printer

For this method, you’ll need access to a printing screen. You can easily find these on Amazon or at your local art supplies store. You’ll be mixing emulsion and sensitizer together with this method, so make sure you are comfortable with different kinds of chemicals.

Once you have created the image and put it into a transparency, you can burn the entire image into the shirt. You’ll need a powerful bulb for this, around 500 watts. This can be done in about 15 minutes.

You can then rinse the screen under a thin layer of water for a couple minutes. Tape off the edges of the underside and get your screen-printing ink ready. Once you’re done with the application, you can cure the ink with a hairdryer.

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Using a Stencil

When stenciling, you’ll need contact paper. Tape the paper to the peeling side to keep the design visible throughout the process. Use the sharpest possible knife to cut out any black parts on the design, and peel off the sticky side from the contact paper. Now, you can slide a piece of cardboard inside the shirt.

With a sponge brush, you can apply the fabric paint. Don’t out the spots anywhere that the contact paper hasn’t been cut and let it dry. Once you peel off the contact paper, your stencil work will be complete.

Finding Custom T Shirts Without Really Trying

If you aren’t especially artistic, you don’t have to worry. Plenty of online merchants sell custom t shirts directly to customers. In fact, you might find some people who have the same ideas as you for designs even if you can’t make them yourself.

Look into Etsy or Redbubble to find designs that you would like to wear for yourself. If you’re looking for a new design for a business, you might consider commissioning a new logo through someone whose art you admire. Be sure to show courtesy when asking about a potential job, as artists can get busy fairly quickly.

Enjoying Your New Custom T Shirts

All that’s left for you to do is proudly display your new creation. If you’re promoting a band or a new product, wear the shirt wherever you can to raise the visibility. Scan your design and hashtag it on Instagram or Twitter to see how far you can get the message out.

It only takes one person to notice your custom t shirts before they become popular. You never know exactly who could be looking, so give it your best shot when designing your logo or image. You might even have someone ask how they can buy the exact same shirt.

The post Custom T-Shirts – Plan And Design Your Own! appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/custom-t-shirts/

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The KNK Force Review – A Perfect Cutter For Your Next Project!

Vinyl cutters, much like lightsabers, are incredibly precise and can penetrate just about any material you load into the machine. Unlike the Jedi or Sith, however, you don’t have access to the same tools as anything you can find in the Star Wars universe.

Quick Navigation

Using the KNK Force and Performance Evaluation

The Third Axis

A New Innovation in Rotary Tools

Dual Cutting Head

Installed Camera

Multiple Operating Systems

SVG Compatibility

Other Features

Negatives of Using the KNK Force

Where to Purchase the KNK Force

Who Should Purchase the KNK Force

Final Words on the KNK Force

Fortunately, KNK offers a similar choice for those who want to make the most accurate cuts possible. The KNK Force is perfect for those who work with many different kinds of materials in their projects. Once you invest in the Force, you’ll be creating enough projects to attract new clients from everywhere.

NAME

Force

BRAND

KNK

NUMBER OF BLADES

2

WEIGHT 

23 LBS.

DIMENSIONS

28.5” x 7.5” x 9”

TOP CUT SPEED

29.5” per second

Using the KNK Force and Performance Evaluation

Even though cutting machines are highly revered by crafters and artists, it’s difficult to find someone who has worked with the KNK Force. For the price of the machine, you’re getting a powerful device that rivals some of the similar products put on the market by Roland and other manufacturers.

The Third Axis

Even though other machines have claimed to provide depth options, the Force allows you to properly set the amount of depth used in your cuts. You’ll pick a setting for the z-axis just as you would for the horizontal and vertical settings during your project. From there, you get the most control possible when making cuts into your creation.

You can actually set both a starting and an ending depth, which makes you look like an even bigger expert when deciding how deep you want to cut. It’s perfect when you want to start shallow and increase the depth of your cut as you move further into a project. You might find this situation when you have to kiss-cut for an adhesive, but you have to do a complete cut for multiple stickers at the same time. The customization for z-axis ensures that you won’t have any headaches.

A New Innovation in Rotary Tools

With the z-axis setting comes a revolutionary piece of equipment that you won’t find in anything other than the KNK device. If you’ve been looking for a cutting machine that brings you innovation as well as creative capacity, the Force is exactly what you’ve been searching for.

Using the Force, you’ll be able to change your cutting depth anywhere from 2 mm to 5 mm. With this, you can not only cut vinyl, but you can engrave. Forget about using a laser cutter or some kind of router – the Force can do it all in one go. You’ll be able to carve your name or logo into a design with the same amount of accuracy you know from the KNK brand.

If you need to put a new emblem into a sign or make multiple copies of a new kind of plastic accessory, the Force is the machine you want for the job. With the right materials, you can make custom stamps or create your own reusable stencils. New cookie shapes will be simple to make with the KNK machine.

Dual Cutting Head

Thanks to some inspiration from Silhouette and Cricut, the KNK Force took an existing feature and improved upon it. You could describe it as playing catch-up but at least they have installed something that has become a standard in other machines.

The new machine from KNK utilizes a motor instead of a solenoid. This is used to drive the cutting head, allowing for greater precision and deeper penetration than other weaker competing cutting machines. The 8.8 pounds of cutting force is incomprehensible, especially compared to the Silhouette’s 210 grams of pressure. It isn’t even a fair comparison.

The combination of the dual cutting head and the newly-designed rotary blade make the Force a machine that you can recommend to everyone.

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Installed Camera

According to KNK, they have always wanted to address the issue of automatic registration inside their machines. Using optic eyes can cause problems, especially when attempting to align registration marks properly with the blades. Without the proper lighting, any cutting machine is prone to problems.

Depending on your usage of a cutting machine, you may never worry about the lack of light. Some professionals prefer to do all their work in a well-lit room, so this will never concern them. However, not everyone has the most ideal lighting in their studio or workspace. If you’re doing this as a hobby after a long day of work, you might only have artificial light inside one room to work with.

For better performance with registration marks, KNK has included a full camera instead of just an optic eye for the Force. The performance difference is night and day. Not only is it more practical, but the prominence of cameras popping up everywhere, reducing in size each year, means that this could be a new norm. If this is any indication, then hopefully the rest of the industry takes a cue from KNK.

Multiple Operating Systems

How many times have you run into compatibility issues with either the hardware or software when you have a great idea for a project? On too many occasions, people are all set to create something incredible, only to realize their software won’t run on a Mac or PC.

KNK is aware of this, and they created a piece of software that is universally compatible. This could sell the machine on its own without even mentioning the blade or rotary tool. Name an OS and you can use it with KNK Cutter Control Center, better known as C3.

No matter what kind of hardware you are using, C3 will work inside a given browser. Even better is the fact that you don’t have to have an active internet connection to take advantage of this software. As long as you have a network established, you just need a computer and cutting machine to run on the same communication.

SVG Compatibility

Along with the C3 software, you can trace almost any shape you can think of into an .svg file. You will need to be sure that the proper settings are established ahead of time when making this file type, but you should be used to this by now.

Using C3 and .svg files ensures compatibility and parity with all the major design software out there, including products by Adobe. You can work through your potential KNK projects, save them in .svg format, and then get to the cutting stage.

If you prefer, you can also use a freeware like Sure Cuts a Lot to bring your projects to life. Both the standard and pro versions of this software are compatible with the Force, just like all the other operating systems and pieces of software.

Other Features

There are still more added benefits of owning the KNK Force once you purchase the machine. If you prefer wireless access, the Force can hook into your home’s network through a router with an Ethernet cable or without one. This is a great backup if you’re used to using wireless access points, but your connection begins to suffer.

You’ll love the possibility of creating a project with a maximum cutting length of almost 30 inches per second. The accuracy of the Force never drops, and you’ll wonder how the machine can apply such pressure while keeping the precision on point.

If you don’t feel like using the provided desktop mat, KNK won’t restrict you to it. If your project is still fed into the machine on an existing roll, or if you’re working with the Force while traveling, you can use whichever mat you need. The width of any project has a limit of 15 inches, but there is no restriction on how lengthy your creation gets.

In case you have a lot of different accessories and tools, KNK took another idea from the other companies. You can find a storage tray on the Force, perfect for housing anything you don’t need for a current project.

Negatives of Using the KNK Force

You won’t find a machine on the market that is completely flawless. The KNK Force is doing a fantastic job of keeping up with current trends, but unfortunately, there are a few things that need to be addressed before you buy.

If you’re just starting out in cutting, the Force is not the first machine you should choose. It’s designed for professionals, and you shouldn’t feel bad about not being able to use it as a first-timer. It’s difficult, not user-friendly for amateurs, and takes a lot of knowledge to understand the finer parts and hidden accessories.

If you do decide to get into the Force as someone who has not been using vinyl cutters for very long, you can find a high amount of Facebook groups for support. KNK runs an official group, and you’ll find plenty of community-run organizations for people just starting out in vinyl cutting.

Your initial setup of the Force is going to take a while. Make sure that you follow each instruction, not skipping over any words. This might still give you trouble even after carefully paying attention. The main problem seems to be getting your network to recognize the device. If it troubles you, contact KNK support directly to find out how to solve the issue.

Where to Purchase the KNK Force

The official KNK website has the Force for sale. While shopping on their site, they also promote Sure Cuts a Lot software to go with it, as well as an extended warranty (all the way to 2 years) and training classes for beginners.

Amazon also sells the machine, potentially saving you a good chunk of money on shipping. Check with each vendor to see what the costs might be and remember that sales tax is not included in the initial price when purchasing online.

Supply of the KNK Force may be limited, as this was originally a crowdfunded endeavor through Kickstarter. The machine raised over $225,000 as an initial investment before additional models were offered to non-backers. Used models might appear on eBay, but don’t expect supplies to increase after a limited production.

All new KNK Force - The first true 3 axis - SMART - Wireless - Dual...

Dual Motorized Head - KNK Force's dual motorized head (not the typical solenoid head) means that the...

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Who Should Purchase the KNK Force

As mentioned above, the best route to take for the KNK Force is a purchase when you have already learned a bit about vinyl cutting machines. Considering the power behind the rotary tool and the blades, it’s designed for those who have a great amount of experience creating projects on similar devices.

If you decide to go with the Force after only a brief tutorial, you might also look into the expert training that is offered on KNK’s website. It’s a great option for those who want to learn from home and also want the hands-on interaction that comes with actual teaching.

Final Words on the KNK Force

As with any idea on Kickstarter, the KNK Force could have been a disaster. Too often, asking for crowdfunding results in mismanagement, broken promises, and a number of backers who are not satisfied with the final product.

It’s safe to say that’s not the case with the Force. KNK has delivered on everything they pledged during the initial offering and come through with a standard for future cutting machines. Too often, the industry looks to be copying the same ideas over and over again. Even though the Force borrows a few plans from competitors, the innovation in a third axis and the power of the blade’s depth is unmatched.

Anyone who is in the market for a permanent member of their cutting design studio would do well to consider the Force. Its universal compatibility, precision when cutting, and unrivaled depth in making cuts deliver on all the promises from KNK. After using this, you won’t want to go back to a weaker commercial offering.

It might not be a miracle, but the innovation behind the Force is enough to make you wonder why someone didn’t release this earlier.

The post The KNK Force Review – A Perfect Cutter For Your Next Project! appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/knk-force-review/

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Learning the Ropes: A Review of the Cricut Easy Press

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why can’t I have an iron and a heat press all in one device?” Apparently, the people at Cricut have wondered the same thing. They introduced the Cricut Easy Press, a combination of everything you’ve wanted to use in heat transfer vinyl and iron-on vinyl crafting.

How does the compromise between an expensive heat press and a convenient iron turn out? Meeting in the middle works out surprisingly well, and if you want something that will do a bit of everything, you’ll like the Easy Press.

NAME

Easy Press

Manufacturer

Cricut

Dimensions

9 X 9 in.

Weight

11.5 lbs.

Price 

$130-$150

Maximum heat

350 F

Quick Navigation

What Is the Cricut Easy Press?

How Is the Cricut Easy Press Used?

What Are Some Features of the Cricut Easy Press?

Adjust the Heating Level

Portability

Timer

Is the Cricut Easy Press Worth the Price?

Are There Any Disadvantages of the Cricut Easy Press?

Is the Cricut Easy Press the Right Purchase?

What Is the Cricut Easy Press?

The Easy Press by Cricut is meant to be a go-between when deciding on a heat press and an iron. If you’re working with iron-on vinyl or the typical heat transfer vinyl, you will be interested in finding out what this machine is capable of doing.

The first thing you might notice is the price of the Easy Press. It’s a steal compared to what you might be used to shelling out for a typical heat press. Even if the price lures you in, you’ll be happy to know that the Cricut machine doesn’t slack when it comes to performance. Thanks to the designers at Cricut, they’ve created something you won’t have to haul out of the closet with too much effort.

Much like an iron, the Cricut device is compact and able to be stored with plenty of convenience. The main draw of this is the ability to iron on something in 60 seconds or less, which is a main selling point for the Easy Press. There are incredibly precise heating controls and a plate that regulates the temperature evenly.

Unlike a heat press, even those who don’t have a lot of experience can feel safe when using the Easy Press. You can risk serious injury if you don’t know what you’re doing with a typical heat press machine, but Cricut has engineered this device so that you won’t risk anything. There will be no more worries about burning yourself or anyone around you.

How Is the Cricut Easy Press Used?

After using the Easy Press, you’ll be utterly amazed at how simple it is to operate. If you have never opened a heat press machine in your life, this could be the one to get you started with ironing and transferring. Compare this to a normal heat press, which can sometimes feel like it needs a college course to operate.

One of the most complicated things in the Cricut Easy Press is just turning the machine on. This doesn’t mean it’s a chore to find the switch, but it’s merely a compliment on how simple this thing is to operate. Cricut provides a reference chart to figure out what kind of material you’ll be using for the transfer.

When you have determined which material you are working with, you’ll adjust the temperature on the heat press, as well as the timer so you don’t spend too much on the material. Much like an oven, you’ll need to wait until the Easy Press reaches the temperature you’ve selected. The higher the setting, the more time you’ll need to kill until it’s ready.

After the machine is completely warmed up, you’re ready to start. Remove the Easy Press from the included safety base and press it down on the fabric you’ll be using. This way, you regulate the temperature of the material and are ready to work. Warming it up helps you work more easily and efficiently when using an iron or heat press.

Once you have completed the warm up, you can set the Easy Press back into its hub. This means you are ready to put your vinyl on the fabric that you’ve already warmed up. Grab the Easy Press out of the safety base, and gently press down the vinyl on to the fabric. Don’t go overboard with pressure, as you don’t want to smother the fabric and ruin the application.

You’ll know you are finished when you hear the beep of the timer. At this point, you can put the Easy Press back into the base. That’s all there is to it, and you can start to see where the Easy Press got its name.

What Are Some Features of the Cricut Easy Press?

The Cricut Easy Press is loaded with features that amateurs and professionals alike can appreciate. If you’ve been using heat presses for 20 years, or if this is your first purchase, you’ll find something to love.

Adjust the Heating Level

Have you ever used an iron and hated the fact that you can’t quite tell what temperature it’s going to reach? That won’t be a problem with the Cricut device. You will know, at any given time, exactly what the temperature is when you’re applying something to a piece of fabric.

You can fully adjust the level of the temperature, all the way up to a scorching 350 degrees Fahrenheit. With this feature, you don’t have to worry about missing spots on your fabric or focusing too much on one spot.

Portability

The fact that you can lug the Easy Press around wherever you go is amazing. There are few things worse than wanting to take a heat press with you before realizing that it’s horribly clunky and weights a ton. This prevents you from doing any crafting projects away from home.

That won’t be the case if you pick up the Easy Press. There’s a grip on the top of the device, conveniently letting you lift it in and out of the safety base whenever you’re ready to apply. Even at a very compact 9 X 9 inches, you won’t have any trouble sliding the heating end across your project.

Another advantage of such a small design is that it keeps your hands away from the hot end of the Easy Press. How many times have you walked away from a project with a slight burn? Maybe you’re still recovering some nerve endings from your years as a professional with a heat press? You can say goodbye to those days with the Easy Press.

Timer

Okay, maybe your first thought is, “What’s so great about a timer? I have a phone that can time everything for me.” That’s a fair point, but do you really want to keep looking at your phone every 60 seconds while using the Easy Press? You can set this timer for anything up to a full minute. When the countdown is finished, an audible beep will tell you that your time is up.

Any time you’re working with heat transfer, especially if it’s a typical iron, you’re going to be doing some guesswork with the timing. Having exact time measured with the Easy Press, not another device, cuts down on the multitasking and estimating you have to do.

Thanks to the included reference guide, you won’t have to worry about knowing how long to keep vinyl applied to any specific type of fabric. The manual can easily be opened up and set on a safe spot, so you always know when to set the timer.

When the beep has sounded, you’re ready to take off the Heat Press. If you sense any peeling, go ahead and put it back on – you won’t risk any burning if it hasn’t completely taken yet. Thankfully, you won’t spend much time with the Easy Press, as 60 seconds is all you should need to do an application.

Is the Cricut Easy Press Worth the Price?

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587 Reviews

Cricut EasyPress

Pro-level performance and home-friendly design

The big handle, Safety Base, and auto shutoff feature keep things safe every step of the way

The evenly heated plate adheres your iron‑on in 60 seconds or less. Insulated Safety Base keeps...

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Rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to its ease of use, safety, and speed, the Cricut Easy Press is an easy recommendation. Doing any kind of heat transfer vinyl is not for those who aren’t fully invested in crafting. If you have never worked with a professional heat press, you might feel a bit lost at first.

Most of the time, anyone who just spends time crafting at home would use an iron and board. Unfortunately, this never works as it should. You can never be sure exactly how hot the iron is, and without an exact timer, you’re left to take a stab with setting another clock.

Thanks to the features included on the Easy Press, you can forget about the problems that come with an iron. It makes what could be seen as work a fun time and frees you to produce more art in the process.

You will also love how safe the Easy Press is. Along with the handle mentioned above, you’ll appreciate the auto-shutoff included to make sure it only stays hot for so long. If you have any young, aspiring artists around, you won’t risk their hands getting burnt either.

Are There Any Disadvantages of the Cricut Easy Press?

There’s no doubt you will appreciate the easy of use with the Easy Press. With that said, it doesn’t come without a few drawbacks that are worth noting.

If you’ve worked with an iron before, you know how little space it takes up. Even though the Easy Press is compact, it still doesn’t match the portability and storage convenience of a regular iron.

On top of that, it’s possible that you already have an iron in your home. If that’s the case, you may wonder why you would want to spend any more money. The Cricut is an incredible device, but the fact remains that an iron might already do everything you need.

As for an actual heat press, there are advantages to owning one over the Cricut Easy Press. A 9 X 9-inch area is great for small projects, but if you’re aspiring to bigger things, you’re probably looking for a larger transfer area. Most heat press machines cover 15 X 15, which will be a huge improvement over the Easy Press.

You’ll get more pressure out of using a traditional heat press than what Cricut can offer. Using a regular heat press, you’ll clamp it shut until the application is finished. The Easy Press has to be manually pushed, and you’ll need to be careful that you don’t apply too much pressure.

If you’re in a rush, a heat press works a lot faster than even 60 seconds. Many kinds of vinyl heat transfers are done in no more than 15 seconds. If you have to apply something for a sports team as a last-minute addition, you will want the quickest option available.

Finally, the price may not jump out at you as a deal. Even though $130 isn’t a bank-breaker, a regular heat press won’t run much more than this.

Is the Cricut Easy Press the Right Purchase?

In the end, it comes down to how much you plan to do with the Cricut Easy Press. If you run a business or you plan on mass-producing many different projects involving heat transfer vinyl, consider an upgrade. The Easy Press is a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys doing this as a hobby and doesn’t need to think about shaving off milliseconds in the transfer process.

For anyone that is new to the world of vinyl transfers, the Easy Press is an easy recommendation. With a built-in timer and a fully adjustable temperature setting, there’s no way you can make any mistakes. You can rest easy if you’re training someone new, not having to worry about any burns or accidents. It’s much safer than a regular iron.

As you get more comfortable with the Easy Press, you might consider moving up to a professional heat press. If the Cricut Easy Press   has been working well for you, it might not be necessary if you know what you’re doing. The convenience and portability of the machine is hard to ignore, especially once you move away and try another product.

When you are ready to take the plunge into heat transferring, pick up the Easy Press as part of your introduction.

The post Learning the Ropes: A Review of the Cricut Easy Press appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/cricut-easy-press/

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Silhouette vs Cricut – Which One Should You Choose?

Anyone who has worked with a die cut machine has probably made a choice between Silhouette or Cricut. The two are at the top of the food chain for cutting machines. Amateurs and experts alike can find something to love about each brand.

Which one should you go with? It depends on what you’re looking for. Each machine has features and measurements that are tailored for different skill levels and needs of crafters. Ultimately, one of these two machines should be in your home if you’re serious about using a cutting machine.

Quick Navigation

Silhouette vs Cricut: An Overview

Silhouette Cameo 3 

Cricut Explore Air 

What Are the Differences in Silhouette vs. Cricut?

Blade Strength

Software

Silhouette vs. Cricut: Which One to Choose?

Where Can I Purchase Each Device?

Final Thoughts on Silhouette vs. Cricut

Silhouette vs Cricut: An Overview

Before getting into a deep analysis of the differences in Silhouette vs Cricut, you should know the basics of each die cutting machine.

Silhouette Cameo 3 

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Silhouette SILHOUETTE-CAMEO-3-4T Cameo 3 Wireless Cutting...

Cuts a variety of material including vinyl, paper, cardstock, fabric, and other materials up to 12...

Use the powerful Silhouette Studio design software to create your projects. Features Bluetooth...

Features a dual-carriage for multi-tool use and a higher 2 mm clearance to cut thicker materials. Is...

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The Silhouette Cameo 3  remains the newest model on the market from Silhouette, introduced in 2016. You’ll be able to cut through most materials you would choose for crafting, including standard fabrics and vinyl. Although the biggest size mat you can use for the Cameo is 12” X 24”, you can cut into anything as long as 10 feet without using a mat.

You can use dual cartridges with the Cameo 3, which allows you to print and cut anything without completely stopping the machine. You’ll love the fact that you don’t have to change the blades or the pen to adjust your settings. On top of everything else, you can use Bluetooth to begin your cutting without any wired connection.

The cameo 3 comes with Silhouette’s PixScan technology. With this, you can use pictures taken directly with your smartphone or digital camera. You can then send them directly to the Cameo 3 when you are ready to begin cutting.

You can also take advantage of Scan and Cut, a feature that lets you transmit directly to a printer. Once the images are ready, you can send them directly to the Cameo 3 and get them cut to your preferred settings.

If you want to upgrade, you can purchase the Autoblade accessory for the Cameo 3. This will eliminate many of the setting adjustments you will have to make using the regular blades on the cutter.

Thanks to the Studio Designer software included with all Silhouette cutters, you can make your own designs from scratch, or import existing patterns. The software is incredibly detailed and may take some getting used to if you haven’t worked with Silhouette before. You’ll find plenty of online tutorials and videos to help you out along the way.

Cricut Explore Air 

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Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Machine

Embedded Bluetooth for wireless cutting

Dual carriage for cutting and writing or cutting and scoring in one step

Upload your own images for free (.svg, .jpg, .png, .bmp, .gif, .dxf) Cut over 60 materials from...

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A direct competitor to the Cameo 3, Cricut brought the Cricut Explore Air  cutter to the market in 2015. It has the same size of a cutting mat as the Silhouette model, and you will also find a dual-blade setup in this machine as well.

Along with Bluetooth compatibility, you can sync this device directly to an iPad for wireless cutting. The same Print and Cut feature found in the Cameo 3 is also used by the Explore Air.

One of the biggest advantages for the Explore Air is a dial located on the right of the device. With this knob, you can easily select how deeply you want to cut, and how much pressure you want to apply to the cut. If you’re using a special material, you can also lock in custom settings to one specific portion of the dial.

The Cricut Explore Air uses Design Space for its software. It’s very beginner-friendly and you’ll find it much more approachable than the complicated program with the Cameo 3. Design Space uses DRM, so you’ll need to have an active internet connection if you’re going to use it. While you can import files to the device, there’s no way to draft anything from a blank slate.

What Are the Differences in Silhouette vs. Cricut?

Now that you know the basics of each machine, you can get an idea of the specific ways the Silhoutte Cameo 3 and Cricut Explore Air differ from each other.

VS

Blade Strength

There’s no comparison here – the Cricut is much more powerful than the Silhouette. You wouldn’t mistake the Explore Air for a dedicated heavy-duty machine like the KNK Zing. Of course, it will give you less trouble than trying to cut tougher materials with the Cameo 3.

You’ll find a German carbide blade as part of the Cricut, which means they will last longer than the stock blades on the Cameo 3. You can equip deeper-cutting blades for both machines, but the ones included for the Explore Air win easily. If you plan to work with aluminum, hard leather, or cork, you won’t get anywhere using the Cameo 3.

Software

This comes down to user-friendliness vs. features. Silhouette Design Studio is far more diverse and robust in its features. It also allows anyone the complete freedom to work on an image from a blank sheet. If you prefer, you can purchase images from the Cricut store. These will look incredibly professional compared to basic clip art you would find online.

You can expect to spend more time learning the Silhouette software than you will with Cricut, but it might be worth it. The basic version of Design Studio is free, and you can use .jpg, .png, and .bmp files with it. For a $50 upgrade, the professional edition of the software allows the use of .svg files.

On the other hand, Design Space by Cricut can be picked up by almost anyone. If you don’t need to make anything from scratch and are focusing on simpler designs, you should consider going with Cricut. Keep in mind, though, that your options with Cricut are still limited. You also won’t be able to use it offline, so make sure you always have an active connection to the internet.

Cricut Design Space software is compatible with .gif and .dxf files, as well as everything that can be used with the professional version of Silhouette Design Studio.

Silhouette vs. Cricut: Which One to Choose?

Ultimately, you need to determine which of the two machines will suit you better. If you are a beginner in the world of die-cutters, you should consider the Cricut Explore Air. It’s very simple to set up, and you won’t feel overwhelmed with any unnecessary features.

Thanks to the deeper penetration, there is more potential material you can use with the Cricut. This complicates things, because professionals are more likely to work with a device that can use other materials. Unfortunately, the Explore Air does not lend itself well to experts. The lack of any software that functions without an internet connection is also a problem.

Anyone who is looking for freedom in material that doesn’t need too deep of a blade should go for the Silhouette Cameo 3. You have much more versatility in the included software, even if you don’t go with the professional edition. If you plan to work with anything that proves difficult for the blades, you’ll need to consider the Cricut instead.

The other downside to the Cameo 3 is in the software. Although it offers an amazing amount of options, you’ll need to pay extra to unlock certain file extensions, including .svg.

Where Can I Purchase Each Device?

The best place to purchase either the Silhouette Cameo 3 or the Cricut Explore Air is online. You’ll find the most affordable prices on sites like Amazon, where they offer free shipping for Prime members. If you don’t have a Prime membership, be sure to calculate the amount of shipping into the cost.

You can also try your luck at brick-and-mortar stores. Crafting stores such as Michael’s might keep them in stock, and you can check their website to see if your local store has any in stock. If you find one of the devices online, you might have the option to deliver it right to a store, saving money on shipping costs.

If all else fails, there is also Staples, but they tend to mark up the price of everything by quite a bit. Check other local stores before you resort to them.

Final Thoughts on Silhouette vs. Cricut

As you make a decision in the battle of Silhouette vs. Cricut, consider how much you want to do with your die cutter. Are you planning to use this as a hobby, and make things just for yourself? Are you considering setting up an Etsy store and selling your wares to anyone? What about the idea of opening up an entire business?

All of these questions should factor into your choice of an Explore Air or a Cameo 3. Your ability to learn software, work with different materials, and understand the mechanics of cutting will sway your opinion.

Along with your own research, find out which of your crafting friends have worked with either machine before. Their trusted opinion should help you decide. There might be exceptions to those who have consistently given the same opinions about one brand or model, so carefully review everyone’s take.

The post Silhouette vs Cricut – Which One Should You Choose? appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

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Where to Buy Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl

If you have recently discovered the wonders of heat transfer vinyl, you’re probably still reeling from all the possibilities. You have an entire new world of projects in front of you, whether you are making them for your kids or selling them on your own store.

When it comes time to restock on printable heat transfer vinyl, you need to find the best spot to purchase what you need. You don’t want to spend more than what’s necessary and you also don’t want to skimp on quality materials.

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What Is Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Where is the Best Place to Buy Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Amazon.com

Michael’s

Staples

Heat Transfer Warehouse

What Can Be Used with Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

How Do Images Appear on Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Buying Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl

What Is Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

If you are still curious about the material, printable heat transfer vinyl (HTV) is a special type of crafting material used for crafting and cutting. You might construct decals or stickers with it. You could do this at home, in a classroom, or as a job.

For anyone interested in full color projects, HTV is the perfect fit. You don’t have to be a master crafter to enjoy working with this material. In fact, it’s one of the easiest materials to work with for people new to art and crafting.

You’ll need several pieces of equipment to get the most out of your printable HTV, which you can explore in detail below.

Where is the Best Place to Buy Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

If you’re looking stock up on printable heat transfer vinyl, the number of places you can buy it might seem a little intimidating. You can find them online, in-store, or a combination of the two.

Amazon.com

Not surprisingly, Amazon carries printable HTV from several different manufacturers. You can find brands such as Colorful Eden, imPRESSED Vinyl, and Sisrer all directly sold through the website. Whether you are looking to purchase black, white, or an assortment of colors, Amazon carries everything you could want.

While there are many options with free shipping available, only those that are sold or verified through Amazon can qualify for Prime shipping. You’ll want to remember this if you need any packs of vinyl for an immediate classroom substitution, or an express client order that needs fulfillment right away.

If you aren’t buying huge quantities of HTV on Amazon, you might find that it can only get shipped as an add-on item. This means that you’ll need to buy at least $25 worth of products before you can have it sent to you. Amazon has some excellent options, but if you only need a few sheets, it might be beneficial to look elsewhere.

Michael’s

One of the go-to stores in the United States for art and crafting supplies, Michael’s maintains plenty of physical stores as well as an extensive website. Their brand availability includes Oracal, Sister, and Cricut. Along with shopping online, you can check to see if each item is available in your nearest Michael’s store.

Michael’s offers free shipping on orders of certain products that exceed $35 or more. In some cases, the inventory information for your local store might not be available. You’ll want to call the store to see if they have the HTV you need, potentially saving you a trip.

Depending on your location, you may want to speak to a representative to confirm the amount available. If you’re working on an important project and run out of HTV, the last thing you want is to enter the store and find out that the inventory count was off.

Staples

Even though they are typically reserved for office supplies, Staples might come through if you are desperate. You can find Avery products available on their website, as well as one of their many stores in the U.S. Be sure to check the product description to ensure that it’s the right type of HTV you need.

Staples offers several different methods of shipping. You can also choose to pick up anything you buy at your nearest store location, where they guarantee your order in an hour. If you plan on purchasing HTV or anything else from them on a regular basis, you can save 5% by scheduling automatic deliveries.

Heat Transfer Warehouse

A specialty vendor, Heat Transfer Warehouse is known for its incredible variety of options. Just clicking on “heat transfer vinyl by brand” shows brands like Siser, ThermoFlex, WALAKut, and others.

If you plan to order in bulk, Heat Transfer Warehouse offers free shipping on orders totaling $150 or more. Their standard rates for shipping on smaller orders are $10.95 for regular ground shipping and $12.95 for 2-day. It’s also possible to find next-day shipping in certain areas for $18.95.

What Can Be Used with Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

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HTV Heat Transfer Vinyl: 20 Pack 12" x 10" Sheets for Iron On T-Shirts...

CUSTOM DECAL CRAFTS: Customize t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats, and other apparel using this...

COLORS: Includes 2 black and 2 white sheets, plus Silver/Grey, Gold, Brown, Grass Green, Light Pink,...

EASY TO WEED & MACHINE WASHABLE: Made from high-quality polyurethane, our professional-grade vinyl...

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To properly craft anything with printable heat transfer vinyl, you need the correct equipment to go with your materials. After finding the best brand of printable HTV for your project, you can move on to the other portions of planning.

For printing, an inket printer is the best choice. You might be able to use printable HTV with some laser models but plan to pick up an inkjet model if you don’t have one. Make sure that your ink levels are topped off before starting. This could make the difference between a happy or sad client or child.

Find your design that you want to use with your project. Some types of software allow you to create one from the beginning, while others need you to import an existing image. While searching, you can grab anything you need from Google Images of Pinterest for some ideas.

Since you’re using vinyl, you have a couple options for cutting. Professionals will want to pick out a cutting machine. You might consider the Silhouette Cameo, or something by Cricut. If you’re just doing this for fun, you should be okay with a basic pair of sharp scissors.

Depending on where you want to put your design, you’ll need the fabric or material to paste your image. Make sure you have a freshly-laundered shirt for your picture, or one of your electronic devices ready to get a new decoration.

Professionals who plan to turn printable HTV into a business will want to invest in a heat press. If you’re just starting out, you might be able to get by with a simple iron. Finally, get out the ironing board, or a cookie sheet, or something that will give you support while allowing you to press down.

How Do Images Appear on Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl?

If you want some extra bling with your printable heat transfer vinyl, you should go all out and use software with a cutting machine. In this case, the directions follow what you would do after picking up a Silhouette Cameo 3.

Using the Silhouette Studio software, you’ll first need to trace your image along its outer edges. Adjust the side bars until your outline looks perfectly aligned with the image you want to cut. This might take some time, but be patient with the mouse and it will turn out perfectly.

You won’t need anything more than the outline for the outside, so you can move the line to the side and remove anything extra from the image that isn’t necessary. Once this is done, you can center the image with your outline, and bring it all together into one project.

From here, you can add whatever else you want to the image. After finding some fonts to work with, you can dress up your image with some text. This is perfect for printable HTV that you want to turn into a shirt, or a decal for your phone.

You can do this through Silhouette Studio with the Kiss Cut feature. You’ll cut the lines so that they just barely make it inside the outline, leaving no extra white space. When you are ready to print, remember to keep the registration marks in place so the machine knows where to cut.

Buying Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl

When you have found the right place to buy it, remember to keep a steady supply of printable heat transfer vinyl. Whether you decide to have it shipped to you or pick it up in a physical store, there’s an endless amount of ideas waiting in your mind.

If you’re a teacher or a professional, you might want to take advantage of auto delivery. This is available on certain products through Amazon, and Staples offers this on just about anything in their store. You’ll thank yourself later for never running out of material when it matters the most.

Keep an eye on the price of each printable HTV pack that you purchase. You might notice that it goes up and down over time, and you might be able to get it matched by someone else. Most of the time, auto delivery gives you a slight discount, so factor that in as well.

Most importantly, have fun with your HTV projects. Any time you create a new image, know that part of it came from you finding the best deal you could on the material you used.

The post Where to Buy Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

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Learning How to Make Vinyl Decals: Exercise in Art & Crafting

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Kicking Against the Clicks: How to Make Vinyl Decals

What’s So Cool about Learning How to Make Vinyl Decals?

What Do I Need to Learn How to Make Vinyl Decals?

How to Make Vinyl Decals, Step by Step

Design Preparation and Printing

Applying the Vinyl Laminate

Cutting the Complete Decals

Mastering How to Make Vinyl Decals

Kicking Against the Clicks: How to Make Vinyl Decals

Have you ever asked about vinyl, only to be drawn into a conversation about music? Learning how to make vinyl decals is an exercise in art and crafting, especially if this is your first venture into a project.

If you have access to printable vinyl, you’ll be able to pull off some incredible designs with just a few additions. These are the type of decals you can peel and stick anywhere you want, from your fridge to your car.

What’s So Cool about Learning How to Make Vinyl Decals?

In a word – everything. Just a quick search for vinyl decals across the internet tells you that the designs for these deluxe adhesives are endless. Name a character or logo and you can probably find one in the form of a printable decal that you can plaster on just about any surface.

Although there are some incredibly fancy kinds of software available for printing, you won’t need to purchase anything too expensive. In fact, you can throw together some amazing designs with nothing more than what’s already on your computer. You won’t need a deluxe die-cutter or any other type of professional machine.

The kind of adhesive you’ll be working with can be used everywhere. It’s weather-resistant, so don’t let the rain stop you from making a new bumper sticker. Whether you want to show off your design indoors or outdoors, you’ll get hooked on making decals faster than you can learn how to turn on a die-cutting machine.

What Do I Need to Learn How to Make Vinyl Decals?

Fortunately, you won’t need to invest too much when you are ready to learn how to make vinyl decals. The initial cost is more about learning than it is spending.

To start, you should have a stack of inkjet vinyl ready to go. Most of the time, you can find this with a laminate overlay already included in a starter pack. If you already have the overlay, you can purchase vinyl by the sheet. You’ll need an application tool, as well as an inkjet printer. Make sure your ink is all stocked up for color if you plan on using a lot of different shades.

Although it isn’t necessary, you might want to consider some kind of electronic cutting machine if you are going to make vinyl decals on a regular basis. For example, you could buy the Silhouette Cameo, a great starter-level cutting machine. It’s versatile enough to give you what you’ll need in decals without breaking the bank.

Finally, the most important part: your designs. You can either sketch them yourself or grab them from an image-friendly place on the web. Dive into places like Pinterest, DeviantArt, or Google Images for some inspiration if you’re coming up short.

How to Make Vinyl Decals, Step by Step

Now that you’re prepared with all your material, it’s time to learn the process of creating your new art. With everything in front of you, you can get started.

Design Preparation and Printing

If you want to cut your decals by hand, all you need is some basic photo editing software. In fact, you could even use Microsoft Word if you know where to look. All you need to do is put your designs into an 8.5 X 11 page, click print, and you’re done.

For those of you that have access to a Silhouette or similar cutting machine, you’ll have a few more steps involved. The first thing you have to do is establish your document in the included Studio software before you print. Inside the page settings, make sure the size is set to 8.5 X 11. If the size is different, adjust the numbers according to what you have set in the printer.

Ensure that you have your registration marks turned on when using Silhouette. This lets your cutting machine perform its task exactly as it was intended. Once that’s finished, go into your designs by opening them in the software. Now, you can arrange them on the page to your liking.

While placing your designs, always remember to rotate them to make sure they will squeeze into the page. Vinyl is a lot more expensive than office paper, and you want to get as much as you can out of one sheet.

When you are arranging your images, don’t forget to keep your images out of the areas marked off by checkered patterns. You’ll also want to keep your cuts inside the red line, which is clearly visible while you work inside Silhouette.

After putting all of your designs in place, you can make a cut line around all of the edges for your images. Open up the tracing window, and click on Select Trace Area. Now, you can drag the rectangular area around each of your designs. You can then adjust the threshold setting once everything shows up in a shade of yellow.

Last, click on Trace Outer Edge to make the cut lines you’ll need around the edges of your shapes. You’ll find a red line, just like the one you saw before, around the sections to be cut.

All that’s left to do is print out your images. Make sure the printer is loaded with a fresh piece of vinyl, and that the correct side is facing the printing side. Choose the Print option under File, and wait for your image to be sent through the computer to the printer.

Applying the Vinyl Laminate

If you’re in a rush or you don’t feel like going the extra mile, you can stop here and just cut your decals. However, if you really want to learn how to make the best vinyl decals, you can continue to add details that will impress anyone who asks where you found your images.

The first extra step is to apply the laminate overlay to your existing vinyl images. By itself, printable vinyl is guaranteed to last outside for about a year. With a laminate overlay, you can increase this to up to 5 years. If you attach your overlays to something that stays indoors, like a computer tower or a cell phone case, you might be able to make an image last for a decade.

It’s up to you whether you want to go with a glossy or matte finish. This depends on your personal preference as well as the surface you’re working with for the image.

Start with cutting down the laminate size to 8.5 X 11 or whatever you chose for the printed image. You’ll then peel an edge of the laminate away from the backing it comes with. You then need to line up the laminate with the edge of the page.

Grab your application tool to very slowly smooth down the laminate onto the vinyl while, at the same time, tearing away the backing. If you didn’t manage to get an application tool, use the rear side of a credit card (the one without any digits).

With either the application tool or a card in hand, start brushing across the laminate overlay to ensure that it stays put. Proper adhesive is the key to making your new creation look its best.

Cutting the Complete Decals

With your laminate overlay in place, it’s time to cut away the excess vinyl. If you aren’t using any kind of machine, be sure that the scissors you are using will cut through the material. You can also use a craft knife, along with a cutting mat, if you have access to them.

Those using a Silhouette machine can place the vinyl directly into the machine to load it up. This is where you’ll want to adjust the cut settings on the device. The best numbers for printed vinyl with a laminate overlay in place are as follows:

Blade: 2

Depth: 33

Speed: 5

With this in place, the machine will detect where to cut and how deeply to cut. All that’s left for you to do is peel off your images and stick them wherever you want.

Mastering How to Make Vinyl Decals

Once you have gone through the process for the first time, you’ll discover that learning how to make vinyl decals isn’t too complicated. When you get together all the necessary materials, anyone with a printer and scissors is all set.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can try this out with a cutting machine. You might find that this is your new favorite hobby, and you could discover a brand-new art venture for yourself. Given the right social media prowess and hashtags, you might be the next go-to person for selling decals online.

There’s no limit to the number of images you can make with vinyl decals. If you prepare correctly, you can make deluxe adhesive that will last longer than some of the appliances that hold the stickers.

Nothing is holding you back from becoming an expert crafter, other than the right pictures and some vinyl. Have fun, and don’t forget to stock up on printer ink!

The post Learning How to Make Vinyl Decals: Exercise in Art & Crafting appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

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Rising Star in The Market Today: Reviewing the Cameo 3

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Rising Star: Reviewing the Cameo 3

What Makes the Cameo 3 Stand Out?

What Are Some Details about the Features of the Cameo 3?

Dual-Cartridges

Using Stippling

PixScan

Print and Cut

What Advantages Do the Cameo 3’s Blades Contain?

Standard Blade

Deep Cut Blade

Auto Blade

How Does the Cameo 3 Perform During Crafting?

Are There Any Problems with the Cameo 3?

Where Can I Purchase the Cameo 3?

Final Thoughts on the Cameo 3

Rising Star: Reviewing the Cameo 3

When shopping for your next die-cutting machine, you might be in the market for a dark horse candidate. Are you looking for something that a professional would use as a secret weapon, or one that flies in the face of conventional name brands?

The Cameo 3 by Silhouette isn’t the most popular name when you ask anyone who uses a die-cutter machine on a regular basis. Bigger brands are out there, but the performance of the Cameo 3 will convince you that this is something to remember.

NAME

Cameo 3

Manufacturer

Silhouette

OS compatibility 

 PC and Mac

Maximum width

12 in.

Dimensions 

22.5 X 8.5 X 6 in.

CUTTING POWER

250 G

What Makes the Cameo 3 Stand Out?

It takes a special kind of die-cutting machine to carve out its own space among the competition. With the Cameo 3   you’re getting a great balance between professional and user-friendly. One of the biggest perks right out of the gate is the ability for you to create custom designs. It won’t have all of the advantages you get with larger and more expensive commercial models, but you’ll still come away impressed by the options in this machine.

Simple usability is the other feature you’ll appreciate when you get started with this die-cutting machine. Even if you’ve never worked with die-cutting before, investing in the Silhouette machine is a fantastic choice.

You’ll get an LCD touch screen, which makes this easy to work with if you’ve used pretty much any mobile device ever. Right on the fly, you can switch between color settings, languages, and any help features you might need before you get started.

Do you have an idea captured on your phone that you want to turn into a project? You’ll love the compatibility of the Cameo 3 with your mobile device, letting you turn a picture into your next die-cutting creation.

You won’t have to worry about using cartridges with the machine, which lets you come up with an idea completely from scratch. If you have never used anything resembling a die-cutting machine before, the blank slate might be your introduction to a brand-new world of art.

Using the Silhouette model, you can simply print and cut everything you need. If you already have an image to work with, all that’s required on your end if putting your drawings in with the included software. If you don’t plan to use a lot of pre-created images, the Cameo 3 comes with a ton of stock designs that you can manipulate to your liking.

What Are Some Details about the Features of the Cameo 3?

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Silhouette SILHOUETTE-CAMEO-3-4T Cameo 3 Wireless Cutting...

Cuts a variety of material including vinyl, paper, cardstock, fabric, and other materials up to 12...

Use the powerful Silhouette Studio design software to create your projects. Features Bluetooth...

Features a dual-carriage for multi-tool use and a higher 2 mm clearance to cut thicker materials. Is...

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How useful are all of the included perks of the Cameo 3? You’ll find something to love about all of the extensions and design choices inside the Silhouette’s premiere die-cutting machine.

Dual-Cartridges

Even in an introductory-friendly machine like this one, having a dual-cartridge setup is a huge benefit. You’ll have to open the cutting settings inside the software to access this feature. When you have activated it, you’ll be able to wield two tools simultaneously, instantly making you feel like a professional.

This will let you skip the process of switching tools and eating up the precious time you need to devote to the rest of your project. You’ll be able to spend more time crafting and communicating with potential clients if you’re doing this for business.

Thanks to both cartridges, you can cut several varieties of material with the different settings included. For different blade settings, this is fantastic, especially if you anticipate needing extra time for multiple stages of one project.

When you get into the settings, you can choose between Standard Mode and Advanced Mode. Standard will limit you since the left tool holder always claims the first priority with this machine. Should you need to work faster and more quickly, the only thing you’ll need to do is have Advanced Mode activated. From there, the machine will be able to do everything you could possibly want.

Using Stippling

Are you interested in ink that uses several different colors at once? Look into the included stippling feature inside this die-cutting machine. The Cameo 3 is exactly what you need if you plan on diving into the world of stippling.

To use stippling, you can open the feature inside the settings. On the top right of the screen, you can find the feature you need. When you tap Stipple Fill, you can open a wide array of stippling options. You can choose from scallop, wave to chevron, zigzag, stripe, and metal plate.

Even with all of these at your disposal, you might not get through everything you can do with the stippling function. Thanks to the customization options in the Advanced Features, you’ll never be out of ideas with this machine. Keep in mind that the Cameo 3 is the only one in Silhouette’s lineup that includes this feature, so you won’t find it in earlier products.

PixScan

The included PixScan software lets you use a cutting mat with some templates you can use for creating images. It’s a great choice for those who are just starting out in crafting and need some pointers on where to begin. If you have already worked with print and cut (more on that below), it’s very similar, but you won’t be doing the printing portion on your own.

To take full advantage of PixScan, you need the latest version of Silhouette Studio software. Currently, version 4 is the latest release. You’ll find the PixScan option in the top-right corner of the window. Once you import the file, you’ll go through a few easy steps given by the software. As soon as you are done, the image will replace what you already see on the window.

That’s all there is to it – you’re ready to cut and/or trace the image however you wish.

Print and Cut

This has been an established pattern (no pun intended) with earlier models of the Cameo. Silhouette has made it incredibly easy to capture images and videos through the included Studio software. You will need to remember that a tiny registration mark will be included in one of the far corners. This is automatically placed to prevent copyright theft and protect you as the author/creator.

When you print out the material, it will directly transfer from the Cameo. The machine will decode all of the included registration marks and understands that it can eliminate any unnecessary parts of the image, including the registration. You won’t need to make any extra effort to cut out the extra part of the image.

Thanks to this feature, using the Cameo 3 is a breeze when it comes time to start crafting your images. You should definitely make use of this feature, but not before making sure your sizing is correct. You don’t want to end up cutting off more than you wanted and find a cropped image as your end product.

What Advantages Do the Cameo 3’s Blades Contain?

In the Cameo 3, you’ll find three different types of blades that you can work with.

Standard Blade

Most of the time, you’ll find this referred to as a black ratchet blade. Any time you plan on splicing, this is the kind of blade you’re looking for. You’ll tinker the blade’s length on a scale of 1 to 10 for different units, with 10 being the deepest and 1 the shallowest. With the exception of fabrics, you can use standard blades for just about anything, including vinyl or stencil.

Deep Cut Blade

Using the deep cut blade, you’ll find this to be two times as powerful as the standard version. You can adjust the settings on this one all the way to 20 for a deep cut. You can manually adjust this one, too, which means you won’t have to worry about using a ratchet. You also won’t find a fin, so you can lock the blade into the machine however you want.

Auto Blade

This blade is exactly what it sounds like. Unlike the other two that come with the Cameo 3, you won’t have to do anything to adjust the process. Simply select your material type, and how you want the software to work with the auto blade. Once you click Send to Silhouette, the auto blade will acclimate to the settings needed for the provided material.

Using the auto blade is amazing when you don’t feel like doing any blind attempts at settings. If you’re using a material you haven’t worked with before, the auto blade can take care of any details you might not have considered.

How Does the Cameo 3 Perform During Crafting?

With all of the included features discussed in the Cameo 3, it’s no wonder it ranks as an incredibly diverse machine. You may find, however, that the cutting power is a little lacking. Despite having three different blades to choose from, it underperforms when using leather and other resistant crafting materials.

Even though not everyone needs an industrial-strength die-cutter, it would be nice to know that the Cameo model is capable of giving amateurs the same tools as the pros. This machine gives you just that, but at the cost of some brute force. As long as you’re working with a material that doesn’t put up any fight against the blades, you’re in good hands.

For beginners, you’ll find no issue with the Cameo and all of its included help. Designing some of your first projects with this machine is a breeze. If you are someone who has worked on die-cutters in the past, you will recognize what you have learned before.

Are There Any Problems with the Cameo 3?

The one thing that should be pointed out about the Cameo is its lack of portability. You won’t find any handle to carry it, which means you’ll need to load it into a box or bag if you plan on taking it somewhere.

The cutting ability of the machine is no big issue, but if you’re looking at other methods of crafting, you may want to consider other machines. Piercing, embossing, or engraving are not this die-cutter’s strong suits. If you intend to make this your go-to machine, you need to remember that it isn’t the most versatile out there.

Where Can I Purchase the Cameo 3?

Fortunately, the Silhouette Cameo 3 is widely available at all major craft stores. You can find it at any of your local stores, as well as big-box retailers like Michael’s. Because it isn’t the most popular machine out there, you shouldn’t have any problem finding it in stock.

If you plan to purchase online, Amazon stocks them, either on their own or through verified third-party vendors. Check on the amount of shipping, as it could add up if you purchase a 12-pound die-cutting machine and need to pay to have it shipped.

Final Thoughts on the Cameo 3

You’re not going to hear “Cameo 3” as the first response to “Which die-cutting machine should I buy?” if you ask someone who has been working with these machines for a while. It doesn’t have the rawest power, and your options for crafting are limited by the weak penetrating power of the blades.

That said, the extensive features for beginners make this a big recommendation for newcomers to crafting. With an average price of $200, it won’t set you back like some of the higher-end machines also available.

 If you are just using this for your personal time and don’t plan on expanding your business, Silhouette’s latest Cameo is a good choice.

That said, the extensive features for beginners make this a big recommendation for newcomers to crafting. With an average price of $200, it won’t set you back like some of the higher-end machines also available. If you are just using this for your personal time and don’t plan on expanding your business, Silhouette’s latest Cameo is a good choice.

Before you become a professional and go on to better things, this newest Cameo is a great launching point. You’ll feel like an expert with all of the tutorials and tips included, and this will help you become an actual professional once you practice enough. The only thing that could make this better is something to make it a bit more portable, but that doesn’t prevent it from being a perfect starting point.

PRODUCT

RATING

PURCHASE

Cameo 3 

Rating: 4/5

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​Keywords: Cameo 3

The post Rising Star in The Market Today: Reviewing the Cameo 3 appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/reviewing-the-cameo-3/

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Cricut Explore Air Reviews and More – For Modern Crafters

Few things in life are as rewarding as exploring one’s creativity. The beauty of the Cricut Explore Air and other cutting machines of its type is the variety of creative possibilities. Originally used for scrapbooking and card making, the uses of these craft machines have expanded to everything from fashion to home design. Cricut is a brand that has several models of craft cutting machines on the market, so we decided to take a closer look at the Cricut Explore Air and see how it compares to the company’s other offerings. We did a lot of research and read through numerous Cricut Explore Air reviews from customers to ultimately arrive at a final verdict on how this clever cutting machine ranks.

Quick Navigation

What Is a Die Cut Machine?

What Is the Cricut Explore Air?

Cricut Explore Air Specifications

Bluetooth

Cutting Blades

Smart Set Dial

Dual Carriage

Software

Warranty

Colors

What Comes In the Box?

Cricut Explore Air Pricing

How the Cricut Explore Air Compares to Other Cricut Machines

Cricut Explore One

 Cricut Explore Air 2

Cricut Maker

Cricut Explore Air Pros and Cons

The Verdict: The Cricut Explore Air Is a Great Cutting Machine for Hobbyists at All Levels

What Is a Die Cut Machine?

A die cut machine is a device that, in its simplest form, is used to cut shapes out of materials. While die cutting began in the 19th century as a way of cutting leather for shoes on an industrial scale, the process has evolved, and modern users cut everything from sheet metal to tissue paper. In the crafting world, small die cut machines are most commonly used to clip paper for projects such as card making and scrapbooking. Traditionally, cutting dies were placed into die cut machines to determine the path of the cut, thus altering the ultimate shape of the material.  

What Is the Cricut Explore Air?

Sale

1,210 Reviews

Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Machine

Embedded Bluetooth for wireless cutting

Dual carriage for cutting and writing or cutting and scoring in one step

Upload your own images for free (.svg, .jpg, .png, .bmp, .gif, .dxf) Cut over 60 materials from...

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The Cricut Explore Air is a high-tech die cut machine for modern crafters. It goes beyond cutting, extending to writing and scoring as well. It is compatible with a variety of tools and blades in order to work with over 100 different materials. The cutting dies can take the form of traditional, physical Cricut cartridges, which all work with this machine. However, the Cricut Explore Air goes further than this, and through its Design Space software, offers a vast library of designs and fonts. The built-in Bluetooth allows for wireless transfer of designs from your mobile device to the machine, but it also has a USB port if needed. The iOS Design Space app for iPad has offline capabilities if you find yourself without an internet connection. It has a maximum cutting width of 11.5 inches and height of 23.5 inches, which is fairly impressive for an 11-pound machine. The following is a more in-depth look at the details of this remarkable crafting device.

Cricut Explore Air Specifications

Bluetooth

This Cricut is called “air” for a reason. The slick wireless design has a couple of advantages over wired models. First, there’s no need to hook up a computer to the Cricut machine through a wired connection. This adds a lot of flexibility as to where you can keep it. Second, not having wires gives your crafting area a less cluttered look and takes up less space, which means more room for crafting. Third, and this is important, you can send designs wirelessly from your mobile device to the Cricut Explore Air. It is much more convenient to design comfortably from your sofa instead of having to sit at the computer.

Cutting Blades

One element that sets Cricut apart from other craft cutting brands is the large assortment of incredibly effective blades. The Cricut Explore Air is no exception, featuring blades that can cut through a variety of materials. The following are more details on the blades.   

Fine Point Blade

These precise blades are surprisingly durable, thanks to German carbide steel. This blade is capable of intricate, detailed cuts. It works best on thin to medium materials, such as paper, cardstock, vinyl and poster board.  

Deep Point Blade

Like the fine point blade, the deep point blade is ideal for intricate cuts. However, it can do so on thicker materials. It is made from even more durable steel and has a 60-degree blade angle as opposed to the 45-degree angle on the fine point blade. This blade is great for cutting detailed designs on thick cardstock, stiff felt, foam sheets, magnet, cardboard, some fabrics and even chipboard.

Bonded-Fabric Blade

As the name implies, this blade is perfect for bonded fabrics. It cuts detailed designs in material that is bonded or has iron-on backing. Using this blade for the rigors of cutting bonded fabric preserves the integrity of your other blades.

Smart Set Dial

The Smart Set Dial is a lifesaver for beginner crafters. It’s located on the top of the machine and has settings labeled by material, such as vinyl, light cardstock, cardstock, fabric and more. The crafter simply turns the dial to the material he or she is using, and the machine does the rest. The Cricut Explore Air adjusts cutting depth, speed and pressure automatically based on the setting, which eliminates the struggle of manually changing all these elements.  

Dual Carriage

This model’s dual carriage design allows for the machine to hold and use two tools at once. For instance, the machine can write and cut in one step. This proves to be a major time and energy saver, as it means less changing of tools and waiting for actions to complete.

Software

Gone are the days of a limited variety of clunky cartridges. Now a vast array of cutting designs and fonts are housed in a digital library, accessible via your tablet. The software is Cricut Design Space, and it’s the only software that works for Cricut machines. The platform is user-friendly and even allows users to upload their own designs for free, allowing for endless creative possibilities. A digital library, which has over 50,000 fonts, designs and projects, is available for a $10 monthly subscription fee or 99 cents per image. You can also access the Cricut cartridges from Design Space. The software is cloud based, but the iOS app for iPad now has an offline feature if you lose your internet connection. There is a beta app for Android as well. The software is fairly versatile and easy to use, though some crafters may feel a bit limited that they can only use Cricut’s software on the machine.

Warranty

All new Cricut machines come with a one-year warranty. To qualify, the product must come from an authorized seller. A list of authorized sellers can be found in the Help Center on Cricut’s website.

Colors

This model comes in blue, teal, gold and wild orchid.

What Comes In the Box?

When you buy an Explore Air, you are not just getting a machine. A few more items come along with it.

Circuit Explore Air Machine

USB and power cords

Blade and housing

Pen and accessor adapter

12x12 cutting mat

Assorted materials to try out a project

As you can see, the box comes with the basics. Cricut also offers a range of “bundles” that have a lot more tools and materials to get you started. There is an “everything” bundle that has additional blades, tools, pens and materials. Then there are smaller niche bundles customized to the type of projects you want to pursue, such as vinyl or heat transfer, for example. These bundles take the guesswork out of trying to find all the necessary tools and can also prove economical.

Cricut Explore Air Pricing

The list price of the Cricut Explore Air is $179.99 on Cricut’s website. This is a fairly good value for a high-quality cutting machine.

How the Cricut Explore Air Compares to Other Cricut Machines

Cricut is known for its quality cutting machines, and the company has a lot of products. Here’s a look at how Cricut’s other machines compare to the Cricut Explore Air.

Cricut Explore One

The Cricut Explore One is very similar to the Cricut Explore Air, except that it lacks a few features. The Cricut Explore One has one carriage instead of the Air’s dual carriage system, which means it can only hold one tool at a time, making it less efficient. The Cricut Explore One does not have built-in Bluetooth, although adapters are available. It is more affordable than the Cricut Explore Air due to the absence of these features. This model comes in gray, coral, navy bloom, pink poppy and blue.  

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 Cricut Explore Air 2

The Cricut Explore Air 2 has all the same features as the Cricut Explore Air, plus improved efficiency. This model not only has built-in wireless technology and a dual carriage, but it also has twice the writing and cutting speed when cutting vinyl, iron-on material and cardstock. The machine’s available colors are mint, blue, rose, lilac and an Anna Griffin special edition.

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Cricut Maker

The Cricut Maker is the most advanced cutting machine in the Cricut line, and according to some, in the crafting world overall. It has built-in Bluetooth, a dual carriage and twice the cutting and writing speed on vinyl, iron-on material and cardstock. Additionally, it has 10 times the power of other machines, which allows it to cut through much thicker materials, including balsa wood and leather. 

In fact, the Cricut website says this machine can cut hundreds of more materials than the other machines. All the other machines cut over 100 different materials themselves, so this makes for a lot of possibilities.

The Maker is the only machine to have a rotary blade, which cuts almost any fabric, even denim, and the fabrics do not need to be bonded or have backing. Although sold separately, it also accommodates the strongest knife blade produced by Cricut to date, as well as a scoring wheel to create beautiful, clean folds. It no longer has a dial because the machine automatically adjusts when the details of the materials are input to the Design Space software. It also has a sophisticated, proprietary Adaptive Tool System that automatically adjusts cut pressure and tests to ensure the correct blade is in use. This clever device can even mark sewing patterns with a washable pen.

The array of advanced features results in a considerably higher price. This is probably not the best cutting tool for a beginner to the hobby. This is an investment for the committed crafter, and for those individuals, this machine takes the hobby to a new level. The Maker comes in one color, which is a dark gray body and champagne lid.

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Cricut Explore Air Pros and Cons

There’s no doubt that the Cricut Explore Air is a great tool in the world of crafting, but like any product, it has both pros and cons.

PROS

Bluetooth The convenience of wireless without the need for an adapter is a huge plus.

Dual Carriage This allows the machine to hold two tools at once, and thus, perform two operations simultaneously, such as drawing and cutting. This slices the time spent on making your creations in half.

Easy to Use The Smart Dial adjusts your blades for you, and the software is user-friendly, even for beginners.

Looks The machine has a sleek, modern appearance and comes in a variety of appealing colors.

CONS

Restricted software While we mentioned the software in the pro section above for its ease of use, some crafters are frustrated that they can only use Cricut Design Space.

Fabric While this machine cuts many materials, it will only cut fabric that is bonded or has backing. If you want to cut a lot of fabrics with your machine, you may wish to buy the Cricut Maker instead.

Handle Some customers feel there could be a better handle to make transporting the machine easier. If you don’t plan to carry the machine very often, this may not be a concern for you.

Overall Rating:

The Verdict: The Cricut Explore Air Is a Great Cutting Machine for Hobbyists at All Levels

After thorough research and reading a lot of Cricut Explore Air reviews from customers, the overall verdict is that this machine is an impressive addition to any crafter’s toolbox regardless of experience level. The easy-to-use interface and reasonable price makes this a wonderful die cutter for beginners. However, its high-quality and precision cuts, along with versatility, make it a great machine for more experienced crafters as well. For the price, it’s hard to find a better craft cutting machine. While the software restriction may be a downside to some, overall, the pros far outweigh the cons of this impressive machine.  

The post Cricut Explore Air Reviews and More – For Modern Crafters appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/cricut-explore-air-reviews/

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Pazzles Inspiration Vue Die Cutter : Versatile and Affordable

If you have ever tried to cut out letters or intricate designs from paper with a regular pair of scissors, you know how difficult it can be. Trying to cut out the center of a circle without folding the paper or punching a hole in the middle? Forget about it! This is where die cutters come in.

Hand-crank die cutters are manual machines where a pre-made pattern (die) is loaded into the machine and a crank is turned that feeds paper through the machine, cutting the pattern out of the paper. These machines are best-suited for paper or cardstock projects, as they cannot cut through thicker materials. They are also small and inexpensive — perfect if scrapbooking is your hobby of choice. However, you have to buy and store a die for every pattern you want to use.

Electronic die cutters are simply cutters that plug in and are run by the push of a button. Some manual die cutters have an adapter to make them electric. Digital, or computerized, die cutters have a computer interface and usually do not use dies. Instead, you download your pattern to the machine. Some digital cutters allow for the use of both dies and digital patterns. Computerized die cutters accept a wider range of media and a nearly endless supply of patterns. Some even have scanners that allow you to scan in a hand-drawn sketch and transfer it to just about any medium you desire. Many models even have Bluetooth capability for wireless crafting.

Among the first in the crafting industry to introduce computerized, personal die cutters was Pazzles. Its most recent iteration is the Pazzles Inspiration Vue.

Quick Navigation

Pazzles Inspiration Vue Creative Cutter

Specifications and Pricing

How It Compares

Sizzix eClips2

Cricut Explore Air and Explore Air 2

Silhouette Cameo3

Brother ScanNCut 2

Pazzles Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Conclusion: Pazzles Is Versatile and Affordable

Pazzles Inspiration Vue Creative Cutter

The Pazzles Inspiration Vue can cut custom designs from just about any medium — from paper and cardstock to balsa wood, thin metal and even pastry. A variety of add-on tools allows not only for cutting, but for drawing, embossing and engraving.

You can download pre-made designs from Pazzles’ extensive image library with the InVue software or print your own designs or photos, and the Inspiration Vue will cut them out of your chosen media in sizes from one-eighth of an inch up to 12 x 24 inches. 

     The key features of the Pazzles Inspiration Vue are as follows:

It accepts virtually any medium, including vinyl and fabric.

It's lightweight and portable, at just over 11 pounds.

It has one of the strongest cutting forces at 1,000 grams.

It has five different speed settings.

It's Mac and Windows compatible.

In addition, you can purchase various kits for creating rhinestone designs, iron-on appliques and rubber stamps. You can buy the Pazzles Inspiration Vue directly from the manufacturer’s website and choose from three different pricing options. Unfortunately, Pazzles items are not carried in chain craft stores, so you will have to buy accessories and consumable items (such as cutting mats, which need to be replaced periodically) online.

Specifications and Pricing

The Pazzles Inspiration Vue measures 21.25 x 9.5 x 7 inches and weighs just over 11 pounds. It comes with a 12 x 12-inch cutting mat but a larger 12 x 24-inch mat can be purchased. The suggested retail price is $399 with a six-month free membership to the Pazzles Craft Room — an online community for asking questions, sharing projects and ideas, and using resources such as classes, project instructions, tutorials and a large library of downloadable images. Alternatively, you can purchase the Inspiration Vue for $199 when you purchase a one-year subscription to the Craft Room for $19.95 per month, or you can purchase the Inspiration Vue for $99 when you purchase a two-year subscription to the Craft Room.

PURCHASE

Overall, users like the Pazzles Inspiration Vue because of the variety of media accepted and the ability to use your own custom designs. However, many found the software to be difficult to use and the documentation to be lacking. The Inspiration Vue comes with a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor and one year of free technical support. Members of the Craft Room receive unlimited free technical support.

How It Compares

Product

Image

Rating

Price

Pazzles Inspiration Vue

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Sizzix eClips2 

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Cricut Explore Air and Explore Air 2 

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Silhouette Cameo3  

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Brother ScanNCut 2 

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Sizzix eClips2

Sizzix has a range of manual die cutters, but the eClips2 is its computerized model. It can cut shapes down to one one-hundredth of an inch and will auto-select the correct speed and pressure for the material you select. With only 600 grams of force, it may be difficult to cut through thick material. Another downside is that the eClips2 cannot emboss or engrave. It can, however, use pens and markers for drawing.

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Price

The eClips2 starts at $299.99, with a Bluetooth-capable model at $349.99 and a model specifically designed for cutting fabric at $479.99.

Ease of Use

​Most users found the eClips2 easy to use, but you have to download additional software if you want to use your own custom designs.

Build Quality

Many users found their machines breaking after two years of use, and there are no replacement parts available, so they had to buy new machines.

Warranty

Sizzix offers a one-year limited warranty on parts and 90 days on labor.

Cricut Explore Air and Explore Air 2

The Cricut Explore Air and Explore Air 2 are affordably priced and have many features of their higher-priced competitors. Both are computerized and can use Cricut cartridges, which is a plus if you are upgrading from a Cricut manual die cutter and still have die cartridges. The Cricut line of die cutters can write and score but cannot emboss or engrave.

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Price

Both Explore Air models are reasonably priced, at $179.99 for the Explore Air and $249.99 for the Explore Air 2. Both cut a wide range of materials, including cardstock, vinyl, leather, denim and cork board.

Ease of Use

Most users found they were able to use the Explore Air models right out of the box. The Explore Air models require an internet co​​​​nnection, and some users found that there were connectivity issues that hindered their use of the machine.

Build Quality

Some users found that the Explore Air does not cut glossy sticker sheets or vinyl well, and sometimes the alignment is off. Overall, though, users find the Cricut Explore Air and Explore Air 2 to be good machines for a variety of crafting needs with clean cuts on cardstock, vinyl and iron-on appliques.

Warranty

Cricut offers a one-year warranty on all of their machines.

Silhouette Cameo3

The Silhouette Cameo3 can cut over 100 materials, including fabric and vinyl. It has AutoBlade technology that allows you to simply choose the material you want to cut, and then the Cameo3 automatically selects the optimal blade depth. It also allows for the loading of two tools at once and has PixScan technology to allow you to take a picture with your phone and turn it into a cuttable work of art. However, the Cameo3 is on the lower end of cutting force, with only 210 grams.

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Price

At $195.99, the Cameo3 is moderately-priced compared with its competitors and has a lot of features, which makes it an appealing choice for a variety of crafting projects.

Ease of Use

Most users find the touch-screen menu easy to use and intuitive. However, there are reports of connectivity issues when using Bluetooth and some found the documentation for the software to be lacking.

Build Quality

Users generally like the Cameo3, but there are many reports of the machine being very loud. Users cite having problems with the machine after only a few weeks or months, many of which are related to software issues.

Warranty

Silhouette has a one-year limited warranty on all machines.

​​​​Brother ScanNCut 2

Brother has combined their expertise in scanning and printing with crafting in the ScanNCut 2 — the only computerized die cutter with a built-in scanner. Rather than importing a photo or image into a computer and then converting it to a cutting file, with the ScanNCut 2, you simply scan the image directly into the die cutter. The ScanNCut 2 can work with or without an internet connection. While it can cut fabric and other materials, it does not have additional tools for drawing, engraving or embossing.

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Price

The ScanNCut 2 can be purchased directly from Brother for $300, which is comparable to its competitors.

Ease of Use

Most users find the ScanNCut 2 easy to use, but the software does have a learning curve. Many people enjoy being able to use the machine without being connected to a computer, as you can operate it completely from the touch screen. Unlike some of its competitors, the ScanNCut 2 does not automatically select blade depth, so you will have to do test cuts to get the right settings.

Build Quality

The ScanNCut 2 gets high marks for quality and durability, but there are reports of the cutting mats losing their tackiness too quickly.

Warranty

Brother has a standard one-year limited warranty on hardware and 90 days on consumables and accessories.

PROS

cut through virtually any material, including fabric, thin metal and chip board

allow for embossing, engraving and distressing

can cut through thicker materials.

CONS

learning curve and users found it to be an obstacle to using the machine

you will have to pay more for the machine, and its regular price is noticeably higher than its competitors, at $399

While the Inspiration Vue offers the capability of embossing and engraving, you must buy separate tools, which can get pricy

Pazzles is not easily found in chain crafting stores

Advantages Of Pazzles Inspiration Vue

The Pazzles Inspiration Vue is the most versatile die cutter. Not only can you cut through virtually any material, including fabric, thin metal and chip board, but there are also additional tools that allow for embossing, engraving and distressing — something no other die cutter offers. It also has one of the highest cutting forces, which means it can cut through thicker materials. If you are interested in subscribing to Pazzles’ online crafting community, you can buy the Pazzles Inspiration Vue for only $99.

Disadvatages Of Pazzles Inspiration Vue

The software for the Pazzles Inspiration Vue has a somewhat steep learning curve and users found it to be an obstacle to using the machine. If you are not interested in paying for a subscription to Pazzles’ online crafting community, you will have to pay more for the machine, and its regular price is noticeably higher than its competitors, at $399. While the Inspiration Vue offers the capability of embossing and engraving, you must buy separate tools, which can get pricy. Also, Pazzles is not easily found in chain crafting stores, so you will likely have to buy all of the accessories online.

Conclusion: Pazzles Is Versatile and Affordable

In the world of crafting, nothing can be more frustrating than trying to cut intricate shapes and details from paper, fabric or any other material. Die cutters have largely eliminated this frustration by using lightweight and portable machines to make precision cuts in a wide variety of media. Many models have the capability of importing cutting files made from your own photos or scans of hand-drawn designs for the ultimate in customizable and personal crafting. However, this convenience does come with a sizable price tag, and you should be ready to spend approximately $300 on a quality die cutter.

Most electronic die cutters are simply that — they cut materials. What differentiates them is how well they cut; the greater the cutting force, the better. The Pazzles Inspiration Vue has one of the strongest cutting forces on the market, while the Silhouette Cameo3 has one of the lowest. For convenience and a user-friendly interface, the Brother ScanNCut 2 is a good option, with its touch screen and stand-alone usability. Brother is also a trusted name in sewing machines, printers and scanners. The Cricut Explore Air models are good options if you already have dies from older Cricut models, as they can still be used with their electronic counterparts. Also, CriCut is a well-known name in die cutters, and its accessories can be found in most major chain craft stores.

Overall, the Pazzles Inspiration Vue gets 4 out of 5 stars. While its software may take some time to learn and you need to buy a two-year subscription to the get lowest price, even at $399, you are getting one of the most versatile die cutters available. It's a cut above the rest!

The post Pazzles Inspiration Vue Die Cutter : Versatile and Affordable appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/pazzles-inspiration-vue-die-cutter/

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What is Vinyl : An Ultimate Guide to Craft Vinyl Types and Uses

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What Is Vinyl Used for, and What Kinds Are There?

Heat Transfer Vinyl

KINDS OF HEAT TRANSFER VINYL

Adhesive Vinyl

What is vinyl? The word conjures up different images for different people. In the first half of the 1900’s, vinyl was used to produce millions of record albums, which were played over and over again, their bumpy little grooves wearing out the needle on the phonograph. In the mid 1900s, vinyl seat covers replaced leather ones in our automobiles and on our sofas. Before you knew it, vinyl had replaced patent leather in shoes and handbags and was used for faux leather clothing, sheet flooring and household items. Vinyl has come a long way over the years and is still a flexible and durable material used for innumerable items.

Let us introduce you to yet another form of vinyl. Craft vinyl is paper-thin with a very fine, smooth surface. It comes in sheets or rolls, is self-adhesive and has a peel-off paper backing. It comes in different varieties and a rainbow of color choices. This vinyl is as vital as air and water to many die-hard home crafters who keep their vinyl cutting machines buzzing with Pinterest-worthy projects day and night. Vinyl-lettered sayings in swirling fonts grace their walls, label their kitchen canisters and make sign making quick and easy. Another type of craft vinyl is used to create custom lettering or other designs for heated application on t-shirts and other clothing or fabric items.

What Is Vinyl Used for, and What Kinds Are There?

There are a few different brands, but the basic kinds are the same. We would like to help you understand the differences and what they are used for. There are two main types are Heat Transfer Vinyl and Adhesive Vinyl. Within those types are a myriad of styles, colors and special effects that can be used for any project you can imagine.

Heat Transfer Vinyl

Sale

686 Reviews

Siser NA EasyWeed Heat Transfer Vinyl, 12 x 15" 12-Color Starter...

12 most popular Siser EasyWeed colors on the market

Easy and Ready-to-cut material designed for custom garment decoration

Pressure sensitive carrier allows you to weed small letters and fine designs easily

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Heat Transfer Vinyl, also known as iron-on vinyl, does not have a self-adhesive back. The prepared and cut out design is placed on a fabric surface, and then heat must be applied for a brief period to adhere it to the item. Once the vinyl cools, it is a permanent part of the item it has been applied to. This is the type of vinyl used in shops where they make custom t-shirts with a heat press. It can also be used at home with an iron, although if you plan to create a lot of these, a heat press might be a good investment as it produces the optimum heat for transferal and does the entire design in one press, as opposed to a small area at a time with your household iron.

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) comes in a wide variety of kinds, depending on the material it will be applied to, the item’s use and the finish you are looking for. The Siser Company makes all of the Heat Transfer Vinyl mentioned below.

KINDS OF HEAT TRANSFER VINYL

1. EasyWeed

– Best for cotton or polyester fabrics. This variety is the most often used HTV.  For more complicated or multi-colored designs, this one can be layered. It comes in a huge assortment of colors including glow in the dark and neon.

2.  Metal

– Works with cotton or polyester fabrics. This glowing metallic finish HTV will retain its gold or chrome finish even after multiple washes.  Use it to jazz up jeans or add highlights to a hat. 

3. StripFlock

– Use on cotton or polyester materials. This vinyl is thicker and fuzzy, almost like suede or velvet. This works well for areas where you want a semi-raised design. It makes a great layered design and works well as a border on lettering, giving a tackle-twill feel to the item. Also use this vinyl on non-clothing items such as tote bags, backpacks, hats, etc.  

4. EasyWeed Stretch

– For use on cotton, polyester, or Spandex. This HTV has the convenience of the previous variety but also stretches, making it an ideal vinyl to decorate sports jerseys, workout wear, or for clothing with a closer fit that must be stretched more to put on and take off.

5. Glitter

– For application on cotton or polyester fabrics. This vinyl product may crack or peel if used on stretch items. It has a thicker weight and the feel of a genuine, glittered surface.

6. EasyWeed Glow

– Use for cotton or polyester applications. This HTV may not look like much - with the lights on - but flip the switch off and the shirt gets its glow on. Avoid using on items where stretch is needed as it may crack.

7. Easy Reflective

– Can be used on cotton or polyester fabrics. This unique and highly reflective vinyl product is the only HTV that comes with a repositionable light-tack adhesive backing. You can move it around until you get it right and then go ahead and heat-set it in place.

8. Holographic

- Works on cotton or polyester fabrics. This vinyl is layered with reflective chips that sparkle and change color. It also comes in a pearl finish and is not for stretch applications.

9. EasyPatterns

 – For application on cotton or polyester fabrics. This patterned HTV comes in over 24 designs and has a light-tack adhesive backing to allow proper placement before using heat to transfer.

10. EasyWeed Sub Block

 – Can be applied to cotton or polyester materials. This vinyl combines the ease of heat transfer with the permanence of sublimation and is a great solution for sporting gear or team jerseys. It’s long lasting and comes in brilliant colors.

Adhesive Vinyl

103 Reviews

Self Adhesive Vinyl Sheets (35 Pack) - Oracal 651/631 Ultimate Value...

Assorted pack of Glossy and Matte Oracal Vinyl in Top Colors

Made in the U.S.A

Oracal is Regarded as the Leader for Craft Vinyl

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Vinyl that has a paper backing which peels away to reveal a sticky, adhesive layer is called Adhesive Vinyl. This vinyl product is not washable or flexible and can tear with strain, so is not suitable for application to clothing. It adheres well to most smooth surfaces and stays put. It also sticks to wood, paper and even fabric if used for non-clothing, non-permanent applications, or as a stencil. It can be layered as well. 

Adhesive vinyl is insanely popular with home crafters, teachers and others who want professional looking signs or decorative items. There are many varieties of Adhesive Vinyl and a few different brands. The Oracal Company and the StyleTech Company make the following varieties of vinyl. They are listed either numerically or alphabetically and not according to popularity or any other type of rating.

KINDS OF ADHESIVE VINYL

1. StyleTech Opal

– Flashing colors appear as you turn this cast vinyl from side to side, just as they do when gazing at an opal gem. It is for indoor use and is durable for from 1 to 2 years. 

2. StyleTech Metalized

– The metallic color choices include holographic, chrome and galvanized aluminum styles. It is best used indoors, and its longevity varies according to use.

3. StyleTech FX Glitter

– This glitter-finish vinyl will last from 5 to 8 years for exterior projects. It is also rated for use in wet conditions such as the side of a boat.

4. StyleTech Transparent Glitter

– With a 5-year durability, this vinyl is tougher than its transparent appearance lets on.

5. Oramask

– Designed for use in stenciling and etching. Cut your design, and then adhere it to the surface you wish to etch or stencil. Its light tack adhesive is easily removable.  

6. Oracal 631

– This standard-use basic vinyl can be removed for up to 2 years after application on a smooth surface. It is an indoor product with a matte finish.

7. Oracal 641

– This is for exterior or more permanent use and will stay put for between 3 to 5 years. It can be used for hand washable items such as mugs or windows.

8. Oracal 651

– Many people begin using this vinyl because it is slightly more rigid and easy to work with. It may be hand washed. It can last from 5 to 8 years and comes in either a matte or gloss finish.

9. Oracal 751

– This vinyl is more expensive and can be more challenging to work with but is also more flexible because it’s been cast or poured rather than rolled. It can hold up for up to 8 years.

10. Oracal 5600

– This is a duplex vinyl, meaning the adhesive side is white. This may not be suitable for adhering to glass for that reason. It is reflective and will last up to 7 years.

11. Oracal 6510

– This is also a duplex vinyl that has a white back and comes in neon colors. It will last indefinitely indoors with a maximum outdoor limit of 1 to 2 years.

12. Oracal 8300

– This is a translucent vinyl, which can be layered and works great for mirrors, windows or stained glass. It will last up to 5 years and has UV protection built in.

13. Oracal 8810

– A frosted 5-year vinyl, this one works well to obscure awkward windows or to add a frosted touch to mirrors or windows during the holidays.

14. Oralux 9300

– If you need a project to glow in the dark, this is the vinyl for you. With its permanent adhesive, it will last indefinitely. It is white when exposed to light and green when it is dark.

Now that we have helped to answer the question, “What is vinyl?” you might want to give a few different kinds a whirl and see if they breathe new life into your creativity. Whether you decide to use Heat Transfer Vinyl and design some fun clothing or household items, or you dive into Adhesive Vinyl, label everything in sight and put decals on every wall, we think you will agree that with craft vinyl, the sky truly is the only limit.

The post What is Vinyl : An Ultimate Guide to Craft Vinyl Types and Uses appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

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Tackle Twill VS. Sublimation Printing: Which Method Is Better?

For as long as can be remembered, people have sought out ways of decorating their clothing and household items to add color and interest. Hand-painted scenes on silk scarves or a delicately embroidered floral motif on the bodice of a dress have always been popular. Since the mid century there has been a rise in the popularity of personalizing items with a name or favorite saying, even photos of one’s self or loved ones. As technology and design have progressed over the years, so have the methods by which this could be accomplished.

There are so many effective and successful ways of applying a design to another object. Some of the more popular methods include screen printing, woodblock, linocut, batik, heat transfers, tackle twill and sublimation printing. It is the last two that will be discussed here, as they are the most effective and long lasting of the lot. The first thing you will need to know is what these methods are and what they are used for, so let’s take a good look.

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What You Should Know About Tackle Twill

What You Should Know About Sublimation Printing

Our Take

What You Should Know About Tackle Twill

Tackle twill is a clean and classic method of application that was developed by R. J. Liebe in 1923. Americans grew up seeing that method in their everyday lives without even realizing it. Sports jerseys, team jackets and baseball caps were all embellished using tackle twill. So, what is it? When tackle twill was first invented, it was the standard for high-quality, long-lasting appliqués; in fact, most very old pieces done in this way are still in good condition as far as the appliqué goes.

So, how is tackle twill done? The first step is to cut out the shapes you need, be they letters, swooshes or other designs. Typically the older work was done by cutting two layers of felt, one smaller than the other, creating some dimension and contrast. Let’s use a vintage red letterman jacket, for instance, to explain how this worked. Heavy white felt letters were cut out first, laid carefully in place and then stitched around the edges by hand to the jacket. When this step was completed, it was followed by cutting out the same design in a slightly smaller, narrower version in black felt. The black layer was placed on the white layer and centered, leaving a very narrow border of the white showing around the edges. Then the black layer was hand-stitched in place right through the white layer to the jacket. This created a multidimensional, crisp and attractive appliquéd design.

The same process was done with football jerseys, only the fabric used to form the letters and designs was called twill – a tough and finely woven polyester fabric with a diagonal weft that cuts well without fraying, resists shrinkage, is flexible and stands up to the stitching process. This is where the process got its name. Heat sealing the twill to the base layer (clothing article) can further stabilize the piece against shifting during stitching, as well as adding a bit of stiffness that makes the stitching process go more smoothly. Stitching is done by using the same color thread as the piece you are sewing the edge of and using an overcast stitch (where you stitch back and forth from the base layer to the twill layer in what is essentially a very close-together zigzag or satin stitch) attaching the twill with a very smooth and even row of stitching. This edge stitching can be done in the same color as the twill so as to be nearly unnoticed, or it can also be done in contrasting colors as an integral part of the design, adding interest and texture. Either way, it does add a slightly raised edge and gives a nice, finished feel.

Stacking the fabrics is not really limited to just a couple of layers, but layers can be added to create the desired design. For instance, you might start with a blue jersey, then do a first layer in white for contrast and outline. Next you could add the lettering in a black fabric, and then an orange basketball could be stitched on, overlapping the first two, and so on. In a reverse tackle-twill method, the center of the letter is sewn down first and then the outline is laid around it and both edges are stitched. While not as common as the stacking method, it produces an attractive and crisp-looking design as well. With either method, special treatments, called coatings, can be applied to the surface of the appliqué to add interest with a shiny, glittery or even a rubbery feel.

Over time, a variety of materials have been used with this method; vinyl, glitter fabrics, lamé, even faux fur – there is really no limit, other than making sure the material being applied is compatible with the base layer and can be laundered in the same way. Just as in the old days, you can find many items that have been decorated with the tackle-twill method. Hats, t-shirts, jeans, jackets, sport jerseys, company shirts, tote bags, shoes and even decorative items such as throw pillows or blankets are created using this process. It is durable and appealing for many uses.

What You Should Know About Sublimation Printing

Now let’s talk about sublimation printing. Sublimation has been around since the 1950s and has continued to be improved upon over the years. It is an advanced and scientific process that allows printed designs to become permanent. You have probably owned or at least seen an article of clothing that has a colorful design on the surface, while the back has been left white. This is in contrast to the more common yarn-dyed prints that, though the back may be more muted, are printed on both sides of the fabric.

Technicians are very careful to thoroughly smooth an area before applying the dye so as to produce a quality end product. There was a clever exception to this careful approach in the 2010s, when bohemian-style sublimation printed clothing was very popular (likely, it was a mistake some clever people capitalized on). Skirts, blouses or t-shirts were laid flat in preparation to be printed, but the wrinkles were not smoothed out prior to the process. This produced colorfully patterned clothing that had wrinkles at a variety of points that were left white and unprinted, as the fabric had been folded over during printing. No two were identical, and these articles became a part of a fashion statement rather than a costly manufacturing waste product.

So how does this process work? We will use a t-shirt for this example. In the first step, an artist creates a full-color design, which is then printed out with special liquid-gel ink on high-release transfer paper. The t-shirt (must be polyester or another synthetic blend) to receive decoration is placed very carefully on a thermal press. White newsprint or some such inexpensive paper is then placed below the t-shirt as well as inside it to prevent transference through to the back of the garment. The t-shirt is carefully straightened and smoothed, then the paper with the print to be applied is placed face down on the garment and carefully centered at the appropriate position. Another piece of newsprint is placed on top. The layers of paper below and on top are for the purpose of keeping the thermal press clean during the process.

This is where the magic happens. The press closes tightly, applying pressure on the t-shirt and the print. The press is also hot – between 350 and 420 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the dye used. The heat and pressure cause the solid gel ink to turn quickly into a gas in what is called an endothermic reaction. The press is left closed for about 50 seconds. The gel ink, now converted to a gas form, bonds to the surface of the fabric at the molecular level, giving the fabric a more vibrant and permanent image than traditional heat transfers or screen printing, for instance, which may crack or peel over time.

This process can be applied to virtually any semi-porous or hard surface that will bond to the inks such as the synthetic fabrics mentioned above, magnets, plastic, plexiglass, and even ceramic mugs or tiles. The latter require a specially shaped heat press and yield fabulous results. Colors tend to intensify in this process, so if muted tones are desired, they should be slightly more muted in the design. Designs are permanent – clothing can be washed and dried over and over, and ceramics are dishwasher-friendly.

Our Take

So, as you can see, these two methods of decorating various items are both effective, and it is difficult to say which of these two processes – sublimation printing or tackle twill – is better. They both yield amazing and creative results. They are both long lasting and as attractive as a designer’s imagination can make them. The difference comes in the resulting look and feel that you want your item to have: a more hand-wrought and vintage look from the tackle twill, or a modern, vibrant look with more realism from the sublimation printing. Each method holds its own unique advantages.

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Cricut Expression 2 Review: Everything That You Need To Know

Arts and crafts is a time for enjoyment, whether it is for personal or professional endeavors. Regardless of its use, investing in the wrong die cutting machine can be time consuming, expensive, and frustrating. There are many options available today to choose between for your craft cutting needs, both manual and electronic. If you are considering an electronic cutting machine, you may not want to overlook some good older products. We will review one of these machines, the Cricut Expression 2, as well as compare it to similar products to help you decide what die cutting machine is best for you.

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What Is The Product?

Cricut Expression 2 

Specifications

Cartridges

Display/Cutting

Materials

Similarities To Cricut Expression

Pricing

Additional Design Purchases

Tools

Brother ScanNCut CM350 

Silhoutte Camceo 3 

Cricut Explore Air 2 

Comparison Table

Proper Care

Conclusion

What Is The Product?

Cricut Expression 2 

The Cricut Expression 2 is an electronic die-cutting machine for home use that cuts a wide variety of materials for primarily arts and crafts purposes. Materials can be cut from ¾ inch to 23.5 inches. You use the LCD touchscreen to make your configurations for your projects. It comes with a 12"x12" mat that grips the material in place during the cutting process. The mat also has measurement markings on it (1-inch) to assist you with alignment of your images on the materials.

There are many good die cutting machines to choose from that are beginner friendly or good for those who just want a basic machine, which may make choosing the right one for you difficult. Many of the machines have similarities, and making a purchase based on a crafting items bundled with the machine to catch your eye is not the best way to make a good choice. One of the best ways is to look at the pros and cons.

PROS

The Cricut Expression 2 is easy to use. The LCD touchscreen is large, much improved from Cricut Expression.

It comes with over eight times as many images as the Silhouette Cameo 3 does with the two included cartridges, so you can get started on crafting projects right away.

The cutting rate is fast and can cut intricate designs.

One of the best features is the detailed mat preview that allows you to see everything and correct any errors before cutting your project.

Reviewers report the machine feels a little on the heavier side, which makes it feel durable.

Unlike software-based die cutting machines, this one uses image cartridges which can plug into the Cricut, allowing you the freedom to cut wherever you want to because you do not need a computer.

CONS

It requires the use of only Cricut cartridges, which can be expensive. They can also be hard to find now that they are discontinued by Cricut.

According to a small number of reviewers, cartridge images are not “sophisticated.”

If you are looking for a die cutting machine that lets you create your own design, like the Brother ScanNCut does, then this is not the machine for you. The Cricut Craft Room software and wireless adaptor are discontinued.

QUALITY

PRICE

RATING

$$$

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Specifications

It is a great machine for people who are not tech savvy or tech crazy. You will not be stuck on the computer since it does not require a computer to use. One great feature for this machine is the light over the cutting field. It also cuts fast with great precision.

Cartridges

This incredibly portable machine comes with two cartridges. It is pre-loaded with over 800 images for you to get your creative energy flowing. The cartridges, Cricut Alphabet and Cricut Essentials, include 110 layered images, three fonts, and 40 phrases.

Display/Cutting

There is no keyboard; instead it displays on a large LCD touchscreen. Use the handy stylus on the screen and you see everything for your project. Each layer can be displayed at one time along with all the available features. Once you think you have what you want, you can arrange images on the mat by using the mat preview feature before cutting your project. This helps you use your material efficiently and prevent costly errors. No computer connection is needed to use this feature either.

Materials

Material settings can be customized, and images can be sized and rotated independently on its own mat. Images can also be flipped and slanted. Each project you work on can hold up to six mats. If you have a particular set up for materials you work with, it can be saved in the machine and included in the dropdown list under the Cut Settings Screen. There are also pre-defined materials on the list. In addition to the materials, you can make other changes such as the cutting speed and pressure.

Similarities To Cricut Expression

Like the original Cricut Expression, you can craft a variety of projects using the following materials:

Vinyl

Magnet

Fabric

Thin foil

Vellum

Cardstock

Also, like the Cricut Expression, it has the capability of cutting a batch of one image fast using the Auto Fill and Quantity features. You can quickly create projects, such as “thank you” cards, party favors, and invitations.

Build Volume: 23”x9.4”x11.3”

Weight: 16.6lbs

Cutting Capacity: ¼” – 23 ½”

Cutting Mat Size: 12”x12”

Cutting Speed: Five settings

Display: Full-color LCD touch-screen with stylus

Create Own Design Capable: No

Can you use third-party material?: No

 Target Audience: Hobbyists

Pricing

While the Cricut Expression 2 is discontinued, you can continue to purchase it online at Amazon, ebay and other online platforms. Prices vary based on what is included in the package. It may or may not include the starter kit, additional cartridges, or a larger mat (12”x24”). The price range can be as high as six hundred dollars, such as on Amazon, and as low as sixty dollars for a used one on eBay for just the basics (no bundles).

There is also an Anniversary Edition of the Cricut Expression 2, which has some differences, including price. It comes with more fun designs with the cartridges Cricut Decals and Just a Note cartridges.

Additional Design Purchases

While your purchase will come with a great variety of images, there may be other images you want to explore. Cricut produced over three cartridges with different images and themes including seasonal, animals, wedding, and additional fonts that you may be able to find online.

It may be helpful to refer to the Cricut Image Library for cartridges that may be available. While the cartridges are no longer in stock with Cricut, you can use the information to review the images on each cartridge and to search the name of the cartridge you desire online. You will likely find cartridges on eBay or similar website.

Tools

You can purchase a Cricut Deep Cut Blade and Housing, which is best used for thicker materials like thick cardstock, chipboard, and magnet. It cut materials up to 1.55mm.

A larger mat is also an optional purchase and is great for larger projects. The Cricut Standard Grip Mat large mat is 12”x24” and typically sold as a set of two. Some machines may already come with the larger mat; however, typically it only comes with a 12"x12" mat.

How It Compares

Brother ScanNCut CM350 

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Ease of Use

This is a nice machine for beginners and good for home crafting use. It is not designed for large productions, such as t-shirts. It cuts the basic materials, however if vinyl is your primary material, it is not the best choice. Reviewers report the image you want to cut needs to be traced with a fine black line for the machine to see and cut it. Some also report a large learning curve in figuring out how to use the machine.

Assembly Time

 Inserting the cutting blade is a simple drop into the machine. Reviewers report assembly to be easy.

Build Quality

The machine works fast, and most reviewers report positively about the machines results. However, some reviewers report issues with the blade getting dull too soon as well as issues with cutting corners due to the way the mechanism is built.

Warranty

Brother offers a one-year limited warranty for parts and labor and a two-year limited warranty for electronic components and printed circuit boards.

Silhoutte Camceo 3 

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Warranty

 One-year limited warranty for hardware. The warranty does not include the blade, cutting mat, and other consumable parts.

Cricut Explore Air 2 

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Ease of Use

Overall, the machine is easy to use; however, there are some setbacks. Reviewers complained about software issues and the requirement to pay ten dollars monthly for the software online to work and not being notified of it at the point of sale. You have to be connected to the internet in order to cut, and if your internet is spotty, your projects will not be properly cut. Also, intricate designs are time consuming.

Assembly Time

Set up is easy unless you are one of the few unfortunates with the software issues.

Build Quality

Reviewers report the machine is made well.

Warranty

 Cricut offers a one-year warranty only when purchased from an authorized seller.

Comparison Table

Product

Image

Rating

Price

Brother ScanNCut CM350 

Check Price on Amazon

Brother ScanNCut CM350 

Check Price on Amazon

Silhoutte Camceo 3 

Check Price on Amazon

Cricut Explore Air 2 

Check Price on Amazon

Proper Care

Before concluding our review, we thought it would be good to include a note about proper care of the machine. It is important to carefully review the manual of the Expression 2 for cleaning instructions. Many reviewers note that complaints about issues with the device, such as the blade and the mat, stem from not taking proper care of the machine as instructed. The manual details how to clean all the machine's parts. If you are more of a visual person, you can also find many videos on YouTube. If all else fails, you can always contact customer service online or otherwise for additional assistance. Cricut has an FAQ section on its website that can be searched. You might be able to search your question about cleaning or anything related to your machine.

Conclusion

If you are passionate about arts and crafts, whether you are new or experienced in crafting, you will appreciate the portability, ease, and speed of the Cricut Expression 2. With its great variety of included images, all the features offered on the easy to use touchscreen and overall use of the machine, we give give this machine an easy four out of five stars rating. In a world of ever-evolving technology, sometimes it is nice to have a good ol’ reliable machine that is more simplistic and less time consuming.

If you do not want to concern yourself with hunting down the whereabouts of where to purchase the cartridges but like the features of the Cricut machine, you may want to consider other Cricut options. Since the production of Cricut Expression 2, the company has produced many additional fine die cutting machines, although they are not cartridge based. The new ones rely on software; however, you can find some with wireless capability, such as the Cricut Explore. Regardless of what you choose, Cricut has popular quality-made products that can give your crafting experience an extra element of fun.

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20 Fun Things You Can Do With A Silhouette Portrait Cutter

Crafters and do-it yourselfers everywhere threw their arms up in celebration when the Silhouette Company released their new Portrait model. The Portrait craft-cutting machine is compatible with Windows and Mac computers. You can download designs online or create your own unique art with the Silhouette Studio. The Silhouette Portrait will draw shapes and cut paper, cardstock, felt, fabrics, heat transfer paper, sticker paper, magnet paper, and of course, vinyl. Try some of these fun ideas with your Silhouette Portrait and you’ll be hooked.

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Give These Simple Projects a Try

1. Add A Vinyl Monogram To A Mirror

2. Emboss Custom Cards

3. Etch Glassware

4. Add Dimension To Your Holidays

5. Iron-on Monograms And Designs

6. Personalize Christmas Ornaments

7. Wedding Decorations

8. Address Your Mailbox

9. Label Kitchen Canisters

10. Make A Silhouette Of Your Pet

11. Put A Flock Of Birds On Your Wall

12. Create A Rustic Sign

13. Cut Out Gift Tags

14. Stencil A T-shirt

15. Monogram Hand Towels

16. Wrap A Present In A Special Gift Bag

17. Make A Cute Halloween Candy Jar

18. Label An Ice Chest

19. Design Your Own Cupcake Wrappers

20. Make A Silhouette With Your Silhouette

Give These Simple Projects a Try

1. Add A Vinyl Monogram To A Mirror

Find a mirror with a frame you love, or purchase one from a secondhand shop. Then design a monogram with your initials, Mr. & Mrs., or a child’s name and apply to the mirror for a special custom piece.

2. Emboss Custom Cards

You can decorate anything from fancy wedding invitations to your five-year-old’s birthday card with the embossing tool. Emboss a background of “thank you’s” in an all-over pattern in simple fonts, then add a colored cut-out “THANK YOU!” for dimension and interest. The Portrait will also emboss tin or copper sheets!

3. Etch Glassware

Add a bit of class to your stemware with etched monograms, or permanently label a baking dish you frequently take to parties. Simply cut the vinyl and do a reverse weeding. Attach the vinyl to your glasses or dish and apply etching solution to the exposed letters. Let it work and rinse according to solution instructions. Remove the vinyl and enjoy a bit of fancy labeling.

4. Add Dimension To Your Holidays

Using an 8”x10” shadowbox frame, replace the photo with a cute winter scrapbook print cut to size. Then fill the empty space about one-third full of silver and red jingle bells. From black vinyl and using a fancy font, cut the phrase “Jingle all the way” and transfer it to the center of the glass on the front. What a creative way to enjoy the holiday season!

5. Iron-on Monograms And Designs

Using iron-on heat transfer vinyl, you can cut out your design or a clever phrase and lay it on a shirt, pillow or apron. Use an iron according to directions on the transfer sheets and you have an instant favorite t-shirt. Tip: print the design in reverse so that when you lay the transfer side on the fabric, it is right-side up.

6. Personalize Christmas Ornaments

Begin with a simple clear acrylic globe ornament. Remove the metal cap and feed small pieces of burlap inside through the hole at the top. (You could also use bits of straw for this.) Replace the top. Cut out the word “Believe” from self-adhesive vinyl and transfer it to the front of the globe. Add a tea-stained muslin bow to finish.

7. Wedding Decorations

Make a collection of small signs by collecting mismatched frames. Spray-paint them a simple black. Cut black foam-core board and fit in the frame. Using your Silhouette Portrait, cut out from white vinyl phrases such as “This way” with a pointing finger to guide your guests. Place these signs on easels or hang them on ribbons for fun, chalkboard-look decorations to add to your rustic or country-style wedding.

8. Address Your Mailbox

Dress up your rural mailbox by cutting your monogram and house numbers out of vinyl in the font of your choice. Cut fun paisleys and flourishes to decorate the top, or how about a surprise “Thank you!” placed on the inside of the drop down door so that the mail carrier is greeted with appreciation.

9. Label Kitchen Canisters

Whether your countertop canisters are clear glass or colored tins, you can give your kitchen an instant facelift by adding labels to them. Try these alternatives: Using any font you prefer, cut out the words “flour,” etc., to show the canister’s contents. Or, using black chalkboard vinyl, cut out fun frame shapes to transfer to the canisters and write on them with chalk as contents change.

10. Make A Silhouette Of Your Pet

Take a photo of your favorite pet and use that as a guide to cut out a silhouette of Lulu or Fido and transfer it to the doggy door with their name. You could do the same thing smaller and transfer it to the window of your car to show your pet off proudly everywhere you go.

11. Put A Flock Of Birds On Your Wall

Cut black vinyl into an entire flock of flying birds in a variety of sizes. Transfer them to your bedroom or nursery wall in a pattern that looks as if a flock is just passing through. Add a tree branch here and there for interest.

12. Create A Rustic Sign

Using your Silhouette Portrait cutter, cut out the letters for a laundry or kitchen sign, such as “Kitchen is closed.” Weed out the letters and rub the background firmly in place on a board that has been prepared by sanding, or adding a chippy or chalk paint finish. The board will show through the letters. Using a sponge brush and lightly dabbing, tap the paint into the areas where the letters are. Peel the background off when finished to reveal your new sign. This technique can also be used to embellish a stool or other wooden furniture.

13. Cut Out Gift Tags

Using a simple tag shape, cut tags from paper-bag brown cardstock. Then cut out the appropriate shape for the occasion (snowflakes, wedding cake, diaper pin, etc.) and apply in the upper corner opposite the end with the hole. Loop some striped butcher’s string through the hole and you have a tag that is as fun as your gift.

14. Stencil A T-shirt

Place a piece of cardboard inside a t-shirt to make working on it easier and to prevent bleed-through. Cut the design or lettering you would like to have on your shirt. Weed out the letters, keeping the background intact. Apply in the desired position and press firmly around the edges of letters. Using fabric paint and a sponge brush, gently tap paint into the letters and design. Get creative and use a rainbow of colors if you like.

15. Monogram Hand Towels

Apply iron-on double-stick interfacing on the back of some mini plaid or polka dot cotton-poly fabric. Use your Silhouette Portrait to cut out bold monogram initials in a simple font from the fabric. Iron them lightly onto towels to hold in place while you do a satin stitch around the entire edge of the letters. These monogrammed towels make great wedding gifts. This would also work for quilt blocks, baby bibs, and more.

16. Wrap A Present In A Special Gift Bag

Oftentimes the only way to wrap an awkwardly shaped item is in one of those oversized clear cellophane gift bags. Dress it up a bit first by cutting out a greeting such as “Congratulations Bob and Sue!” in a fancy script and a fun color, then apply it where the front of the bag will be and tie a bow in a matching hue for a unique and fun way to give a gift.

17. Make A Cute Halloween Candy Jar

Buy a cheap candlestick from a department or secondhand store. You also need the ever-popular canning jar — use a large one with a lid. Spray-paint the candlestick and the jar lid matte black. Glue the top of the candlestick to the bottom of the jar to create a pedestal. Cut a spiderweb design from black vinyl and transfer to the glass jar. Fill with candy corn and tie a cute orange and black checkered bow at the top of the candlestick for a sweet Halloween decoration.

18. Label An Ice Chest

Going to a family reunion or the beach and want to keep track of your cooler? Cut your name from outdoor-grade, weather-resistant vinyl and place on the lid or a smooth side of your cooler. Add a watermelon slice or beach ball design for a touch of whimsy.

19. Design Your Own Cupcake Wrappers

Using the pattern in the Silhouette Studio or anywhere online, cut out custom wrappers for fancy cupcakes. For a wedding, cut the name of the bride and groom from the side. For a girl’s birthday party, cut out a lacy pattern so that your treats are princess-worthy. For a young boy, cut out a train or clowns or dog shapes to dress up a humble cupcake.

20. Make A Silhouette With Your Silhouette

Trace your family’s faces in silhouette, then with the Portrait, cut them from black matboard. Using floating frames, sandwich each silhouette, centered, between the two sheets of glass and fasten the backs. These are unique as they are, but you could also add each person’s name on the glass in a contrasting color for a personal touch.

Whether you use this crafty cutting tool for work, school, a home business or just for fun, the only limit to its versatility is your imagination. With thousands of user-recommended projects available online for inspiration, it’s easy to see why the Silhouette Portrait is the favorite tool of many crafters.

The post 20 Fun Things You Can Do With A Silhouette Portrait Cutter appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews https://heatpressmachineguide.com/silhouette-portrait-cutter/

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Heat Press Machine vs Screen Printing

Conducting a Heat Press Machine vs Screen Printing comparison is an important procedure that potential buyers of these devices should conduct prior to actual purchase. This is because doing such can help them determine which of the two would best suit their needs. This can be accomplished by conducting an extensive research about the features of each method and doing the necessary assessment. They can also look at the existing pros and cons of both methods in handling the selection process particularly the following.

Heat Press Machine vs Screen Printing Comparison

Heat Press Machine Pros

The use of heat press machine is viewed as an effective image transfer method due to the following.

Many printing firms prefer to use a heat press machine in doing the job since it makes the work more convenient. This is because using the machine does not require a lot of preparation. Instead, it only requires them to print the images or characters that must be printed on garments and other items using specialized papers and inks. As soon as this is accomplished, the printed image on the paper will then be transferred by heating and pressing it using the machine.

Using a heat press machine to do a number of printing jobs allows the user to gain greater control and flexibility on what he is doing since the machine usually comes in a package which includes the most advanced graphics and software accessories along with a set of specially-formulated inks that are very helpful in obtaining the best quality end products.

The heat press machine is capable of using several colors in printing images and characters are given that these do not overlap. Thus, this can be used in producing items with realistic prints.

Using the best heat press machine makes doing the job not messy.

Heat press machines do not leave registration marks on the printed output.

Heat Press Machine Cons

The heat press machine suffers from a number of downsides and the most common of these are provided below.

Getting and using a heat press machine involves a relatively expensive setup cost.

The machine cannot layer more colors, especially on shirts since doing so will make the garment heavy and bulky.

Can make the printing job more time to consume since it requires the user to precisely cut and eliminates extra paper from the image that will be transferred.

The print made by the machine does not usually last long and fades easily.

Can only be used to print on light colored items.

Screen Printing Pros

Screen printing still remains as a preferred printing method for most individuals due to the following.

Works well in printing larger designs that make use of one or two colors.

The images printed using this method does not fade or easily gets damaged.

The printing process works even on items with dark colors.

Screen printing is the ideal method for the bulk printing job. This is because the selected pattern can be used a lot of times or until all of the objects subjected to printing are consumed. In addition that, it only requires the use of more ink minus the time-consuming cut-out process involved when the printing is done using the heat press machine.

Works well when used for printing on cotton and poly cotton fabrics

The print produced on shirts and other fabrics are capable of withstanding the roughness caused by machine washing.

The method allows printing larger images.

Silk printing provides softer print areas compared those done by means of heat transfers.

Screen Printing Cons

Those who strongly oppose the use screen printing usually criticize the method by pointing some of its known downsides, particularly the following.

The method requires separate application of colors. Thus, the use of more colors makes the actual printing cost higher.

Screen printing does not work well when using multi-colored designs.

The printing method cannot be used on coated fabrics

Preliminary setup requires long hours.

The method requires the use of more screens for every color used.

Screen printing requires a longer turn around time.

Check out this Short video about Screen Printing and Heat Press Printing

The post Heat Press Machine vs Screen Printing appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews http://heatpressmachineguide.com/heat-press-machine-vs-screen-printing/

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Heat Press Maintenance Tips – How To Take Care of Your Heat Press

For those who are in garment printing business, the heat press machine is the center of the business. It the money printing device which helps you earn bread and butter. Thus, should be always handled with utmost care and precaution if you want it to deliver at its best all the times.

As most of the standard machines require regular maintenance, the heat press also requires it. You must conduct the regular servicing and maintenance of your heat press at a predefined interval of time. This will help your machine to run efficiently and will also ensure the longevity of your heat press machine.

It has been rightly said that “take care of your tools and your tools will take care of you”. And the worst thing that can happen to your business is that your machine gets broke down at the time of production. This will not only delay your production but cause you serious damage both in terms of clients and overheads.

You will definitely want to keep your machine up and running. For that purpose, you will need to invest some time and very small amount of money. As you know that each and every machine is different from one another so does their maintenance procedure. In order to help you with that, we have come up with some generic technique which can be performed to maintain all your heat presses.

Maintenance tips for Heat press

Cleaning the upper platen:

In order to the clean the upper platen after use first of all power off the machine and let the machine cool down. Sprinkle a small amount of mineral any mineral acid on to soft cloth, now gently wipe the platen surface with this dampened cloth. This removes the extra inks which come transfers.

Caution:

Do not use anything rough or sharp things such as the scrub pads or knifes to remove any layer of residue ink left on the platen. As these materials will damage the protective Teflon coating

Never use the mineral acid while the platen is hot, as its highly flammable. Also, avoid coming it in contact with sparks and flames

Advantages

Gives you a clean and smooth surface which is ideal for heat transfer process, an uneven surface can reduce the quality of transfer

A cleaner platen distributes the heat and pressure evenly, which helps you to produce great workpieces

Protecting the Teflon surface:

The Teflon coated surface here is nothing new, it’s the same as your cooking utensil and serves the function of preventing ins to stick on platen surface. Avoid using and sharp items such chains, zippers and other things to prevent the Teflon layer from getting scratched.

Caution:

If you are using additional Teflon sheets please try to remember that it will increase the thickness of the layers and would require more pressure and temperature

If a garment has some metal tags try to cover up in multiple patches of smaller dimension

Regular oiling and greasing:

You know its quite important to regularly oil and grease the mechanically moving parts of any machine. It always works wonders for everyone. If you do not oil or grease at regular intervals then the heat press becomes slightly hard to work with as the pivots get harden because of dust build up. Also, without lubrication the most of the exposed parts will dry out and start rusting, thus gradually increases the friction making it harder to work.

Caution:

Well, lubricating is a good thing but what happens when you overdo it. The grease build up can be noticed which can get to your garments. So always after greasing, clean of the press before starting it.

Protecting the lower platen:

The lower platen or the silicon board plays a very crucial part in the transfer of designs. It is designed to provide even pressure on the entire surface. It can get damaged or punctured by pressing sharper items in the press. Also, the corners get destroyed after some usage by simple loading and unloading. All of these results in creating uneven pressure on the garment. To avoid such a situation always use the transfer media with a Teflon layer. This will also let you easily slide your garment under the platen even quicker

Cleaning the air system:

Well, this one is for the automatic machines. As they operate by using compressed air which is being sucked in from the environment. It contains a large amount of dust and dirt particles which can clog the entire system. So, to avoid such a situation check the air filters regularly and if necessary change them. Also, replace the desiccant air drier if it’s used completely to prevent the moisture jamming and damaging the air pipes.

Genuine Power chords:

Always use the original power chords provided by the company for optimum results. Aftermarket products can cause underperformance and even damage the heat press as they are incapable to deliver the right voltage and current.

Verify the temperature accuracy:

Once in a while test the accuracy of the heating platen for even and precise heating. A heat press test kit can help you with that. Set the temperature to a fixed point and check the reading on the kit to verify the results.

Have a cleaner workplace:

One important thing is to have a very much cleaner working space, the cleaner space easier & smoother will be a job. Particles like lint, hair and other debris can get stuck in the garment while transferring. So, try to keep the workshop as clean as possible.

Conclusion

Your heat press is the engine of your business, so if you want to keep your business going well you must keep the heat press well maintained. The regular maintenance will let your machine perform smoothly and efficiently over a longer period. You can follow the above mention points to get the better performance from your machine.

The post Heat Press Maintenance Tips – How To Take Care of Your Heat Press appeared first on Heat Press Machine Reviews.

from Heat Press Machine Reviews http://heatpressmachineguide.com/heat-press-maintenance/

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Best Heat Transfer Paper Reviews 2018 – Buying Guide

Let me guess! You are that guy who runs a T-shirt printing business, right? Or, maybe you take pride in wearing unique designs on your Tees. Whatever the case turns out to be, you are in need of the best heat transfer vinyl paper.

It doesn’t entail rocket science to decide on your heat transfer vinyl for T shirts. But, there are certain drawbacks in some papers. And, you definitely don’t want to run into any of those hitches. I can tell because I’ve been in the business for a while.

You see both cheap and premium heat transfer vinyl in the market. Then, you have a budget and you want efficiency as well. All right, thank god that you came to the right place! Bear with me, as I’m putting my years of expertise on this for you.

Why Do You Need a Heat Transfer Paper?

Too easy to answer! But I will cut this straight anyway. If you want some customized design printed on shirts, you have very limited options. Either you go screen printing, or you choose thermal transfer method. Screen printing is the traditional system that actually fits for large-scale printing jobs. Yeah, this is unquestionably economical if the orders are big. Like, 100 pcs of shirts against a particular print design.

Perversely, when you plan to print on fewer pieces, it’s a faulty choice. Incompetence with the sublimation printing system, screen prints come pricier. You don’t need to bring home all the different colors, printing solvents & a pack full of equipments. I’m already dripping sweats, thinking of the hard work it calls for. Never mind, you can do this with a simple heat press machine. You print out the design and then heat the hell out of it onto your shirts.

FYI, normal papers won’t help! And, this is where a heat transfer paper will save your ass. Furthermore, you can also print on shirts applying heat transfer vinyl with an iron.

Comparison of the Best Heat Transfer Paper for Heat Press

Before you head to the heat transfer paper review session, here is my quick list.

Preview Product Rating Price

Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers for light-colored, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 18 (08938) 619 Reviews $17.93 Buy on Amazon

Transfer Paper Tape Roll 12"x25 FT CLEAR w/ Blue Alignment Grid | 6 BONUS FT | Perfect for Cricut... 198 Reviews $29.99 Buy on Amazon

6"x50 FT CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll w/ Blue Alignment Grid | 10 BONUS FT | Perfect for Cricut... 86 Reviews $28.95 Buy on Amazon

Qbc Craft Transfer Paper Tape - 4" x 50' CLEAR Perfect Size for Better Alignment of Cricut... 98 Reviews $20.99 Buy on Amazon

Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers for light-colored, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 18 (08938) 619 Reviews $17.93 Buy on Amazon

NEENAH 3G JET-OPAQUE HEAT TRANSFER PAPER 8.5 X 11" CUSTOM PACK 100 SHEETS 49 Reviews $58.98 Buy on Amazon

Angel Crafts 6" by 50' PREMIUM Transfer Paper Tape Roll with Grid - PERFECT ALIGNMENT for Cricut or... 642 Reviews $22.95 Buy on Amazon

Frisco Craft Transfer Tape Roll 12" x 50 Feet Clear Lay Flat | Application Tape Perfect for Cricut... 53 Reviews $15.99 Buy on Amazon

Transfer Paper Tape Roll 12" x 12 FT CLEAR w/ Blue Alignment Grid | Application Tape Perfect for... 635 Reviews $26.99 Buy on Amazon

Angel Crafts 12" by 8' CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll w/ Grid - PERFECT ALIGNMENT of Cricut or... 1264 Reviews $17.49 Buy on Amazon

Buying Guide | Things to Consider

You sometimes get confused as shit and make a wrong purchase. Don’t be that silly anymore. Always prepare your mental calculations to focus on what to buy. Do not know how? Let me help you right there.

First Things First

There are plenty of vinyl types to use for different applications. As we are talking about t-shirt printing, the method is heat press or iron. Siser, Chemica, and Pattern – these are the three heat press vinyls that fall under the type. So don’t pay for a Pattern Gloss Vinyl or Oracle Matte which is not a fabric vinyl.

So, go on and read the detail if the vinyl is really suitable for your purpose or not. T-shirt vinyl come in fun fluorescent, everyday colors, and even glitters.

All that glitters is not gold

Glitter Heat Transfer Vinyls are basically used to print sparkly and dazzling designs. So, generally, these are for kids fancy clothes or accessories. Cotton, forms of polyester, cotton blends, lightly siliconed nylon, Lycra or spandex – regardless of your fabric selection, glitters work as a top layer over other prints even on leather.

Fluorescent Heat Press Vinyls

These are semi-glossy papers with light and vibrant colors. Fluorescent HTVs adhere to cotton, cotton-polyester blend, and uncoated polyester. Prints last a bit longer than the glitters if compared, and are also best for children items or decorative uses.

Everyday Colors

Duh! Nothing special here. Just the colors you use and see around your day to day life. As these are plain solid papers, sublimation at times marks it to be the best heat transfer vinyl for shirts. And, vice versa too being the simplest and cheapest ones.

Sheets or Rolls

This depends on how much you are gonna print. If you are printing more than a dozen pieces, I recommend forgetting the sheets. As rolls come in a longer length, you can buy more at lesser costs. Plus, it allows you the save more with optimizable wastage.

Cut out pieces with a little larger dimension of your printable design. This way, you don’t cut greater outlines and throw them in the bin.

Durability & Price

If durability is the concern, then you can compromise and cut loose on your budget. Some high quality heat press transfer paper will serve your criteria perfectly. Contrarily, to make big marginal profits you might think of cheap vinyl.

However, I always opted for a balanced purchase. Because low-quality prints do not stay for long. They fade and smudge off the fabric after a few washes. So whether you print for yourself or customers, maintaining the quality is my choice of the drill. You can look for heat transfer vinyl wholesale deals to save some bucks as well.

Top 10 Heat Transfer Paper Reviews

#1. Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers

619 Reviews

Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers for light-colored, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 18 (08938)

Quality results for a professional, fashionable look

Use to personalize your T-shirts, hats, aprons and even bags

Designed for use on light-colored 100% cotton/poly cotton blend fabrics

Color Shieldformula means colors stay bright, even after being washed

$17.93

Buy on Amazon

If you want to add a personal touch to your shirts and accessories (tote bags, aprons, hats cushion covers etc.), Avery T-shirt Transfer works like magic. It comes in multiple units of 18 count vinyl papers. Printing on light colors seems vibrant and long-lasting. Plus, its advanced Color Shield formula aids the durability of colors.

You can wash the printed stuff as usual, and the colors won’t smudge or fade away. However, Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers are basically made for 100% cotton or polyester-cotton blend fabrics. This ensures regular wear of baby clothes and usage of bags, hats and other accessories.

The package brings in multiple sheets of vinyl transfers in a dimension of 11.5-inch height x 9.3-inch width. Papers are fairly thick and each has a reliable 0.1-inch thickness. Transfers are easy to process and colors stay for long – this makes sure that your t-shirt business stays sustainable. So if you are running a small business, this could be your perfect solution for vinyl.

Highlights

Prints are durable and last a pretty decent amount of time

Best on 100% cotton or poly-cotton blend light color fabrics

Color Shield formula keeps colors perky even after washes

Adheres easily to the fabric surface as per instructions

#2. Craftopia USA Transfer Paper Tape Roll 12″x25 FT

Sale

198 Reviews

Transfer Paper Tape Roll 12"x25 FT CLEAR w/ Blue Alignment Grid | 6 BONUS FT | Perfect for Cricut Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Signs Stickers Decals Walls Doors & Windows

COMPARE AND SAVE - 25 FEET LONG ROLL! That's 6 more BONUS feet than other application Transfer Tape brands. OUR BEST DEAL EVER.

SIGN AND CRAFT MAKER'S TRANSFER PAPER CHOICE - We are sign makers ourselves and we guarantee you will love our transfer tape OR YOUR MONEY BACK!

SO QUICK AND EASY TO TRANSFER YOUR VINYL DESIGN - Get EASY ALIGNMENT AND POSITIONING with our SEE THROUGH 1" SQUARE GRID patterns

WILL WORK WITH ALL INDOOR/OUTDOOR ADHESIVE VINYLS including Craftopia sparkles glitters holographic vinyl, Provo Craft Cricut vinyl, Silhouette Cameo or Portrait vinyl, Puzzles, and much more!!!

$29.99

Buy on Amazon

Craftopia Transfer paper comes as long enough tape rolls. It is 12-inch wide and 25 feet in length, which is a great saver! Compared to other brands in the market, Craftopia offers better value for your money. This is why craft makers and home business owners are likely to use it on a regular basis.

It features 1-inch square shaped blue grid patterns. So, you can perfect and precise alignment. With the see-through grid pattern, positioning becomes easier than ever. This high-quality transfer vinyl roll allows you to cut off as much as you need. Therefore, you have less wastage and more paper for upcoming projects.

The Craftopia paper tape works for a broad range of outdoor and indoor vinyl adhesives. You can print on glass windows, ceramic, walls, metal and even on plastic materials. Therefore, you have the freedom to personalize as much of the belongings as you want. Whether you plan on personal or business printing, Craftopia 12”x25 feet provides optimum value for vinyl signs.

Highlights

Added Length to Cover More of Your Printing Projects

Blue Alignment Grid Enables Easy & Precise Alignment

Compatible with large variety of indoor-outdoor adhesive vinyl

Transferable to smooth surfaces like walls, sign stickers, glass etc.

#3. 6″x50 FT CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll w/ Blue Alignment Grid – Perfect for Cricut Cameo

Sale

86 Reviews

6"x50 FT CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll w/ Blue Alignment Grid | 10 BONUS FT | Perfect for Cricut Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Signs Stickers Decals Walls Doors & Windows

COMPARE AND SAVE - 50 FEET LONG ROLL! That's 10 more BONUS feet than other application Transfer Tape brands. OUR BEST DEAL EVER.

SIGN AND CRAFT MAKER'S TRANSFER PAPER CHOICE - We are sign makers ourselves and we guarantee you will love our transfer tape OR YOUR MONEY BACK!

SO QUICK AND EASY TO TRANSFER YOUR VINYL DESIGN - Get EASY ALIGNMENT AND POSITIONING with our SEE THROUGH 1" SQUARE GRID patterns

WILL WORK WITH ALL INDOOR/OUTDOOR ADHESIVE VINYLS including Craftopia sparkles glitters holographic vinyl, Provo Craft Cricut vinyl, Silhouette Cameo or Portrait vinyl, Puzzles, and much more!!!

$28.95

Buy on Amazon

When it comes to business thoughts, you save big if you buy more at a time. And, this premium heat transfer vinyl bundle stands accordingly. It is more like the previous one from the same USA manufacturer, while the only difference is the length and dimension. This amazing indoor-outdoor adhesive vinyl works with sparkles, glitters, holographic, Provo Craft Cricut, silhouette cameo or portrait vinyl, puzzles, and many more.

You can perfectly align projects with multiple layers and customize sizes of your vinyl. As this piece comes with a tape roll, you want to make your own sheet pieces by cutting it off. The package measures a 6-inch x 50 feet roll with blue alignment grid for easy placements.

You can print your imaginations on your car window, metal water bottle, shirts, ceramics and the list goes on and on. If you print for business purposes and love the smaller width, then this could be the best transfer tape ever.

Highlights

1-inch Grid Squares for Stress-free Alignment

Quick & Easy to Transfer Your Vinyl Designs

Comes with 1 Free Premium Felt Tip Squeegee

Clear Transfer Tape and More Savings for Projects

#4. Qbc Craft Transfer Paper Tape – 4″ x 50′

98 Reviews

Qbc Craft Transfer Paper Tape - 4" x 50' CLEAR Perfect Size for Better Alignment of Cricut Silhouette Adhesive Vinyl for Signs Stickers Decals Walls (4" x 50', Clear)

SO QUICK AND EASY TO TRANSFER YOUR VINYL DESIGN - Get EASY ALIGNMENT AND POSITIONING with our SEE THROUGH 1" SQUARE GRID patterns

GREAT SAVINGS: on our transfer tape over other popular brands a 4" x 50 Feet Roll

CRAFTERS CHOICE - Perfect for Tumblers We guarantee you will love our transfer tape OR YOUR MONEY BACK!

VERSATILITY designed for use on Ultra, Glitter, Metallic, Cricut, Silhouette and Oracal Vinyls

Use with Qbc Craft Adhesive Vinyl Sheets!

$20.99

Buy on Amazon

Tired of cheap papers that don’t transfer at all? Try the QBC Craft transfer paper. It is proudly made in the USA and compatible with most other vinyls. Positioning and aligning your designs will become headache-free with this quality transfer paper.

Qbc Craft Transfer Paper is available in both the transparent and white color. Additionally, you can choose from three different sizes. Dimensions vary in 4-inch x 50 feet, 12-inch x 10 feet, and 12-inch x 18 feet. Its versatile design lets you use it on Ultra, Metallic, Glitter, Cricut, Oracal, and Silhouette vinyl. Nonetheless, you should not be using it for the wet method.

It hosts a less aggressive adhesive that shows awesome results with small detailed decals. Also, if you use it with Qbc Craft adhesive vinyl sheets, it is non-residue. You can re-use it repeatedly. It boasts a strong grip and provides long-lasting durability.

Highlights

Works Very Well in Transferring Vinyl Stickers

Great for Cricut Vinyl Transfer Projects

Creates Awesome Decals for Cars & Windows

Affordable Than Most Tapes Offered in Stores

#5. Avery InkJet Iron-On Dark T-Shirt Transfers

619 Reviews

Avery T-shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers for light-colored, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 18 (08938)

Quality results for a professional, fashionable look

Use to personalize your T-shirts, hats, aprons and even bags

Designed for use on light-colored 100% cotton/poly cotton blend fabrics

Color Shieldformula means colors stay bright, even after being washed

$17.93

Buy on Amazon

Avery makes great T-shirt transfers for both good looking and resilient prints. Basically, the brand focuses perfection on 100% cotton fabric and mixed cotton-polyester blends. Apart from shirts, you can also print on caps, kitchen and aprons, and fabric-made bags.

Although you have multiple sizes to buy, all of them have the default 18 count units. Each unit contains 18 pieces of unprinted sheets. The default dimension is 8.5-inch in width and 11-inch in length. You can bring the best out of your design on light colored surfaces. Colors stay bright and smudge-free even after regular machine wash.

Its new Color Shieldformula ensures the crisp and longevity of images. This prevents the print from fading out soon like other vinyl prints. As a result, you do not have to hang your shirts as decorative showpieces. Rather, you can wear those out for days at a stretch.

Highlights

Prints last a pretty decent amount of time

Best Heat Transfer Vinyl for Cotton Crafts

New Color Shieldformula Withstands Fading

Easy Process and Good Adhesive

#6. NEENAH 3G JET-OPAQUE HEAT TRANSFER PAPER

49 Reviews

NEENAH 3G JET-OPAQUE HEAT TRANSFER PAPER 8.5 X 11" CUSTOM PACK 100 SHEETS

Commercial Grade Transfer Paper

Create iron-on transfers using an ordinary clothes iron, ink jet printer and most software.

Personal Creations Ink Jet T-Shirt Transfers for White / Light & Dark Color T-Shirts.

Hot Peel Transfer Paper

High Quality; Long Lasting

$58.98

Buy on Amazon

Neenah commercial grade heat transfer paper is only usable for inkjet printers. If you love to build a reputation and goodwill among the customers, this 3G Jet Opaque paper will definitely help. It is exclusively made to deliver iron-on-transfers with the help of an electric iron.

The packet says it is for dark colors. But in reality, it is designed to sublimate inkjet colors to any dark or light colored garments and substrates. It provides high quality and long-lasting transfers. The 8.5-inch x 11-inch sheets comprehend opaque layer which enables photograph quality image transformation.

Neenah makes great products and this 3G paper prints very clean and detailed designs. For heat pressing t-shirts, I would call this a perfect product for all level of experience. You cannot mess out a single shirt with this professional quality paper.

Highlights

Specialized for Inkjet Printers Only

Professional Grade Performance

Best Heat Transfer Paper for Heat Press

High Quality and Long Lasting

#7. Angel Crafts 6″ by 50′ PREMIUM Transfer Paper

642 Reviews

Angel Crafts 6" by 50' PREMIUM Transfer Paper Tape Roll with Grid - PERFECT ALIGNMENT for Cricut or Silhouette Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Walls, Signs, Decals, Windows, and More

QUICK AND EASY RELEASE that does not leave a sticky residue on your vinyl and won't rip or tear your project! It's the perfect alignment paper so your projects go on straight and even every time.

JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF GLUE will make sure your project transfer beautifully. No mess - no fuss! Larger core means less memory so the transfer paper lays flat to make it easy to work with. Great multi-media tape too.

FREE INSTRUCTIONS on how to use Angel Craft application tape with your favorite adhesive vinyl.

PERFECT APPLICATION EVERY TIME! The red grid lines take the guess work out of aligning and applying your art work. No problems with air bubbles!

YOU WORK HARD on making just the right design for your home or gift and we want you to be proud of your project.

$22.95

Buy on Amazon

Angel Crafts paper tape with grid takes the guess-work out of your aligning and applying the artwork. It also has a detailed guideline on how you will use the application tape with your favorite adhesive vinyl. Featuring a quick and easy release, it does not accumulate sticky dregs on your vinyl.

This eradicates the risks of tearing or ripping off your project. Plus, being an impeccable alignment paper, you go on straight with your projects every time. Angel Craft is a premium quality 50 feet roll. It is crafted to work with almost all the brands in the market. Yet, the bundle is easy to unwind and apply for a multipurpose application.

You do not want to waste your money and time cheap products, right? Grab a hold of this one, it is incredibly cheap as well. You will love this product. It is one of the best transfer papers I have used so far for making decals.

Highlights

Great for Stickers Orcal 851 and Reflective Vinyl

Performs Best for Vinyl Transferring Decals

Great Value Out There in The Market

Thinner Than Other Transfer Tapes with Similar Looks

#8. Frisco Craft Transfer Tape Roll 12″ x 50 Feet Clear Lay Flat

53 Reviews

Frisco Craft Transfer Tape Roll 12" x 50 Feet Clear Lay Flat | Application Tape Perfect for Cricut Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Signs Stickers Decals Walls Doors Windows

Frisco Craft 12 x 50 feet transfer tape is an ideal product that can handle your project most effectively with the superior quality materials. Our specialized adhesive system will make sure you have done your job in the most effective way without leaving any residue on your project!

FREE Vinyls +3 Different tacks of transfer tape Samples for FREE!!

NO Residue Guaranteed!!!!

Best Seller in Europe for many Oracal Distributors.

Exceptional clarity for easy registration of multiple colors or layers and precise registration

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

Frisco 12”x50 feet is a cheap yet popular transfer tape roll that comes under 20 bucks. It is a product of superior quality and performance. The specialized adhesive system gets your job done in an effective manner.

Despite the reasonable price, it guarantees zero residues on your projects. The 12-inch heat transfer vinyl rolls 50 feet long. In comparison with other products at the price range, Frisco hoards higher quality. So don’t even think of underestimating the piece for its price. You can definitely give it a try. You will have more value for your buck and more projects done.

This nifty piece can be used for any of the transfer jobs whether it is indoor or outdoor. It easily transfers to smooth surfaces and works with Silhouette, Provo Craft, Cricut Vinyl, Cameo, Oracal and much more. Nevertheless, the tape does not entail a release liner or release backing. To conclude, the tape is good enough. I have used it for quite a while.

Highlights

Best Transfer Tape for 631 and 651 Vinyl

Non-residue and Perfect Stickiness

Can’t Bear the Quality for the Price!

Works on Most Indoor/Outdoor Vinyls

#9. Craftopia 12″ x 12 Feet Clear Transfer Paper Tape Roll

635 Reviews

Transfer Paper Tape Roll 12" x 12 FT CLEAR w/ Blue Alignment Grid | Application Tape Perfect for Cricut Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Signs Stickers Decals Walls Doors & Windows | Medium Tack

COMPARE AND SAVE - TOTAL OF 12 FEET LONG ROLL. That's 6 more BONUS feet than other Transfer Tape brands. OUR BEST DEAL EVER.

SIGN AND CRAFT MAKERS' TRANSFER PAPER CHOICE - We are sign makers ourselves and we guarantee you will love our application transfer tape OR YOUR MONEY BACK!

SO QUICK AND EASY TO TRANSFER YOUR VINYL DESIGN - Get EASY ALIGNMENT AND POSITIONING with our SEE THROUGH 1" SQUARE GRID patterns

WILL WORK WITH ALL INDOOR/OUTDOOR ADHESIVE VINYLS including Craftopia sparkles glitters holographic vinyl, Provo Craft Cricut vinyl, Silhouette Cameo or Portrait vinyl, Puzzles, and much more!!!

$26.99

Buy on Amazon

I already talked about two Craftopia transfer paper bundles. And, if you have read through those two then you know! There’s nothing left to shred on Craftopia transfer papers. They are identical all the same except the size and dimensions. This 12-inch by 12-feet is also no diverse from those two mentioned above.

It is a cheaper version of the same old products you previously saw(25-feet and 50-feet long paper tape rolls). This is the 12-feet one and obviously with a lower price. Each and every feature are 100% look alike.

Being a quick piece to transfer vinyl designs, it avails easy alignment and positioning with the see-through grid patterns. The unit also stands compatible for almost all the indoor/outdoor vinyl adhesives. Such as Craftopia holographic vinyl, Provo Craft Cricut vinyl, Silhouette Cameo or Portrait vinyl, Puzzles and etc. This is the one to put into your cart when opting for personal DIY prints.

Highlights

1-inch Grid Squares for Stress-free Alignment

High-Tech Vinyl Transfer Tape

Comes with 1 Free Premium Felt Tip Squeegee

Clear Transfer Tape and More Savings for Projects

#10. Angel Crafts 12″ by 8′ CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll

1264 Reviews

Angel Crafts 12" by 8' CLEAR Transfer Paper Tape Roll w/ Grid - PERFECT ALIGNMENT of Cricut or Silhouette Cameo Self Adhesive Vinyl for Walls, Signs, Decals, Windows, and More.

QUICK AND EASY RELEASE that does not leave a sticky residue on your vinyl and won't rip or tear your project! It's the perfect alignment paper so your projects go on straight and even every time. Made of the best quality rubber based adhesive.

JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF GLUE will make sure your project transfer beautifully. No mess - no fuss! Larger core means less memory so the transfer paper lays flat to make it easy to work with. Great multi-media tape too.

FREE INSTRUCTIONS on how to use Angel Craft application tape with your favorite adhesive vinyl.

PERFECT APPLICATION EVERY TIME! The clear paper and blue grid lines take the guess work out of aligning and applying your art work. No problems with air bubbles!

YOU WORK HARD on making just the right design for your home or gift and we so get that! We want you to be proud of your project.

$17.49

Buy on Amazon

Sorry, but I am already tired of myself. This is just like the previous review on Craftopia, All of these are unintentionally awkward because I gathered up all the items according to their user feedbacks and a thorough market study. However, this Angel Crafts 12-inch by 8-feet is more of the earlier reviewed bundle.

The transparent paper with blue grids ensures precise application every time you proceed. It comes with clear cut instructions and great multi-media tape. Being made of high-quality rubber-based adhesive, it uses the correct amount of glue. This transfers to your project without making any mess.

If you are to print on very few garments or objects, you can go with this one. It is cheap but provides above-average quality to meet your expectation. What else do you want from such a low-cost transfer paper?

Highlights

Great Transfer Paper for Vinyl Projects

Performs Best for Vinyl Transferring Decals

Optimized Quantity for Non-commercial Prints

Does Not Tear or Rip off Your Job

Conclusion

You don’t need to hold a Ph.D. to buy the best heat transfer vinyl. Keep things simple and think yourself. When you are planning business, it is better to go for a bigger quantity. Conversely, if you have no commercial intend at all, do not buy more than you need. There is nothing to do with the remaining wastages, right?

In terms of the quality, you can go any of the above. Because these are not random picks. I have years of experience in T-shirt business, and I speak from experience.

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10 Best Heat Transfer Vinyl Reviews 2018 – Ultimate Buying Guide

If you are a T-shirt entrepreneur, looking forward to designing your own unique fashion statement then you need the Best Heat Transfer Vinyl and we are here help you.

It’s the obvious dream of every designer to create designs and prints which leave an everlasting impression on your customers.

This not just a piece of cake, you need to make proper planning regarding your designs, which machines to be used and which substrate cloth to be used. If you don’t use high-quality heat transfer vinyl papers even after having all the above mention things you cannot achieve what you planned for.

If you have been in the vinyl business for quite some time then you will surely agree that if you don’t select proper vinyl, it will not only ruin your design but also impact your business. Today there are lots and lots of vinyl’s are available in the market and it becomes quite impossible to select the best one among them. With proper knowledge and budget, you can easily select the best vinyl transfer paper for your suitable garments.

What is Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Okay, the very first thing that we are going to do is to understand what a” heat transfer vinyl” is actually? HTV or Heat Transfer Vinyl is the ultimate answer to all you transfer designs projects. It enables you to give a personalized touch to your every project.

HTV is a thin sheet of polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride material on a clearer and self-adhesive material. These are available in roll and sheets from which designs are cut using computer controlled cutters such as Silhouette Cameo or the Cricut or Rolland GX or even hands. These designs are then weeded for the extra material and are generally heat pressed to complete the transfer.

If high-quality vinyl is used and applied properly thin it becomes a part of the fabric and lasts as long as the garment itself. The Heat Transfer Vinyl can be distinguished from other transfer media as it feels soft and smooth in touch and also has many vibrant colures. Moreover, it does not give any rubbery or stiff texture.

Why you need heat transfer vinyl?

It’s time to answer the most important question in this article today. There are a ton of reasons which I can point out in favor of heat transfer vinyl when compared to other forms transfer. Most important ones are mentioned below.

Precise designs and accurate cuts: As most of the vinyl cutting is done by computer-automated cutters so you get more attractive designs. The designs are sharpers plus there is no chance of soiling a design by human errors.

Affordable: One thing which I would like to highlight is that the vinyl transfers are many costs efficient when compared to direct to garment print or the screen printing process.

Sizable: The vinyl transfer business is highly adaptable to the business needs. As you can easily store the designs made well in advance without any issues, so when a sudden demand is felt simply use the designs to get products ready.

Vibrant color and multiple forms: Have you seen the T-shirts with really vibrant color worn by people around you which look much more appealing. These are nothing but vinyl design, there are lots of effects with which they are available such as opaque vinyl, Sparkling Vinyl, Metallic vinyl, patterns or glitter vinyl.

Durability: Out of all the other transfer forms Heat Transfer Vinyl is the one which lasts the most. If the transfer is properly made then the vinyl transfer will last as long as the garment itself.

Things to considering Before Buy

We have discussed quite a few things about heat transfer vinyl but before making the final purchase there are certain factors which you should look for. These are some of the basic features of high-quality vinyl which ensures the better quality products.

Quality of the vinyl: There are the various quality of heat transfer vinyl available on the market today and find the best one is a challenge. Try to get the best one available until and unless you want to get frustrated with your designed products. The best vinyl will be durable, won’t fade or crack and most importantly do not peel off, no matter how many time they are washed. One key feature of top quality vinyl that they are thin, which makes them easier to work on. Look for the user reviews to get the best one, if you find peeling, bubbling or melting issues in the review it’s more than enough to stay away from it.

Ease of transfer: This might be the most important point here if you know the proper transfer characteristics of vinyl it will save you a lot of hard work.

Transfer time: It’s the time required by the vinyl to get completely stuck to the substrate under the properly fixed parameter such as temperature and pressure. It also gives you a rough idea that how much time will a piece require.

Transfer temperature: As known by its name it is a heat transfer method, so we need to know the proper temperature at which it works. If the temperature is correct it will give better results.

Pressure: Most of the vinyl require a hard press while the transfer is taking place. Look for the pressure required by the vinyl to get completely transferred.

Color combination: Every pack of vinyl comes with a different color combination so it totally depends on you that which option you go with. These packs come with a very wide variety of colors from simple shades of grey to all the stuff found in the rainbow. Choose a pack which offers you diverse and trendy colors while being practical all your projects.

Size of vinyl: It is a very important factor, depending on the quantity required in a single transfer and as a whole on the entire project. If you are beginner sheets may be enough for you but later in the day, you may consume yards of vinyl.

Washable: Although vinyl is known for lasting, the last thing you want for your design to lose its quality as gets washed. Look for the piece which offers maximum wash cycle life.

These are just some of the highlight aspects which you should consider before selecting a pack, there are other factors depending on the project and budget which will be discovered at some later point in time.

Top 10 Heat Transfer Vinyl Reviews

Qbc Craft 12×12 Permanent Adhesive Vinyl Sheets (36 Pack)

If you just started the vinyl print business and are really looking for something that would easy to work with, then this started bundle might be the item you need. It comes in a super-sized package containing 36 sheets of heat transfer vinyl. Being in the sheet form allows you to easily take measures of your design and customize them accordingly. The vinyl material is of supreme quality and is highly durable even after years of rough use and washing. In my view, if used on garments it’s going to stay as long as the garment lasts itself.

Talking about the dimensions all the 36 sheets bear the same size of 12” X 12, that’s a decent size to work with most of the vinyl cutters and heat presses. They offer you the most extensive color range, needless to mention they literally have all the vibrant and practical colors out there. Because of such a wide range of colors, there is no project out there which you can leave apart and you can come up with something for every product thrown at you.

When it comes to the usage part the Qbc vinyl sheets are a charm as the packet comes with a nice instructional sheet. It is simple to understand and can be referred if have any doubts about the application. The pack includes transfer tapes which help in the easy repositioning of vinyl sheets thus reducing the chances of tearing or stretching.

For working with small decals with finer details you need to use the opaque blue grid transfer tape which is less adhesive thus allowing finer details to stay intact while withdrawing the sheets after cutting and weeding. But when you are working large designs consider using the red transfer tape as its aggressively adhesive.

Highlighted Features:

Highly durable vinyl can last up to 5 years if applied properly

Designed for indoor as well as outdoor use

Gives you lots of vibrant shades

The self-adhesive back makes it best heat transfer vinyl for Silhouette cameo and Circut

3 MIL thick which makes it ideal for any kind of craft or decoration projects

#02. Ultimate Oracal 651 Starter Pack 63 Glossy Self Adhesive Vinyl Sheets

If you want something in the tight budget that offers the superior quality and offers almost all the different shades needed for a project then you go for the Ultimate Oracal. People often get confused with the name of this vinyl set, first of all, let me clarify that it is not a set of 651 sheets rather 651 means Outdoor Adhesive Vinyl in a glossy finish. The pack still come with 63 Assortment and two extra sheets namely matte black and matte white.

Talking about the quality of the vinyl, its designed for outdoor use which means it can last for much longer. It can be used for outdoor signage, Dishes, decoration mugs or any kind of project that going to be exposed and washed regularly. All of this makes it highly durable.

            The sheets are very much sticky and if transferred properly then will last for a very long time. Some of the users have even used the products which are washed in a dishwasher and the vinyl still stay as good, this gives you an idea about the durability of the product.

The vinyl sheets are overall of very high quality and are very thin. If you plan on to using this on Circut or Cameo use it on the paper setting else it will be shredded. The people who used the vinyl set never faced any problem in the transfer or cutting the design. This vinyl is ideal for making smaller projects.

The only reason that why it is not in the number one position is that it does not comes with transfer tapes whereas the Obc craft comes with two different transfer tapes.

Highlighted Features:

Highly durable, Made for outdoor use

Gives you lots of vibrant shades

The self-adhesive back makes it ideal to be used with any kind of vinyl cutters

Very well for smaller projects.

5 MIL thick which makes it ideal for any kind of craft or decoration projects

#03. iImagine Vinyl 72-Sheets of Premium Permanent Self Adhesive Vinyl Sheets

If you were okay with Ultimate Oracal but want something extra in the same price range then here we have the iImagine Vinyl set for you. And by extra here we mean a different kind of vinyl such as the glossy, the matte finished or the metallic ones. Here you get all of them in one pack. The pack comes with 60 sheets along with bonus 12 sheets which increase the count up to 72.

This vinyl set features most of the vibrant colors and in different shades and texture which makes it stand apart from rest. Also, when the compared price per piece of the sheet is one of the most affordable ones.

Talking about the quality of the vinyl, it’s a permanent vinyl as described by the manufacturer which makes it similar to the 651 thus it has been made designed for outdoor use. It can be used for outdoor signage, letters, Banners, Mugs, Dishes, Cars or any kind of flat surface where you need them. The project can be exposed and washed regularly as the vinyl is highly durable.

            The vinyl sheet is very thin which talks about its quality itself and gave no problems to users it on Circut or Cameo.  The only thing that you need to take care is maintaining the speed, thickness and blade setting on those automatic cutters. You need to use transfer tapes for this vinyl to avoid any issues with the final project.

As per users the transfer and cutting characters are really good and they never faced any issue while weeding too. It should have been provided with transfer tapes as in the case of Obc Craft.

Highlighted Features:

Similar to 651, designed for outdoor use

Gives you lots of vibrant shades in different textures

The self-adhesive back makes ideal for working on projects like tumblers, glass, ceramics, and others

0 MIL thick, making it ideal for craft and decors

#04. ATNTY HTV Heat Transfer Vinyl White

If you are into T-shirt print business and are looking for some of the best HTV to engrave texts and simple designs in pure white then we have the best product for you. If you are considering to get the best quality heat transfer vinyl in the budget then there is nothing wrong with this vinyl. At $ 1.44 per sheet they may sound a bit more expensive than our top three picks, but let me assure that these are high-quality vinyl solely designed for working with softer and smoother surfaces.

Some of the persons questioned me that why we should go for a 16 piece pack of vinyl in a single color that costs nearly as much as 65 piece pack with a lot of color options. My answer was that to sell a $ 3 T-shirt for $ 15, because of the better quality of vinyl printing.

The vinyl comes in a nice folder which prevents it from getting damaged or folded and at the same time keeps it clean. It cuts great and has a very smooth transfer process. There is no issue for weeding even when fine cuts are expected. This is the best heat transfer vinyl for cotton T-shirts. It only takes 20-30 seconds to transfer at 320 – 330-degree temperature. The vinyl is quite durable and stays as new even after multiple wash cycles if applied properly it will outlast the fabric itself.

Because of its slightly thin it cuts well on the Cricut and the silhouette ( use setting 5 for depth, 8 for speed and 7 for thickness). The only thing that you need to take care is that needs to be pressed a little longer while transferring.

Highlighted Features:

Designed for indoor use on fabrics and garments mostly

So thin that it does not even feel on fabric

Great for small projects

Best vinyl sheets for beginners

#05. ATNTY-Heat Transfer Vinyl Assorted Colors – 22 Colors

If you tried your hands on the White or Black vinyl from ATNTY and found it quite exciting and easy to work with then it’s time for upskilling yourself. T-shirt print business requires you to be able to print in multiple colors and at will. There is no room for error and the quality needs to be premium that’s where our next to heat transfer vinyl comes into play. These vinyl sheets are a bit on the expensive side and costs around $ 1.5 each, but looking at the quality they are worth every penny.

This pack contains three glittering sheets of dimension 10” x 12.19” and rest 19 sheets are simple and of size 12” x 12” each. The contains some of the trendiest colors and includes special highlight colors such as Gold, silver, and pink in glitter shade. The vinyl comes in the exact same folder which prevents it from getting damaged or folded and at the same time keeps it clean.

It cuts great and has a very smooth transfer process. There is no issue for weeding even when fine cuts are expected. This is similar to its white and black counterpart and is easily the best heat transfer vinyl for T-shirts. It only takes 20-30 seconds to transfer at 320 – 330-degree temperature. The vinyl is very durable, stays as new even after multiple wash cycles and maintains its color and texture. If applied properly it will outlast the fabric itself.

Because of its much slimmer design, it cuts extremely well on the Cricut and the silhouette and other cutting machines. If you are looking to do hats, hoodies, and sweatshirts this might be the best vinyl sheets for you. It takes the similar time and temperature setting as the ATNTY HTV White.

Highlighted Features:

Features all the vibrant colors available

Has the special glitter HTV which are much more expensive

So thin that it does not even feel on fabric

Highest rated heat transfer vinyl on Amazon

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

BRIGHT IDEA Heat Transfer Vinyl HTV Bundle

At number 6 we the Bright Idea HTV bundle, you may not have liked the above products for some reason or you want something extra. Well, right here we have the bright idea that has got a ton of reasons to be selected. This is the vinyl which is designed to take care of all your heat transfer needs. The bundle contains 2 sheets of white and black along with 2 metallic sheets namely golden and silver besides the rainbow swatch. And if that was not enough it features a Glow in the Dark vinyl sheet which of premium quality. Honestly speaking, it’s the one pack that can take care of toys, caps, aprons and much more.

These vinyl sheets are made from high-quality polyurethane which gives them extra flexibility and being strong and durable at the same time. Talking about the durability of this vinyl it can sustain up to 100 wash cycles without showing any signs of fading, peeling or developing cracks. The color vibrancy and shape stays as new for a very long period of time.

The HTV sheets feature a strong adhesive layer which makes it much comfortable to work with any of the automatic vinyl cutters. Also, it makes the wedding and application process much simple. It is ideal for creating superior quality designs that require fine cuts such as monogramming, lettering or texts. It works well with both the iron and heat press machines.

If you needed something that goes well with almost all the fabric such as cotton, polyester, Rayon, and others then this is the vinyl sheets you were looking for. Even now if you don’t find sufficient reasons think once again as it comes with 100% money back guarantee (no questions asked) if the users are not satisfied.

Highlighted Features:

Features all the vibrant colors available

Has the special metallic and Glow in dark HTV sheets which are quite expensive

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

Comes with money back guarantee

Permanent Adhesive-Backed Vinyl Sheets by EZ Craft USA

Well if you are looking for something that has been designed to works with all the automatic cutters and at the same time provides you with various texture then your search is over. What if I say that it is much cheaper than what you been approximating, it’s like Santa has brought you a gift. Well, it’s the best-priced pack of 40 which has all the vinyl in 12” x 12” size. The set has a white and black in matte finish, 3 sheets each of metallic texture for golden and silver, 2 brushed silver sheets and 30 regular rainbow swatches, what more do you want?

The vinyl sheets feature high-quality adhesive backing along with liner to protect it. Because of this the sheet does not gets ruined or separated during the cutting or weeding process. The liner is very easy to peel thus prevents from creating the mess. The vinyl is made from premium quality polyurethanes which makes it much thinner and stronger at the same time.

The vinyl sheets come in a flatly packed folder which prevents the bent corners which are caused in rolls. It’s more like an Oracal 651 sheet meant to be used for the outdoor purpose. Its durable and can last up to several years facing high exposure. Even after a long run, it can hold its color and shine.

It’s good for any kind of flat surfaces such as mugs, vases, cars, signages, and others. If it’s a flat and smooth surface you can use this vinyl on that. Moreover, it comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee which means if you are unhappy with the product simply return it and get the refund.

Highlighted Features:

Features all the vibrant colors available

Designed for outdoor use

Has the special metallic sheets which are quite expensive

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

Comes with money back guarantee

#08. Premium Heat Transfer Vinyl Iron on

Okay you need to buy some high-quality heat transfer vinyl sheet and also your old cutting mat has had enough wear and tear and you need a Teflon sheet too for the transfers. This bundle has got you covered for everything mentioned above and all those at a much smaller budget. The package contains 15 HTV sheets of dimension 12” x 10” of vibrant and primary color.

The vinyl is made from 100% polyurethane making it much slimmer and stronger same time. Its stretch resistant and has been provided with a modified adhesive layers which make the weeding process very easy. Because of the thin nature, it has to be cut on paper setting on most of the cutters. Talking about the quality, it has been designed to be weather resistant which means you can use them in warm as well as freezing cold conditions. The vinyl is durable and outlasts most of the fabrics with which they were used if applied properly.

The vinyl has been designed to transfer using only irons but if you have a heat press it will be great. You can even use it on smaller projects like mugs and other flat surfaces.

Highlighted Features:

Features all the vibrant colors available

Designed to be used with simple irons

Comes with a cutting mat

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

Comes with a Teflon transfer sheet

#09. Heat Transfer Vinyl for T-Shirts, 16 Pack

At number 9 on our list, we have the U-ZM HTV for T-Shirts which is as good as any of the above-mentioned vinyl sheets. There is no issue of quality with these vinyl sheets too but the only reason they are so down on the list is that they just offer only vinyl sheets whereas every other product on the list offers you something extra.

The bundle has 16 sheets of vibrant colored vinyl sheets which are convenient to work with. The sheets come in 12” x 12” size and are perfect to work with most of the computer controlled cutters like the cameos and the circuits.

The vinyl sheets are made from 100% PU which makes them quite durable and the color & texture remains as new even after 50 wash cycles. Because of the high-quality PU, it’s much easier to cut and weed for even smaller and sharper design. Also, it features instructions written on every sheet of vinyl, so you are never going to make a mistake.

Highlighted Features:

Features all the vibrant colors available

Designed to be used with almost all the computerized cutters

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

#10. Heat Transfer Vinyl Black and White

Finally, we are at the end of our list we have the last product for you. What would you do with your regular vinyl pack if you are working on a project where you require large quantities if white and black vinyl? You get stuck in middle, as most of them have only one or two black & white sheets. The solution to this problem is the U-ZM Heat Transfer Vinyl bundle as it has 5 sheets each of black and White. It is one of the best heat press vinyl out there and works like charm with most of the fabrics.

The sheets are as good as any other on the list and are made from 100% PU which makes them highly durable and they look like new even after 50 washes. Because of the high-quality PU, it’s much easier to cut and weed for even smaller and sharper design. They come in 12” x 12” size and are ideal to work with most of the automatic cutters.

Highlighted Features:

Made from high-quality PU

Designed to be used with almost all the computerized cutters

Highly durable stays as new even after long time use.

  Final Verdict

Now that you have seen some of the best heat transfer vinyl sheet bundles available on the market today, its time to make the decision that which one do you need. Before making the final selection look for the requirements of your project. If you are starting for simple T-shirts then you can go with a bundle that offers you a lot of colors to play with so that you can have multiple color combinations. Also, look for the wash cycle life and texture that you require for a particular project. Finally, do not try to save some bucks and end up purchasing a low-quality product. I am sure you can find something on our list that fulfills all your needs.

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