Edited: August 31, 2023
Note: These FAQ apply to the Cricut Joy Foil Transfer System. For FAQ about the Foil Transfer System created for use with Cricut Explore, Cricut Maker, and Cricut Venture machines, see Cricut Foil Transfer System FAQ.
Is the Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool compatible with all cutting machines?
No. Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool was designed specifically for Cricut Joy machines (Cricut Joy and Cricut Joy Xtra). There is a different Foil Transfer Tool for Cricut Explore, Cricut Maker, and Cricut Venture machines.
Can I use Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool with other brands of foil transfer sheets?
No. Other brands of foil sheets are heat activated. Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool is a pressure-activated system and was designed to work with Cricut Foil Transfer Sheets.
Do I need an adapter to make Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool work?
No. Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool works with Cricut Joy machines as is — no adapters needed.
Can I cut and foil in the same project with Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool?
Yes. Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool is integrated with Design Space for Desktop. Design Space for Desktop software will step you through the process with on-screen prompts to foil and then cut your project.
Can I use the Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool when using the Design Space mobile app?
No. Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool requires Design Space for Desktop. It is not compatible with other mobile apps.
What kind of tape can I use with Foil Transfer Sheets?
Tape strips are included with Foil Transfer Sheets. If you run out, you can choose tape with a light adhesive, such as washi tape, painter’s tape, or masking tape. Test tape on base material first to ensure it won’t tear the material when removed.
What if tape is covering my design? Will it foil through the tape?
Areas of the design covered by tape will not transfer properly. For best results, position tape so it doesn't cover any portion of the design.
What materials can Cricut Joy machines foil with the Foil Transfer Tool?
To see which materials work best with the Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool and sheets, view this list.
What is the best way to store foil transfer sheets?
To protect foil transfer sheets and keep them flat, store in the packaging.
What are the best practices for taping Foil Transfer Sheets to my base material?
- Test tape on your base material first. While the included tape strips work on a variety of materials, it's best to ensure the tape won't damage your material when removed.
- Tape along all edges of the foil sheet. Foil Transfer Sheet should be smooth, flat, and secure against your base material. Use full tape strip or long pieces of tape to secure the entire edge of the foil transfer sheet.
- Tape should not cover any portion of your design area. Be sure to include an allowance for the tape when you trim your foil transfer sheet. Areas of the design covered by tape will not transfer properly, and if the tool crosses over tape it may cause the tape and foil transfer sheet to tear.
- Use care when removing tape. Peel tape off slowly to avoid tearing base material.
Will my project be ruined if the tape goes under the rollers, or if my tape is wrapped around the mat?
Whenever possible position your design and materials on the mat so that tape and foil do not pass under the rubber rollers at the sides of the machine or the white star wheels on the Cricut Joy Xtra roller bar. This may cause tape to pull on material or come off or cause unwanted foil transfer to your material or mat as it moves through the machine. For larger projects where tape will pass under those rollers, make sure tape is pressed firmly down to the mat first.
Will Cricut Foil Transfer Sheets work with non-Cricut foiling tools?
Yes! While Cricut Foil Transfer Sheets were designed specifically for Cricut Foil Transfer Tool, they will also work with other foiling tools.