Cricut has so many different materials that it can cut. Are you new to Cricut and need to figure out which materials you can use? Maybe you are unsure what the different types of vinyl are used for. It can be a bit overwhelming when you are starting out but this guide will help you figure out, What is the difference between materials and uses for Cricut Machines?
What is the difference between materials and uses?
Since Cricut has so many different materials, I’m going to go through some of the more common materials. These will probably what you would use the most when using your cutting machine.
Paper
You will use paper for a variety of projects. I started off using paper when I first got my Cricut (when it was cartridge-based) to make treat bags, cards, and scrapbook layouts. I also dabbled a bit in making paper flowers. You can use cardstock to create keychain holders for example, if you have your own business making acrylic keychains. It can be a nice personalized display for your keychains.
You can use paper for:
- Cards/Envelopes
- Scrapbook layouts/accents
- Flowers
- Treat bags
- 3D projects
- Banners
- Gift tags
- Party decorations – Cake toppers
Adhesive Vinyl
Adhesive vinyl may be one of the popular uses for Cricut cutting machines. There are two types: Permanent and Removable.
Permanent Vinyl
It is vinyl that can not be removed so you will typically use these on:
- Mugs/Tumblers
- Wine glasses
- Decals for the outside of your car (since it will be exposed to the elements)
- Anything that will be outside – Decorating mailboxes and porch signs
Removable Vinyl
This vinyl is removable therefore you can apply it to surfaces that you want to change up. Here are some examples:
- Wall decals – it can easily be removed without damaging the walls
- Labeling different things – bottles, spices, bins, etc
- Window decals – if you like to decorate your windows for different occasions
- Decorating your Cricut!
- Customizing a picture frame
Using Adhesive Vinyl does require the use of Transfer tape when it comes to placing it on certain things like tumblers, mugs, and wine glasses., for example.
Iron-On Vinyl
Using heat transfer vinyl is one of my favorite materials to use with Cricut machines. Iron-on/HTV can be used in a variety of ways, for example:
- T-shirts/Sweatshirts/pants/onesies
- Tote/Makeup Bags
- Wood
- Baseball caps
- Throw pillows
- Blankets
When using Iron-on/Heat Transfer Vinyl, you must “mirror” your image and text.
Printable Vinyl/Sticker Paper
Using printable vinyl and sticker paper is great for making labels, stickers (especially planner stickers!), and labeling school supplies. My favorite is definitely making stickers! There are so many things that can be made into stickers – my daughter is always requesting stickers for her notebook and folder.
Infusible Ink
Infusible Ink is one of my favorite new materials to work with. The process is so cool as the color transfer right onto the material (using Cricut Infusible Ink blanks is best). There are a variety of colors and patterns. The colors come out so vibrant! I look that it looks like a t-shirt or tote I would find in a store. You can also use Infusible markers to make your own design. You can use Infusible Ink on:
- T-shirts
- Onesies
- Mugs (Hello, new Mug Press!)
- Tote bags
- Coasters
Cricut has so many other materials that can be used on the Cricut.
- Make some magnets with Cricut Magnet material
- Earrings and cuffs with Leather
- Create beautiful felt flowers with Felt sheets
- Use wood veneers to make 3D projects like lanterns or planters
Need some project ideas on what you can do with Cricut?
