Edited: October 9, 2023
What you need:
- Cricut smart cutting machine
- LightGrip Machine Mat
- Cricut EasyPress, Cricut EasyPress 2, or Cricut EasyPress 3
- Cricut EasyPress Mat
- Cricut Tote Blank (compatible with Infusible Ink)
- Infusible Ink Pens or Markers
- Heat Resistant Tape
- Laser copy paper (2)
- Butcher paper (1)
- Cardstock (80 lb.), White (colored cardstock not recommended)
- Lint roller
- Scissors
- Design Space software on mobile device or computer
- Cricut Heat Guide or Cricut Heat app (for Cricut EasyPress 3)
Step 1: Draw
1. Place sheet of laser copy paper onto LightGrip Machine Mat and load it into your machine.
2. In Design Space, select and size your design to fit on your tote blank. Set your Linetype to Draw and assign a pen or marker color. Be sure to Mirror your design.
3. Select Browse all materials, then Copy Paper. If using a Cricut Explore Air 2 or older cutting machine, turn the Smart Set Dial to Custom first.
4. Insert Infusible Ink Pen or Marker into Clamp A, then press flashing Go button.
Tip: If you have assigned multiple pen colors to your design, Design Space will prompt you to load specific colors at specific times.
5. Once your design is complete, unload mat.
6. Remove your design from the mat and, if desired, color it in using Infusible Ink Markers or Pens.
Note: Before handling Infusible Ink materials, be sure that your hands are dry and free of any oils or lotions.
Tip: To ensure the ink does not bleed through onto your surface, place a second sheet of laser paper beneath your design before coloring.
Step 2: Apply
Tip: Now is a good time to prep your Cricut EasyPress. For precise temp, time, and pressure settings for your project, always refer to the Cricut Heat Guide or Cricut Heat app (for Cricut EasyPress 3).
1. Place cardstock on top of Cricut EasyPress Mat, then position both inside tote. The cardstock will protect your mat and project.
Note: If Cricut EasyPress Mat used inside your blank (i.e. totes, baby bodysuits) is smaller than the Cricut EasyPress heat plate, we recommend using an additional mat under the blank to protect your work surface.
2. Do not skip this step: Use a fresh adhesive to lint-roll the entire surface. Even minuscule debris or fibers may create imperfections in the final transfer.
3. Cover blank with butcher paper.
Important: Butcher paper must be larger than Cricut EasyPress heat plate.
Note: Butcher paper comes in each package of Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets.
4. Do not skip this step. Preheat application area to remove moisture and wrinkles that result in unwanted effects.
For time and temperature settings, refer to Cricut Heat Guide or Cricut Heat app (for Cricut EasyPress 3).
Use even, light pressure.
5. Remove butcher paper and let tote cool completely.
6. Place design face down on tote. The side with the drawing should be against the blank.
7. Tape down each corner of the design with Heat Resistant Tape. This keeps your design from shifting during transfer.
8. Place butcher paper on top of design.
9. To find time and temperature settings for your project refer to Cricut Heat Guide or Cricut Heat app (for Cricut EasyPress 3).
Important: Do not slide or move your hands or Cricut EasyPress during transfer. Keep the stack still while pressing.
10. When beep sounds, slowly lift press. Try not to move the stack, including butcher paper.
11. Let project cool completely. Then slowly remove butcher paper, tape, and design.
Tip: Never reuse butcher paper for another project!
12. Enjoy!
Care
- Machine wash inside out with cold water and mild detergent
- Tumble dry low or line dry
- Do not use fabric softener, dryer sheets, or bleach