How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink with Iron-on Vinyl

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I recently started experimenting with Cricut infusible ink and I’m loving the bold colors and patterns. However, I’m not giving up on iron-on vinyl anytime soon. Follow along with the steps below to learn how to layer Cricut infusible ink with iron-on vinyl.

Cricut Infusible Ink
Cricut Infusible Ink and Heat Tape

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Table of Contents

WHERE CAN I FIND THE CUT FILE?

The layered heart free SVG cut file is in my resource library. Sign up here to unlock the resource library and grab the free SVG cut file. You will find this in the Valentine’s Day section of the resource library.

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SUPPLIES

Additional:
Cricut Heat Guide

DIRECTIONS

Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-On
Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-On

Infusible Ink Design Tips

A good Infusible ink layered design would have a large base for the infusible ink transfer sheet layer that shows off the bold colors and pattern as well as a thin layer of iron-on vinyl for the top layer.

Another area to check is the size of the infusible ink design. You want to be sure your design is not larger than the Easy Press you are using. Once you place the heat source onto the infusible ink, it is highly recommended not to move the heat source to avoid the ink from shifting or ghosting. If you have a 9 x 9 Easy Press, size your design no larger than 8.5 or 9 inches.

Cut the design

Cut the Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on with the standard fine-point blade. For both infusible ink and iron-on, the designs are mirrored before cutting. For infusible ink, place the ink side up on the mat. For iron-on vinyl, place the shiny side down on the mat.

Prepare your blank

I used a Cricut brand cosmetic bag however, other blanks can be used if they are 100% polyester. Use a lint roller to remove any loose dirt or lint. Add a layer of cardstock to protect from ink bleeding through. I did not have any issues with ink bleeding but this is a good precaution to protect your heat press mat.

Apply Heat with Easy Press

Start with the infusible ink layer and position the design ink side down. Be sure to secure the design with heat resistant tape. The heat resistant tape is important to avoid the infusible ink layer from ghosting due to shifting.

Tips for applying heat to Infusible Ink

Before applying the heat, check the box the Cricut Infusible ink came in because it has a couple of paper sheets used as a protective layer during pressing.

Also, before applying heat, check the Cricut heat guide to double check your heat and temperature settings. Once the Easy Press is applied, do not move it at all. This is a notable difference between iron-on vinyl and infusible ink. Apply light but consistent pressure when the heat source is applied.

If you are wondering if a regular iron would work, unfortunately a regular iron will not work. Infusible Ink requires a very high temperature (although an older Easy Press will work at 360 degrees F for a longer press time – see Cricut Heat guide).

Remove heat

Once the time is complete, carefully lift the Easy Press straight up and avoid shifting the design.

Wait for the surface to completely cool before removing the tape and transfer sheet. No really, wait for the surface to no longer be warm. By waiting, you will ensure the infusible ink process is fully complete and infused.

Apply Iron on Vinyl

Next step is to apply the iron-on layer. Optional, but recommended, secure the iron-on design with heat resistant tape. Press according to the Cricut heat guide.

The Cricut heat guide not only provides temperature and timing instructions but also if the material is warm or cool peel. My iron-on vinyl was a cool peel and it worked perfectly!

How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on
How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on

To learn even more about Cricut Infusible ink sheets and pens, check out my crafty friend Shawn Mosch’s detailed post.

How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on
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WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to layer infusible ink with iron-on vinyl using Cricut helpful?  If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

2 Comments

    1. Hi Jackie! Iron-on vinyl has a clear backing layer. I used heat resistant tape to secure the pieces in place before pressing. I also used a teflon sheet as a barrier between the press and the iron-on vinyl. Hope this helps!

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