When you start your next vinyl project, there are many things that you must consider. You need to consider the type of vinyl to use, how your machine will work, what color charts to pick, and the size of the vinyl. Maybe you need some inspiration to help you decide what your next project should be. We can help you with our expertise no matter where you are starting. This article is your guide on how to use the most common types of craft vinyl, from the first step to the final care of your project.
Select the Vinyl Type You Want
Is it HTV or adhesive? It all depends on the project. If you are new to crafting vinyl, you might be unsure which type of vinyl would be best for your project. The wrong vinyl could spell disaster. Sticky vinyl on your niece’s onesie is only good for one use. Below lists information about how to use each type of vinyl.
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ADHESIVE CRAFT VINYL
You can use this versatile vinyl on any item you use every day: bottles, plates, cups and wine glasses, wooden items, canvas, etc. You can even make custom wall decals with this vinyl! There are endless possibilities.
Step 1: Clean your Surface
First, ensure that the surface you plan to apply vinyl to is dry and clean. Smoother surfaces will make it easier to transfer vinyl. However, transferring vinyl on rougher surfaces such as wood or textured walls can be difficult. Nonetheless, do know that it will still work.
Step 2: Create your design
Either cut your design by hand or use a craft knife. Once your design has been cut, you can remove any excess vinyl around the lettering or image (called weeding).
Step 3: Apply your Transfer Tape
Place your vinyl on top of the transfer tape, and then use something flat and firm (e.g., credit card, scraper, application tool, etc.) Smoothen any bubbles and ensure that it is securely attached to the vinyl. The backing paper must be carefully removed from the vinyl.
Step 4: Stick to Your Design
Place it on your project carefully. Once it is in place, press down firmly and smoothen any bubbles with your scraper. Start at the center and move outwards. Doing this will push out bubbles rather than pushing them in. After you have adhered your vinyl to the surface, grab one corner of your transfer paper and pull down at an angle. Run your scraper/application tool (credit card, etc.) To remove any bubbles, or to secure the vinyl to the surface, run your scraper/application tool (credit card, etc.) over it.
Heat Transferred (HTV) Craft Vinyl
HTV can be used on clothing, shoes, and purses that can withstand heat. Heat transfer vinyl’s best friend is fabric-like surfaces.
Step 1: Mirror your design and cut it
Once you have chosen your design, flip it or mirror it before you cut. Because you will be ironing your design face down, it must be mirrored. Once you are satisfied with your design, cut it out.
Step 2: Get rid of excess vinyl
Either cut your design by hand or use a craft knife. Once your design has been cut, you can remove any excess vinyl around the lettering or image (called weeding).
Step 3: Apply Vinyl to Your Surface
Each type of Heat Transfer Vinyl comes with its own recommended temperature and pressure settings. So, be sure to research to make sure you don’t burn your adhesive. You don’t want to heat your vinyl too much. Note that vinyl will not stick properly if heated up too much.
Step 4: Take the Carrier Sheet off the Vinyl
Also, check whether your vinyl can be purged hot or cold. This refers to the ability to remove the clear carrier sheet. It is important to check whether the vinyl can be removed immediately after pressing (hot peel), or if it needs to cool down and set properly (cold peel). You don’t want your hard work to go down the drain.
Start Your Project Now!
Making crafts using vinyl rolls is indeed a fun and exciting project to do. If you are planning to start your project today, see to it that you look for bulk vinyl sellers now. Moreover, do not forget to show us your work so that you can also inspire others.
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