This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Cricut. The opinions and text are all mine.
After learning how to use a Cricut Explore Air 2, I couldn’t resist breaking out my Cricut Easy Press 2 and trying a simple iron-on project with that as well.
I searched through the design space and found this cute Vacation Mode template and decided to use it on a t-shirt. You can get the project details here.
I love how it turned out!
The design cutting was all handled with the Explore Air 2 and then the iron-on application was completed with the Easy Press 2. You can also use the Easy Press for infusible ink!
The answer is pretty simple if you’re wondering why you’d want to use the Easy Press instead of a traditional iron.
The Easy Press 2 maintains an even temperature over the entire heating plate – no hot spots.
With the push of a button (so easy!), you can set the exact temperature needed for the materials you’re using (here’s a heat guide chart) and in 60 seconds or less, you’ll have lasting professional quality results.
I also really like that it has an insulated safety base to hold the press in between uses so there’s no worry it will topple over as irons do. The Easy Press also automatically shuts off after 10 minutes of inactivity.
How to Make a Vacation Mode Tshirt with Cricut
Tools and supplies
- Cricut Explore Air 2
- Tshirt
- Vacation Mode template pattern
- Everyday iron-on (I used bright teal)
- Weeding tool
- Cricut Easy Press 2
The first step is to decide on your t-shirt iron-on color. The possibilities are limitless with a seemingly endless array of colors, but I chose a very vacation-y looking teal blue.
I selected the design template in Cricut Design Space and toggled the mirror button to reverse the image for use as an iron-on. Don’t forget that step!
Next, I loaded the iron-on attached to a mat into my Cricut Explore Air 2 and let it make all the cuts for me.
After the cuts were made, I pulled off the excess material from the grip mat and used a weeder for the detailed work.
When I was finished weeding, the design looked like this.
My design was ready to be ironed on, so I pre-heated my Easy Press 2 based on this Easy Press Heat Guide. I needed a temperature of 315° and a press time of 30 seconds for my materials.
I laid my shirt on the Easy Press Mat (you could also use a towel) and pre-heated the t-shirt briefly with the Easy Press. Next, I positioned my Vacation Mode t-shirt design (liner side up) on the tshirt and pressed it for 30 seconds using gentle pressure. Then, I flipped it over and pressed on the reverse side of the shirt for 15 seconds.
I wanted to do a warm peel, so I didn’t wait too long before pulling the shiny backing off, and it came out perfectly. If any part of the iron-on hadn’t stuck, I would have heated it for another 10-15 seconds and tried again.
I’m really happy with my new vacation mode tshirt! I think the design would also look really cute on a tote bag, so I may make that for a gift!
Order your own Cricut Explore Air 2 and/or Cricut Easy Press 2 and start creating!
Pin this Vacation Mode Tshirt project to Pinterest!
Alissa A Apel says
I don’t have a Cricut cutter, but I should get one. I know I’d be good with one.
Kristine Nicole Alessandra says
Cool! I have always wanted to have a Cricut. The projects you can make with it are limitless. If I do get one, hopefully soon, I can start a small printing business!
Ruth I says
I like this design. it’s so cute! I love how easy it is to easy the Cricut!
Marysa says
What a cute t-shirt! I have a Cricut and this is a fun design to make. Thanks for sharing!
Christy says
I love this idea and would love to make some new t-shirts for the family. I’ve secretly wanted a cricut and I’m going to save up for one.
Lizzie Lau says
Wow, I wish I had room for fun equipment like this. I should ask around and see if anyone in my circle has one. The only thing better than having a fantastic craft room, is having a friend with one!
Beth says
I love your design and the color you chose! The easy press looks like a wonderful tool, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve messed up an iron on design, but it was at least 5.
Lynndee says
Now I can’t wait for summer and be on vacation mode. LOL. Good job! That is def an adorable idea for a t-shirt.
Brandy says
I love your vacation mode t-shirt. I so couldn’t figure out the Cricut, and sold mine. I think I need to get the new model and give Cricut another try! Plus the heat press 😉
Kita Bryant says
This is such a great and easy to use product. I can think of a lot that I would want to use that for.
Denay DeGuzman says
I love the idea of creating a special vacation t-shirt. We’re planning a big family vacation for the summer. It would be so fun for everyone to have one of these shirts! I need to invest in a Cricut machine!
Amber Myers says
How cool! I’ve heard great things about the Cricut. I might have to pick one up. I love this t-shirt.
melissa chapman says
I am always amazed by the great items that are made with a Cricut. That shirt decal and the press are a great combination and the shirt is so cute.
Pam Wattenbarger says
That design is really cute, Liz! I don’t wear t-shirts that often, but I’d definitely put it on a tote bag to carry all my gear!