Valentine's Day Archives - Craftara Creates

How to make paper Valentine’s Day wands with Cricut

Tara — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 08:55:00 +0000

Non-Candy Valentine for kids: DIY Paper Heart Wand

Make Valentine’s Day magical with DIY paper heart wands as a non-candy valentine gift alternative for the classroom.

My preschooler loves these non-candy valentine DIY paper heart wands and she helped make them for her whole class – to include the teachers. I let her choose the paper colors and which sayings go on each wand. She wrote her name on the back of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo printable tag.

The DIY Paper Heart Wand with Cricut combines the print-then-cut feature with standard cardstock cuts and is suitable for the Cricut Explore Air or Cricut Maker model cutting machines. This Cricut paper craft is simple to cut and assemble using craft glue and hot glue. Even without making this project into a wand, the folder over design makes super cute Valentine cards as well.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.

WHERE CAN I FIND the DIY Paper Heart Wand CUT FILE?

For the non-candy valentine for kids DIY paper heart wand, sign up here to unlock the resource library and grab the free SVG cut file. You will find this in the Valentine’s Day Craft section of the resource library. While you are there, don’t forget to pick up the free Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo printable tag to complete the gift.

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HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE A DIY PAPER HEART WAND WITH CRICUT

Free cut file and printable in my resource library – sign up below
Cricut Cutting Machine (Explorer or Maker)
Cricut Mat for paper (light grip or standard grip)
Fine Point Blade
Printer (see note below to use black vinyl as an alternative)
Cardstock in Red, Pink and white
Precision craft glue
Hot glue
Double sided foam adhesive (optional)
Wooden Dowels (alternative: chopsticks or skewers with the pointy tip removed)
Ribbon as an embellishment (optional)
Xacto Knife

DIRECTIONS

The DIY Paper Heart Wand project cut file comes with instructions embedded into the file itself. The easiest way to make the small conversation hearts is to prepare them as print and cut.

NOTE: if you do not have a printer, you could change the words to a pen function and write the words with a Cricut pen instead.

After you download the free project design file, upload it to Cricut Design space. The design will be all grouped together.

First, with the whole design selected, click ungroup.

To prepare as a print and cut conversation hearts, select the conversation hearts and click upgroup again. You will notice in the layers panel that each heart is grouped. Click on one at a time and select flatten. This will convert the text and heart to print-and-cut. That’s it! Repeat for each conversation heart. It may look like the heart has disappeared within Design Space, but that is because it is white and is blending in with the canvas color.

NOTE: You can not select them all at once or Design space will merge them all together and we want each heart to be cut separately.

Before selecting ‘Make it’ be sure to delete the instruction text. Print then cut the conversation hearts on white cardstock or regular printer paper. Cut the two heart lattices on white cardstock or printer paper. The shadow heart and the folder over base are the pops of color and should be two colors that work well together such as light pink and a darker glitter pink.

Reuse the print then cut white paper for cutting the two heart lattices.

Save the extra hearts cut from the heart lattice. You can uses these to decorate other heart wands and skip cutting more heart lattice.

Assemble paper heart wand

Once all the cutting is complete, you will end with the following pieces:

conversation hearts with the sayings
2 shadow layers for the conversation heart (the second one can go on the back)
two heart lattices
folder over base shape

Once all the paper heart is assembled, hot glue a wooden dowel to the center. Fold over the top and hot glue the other side.

Add a bow to complete the DIY paper Heart Wand.

Don’t forget the free printable Valentine tag!

My resource library also has a free printable tag created just for this project. The final step is to cut a top and bottom slit in the tag with an Xacto knife and slide the tag onto the wooden dowel.

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to make DIY paper Heart Wands with Cricut helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post How to make paper Valentine’s Day wands with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut | Free SVG Cut File

Tara — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with cricut

Grab the free cut file and learn how to make easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut. I created these adorable puppy and kitten peekaboo valentine cupcake decorations with my kindergartener in mind. Their little paws are peeking over and holding a heart. These easy DIY cupcake toppers are made out of three colors of cardstock and are simple to cut on any Cricut cutting machine.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.

WHAT MATERIALS DO I NEED TO MAKE A PAPER CAKE TOPPER?

Cardstock, sticks, paper glue and a Cricut cutting machine to name a few.

A Cricut cutting machine is the best tool for making paper crafts of all kinds. All of the Cricut machine models can cut cardstock for cake toppers. However, the Cricut Joy will be limited by the cutting size limit of 4.5 inches wide. The Cricut Explore Air 3 and Maker 3 can cut 11.7 inches by 12 feet with smart materials like smart vinyl and Paper Sticker Cardstock.

The paper makes a difference. Construction paper is not a good quality paper and does not cut cleanly. Cardstock, such as the Recollections brand, is a high quality, solid core paper that works perfect for cake toppers.

WHERE CAN I FIND THIS CUT FILE?

The Puppy and Kitten peekaboo cupcake topper free SVG cut file is in my resource library. Sign up here to unlock the resource library and grab the free SVG cut file. You will find this in the Valentine’s Day section of the resource library.

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HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE EASY DIY VALENTINE CUPCAKE TOPPERS

HOW TO MAKE EASY DIY VALENTINE CUPCAKE TOPPERS

To get started making your easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut, upload the free SVG cut file into Cricut Design Space. I sized my Puppy and Kitten peekaboo valentine cupcake decorations at 2 inches wide. You can adjust the colors of each layer to the color of cardstock you will be using. Duplicate the design as needed for how many cupcake toppers you want to make.

Once you have the design ready, click Make It to send the project to Cricut. Select the material you are using. If you can’t find the type of cardstock you need, select browse materials on the Cricut Maker or switch the dial to custom for Cricut Explore Air models, and search for the type of cardstock you are using.

TIP For glitter cardstock, use a lightly used Cricut StrongGrip mat.

I used lightweight 65lb cardstock for the colors and glitter cardstock for the heart on my easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut. Once your pieces are cut, flip over the Cricut mat to gently peel the paper off the mat.

For the most part, the Puppy and Kitten peekaboo valentine cupcake decorations can be easily glued together. I recommend using a good quality paper glue like Barely Arts. Double sided adhesive foam is used for the paws so they have the effect of holding on to the heart.

Once the cardstock pieces are assembled, use hot glue to add an acrylic cake pop stick. I cut a six inch acrylic cake pop stick in half to achieve the desired length.

What size are cupcake toppers?

One common question I get about DIY cake toppers is – ‘what size’? The size of the DIY cake or cupcake topper depends on the cake. For cupcakes, toppers are usually 2 – 3 inches wide and, with the stick, 4 – 5 inches tall. Use wire cutters to cut six inch acrylic cake pop sticks in half to use for cupcake topper sticks.

Where can I find cupcake wrapper cut files to use with these easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers?

A cupcake wrapper is a decorative wrap that goes around the outside of the already baked cupcake liner. These can be easily cut with your Cricut machine using a coordinating cardstock to match the cupcake toppers.

Within the Cricut Design Space Library, there are a bunch of cupcake wrapper designs. Click images and search cupcake wrapper. Apply a filter to show only the free designs if you are not a Cricut access member. There are a few free cupcake wrappers to choose from such as images #M334B9, #M3328F, #M3304B, #M336FF.

Which cricut machine is best for cake toppers?

If paper cake toppers and decorations are your goal, I recommend the Cricut Explore Air 3. The Air 3 can cut 11.7 inches wide, use smart paper sticker cardstock and has the print then cut feature. The Cricut Maker 3 can do all the same things as the Air 3 plus some but is a bit pricier.

Small and simple cake toppers can be made with the Cricut Joy. However, the Cricut Joy has a limited cut size and does not have a print and cut feature. The Puppy and Kitten peekaboo valentine cupcake decorations meet the requirements to be cut on the Cricut Joy.

Where can I find more Valentine’s day free cut files for my Cricut machine?

Here is a list of other creative and free valentine SVG cut files to check out.

Select the link below for the cut file you would like to download. You can download all of them if you would like!

Each blog post will tell you how to get the free cut file.

Valentine Doodle Heart by Persia Lou
Always and Forever by Studio Xtine
My Heart Belongs to Chocolate by Polka Dotted Blue Jay
Candy Heart Luminaries by Oh Yay Studio
Curvy Sweet Heart by Gina C. Creates
Mama & Mini by Poofy Cheeks Blog
Owl Valentine Box by Me and My Inklings
Not Today Cupid by Artsy-Fartsy Mama
Retro Love by My Designs in the Chaos
Valentine Unicorn by Weekend Craft
A Love Like Gnome Other Card by The Bearded Housewife
Okay, Love You. Bye! by The Walnut Street House
I Love You 365 Days A Year by Sunshine and Munchkins
Yep! Still Single by Lettered by Stephanie
Love Bug Lollipop Holder SVG by Spot of Tea Designs
Play-Doh Valentine Gift Tags by Simply Made Fun
Cactus Valentine's Day SVG by Tried & True Creative

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this Cricut tutorial on how to create easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

The post Easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut | Free SVG Cut File appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink with Iron-on Vinyl

Tara — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 17:31:01 +0000

I recently started experimenting with Cricut infusible ink and I’m loving the bold colors and patterns. However, I’m not giving up on iron-on vinyl anytime soon. Follow along with the steps below to learn how to layer Cricut infusible ink with iron-on vinyl.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.

WHERE CAN I FIND THE CUT FILE?

The layered heart free SVG cut file is in my resource library. Sign up here to unlock the resource library and grab the free SVG cut file. You will find this in the Valentine’s Day section of the resource library.

You will be included in my email newsletter with helpful Cricut ideas, tips and resources. Unsubscribe anytime and your email will never be shared.

SUPPLIES

Cricut Cutting Machine (Joy, Explorer or Maker)
Cricut Mat (standard grip)
Fine Point Blade
Cricut Infusible Ink Transfer sheet
Heat Resistant Tape
Cricut Infusible Ink blank – Cosmetic Bag
Iron-on Vinyl
Easy press or heat press
Free Layered heart design (Optional – sign up below for the resource library)

Additional:
Cricut Heat Guide

DIRECTIONS

Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-On

Infusible Ink Design Tips

A good Infusible ink layered design would have a large base for the infusible ink transfer sheet layer that shows off the bold colors and pattern as well as a thin layer of iron-on vinyl for the top layer.

Another area to check is the size of the infusible ink design. You want to be sure your design is not larger than the Easy Press you are using. Once you place the heat source onto the infusible ink, it is highly recommended not to move the heat source to avoid the ink from shifting or ghosting. If you have a 9 x 9 Easy Press, size your design no larger than 8.5 or 9 inches.

Cut the design

Cut the Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on with the standard fine-point blade. For both infusible ink and iron-on, the designs are mirrored before cutting. For infusible ink, place the ink side up on the mat. For iron-on vinyl, place the shiny side down on the mat.

Prepare your blank

I used a Cricut brand cosmetic bag however, other blanks can be used if they are 100% polyester. Use a lint roller to remove any loose dirt or lint. Add a layer of cardstock to protect from ink bleeding through. I did not have any issues with ink bleeding but this is a good precaution to protect your heat press mat.

Apply Heat with Easy Press

Start with the infusible ink layer and position the design ink side down. Be sure to secure the design with heat resistant tape. The heat resistant tape is important to avoid the infusible ink layer from ghosting due to shifting.

Tips for applying heat to Infusible Ink

Before applying the heat, check the box the Cricut Infusible ink came in because it has a couple of paper sheets used as a protective layer during pressing.

Also, before applying heat, check the Cricut heat guide to double check your heat and temperature settings. Once the Easy Press is applied, do not move it at all. This is a notable difference between iron-on vinyl and infusible ink. Apply light but consistent pressure when the heat source is applied.

If you are wondering if a regular iron would work, unfortunately a regular iron will not work. Infusible Ink requires a very high temperature (although an older Easy Press will work at 360 degrees F for a longer press time – see Cricut Heat guide).

Remove heat

Once the time is complete, carefully lift the Easy Press straight up and avoid shifting the design.

Wait for the surface to completely cool before removing the tape and transfer sheet. No really, wait for the surface to no longer be warm. By waiting, you will ensure the infusible ink process is fully complete and infused.

Apply Iron on Vinyl

Next step is to apply the iron-on layer. Optional, but recommended, secure the iron-on design with heat resistant tape. Press according to the Cricut heat guide.

The Cricut heat guide not only provides temperature and timing instructions but also if the material is warm or cool peel. My iron-on vinyl was a cool peel and it worked perfectly!

How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink and Iron-on

To learn even more about Cricut Infusible ink sheets and pens, check out my crafty friend Shawn Mosch’s detailed post.

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to layer infusible ink with iron-on vinyl using Cricut helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink with Iron-on Vinyl appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Valentine Heart Mandala – Free Cut File

Tara — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 17:07:49 +0000

Add something a special to your valentine’s day decor or cards with this simple four layer Valentine heart mandala. The heart could be used to make a paper banner or add to the front of a card. The free cut file includes a two layer word ‘love’ as well. I hope you enjoy this gift from me to you.

I do not recommend sizing this layered project down smaller than 4 inches in width. The top layer is very thin and only gets thinner with reduced in size.

Valentine Mandala SVG

The post Valentine Heart Mandala – Free Cut File appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to make a garland of mittens with Cricut

Tara — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 03:29:01 +0000

Today I bring you a Cricut Valentine craft project that uses the Cricut to cut simple shapes that you turn into a string of adorable mittens. Learn how to make a garland of wintery mittens with Cricut and personalize with a little heart for Valentine’s Day. So sweet!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.

SUPPLIES

Cricut Cutting Machine (Explorer or Maker)
Cricut Mat
Fine Point Blade
Easy Press Mini or an iron
Iron-on vinyl (HTV)
Cricut Access for the mitten shape
Teflon Sheet
Flat Cardboard – such as a cereal box
Yarn
Hot glue
Cotton ball

DIRECTIONS

Search for a mitten image in Design Space and adjust the size as needed. My garland was made with mittens sized at 3.5 inches in height. Send the outline of the shape to cut.

Secure flat cardboard to a standard grip mat with painters or washi tape. The cut setting I used is Poster Board with More pressure and the fine point blade.

TIP

Flat cardboard can come in a variety of thickness. Play it save by performing a test cut first.

Before wrapping the yarn, decide which side of the mitten will be the back. Try to apply most of the hot glue to the back side or the outside edges on the front. This will help avoid any shifting when the iron-on vinyl is applied. Wrap the mitten with yarn, starting at the round, finger tip part of the mitten.

Keep the yarn secure with adding hot glue periodically as you wrap the mitten.

Separately wrap the thumb section.

Use a cotton ball to add a fluffy, faux fur cuff by lightly stretching the cotton ball apart. Secure the faux fur cuff to the cardboard mitten with hot glue.

Using Cricut Design space default shapes, create a heart that fits within the mitten shape. Send to the Cricut and cut on iron-on material.

Reminders for iron-on:

Mirror the design in design space before sending to your Cricut. Apply the iron-on vinyl, shiny side down on the mat.

Pull the shape off the carrier sheet and apply with a teflon sheet as a protective barrier. The reason for this step is that the iron-on carrier sheet is sticky enough to pull and damage the yarn.

Apply low heat for 10 seconds, check to see if the iron-on is applied well.

Hot glue a strand of yarn as a tie if desired.

Add your adorable mini mittens to a long strand of yarn to finish your garland.

[jumprope code=BQ51vcr7]

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to make a Valentine themed garland of mittens with Cricut helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post How to make a garland of mittens with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Valentine's Day Archives - Craftara Creates

How to make paper Valentine’s Day wands with Cricut

Non-Candy Valentine for kids: DIY Paper Heart Wand

WHERE CAN I FIND the DIY Paper Heart Wand CUT FILE?

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE A DIY PAPER HEART WAND WITH CRICUT

DIRECTIONS

Assemble paper heart wand

Don’t forget the free printable Valentine tag!

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with Cricut | Free SVG Cut File

Easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers with cricut

Table of Contents

WHAT MATERIALS DO I NEED TO MAKE A PAPER CAKE TOPPER?

WHERE CAN I FIND THIS CUT FILE?

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE EASY DIY VALENTINE CUPCAKE TOPPERS

HOW TO MAKE EASY DIY VALENTINE CUPCAKE TOPPERS

What size are cupcake toppers?

Where can I find cupcake wrapper cut files to use with these easy DIY valentine cupcake toppers?

Which cricut machine is best for cake toppers?

Where can I find more Valentine’s day free cut files for my Cricut machine?

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

How to layer Cricut Infusible Ink with Iron-on Vinyl

Table of Contents

WHERE CAN I FIND THE CUT FILE?

SUPPLIES

DIRECTIONS

Infusible Ink Design Tips

Cut the design

Prepare your blank

Apply Heat with Easy Press

Tips for applying heat to Infusible Ink

Remove heat

Apply Iron on Vinyl

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Valentine Heart Mandala – Free Cut File

How to make a garland of mittens with Cricut

SUPPLIES

DIRECTIONS

TIP

Reminders for iron-on:

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?