Seasonal Crafts Archives - Craftara Creates

5 S’mores crafts with Cricut | FREE cut file

Rachel — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 17:44:20 +0000

5 S’mores crafts you can make with Cricut for a party, wedding, or to decorate your classroom bulletin board!

S’mores are one of my favorite summer/fall memories. With three simple ingredients, you can make the magic of a warm, gooey sweet treat that is sure to make your kids smile.

Are you team burnt marshmallow or team slow roasted at a distance marshmallow?

I love my S’mores marshmallow a little burnt.

Before we break out the chocolate and graham crackers, let’s explore 5 s’mores crafts you can make with Cricut.

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.

DIY a ‘Make S’more Memories’ Sign with Cricut | Free cut file

Are you ready to DIY a S’more Bar party with Cricut right now?

Create an easy “Make S’more Memories” sign for your s’mores bar or as a decoration for a tiered tray.

This sign reminds me of warm summer nights running around catching fireflies in a jar as a child.

Grab the free Make S’more Memories SVG cut file from my resource library in the Fall craft freebie section and upload the SVG cut file into Cricut Design Space. Sign up below to unlock 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.

What can I DIY for a s’mores party with Cricut?

Here’s an example of what I’m talking about.

Using a Cricut cutting machine you can cut out a wide variety of projects, but the best part is that you can customize everything.

Here are a few DIY S’mores Bar Party ideas you can make with a Cricut Machine:

Signs
Banner
Food Tents
Favor Boxes
Gift Tags

S’mores crafts with Cricut: Food Tents

This year we introduced our young kids to the joy of s’mores. S’mores are a classic but there are lots of ways to add variation.

For that reason, it’s smart to add organization to your S’more Bar party with Cricut using food tents.

Cricut makes creating food tents without a printer easy with Cricut Pens. You can use any Cricut cutting machine to write with Cricut pens.

It isn’t a party without a S’more Bar Sign

A s’mores party isn’t complete without a S’mores Bar sign. This design looks great in white vinyl on a black chalkboard background.

Use your Cricut machine to cut the S’mores Bar sign and weed out the excess vinyl. Use transfer tape to apply the design to a sign or chalkboard blank. You can’t beat a quick and easy project!

S’mores crafts with Cricut: Banner

Ok, I know we have been talking about a S’more Bar party but wouldn’t this S’more Fun banner be great in a camping themed classroom too?!

Welcome your students back to school with this banner on a camping themed bulletin board. Then, add a smiling marshmallow for each of your happy camper students. Another addition you can do is to use Cricut pens to write the students name on the smiling marshmallows. Such a sweet idea to make something small and manageable but also unique for each child.

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The post 5 S’mores crafts with Cricut | FREE cut file appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Free Camping SVG cut files for Cricut

Rachel — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Create fun T-shirts, mugs and signs with this collection of free camping SVG cut files

Is it firefly or lightning bug? Either way, celebrate camping and outdoor life with this collection of free Camping related cut files for your Cricut machine.

When I think back to long summer nights as a kid, I have fond memories of catching fireflies in jars. The best part was spending time outside with family and friends watching the firefly’s lights blink before releasing them. Those memories inspired this free “Make S’more Memories” cut file complete with fireflies and extra sparkle.

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?

Grab the free Make S’more Memories SVG cut file from my resource library in the Fall craft freebie section and upload the SVG cut file into Cricut Design Space. Sign up below to unlock 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.

Easy projects to make with this Free Camping SVG Cut file

Keep the good times going and use these Cricut project ideas with this free camping SVG cut file:

Make a quick sign for your camper using a mini shadow box
Create a reverse canvas using Iron-on vinyl
Decorate a caddy as a portable S’more station
Spruce up a journal with adhesive vinyl

Check out the full Smore’s Bar bundle in my shop of DIY party cut file bundles for your Cricut machine

Looking for the rest of the Free Camping SVG cut files?

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.

The Fun of Camping | Abbi Kirsten Collections

Adventure is Out There | Persia Lou

Camp More | Brooklyn Berry Designs

Home is Where You Park It | Brooklyn Berry Designs

Life's Better Around the Campfire | Gina C. Creates

Happy Camper | Color Me Crafty

Welcome to Our Campsite | The Denver Housewife

I Sleep Around RV | The Quiet Grove

Give Me S'more | Dinosaur Mama

Let's Camp S'more | Kiy's Craftroom

Let's Sleep Under the Stars | Crafty Life Mom

Camping is in Tents | Artsy Fartsy Mama

I'm a Glamper, Not a Camper | Liz on Call

Camp Wander Explore | Simple Made Pretty

Camper Box Card | The Bearded Housewife

I'm Going Camping and I'm Taking | The Walnut Street House

Queen of the Camper | Sunshine and Munchkins

Camping Outside | Simply Made Fun

Adventure Awaits | Tried & True Creative

The post Free Camping SVG cut files for Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to make a DIY flamingo table decoration with Cricut

Tara — Fri, 20 May 2022 06:00:00 +0000

DIY Flamingo table decorations with Cricut

What are your favorite decorations for summertime parties?

I love colorful paper plates, napkins and bowls filled with bright fruits and sweet treats. Beyond the basic paper party decoration must haves (like cupcake toppers and banners), what else can you add to your summer time pool party decorations?

For a unique addition to the party table, I created this easy DIY flamingo table decoration with a Cricut machine and tissue paper. The tissue paper pom pom makes the perfect lightweight base. Use a Cricut machine to cut a flamingo out of cardstock.

Pair the DIY flamingo table decoration with finger sandwiches, fruit and cupcakes for a quick and easy splash party display.

Grab the free cut file below and follow along for the simple instructions to make a DIY flamingo table decoration.

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 Flamingo cut file?

Grab this free flamingo table decoration cut file template from my resource library in the Spring craft freebie section and upload the SVG cut file into Cricut Design Space. Sign up below to unlock 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.

Here's what you'll need to make the DIY Flamingo Table Decoration

How to make a DIY Flamingo table decoration with Cricut

Start this project by uploading the cut file into Cricut Design Space. The filename is SVG-FlamingoDecoration.svg

You can click browse or drag and drop the design directly into Cricut Design Space.

Double check the size of the design, which should be about 12 inches by 12 inches. The frequent updates in cricut Design space can sometimes cause cut files to upload incorrectly.

The flamingo table decoration is designed to be double sided so you see two flamingo heads and two flowers but only one black layer that goes in the middle of the two pink layers.

Continue on and cut the project with cardstock using your Cricut cutting machine.

Rainbow Party Bundle

Shop DIY Party Bundles for your Cricut machine.

Click Here

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How to assemble the cardstock Flamingo

Once all the pieces are cut out, take one pink side and glue the black layer to the back.

Add the beak piece with a little dab of glue.

Repeat with the other pink side and beak piece.

Next, assemble the flower and leaf. Use glue to combine the two flower layers together.

The flowers go on opposite sides and with one flower set on each side of the flamingo. Each flower set will point in different directions.

Take one of the flower designs and glue to the flamingo’s head.

Turn the flamingo over and add the second flower design.

Now the flamingo is ready. Let’s make the tissue paper pom pom.

How to make the DIY Flamingo tissue paper pom pom

We need the tissue paper pom pom to be very full. Take around 10 to 12 sheets of tissue paper and fold in half.

Cut down the center to create two sections.

Stack the two sections of tissue paper so now you have 20 to 24 sheets stacked.

Ideally, the width of each section should be about 12 inches wide. This matches the height of the flamingo.

To create the tissue paper pom pom, fold a 1 to 1.5 inch section accordion style until the whole stack is folded together. You can eyeball the size of the folds, they don’t need to be perfect.

Next, take a section of about 5-7 tissue paper layers folded up and cut the ends to be round. It’s easier to cut these in small sections as the whole stack would be hard to cut through all at once.

Lay the sections of tissue paper out and restack them together.

Refold the whole stack then fold in half to create a crease in the middle.

Use a twist tie, thin ribbon or string to tie together the middle. Double check that the tie is in the middle of the folded tissue paper.

Now the fun part of creating the tissue paper pom pom.

Fan out the sides and gently pull the layers of tissue paper up – switching from one side to the other side. Leave the pom pom flat on the bottom side. Take your time to pull each layer up to create the flamingo body and the look of feathers.

Once the tissue paper pom pom is ready, turn it over to find the center opening for where the two sides of the fan meet and slide the paper flamingo in place.

If the tissue paper pom pom is dense enough, the flamingo will stay in place while sitting on a flat surface, but if needed use glue to keep the flamingo in place.

Was this tutorial helpful?

Did you find this DIY flamingo table decoration tutorial with Cricut helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Where can I find more free pool cut files for my Cricut machine?

Here is a list of other creative and free pool related 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.

Beach Ball SVG from Persia Lou
Make a Splash from Crafting Overload
Summer Vibes from Studio Xtine
Pool Party Lifeguard from Polka Dotted Blue Jay
Citrus Swimsuit Wet Bag from Oh Yay Studio
Pool Party Cut Outs from Gina C. Creates
Goodbye School Hello Pool from Poofy Cheeks
Ice Bucket from Me and My Inklings
Pool Hair Don't Care from Artsy-Fartsy Mama
Sweet Like Summer from Crafty Life Mom
Unicorn Pool Float from Liz on Call
Life is More Fun at the Pool from My Designs in the Chaos
Dive In from Weekend Craft
Pool Party Side Edge Card from the Bearded Housewife
Pool Side Vibes The Walnut Street House
Pool Life from Sunshine and Munchkins
Cannonball Pool SVG from Lettered by Stephanie
Summer Slim Can Coozies from Spot of Tea Designs
Pool Junkie from Simply Made Fun
Pool Vibes from Tried & True Creative

The post How to make a DIY flamingo table decoration with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

DIY Sunshine Party ideas for a baby shower | FREE Cut file

Tara — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 02:16:56 +0000

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower

There are many ways to create the perfect DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower using a Cricut cutting machine. I love the bright and happy colors of a little sunshine themed baby shower. You can’t help but smile with the bright yellow and baby pink or blue.

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.

Already own a Cricut machine?

Grab the free SVG cut file to create DIY Sunshine Cupcake Toppers using your Cricut machine and cardstock. The Little Sunshine 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 springtime section of the resource library.

If you enjoy making the cupcake topper, you will love the rest of the little sunshine cut file collection.

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

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

What is a Cricut machine?

A Cricut cutting machine is an at home smart cutting machine that connects to your computer or mobile device. In a similar way that a printer works with your computer to print something, the Cricut machine works with your computer to cut out a design.

The Cricut machine is compatible with different cutting blades to cut over 200+ materials. Don’t let that overwhelm you though as the standard cutting blade that comes with all Cricut cutting machines is all you need to cut paper for a DIY sunshine baby shower.

What can you make with a Cricut for a baby shower?

Using a Cricut cutting machine you can cut out a wide variety of projects, but the best part is that you can customize everything. You can choose the exact colors, you can add a name or age and you can make as many or as few as you need.

Here are a few DIY Sunshine Party ideas for a baby shower you can make with a Cricut Machine:

Banner: Add the name of the new mom or the word Baby
Cake Topper: Include a special phrase like ‘little miss sunshine’ or the word B A B Y
Diaper cake topper: Use the cake topper on a diaper cake
Cupcake Toppers
Favor boxes

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Favor Box

Use the favor box cut file from the little sunshine collection to create super cute, matching favor boxes.

The favor box uses the scorning tool on the Cricut machine along with the standard blade that comes with all Cricut machines. Thick cardstock would work well for these DIY Sunshine Party favor boxes. I used a lightweight cardstock and the DIY Sunshine Party Baby Shower Favor boxes still turned out well.

Cricut Kraftboard Sampler 12″x12″
Cricut scoring tool for the Maker/3
Cricut scoring stylus for the Explore Air 2/3

Here are a few ideas that are the perfect fit to add to these DIY Sunshine Party favor boxes:

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Banner

Make the new expecting momma a DIY sunshine banner using your Cricut machine. Use Cricut Design Space to add the new moms name, the babys’ name or the word B A B Y. The little sunshine collection banner pendants are shaped perfectly to show off a cute and happy little sun design.

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Cake Topper

I am not much for baking but I love to dress up a store bought cake with personalized cake toppers.

There is more than one way to use a cake topper for a baby shower. If you are skipping a cake in favor of cupcakes, use a cake topper as decoration for a diaper cake. Another option is as decorations or signs – such as inside a wreath.

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Gift Tags

Small details matter and matching gift tags are the perfect way to wrap up DIY baby shower decor. Use the gift tags for gifts to the new mom or with the favor boxes to say thanks to the attendees.

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

WAS THIS INFORMATION HELPFUL?

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The post DIY Sunshine Party ideas for a baby shower | FREE Cut file appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Easy St. Patrick’s Day Papercraft: Cricut beginner project

Tara — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

I am sharing an easy, beginner friendly St. Patrick’s Day papercraft to make with your Cricut machine. This St. Patrick’s Day papercraft project is made with two sheets of cardstock and your Cricut machine. I designed this Cricut beginner project cut file so it uses only the standard fine point blade that comes with all Cricut cutting machines.

In our home we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by putting out a makeshift trap in the hopes of catching a leprechaun and his pot of gold. Each year we never catch the leprechaun but he leaves a surprise for my girls and that surprise is usually chocolate. Use this Cricut project to create a chocolate bar pocket to decorate a hershey’s bar or use the pocket to give money.

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 St. Patrick’s Day papercraft cut file?

Grab this free St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pocket cut file template from my resource library in the Spring craft freebie section and upload the SVG cut file into Cricut Design Space. Sign up below to unlock 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.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy St. Patrick’s Day papercraft

Cricut
Cricut machine mat – Blue Lightgrip mat
Brayer
Cardstock – in two colors
Paper craft glue
Double Sided tape (optional)

How to make this easy St. Patrick’s Day papercraft with Cricut

Start this project by uploading the St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pocket cut file into Cricut Design Space. Double check the size of the design in case Cricut Design Space changes it. The design size is when uploading in to Cricut Design space is 9.09 inches wide by 10.688 inches in height, which will fit a standard 1.55 oz hershey bar.

How to connect the fold lines to the design in Cricut Design Space?

It is important to connect the fold lines to the pocket design using the Cricut Design Space Attach tool. The Attach tool will hold the fold lines correctly on the pocket design so they cut exactly where we need them to.

To attach the fold lines to the pocket, start by Ungrouping the design. Click on all three of the fold lines and click on the pocket design, then click attach. Repeat the process on the other St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pocket.

Once the fold lines are attached to the St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pockets, 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.

I used Recollections brand 65lb cardstock for my St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pockets. Once the pockets and backing card are cut, flip over the Cricut mat to gently peel the paper away from the mat.

Fold over all the fold lines on the pockets. Use craft glue to add glue around the back of the text and add the backing card to the St. Patrick’s Day papercraft Chocolate bar pockets. I used double sided tape to assemble the pocket but paper glue would work as well.

Where can I find more St. Patrick's Day free cut files for my Cricut machine?

Here is a list of other creative and free St. Patrick’s Day 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.

St. Patrick's Day Paper Glasses from Persia Lou
Shamrock Circle from Crafting Overload
So Very Lucky from Studio Xtine
Little Lassie from Polka Dotted Blue Jay
Rainbow Stencil from Oh Yay Studio
St. Patrick's Day Rainbow Sign from Gina C. Creates
Happy Go Lucky from Poofy Cheeks
Gold Coins Jar Treats from Me and My Inklings
I'm a Lucky Charm from Artsy-Fartsy Mama
Lucky Mama from Crafty Life Mom
Lucky Charms from Liz on Call
Feeling Lucky from My Designs in the Chaos
Lucky Charm from Weekend Craft
St. Patrick's Day Stepper Card from The Bearded Housewife
Lucky Vibes Only from The Walnut Street House
Shamrock with Heart Cupcake Topper from Sunshine and Munchkins
Feelin' Lucky from Lettered by Stephanie
Leprechaun Lollipop Holder from Spot of Tea Designs
Feeling Lucky from Simply Made Fun
Heart Rainbow from Tried & True Creative

Was this tutorial helpful?

Did you find this Cricut tutorial on how to create easy St. Patrick’s Day papercraft chocolate bar pockets helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

The post Easy St. Patrick’s Day Papercraft: Cricut beginner project appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to upcycle cardboard with Cricut

Tara — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 12:22:40 +0000

Dollar store crafts and blanks seem to be all the rage these days. Sadly, I do not have a dollar store nearby. So I decided to upcycle cardboard boxes into DIY shapes with my Cricut machine.

JOIN THE CRAFTARA FAMILY

Let’s be craft besties and stay in touch. Join the Craftara family to gain access to my resource library full of free SVG cut files compatible with Cricut. Sign up below to unlock the resource library and learn about all my Cricut tips, tricks and tutorials.

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I can’t resist a good upcycle and DIY project. Upcycling is the creative reuse of unwanted things and you might be surprised how simple it is to DIY your own cardboard shapes using your Cricut machine. Cardboard shapes can be used in all sorts of ways such as for garland, signs, wreath add-ons and ornaments.

The standard fine point blade that comes with the Cricut is all you need. I cut flat cardboard successfully with my Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Air 2.

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.

Type of Cardboard cut on the Cricut Machine

The type of cardboard easiest cut on Cricut is flat cardboard. This is the type of cardboard used for many food containers such as cereal boxes. Flat cardboard works great with the Cricut machine because the material is flat and firm but not too thick.

On the other hand, corrugated cardboard is the type of cardboard that is used for shipping boxes (i.e. Amazon). Corrugated is made up of three layers of paper that includes an inside liner, an outside liner, and a ruffled layer, which runs in between the two. Cricut recommends using the deep point blade with corrugated cardboard in this article.

Go raid the pantry for empty food boxes and let’s get started.

Here’s what you’ll need to make DIY cardboard shapes with Cricut

Cricut Maker or Explore Air 2
Cricut Mat
Fine point blade (the standard blade that comes with Cricut machines)
Flat cardboard (such as a cereal, cracker or store bought pizza box)
Painters Tape

DIY Cardboard shapes with Cricut Video

Prepare your flat cardboard for the Cricut Machine

Trim the food box to create a flat piece of cardboard that is no larger than the size of a Cricut mat (12 x 12).

Grab a green, standard grip mat place the cardboard on the mat. Secure the flat cardboard in place with painters tape at the corners to be sure the material does not move.

Cricut Design Space Prep

I choose a design that is a simple bunny shape for Easter. You can use any shape as long as it fits on the piece of cardboard. I choose a simple shape because I plan to add a pattern of color later.

Size your design to make sure the cut will take place on the piece of cardboard positioned on the mat.

GRAB MY FREE CRICUT MUG PRESS GUIDE

This 13 page, printer friendly quick reference guide is the owner’s manual you wished came with the machine.

Cricut Machine cut settings for flat cardboard

Cardboard can come in a variety of thicknesses and the Cricut cut settings are very much trial and error. I will show you an easy way to make sure the cuts are all the way through the cardboard.

The cut settings I used for the Cricut Maker was Poster Board with more pressure. This setting performs two cut passes.

The cut settings I used for the Explore Air 2 was Flat Cardboard with more pressure.

Between the two Cricut machines, the Cricut Maker handled the cardboard better. With the Explore model, I had to repeat the cut three times and with each pass the cut got less and less precise. The lesson with the Explore is to use a sticky mat to ensure the material stays put for the repeat cuts.

The first cut I sent to the Cricut machine with my flat cardboard did not cut all the way through.

Before pushing the double arrow button to unload the mat after the cut, I checked the cut and realized it was not all the way through.

TIP: Before unloading the mat, you can repeat a cut by pressing the C button once.

The second cut sealed the deal and the Cricut successfully cut through the cardboard.

Remove your Cricut made upcycled DIY cardboard shapes the same way you would remove paper. Use a spatula to carefully pry up the shapes or flip the mat over and pull the mat away from the cardboard.

How to make your Cricut made DIY cardboard shapes pretty

Now that you have a shape cut, the possibilities are endless with what you can do with it.

Here are some ideas to add your own style to the Cricut made DIY cardboard shapes:

Cut the same shape in adhesive vinyl, HTV or paper and apply to the cardboard shape for color
Add embellishments like paper flowers, ribbon, gems, cotton balls.
For added stability, cut a second shape and glue together for a stronger cardboard shape.

Here are some ideas on ways to use the Cricut made DIY cardboard shapes:

Garland
Sign
Ornament
Wreath Add-Ons
Plaque
Kid crafts

For these mini bunny shapes, I applied patterned Iron-on vinyl with a Cricut Easy Press Mini.

When using Iron-on over cardboard, apply the heat at the lowest setting for 20 seconds with light pressure. Carefully peel back the clear transfer sheet once the surface is cool.

To avoid the vinyl from moving, skip sliding around the Cricut Easy Press Mini when applying heat. Instead, pick up the easy press mini and move over the next area. I noticed if I slide the easy press around over the surface a lot, the vinyl had a tendency to shift and not line up perfectly with the cardboard shape.

If you enjoyed this upcycle cardboard project with Cricut, you might enjoy making yarn wrapped mini mittens as well.

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

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

The post How to upcycle cardboard with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to make your own lanyard with Cricut

Tara — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 08:49:09 +0000

This is an Alert I am a description. Click the edit button to change this text.

Learn how to make your own lanyard with Cricut with Infusible ink.

I am loving the look of soft colored silicon bead lanyards and keychains. Lanyards make great DIY teacher appreciation gifts and the natural wood is a unique twist. I created a boho style DIY lanyard using Cricut Infusible Ink on wood.

Can you use Infusible Ink on wood?

Infusible ink on wood works well because untreated wood is porous and easily accepts the ink. As a result of the porous nature of wood, Infusible Ink has a less vivid, more rustic look and the grain of the wood is visible through the Infusible Ink to create a boho style Cricut project. For Infusible Ink on wood, a top coat is needed to protect the wood surface and prevent stains.

How to make your own lanyard with Cricut

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.

How to make your own lanyard with Cricut

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Cricut machine (Joy, Explore Air or Maker)
Cricut Mat – StandardGrip Machine Mat
Infusible Ink Transfer Sheet
EasyPress 2
EasyPress mat
2″ Wood circle
Electric Drill and drill bit sized 5/32”
Heat Resistant Tape
Butcher paper (this is included in Infusible Ink box, but just in case you need extra)
Silicone bead kit
Metal lanyard hooks
Lint Roller

GRAB THE DESIGN HERE

To show you how to make your own lanyard with Cricut, I created a cut file made to fit the size and shape of the wooden circles. To grab the fall vibes cut file shown below (which also comes with a boho rainbow you can customize for your own design), sign up using the form. You will find this in the fall section of the resource library.

How to make your own lanyard with Cricut

Join the Craftara family to gain access to my resource library full of free SVG cut files compatible with Cricut. Sign up below to unlock the resource library and learn about all new tutorials.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN LANYARD WITH CRICUT

To get started, create your design in Cricut design space. You can upload the boho fall vibes or make your own design and size it for the wooden circle. To help you make your own lanyard with create, you can use a template of the wood round using with a 2″ circle to be sure the design fits on the wooden circle.

Once your design is ready to go, delete or hide the 2″ circle template and click Make it. Be sure to mirror the design and select Infusible ink for the material.

Load a StandardGrip mat into the Cricut machine with the Infusible ink side up. And press the Go button to start the cut.

PRO TIP: Before unloading the mat, I check the cuts. Almost always with Infusible ink I will repeat the cut by clicking the C button before unloading the mat.

Repeat the cut with the C button

Gently roll the cut design so the cut lines separate and are more visible. “Cracking” the cut infusible ink this way makes it easier to remove excess material from in and around your design. Use your fingers or tweezers to carefully remove negative pieces from in and around your design, leaving the design on liner.

Prepare the wooden circle for your DIY lanyard by drilling a second hole near the bottom of the circle. Use painters tape to help prevent wood splintering by the somewhat delicate wood. Drill most of the way through and flip over the wood circle to drill the rest of the way through from the other side. I used a drill bit sized 5/32”.

DIY Lanyard – Wooden Circle

Next, use sandpaper to lightly sand the wood circle and the newly drilled hole. Use a new lint roller sheet to clean the wood round and brush off dust.

Secure the infusible ink design to the wood circle with heat resistant tape. Prepare an EasyPress mat with a sheet of white cardstock to protect from ink bleeding. Add the wood circle with design on top of the cardstock and add a layer of butcher paper over top of the wood circle.

Grab your EasyPress 2 and preheat to 400 F and preset the time to 75 seconds. Quick note about EasyPress, unfortunately, the EasyPress Mini is just slightly too small to cover the whole 2 inch wood circle. I had to use my big 12 x 10 EasyPress but that allowed plenty of space for multiple wood rounds.

Place the EasyPress 2 over the wood circle and press the Cricut button to start the timer count down.

Once the timer goes off, remove the EasyPress 2 and allow the wood round to cool down for a few minutes. Remove the Infusible ink transfer sheet from the wood circle.

DIY Lanyard – seal wood

Next, we need to seal the porous wood circle so that no other stains or colors get stuck to it. I could easily imagine myself spiling coffee or tea on my lanyard and staining the untreated wood. I used two layers of diamond glaze to cover the wood, which dries quickly. Mod podge would work well. After the glaze dried, I gave the wood round a quick sand for a smooth finish.

To complete your DIY lanyard, I used nylon string and silicone beads along with a breakaway clasp. Cut the string about 37-38 inches long and thread through the silicon beads. I used an eye hook to help thread the thick nylon through the beads. At the ends, add the breakaway clasp and tie a knot to secure them. Use metal lanyard hooks to add the Infusible Ink on wood circle to your DIY lanyard.

DIY Lanyard – Add lanyard hook

LEARN HOW TO MAKE A LANYARD WITH CRICUT AND SHRINK PLASTIC

QUESTIONS ABOUT USING INFUSIBLE INK

What is Infusible Ink?

Infusible Ink allows you to make professional quality crafts that are permanent, seamless and unpeelable. When Infusible Ink is applied to a compatible surface, the result is an item that will withstand endless rounds in the washer or dishwasher (for mugs). The transfer sheets are made of dry ink in solid colors and patterns. When heat is applied, the ink permanently transfers into the outside coating of the compatible surface (such as Infusible Ink compatible shirt, coaster or mug).

Which Cricut machines work with Infusible Ink projects?

Infusible Ink can be cut on any Cricut machine (Joy, Explore Air 2/3 or Maker/3) using the fine point blade, which is included with all Cricut machines. Infusible Ink can be successfully transferred using the Cricut EasyPress 2 or Cricut Mug Press for mug blanks.

How is Infusible Ink different from iron-on vinyl?

Infusible Ink and iron-on vinyl differ from the temperature to the weeding process. Iron-on vinyl is much like adhesive vinyl in that the design is glued to the top of the surface of the base material. Whereas, Infusible Ink transfers into the surface of the base material for permanent, non-peelable results. Infusible Ink has limitations on where it can be used. For example, Infusible Ink works with light colored surfaces that have a high polyester count or a polymer coating.

CHECK OUT MORE INFUSIBLE INK PROJECTS HERE

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

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The post How to make your own lanyard with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

How to make a mug with Infusible ink pens

Tara — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 00:35:23 +0000

Learn how to make a mug with Infusible Ink Pens

In this fun craft project, I will show you how to make a mug with infusible ink pens and markers at home with the Cricut Mug Press. Using any Cricut machine, you can easily draw or write by hand on printer paper and transfer the design onto a mug with the Cricut Mug Press. Mugs created with the Cricut Mug Press machine are dishwasher and microwave safe.

This tutorial shows the steps used for the Cricut Explore Air 2 and Cricut Maker, however, the Cricut Joy would work too. I will show you how to create the design that Cricut will draw onto printer paper which will be used to transfer onto a mug with the Cricut Mug Press.

WHAT KIND OF PAPER DO I NEED FOR INFUSIBLE INK PENS?

When making a mug with Infusible ink pens, it is often asked what kind of paper is needed. The answer is any printer paper compatible with laser printers. Often times, printer paper will work with both inkjet and laser printers so be sure to read the packaging. It is necessary to check if the paper is laser printer compatible because that ensures the paper can handle heat from the mug press.

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.

GRAB MY FREE CRICUT MUG PRESS GUIDE

This 13 page, printer friendly quick reference guide is the owner’s manual you wished came with the machine.

For this fun craft project, I used a Non-Cricut brand 15 oz. Ceramic Sublimation Mug and it worked perfectly. The pretty pink handle and inside make for a fun and easy project color combination. Cricut offers blank mugs made specifically for the Cricut Mug Press. When on sale, the Cricut mugs are similarly priced as compared to other retailers.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Cricut Machine (Joy, Explore Air 2/3 or Maker/3)
Cricut Mat – LightGrip Machine Mat
Cricut Mug Press
Infusible Ink Freehand Markers 2.0, Tropical colors
Cricut infusible ink pen – black
Cricut fine point pen – any color
Printer Paper (Love this paper for printing planner pages as well)
Butcher paper
Mug Blank with pink inside/handle (rated for sublimation)
Heat Resistant Tape
Lint Roller

HOW TO MAKE A MUG WITH INFUSIBLE INK PENS

To begin, I will show you how to create the four rectangle design used for the color rainbow block sections of this mug. These rectangles will be used as a coloring guide, but the rectangles themselves will not be transferred onto the mug because we will draw them with regular Cricut pens instead of infusible ink.

Start with a new canvas within Cricut Design Space. In Projects, search ‘mug’ to find the mug design setup template. This helpful template has ten size/edge options to choose from – but we will be working with the straight edge.

If needed select the design and unattach the layers. This will ungroup the layers. Next, hide the mug placement guide layer.

Check that the center rectangle shape is unlocked, then reduce the height. For this 15 oz mug, I choose a height of .8 inches for each rectangle.

With the center rectangle selected, click duplicate to easily create another shape. Duplicate the rectangle until you have four. Move the rectangle shapes so they are generally centered and evenly divided. Next we will align them so they are perfectly placed.

Select the bottom rectangle and the Mug Wrap shape, then click Align, Align Bottom. Select Align again and Center Horizontally. This will position the rectangle perfectly at the bottom, center of the mug wrap shape.

Next, Select the two inner rectangles and the Mug Wrap shape, then click, Align – Center Horizontally.

To evenly distribute the rectangles, select all four rectangles, then click, Align – Distribute Vertically.

With the rectangles perfectly positioned, select all four and change the operation to Pen. Choose a light pen color – these rectangles will serve as a guide and not actually transfer during the heat press.

LEARN HOW TO MAKE A MUG WITH INFUSIBLE INK TRANSFER SHEETS

ADD WRITING FONT

Next, add text which will be drawn with Infusible Ink pens. I added a phrase with four words to place one word in each of the rectangles.

I choose a writing font to achieve a single line word vs a word that is bubble letters and not filled in. To easily search for a writing font, select Fonts and on the right side and use the Filters to select Writing. This will show fonts that are capable of single line writing.

Once you select the font, be sure to change the Style from Regular to Writing to ensure the single line writing. The text will be thin – just like when writing with a regular pen.

Next to Operation, you can choose the exact pen color to use. This is useful because Cricut will prompt you to change out pens when it begins writing that word. In this case, we will use an Infusible Ink pen because we want the words to transfer during heating.

If needed, adjust the size of the font to fit within the rectangle. Position the text within the rectangle. Then duplicate the text and change the word to the next word in the phrase. Continue duplicating the text to complete the phrase.

With all the text in place, unhide the layer with the mug placement guide. This will help you line up the text well.

TIP FOR A PERFECT MUG TRANSFER: For the top text, move it down to align close to the bottom of the first rectangle. This is because the top sometimes goes just above the top of the mug and might get cut off. Same for the bottom text. Move the bottom text toward the top of the bottom rectangle to avoid cut off.

Lastly, select all the text and Align – Center Horizontally to align them perfectly with each other.

Be sure to hide the mug placement guide layer.

To prepare for Cricut, select the whole design and click attach. Then go ahead and click Make it to send to Cricut.

How to make a mug in Cricut Design Space

DRAW AND CUT THE DESIGN WITH CRICUT

Once on the Prepare screen, be sure to select Mirror. This will ensure the text is not backwards on the mug. Also, note that this will move the text to the other side of the mug.

Next, select the material. Search for Copy Paper. For the Cricut Air model, switch the dial to custom to search for Copy Paper.

Add the copy paper to the LightGrip Cricut mat and add the non-infusible ink light colored pen to the Cricut machine. The Cricut machine will draw the rectangles and will pause when it is time to switch to the black infusible ink pen. You will see a notification in Cricut Design Space to switch the pen. Then continue the cut by clicking the blinking button.

The Cricut machine will continue writing out the text. Once finished with the text, the Cricut machine will cut the mug wrap template out of the copy paper. The mug wrap is pre-set by Cricut to cut twice. As long as you set the pressure to copy paper, you will have no issues with leaving cut marks on the mat.

ADD COLOR TO THE MUG WRAP TEMPLATE

After the Cricut machine has completed the cut, remove the mat and gently remove the mug wrap from the mat. The text will be backwards on the paper and that is exactly what you want.

To fill with color, I used Infusible ink freehand markers. What is neat about these markers is when you overlap the colors on the paper it blends them together creating a fun rainbow effect.

Infusible Ink Markers

Easy Christmas Cupcake Topper Tutorial with Cricut
November 22, 2023
Step-by-Step Guide: Easy Christmas Cupcake Topper and free cut file for Cricut Check out these charming holiday cupcake topper flags for Santa’s North Pole Bakery. They’re adorable and super easy to create using your Cricut machine. With these little flags poking out of the snowy white icing, they remind me of my favorite Christmas movie...

NOTE: The rectangles drawn with the regular Cricut pen will not transfer onto the mug because they are not infusible ink. The rectangles are to use as guides for coloring.

There really is no right or wrong way to add color. Don’t worry about coloring over the black Infusible ink pen, the black will come through during the heat transfer.

With the color done, prepare the mug for the Cricut Mug Press by cleaning it with a new lint roller to remove any dust or dirt.

Next, wrap the paper mug design around the mug with the color facing the mug and Secure with heat resistant tape.

Finally, add a protective barrier to protect the Cricut Mug Press from ink bleeding through the paper. Cricut recommends wrapping three layers of butcher paper around the mug. Secure the extra paper with heat resistant tape.

APPLYING INFUSIBLE INK WITH THE CRICUT MUG PRESS

Make sure the Cricut Mug Press is plugged in and push the power button to pre-heat the machine. This is a good time to add any small bits of heat resistant tape to your mug to ensure the paper does not move.

TIP FOR A PERFECT MUG TRANSFER: If possible, avoid adding tape over a part of the design that has ink. That way the heat and pressure will be applied evenly to the whole design.

When the Cricut Mug Press is pre-heated, slide the mug into the press at an angle and press the lever down to secure the mug in place.

The mug takes an average of six minutes to transfer the design, but could take more for larger mugs. The Cricut mug press does all the thinking for you with regard to temperature and time.

How to make a mug with Infusible Ink Pens

HOW TO MAKE A MUG WITH INFUSIBLE INK PENS – MUG COOL DOWN

Grab a heat resistant surface like an EasyPress mat and have it ready for when the mug is done. The mug handle remains cool but the mug will be extremely hot so you want a safe spot to let it sit and cool down.

The Cricut Mug Press machine has indicator lights to show progress and will beep when the mug is complete. Once you hear the beep, remove by mug by only touching the handle and place on a heat resistant surface. Allow the mug to cool down all the way. Not only will a hot mug burn you but moving the infusible ink sheet while still hot, may cause colors to shift and ghost. Let the mug sit for 15-20 mins or longer if still warm.

When the mug is cooled, remove the tape and transfer sheet to reveal your beautiful design.

How to make a mug with Infusible Ink Pens – mug cool down

This fun craft project to create a mug with infusible ink pens makes beautiful customized gifts that are permanent, dishwasher and microwave safe. Use the Cricut Mug Press to make fun and quick crafts easily at home with your Cricut cutting machine.

Did you find this fun craft project tutorial on howto make a mug with infusible ink pens helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post How to make a mug with Infusible ink pens appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Fun and Easy Project with Cricut Mug Press

Tara — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 01:06:01 +0000

Create a fun and easy project with the Cricut Mug Press and Infusible Ink.

The Cricut Mug Press allows you to create professional grade mugs at home that last a lifetime. Mugs created with the Cricut Mug Press are dishwasher and microwave safe. For a fun and easy project, you can do at home, I will show you how to combine Cricut Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets and Infusible Ink Freehand Markers.

LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE CRICUT MUG PRESS HERE

Fun and Easy Project with Cricut Mug Press

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.

To achieve the bold results, I used a Non-Cricut brand 15 oz. Ceramic Sublimation Mug and it worked perfectly. The black handle and inside make for a fun and easy project color combination. Cricut offers blank mugs made specifically for the Cricut Mug Press. When on sale, the Cricut mugs are similarly priced as compared to other retailers.

The Infusible ink used for this project are a combination of an Infusible Ink Transfer Sheet along with Infusible Ink Freehand Markers. I found the infusible ink freehand markers work better than the Cricut infusible ink pens because the tips are much larger and the ink flows easier for coloring in open spaces.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Cricut machine (Joy, Explore Air or Maker)
Cricut Mat – StandardGrip Machine Mat
Cricut Mug Press
Infusible Ink Freehand Markers 2.0, Tropical colors
Infusible Ink Transfer Sheet Patterns: Black Botanicals
Mug Blank with black inside/handle (rated for sublimation)
Heat Resistant Tape
Lint Roller

GRAB MY FREE CRICUT MUG PRESS GUIDE

This 13 page, printer friendly quick reference guide is the owner’s manual you wished came with the machine.

Cricut Mug Press Guide and pages

HOW TO MAKE A FUN AND EASY PROJECT WITH CRICUT MUG PRESS

Within Cricut Design space, open a new canvas. Search projects for ‘mug’ to find the mug design setup template. This helpful template has ten size/edge options to choose from – but we will be working with the straight edge. Select the size for the mug you are using 12 or 15 oz size. Even though the mug I used is not a Cricut brand mug, the 15 oz design fit perfectly.

Hide the pen layer as noted on the right side layers panel. If no other changes are needed, send the design to Cricut for cutting.

Within Cricut Design Space, be sure to mirror the design much like iron-on vinyl. Select Infusible Ink Transfer Sheet from the list of materials. If using a Cricut Explore machine, turn Smart Set Dial to Custom first.With infusible ink, I use more pressure and repeat the cut after the first cut completes by pushing the C button on the Cricut machine.

Place the Infusible Ink Transfer Sheet onto a StandardGrip mat with the pretty side up.

Using the standard fine point blade that comes with all Cricut cutting machines, load the mat with Infusible ink into the machine, then press Go.

Before unloading the mat, check the cuts with a weeding tool. If the cuts are not all the way through, click the C button to repeat the cut.

Repeat the cut with the C button

Once the cuts are complete, remove the Infusible Ink transfer sheet from the mat. By using the Cricut Design Space mug template, the liner should cut clear from the remaining Infusible Ink transfer sheet.

Gently roll the cut design so the cut lines separate and are more visible. “Cracking” the cut infusible ink this way makes it easier to remove excess material from in and around your design. Use your fingers or tweezers to carefully remove negative pieces from in and around your design, leaving the design on liner.

ADD COLOR WITH INFUSIBLE INK FREEHAND MARKERS

Now we are ready to add color to the cut out Infusible Ink sheet. Tape down the edges to keep the sheet from curling up. Be sure to avoid putting tape directly on the infusible ink but instead, tape the end areas without any ink (the part that will go near the handle). Grab infusible ink freehand markers and get started filling in the design with color.

Allow yourself time to color and be creative with the design. This process feels a lot like an adult coloring book. Go light on the pressure with the freehand markers as they can blur the lines of the infusible ink transfer sheet design.

Note that within the final product, you can see the marker strokes so try to align them in the same direction while coloring – avoid criss cross or zigzagging the marker strokes – unless that is the look you are going for.

Once the whole sheet is filled in to your liking, allow the markers to dry to avoid condensation during heating.

APPLYING INFUSIBLE INK WITH THE CRICUT MUG PRESS

Once the markers are dry, prepare the mug for the Cricut Mug Press by cleaning it with a new lint roller sheet to remove any dust or dirt. Wrap the infusible ink transfer sheet pretty side against the mug. I found it easiest to apply the infusible ink sheet while the mug is upside down because I use the table top to help line up the transfer sheet. Secure the Infusible ink transfer sheet with heat resistant tape.

Pre-heat the Cricut Mug Press and once ready, place the mug in the press and close. The mug press usually takes 6 minutes to press a mug. Wait for the beep and to remove the mug. Caution: the mug will be very hot. Only touch the mug handle and place on a heat resistant surface like an EasyPress mat.

Now the hard part. You need to wait for the mug to cool down all the way. Not only will a hot mug burn you but moving the infusible ink sheet while still hot, may cause colors to bleed. Let the mug sit for 15-20 mins or longer if still warm.

When the mug is cooled, remove the tape and transfer sheet to reveal your masterpiece.

This Cricut Mug Press craft is a fun and easy project and gift idea for friends, family, teachers, coworkers. Pair it with a Cricut Coaster using the same infusible ink transfer sheet to complete the gift. Top off the cute DIY gift idea with their favorite hot beverage: hot tea bags or a couple of k-cups.

Fun and Easy Project with Cricut Mug Press

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to make a fun and easy project with Cricut Mug Press helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post Fun and Easy Project with Cricut Mug Press appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Faux Leather Photo Keychain with Cricut

Tara — Mon, 24 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

I love using my Cricut machine to make unique and personalized gifts. That’s what makes crafting fun – we can create something you won’t find in a store like a customized faux leather photo keychain with Cricut.

This Cricut project is compatible with all Cricut cutting machines: Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore Air 2 and Cricut Joy. For this DIY Cricut project all the materials, faux leather, iron-on vinyl and clear plastic acetate, are compatible with all Cricut machines. The faux leather photo keychain uses the Cricut Design Space Offset feature and my free cut file to create a personalized gift. This project does not require the Cricut access subscription.

At this time the offset feature is only available on the desktop version of Cricut Design Space.

Check out my previous posts to learn the tricks for preparing the faux leather and ensure a successful cut with your Cricut machine.

WHERE CAN I FIND THIS DESIGN?

Let’s be craft besties and stay in touch! Join the Craftara family to gain access to my resource library full of free SVG cut files compatible with Cricut. Sign up below to unlock the resource library and learn about all my new tutorials. Find the cut file in the accessories craft freebie 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.

Faux Leather Double Photo Keychain

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.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE A FAUX LEATHER DOUBLE PHOTO KEYCHAIN WITH CRICUT

FAUX LEATHER PHOTO KEYCHAIN CUT FILE SVG FOR CRICUT

Grab this free Faux Leather Double Photo Keychain cut file from my resource library in the accessories section and upload the SVG into Cricut Design Space. Sign up above to unlock the resource library.

Cricut Design Space

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

https://youtu.be/V0mLzcaoQSw

INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE FAUX LEATHER PHOTO KEYCHAIN WITH CRICUT

Begin by opening up Cricut Design Space and opening a new project canvas. Upload the layered photo keychain SVG/cut file into Cricut Design Space. The cut file comes with two keychain shapes: circle and rounded square.

The full design (of both keychain shapes) should upload in the size 11.611 inches wide by 6.836 inches tall.

Let’s focus on one of the photo keychain shapes. Ungroup the design and hide the shapes you do not need. I hid all the square shapes so I could focus on just the circle design.

Select the text tool and type the word you would like to use. This word is going to be curved around the circle shape so I kept the word short and sweet.

Select the curve tool to bend your text into a circular shape. The Curve tool can be found in the Text Edit bar at the top of the Canvas, between the Alignment and Advanced tools. At the same time, adjust the letter spacing as the curve will add extra spacing to your text.

Cricut Design Space

Once you are happy with the curvature and spacing of the text, select the text and weld together. This will ensure the text cuts all together in the shape you created.

Next, select the offset tool to add a shadow later. I set my offset to 0.1. We will be welding the offset layer to the base shape of the photo keychain.

Cricut Design Space

Once you are happy with the placement, select the text offset shape and the photo keychain base shape, then click weld to merge the two shapes together. This action may cause the text to get stuck behind the photo keychain base shape. To see the text again, select the photo keychain base shape and select arrange, send to back.

Cricut Design Space

Our keychain is double sided so let’s add another word to the other side. To make it easier to work with, rotate the keychain to the other side. Select the photo keychain base shape and the text, use the rotate arrow to rotate the whole design to make it easier to work on the other side.

For the second side, repeat the previous steps to add text, an offset and weld the offset to the base shape.

Cricut Design Space

If after you weld the offset to the photo keychain base shape, there are small holes in the base layer, contour them out. We need the base layer to be one solid piece.

Use the contour tool to remove any holes.

Cricut Design Space

After the offset shapes are welded to the base shape and any tiny holes are contoured out, it’s time to put your Cricut machine to work and cut all the materials.

For this photo keychain acetate is used for the photo window, iron-on is used for the words and faux leather is used for the base shape.

CUTTING ACETATE WITH CRICUT

Once the design if ready, click Make It to send to the Cricut Machine. The two blue circles are for the clear plastic acetate.

Before cutting acetate with your Cricut machine, remove the protective film from the top layer and place that side up to cut. I found if the film is left on, the Cricut blade is not as effective.

Acetate with Cricut

Within Cricut Design Space, search for the acetate setting and use the standard fine point blade. I selected more pressure to ensure the cut was successful.

Once the cut is complete, check the clear acetate for sticky residue and clean off any stickiness by washing the acetate with dish soap.

Cricut Design Space

CUTTING IRON-ON VINYL WITH CRICUT

The text will be cut with iron-on vinyl. For iron-on vinyl, be sure to Mirror your mats before cutting if using Cricut Design Space. In the Cricut Joy app, Mirror is enabled automatically when you select a heat-transfer material.

Select the type of Iron-On material you are using. I selected Everyday Iron-On from the list of materials.

If using a Cricut Explore Air 2, turn Smart Set Dial to Custom.

Place iron-on sheet, liner side down (or shiny side down), onto Cricut StandardGrip cutting mat.

Cricut Design Space

Iron-on Vinyl for Cricut

CUTTING FAUX LEATHER WITH CRICUT

Prepare the faux leather by adding a layer of transfer tape to the pretty side and place it face down on a Cricut StrongGrip mat. The layer of transfer tape will help to protect your mat from little bits and debris left behind form the faux leather cuts. Further secure the faux leather by adding painters tape around the edges.

In my previous post, you can learn how to best prepare faux leather and what material settings to use: CLICK HERE.

Apply transfer tape to faux leather to protect your mat

Faux Leather with Cricut

Per Cricut’s website, faux leather goes pretty side down on the mat. As a result, we need to mirror the cut before starting just like with iron-on vinyl. (There is an exception to this rule, see #4 from the faux leather tips).

Browse all materials for Faux Leather (paper thin) as the cut setting and use the standard fine point blade. This cut setting will have the Cricut machine go two passes over the Faux Leather.

Cricut Design Space

Check the cut before unloading the mat and press the C button on my Cricut machine for a second cut. If the faux leather is thick, a second pass with the Cricut machine will help ensure a successful cut.

upcycle cardboard boxes with Cricut

HOW TO ASSEMBLE CRICUT MADE FAUX LEATHER DOUBLE PHOTO KEYCHAIN

With all the cuts complete and beginning with the faux leather, gently remove the faux leather from the mat. Try not to pull and stretch out the faux leather. Remove any remaining transfer tape left on the faux leather. If there is stickiness left on the faux leather, use a disinfecting wipe to gently rub off any residue.

Weed the iron-on. To weed, means to remove the excess material that you do not need.

Grab a Cricut EasyPress mat and a Cricut EasyPress Mini to apply the iron-on vinyl. Make sure to use a Teflon sheet or heat resistant protective barrier (such as a previous used iron-on vinyl transfer sheet) to ensure the iron does not directly touch the faux leather. If so, the pretty pattern will likely melt and come off.

Gently remove the faux leather from the Cricut mat

Apply heat with a Cricut EasyPress Mini on the lowest setting in short 10-12 second presses. Peel back the transfer sheet while the material is still warm (but not hot).

Remove transfer tape

Repeat adding iron-on to the other side of the faux leather.

Earrings with jagged HTV edge

Grab the acetate shapes and the photos you want to use. This keychain is double-sided so find two of your favorite photos to use. Use the acetate to trace the shape needed on the photo for a perfect fit in the keychain photo frame.

Add earring hardware

Cut out the photo shapes using scissors. The photo cuts do not have to be perfect circles because the faux leather provides a little bit of a frame.

With the photos trimmed, use glue to secure the acetate to the faux leather. Gently push down on the acetate.

For faux leather and acetate projects, I skip using globs of hot glue because a lot of hot glue can warp the acetate. Instead, I used glitter glue to secure the acetate photo window. You could also use super glue. For the rest of the faux leather keychain, I used hot glue.

To keep the two photos together, I used double sided tape. Alternatively, you could use a small drop of glue.

Next, we need to add the photo into the window of the faux leather keychain. I added the tiniest drop of hot glue and laid the photo over the hot glue to keep the photo in place.

To close the photo keychain, add a thin line of hot glue around the edge and fold over the other side. Press around the edges. Do not glue the loop at the top of the photo keychain as that is where the keyring will go. To help the glue adhere well, place something heavy on top to help the glue hold.

Check around the edges and add glue around the edges to seal closed.

ADD HARDWARE

Almost done – time to add hardware! Once you are happy with your keychain, add a keyring. Tassel is optional, but super fun, in my opinion.

With the hardware added, your Cricut created faux leather double photo keychain is complete. I love how lightweight the faux leather is and this keychain makes a great personalized gift.

Faux Leather Photo Keychain

CHECK OUT MY OTHER CRICUT LEATHER TUTORIALS

WAS THIS TUTORIAL HELPFUL?

Did you find this tutorial how to make a faux leather photo keychain with Cricut helpful? If so, please pin this idea and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post Faux Leather Photo Keychain with Cricut appeared first on Craftara Creates.

Seasonal Crafts Archives - Craftara Creates

5 S’mores crafts with Cricut | FREE cut file

5 S’mores crafts you can make with Cricut for a party, wedding, or to decorate your classroom bulletin board!

DIY a ‘Make S’more Memories’ Sign with Cricut | Free cut file

What can I DIY for a s’mores party with Cricut?

S’mores crafts with Cricut: Food Tents

It isn’t a party without a S’more Bar Sign

S’mores crafts with Cricut: Banner

WAS THIS HELPFUL?

Free Camping SVG cut files for Cricut

Create fun T-shirts, mugs and signs with this collection of free camping SVG cut files

Where can I find the cut file?

Easy projects to make with this Free Camping SVG Cut file

Check out the full Smore’s Bar bundle in my shop of DIY party cut file bundles for your Cricut machine

Looking for the rest of the Free Camping SVG cut files?

How to make a DIY flamingo table decoration with Cricut

DIY Flamingo table decorations with Cricut

Where can I find the Flamingo cut file?

Here's what you'll need to make the DIY Flamingo Table Decoration

How to make a DIY Flamingo table decoration with Cricut

Rainbow Party Bundle

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How to assemble the cardstock Flamingo

How to make the DIY Flamingo tissue paper pom pom

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Where can I find more free pool cut files for my Cricut machine?

DIY Sunshine Party ideas for a baby shower | FREE Cut file

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower

Already own a Cricut machine?

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

What is a Cricut machine?

What can you make with a Cricut for a baby shower?

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Favor Box

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Banner

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Cake Topper

DIY Sunshine Party for a baby shower: Gift Tags

Little Sunshine Party Collection | SVG Cut files

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Easy St. Patrick’s Day Papercraft: Cricut beginner project

Where can I find the St. Patrick’s Day papercraft cut file?

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy St. Patrick’s Day papercraft

How to make this easy St. Patrick’s Day papercraft with Cricut

How to connect the fold lines to the design in Cricut Design Space?

Where can I find more St. Patrick's Day free cut files for my Cricut machine?

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How to upcycle cardboard with Cricut

Table of Contents

JOIN THE CRAFTARA FAMILY

Type of Cardboard cut on the Cricut Machine

Here’s what you’ll need to make DIY cardboard shapes with Cricut

DIY Cardboard shapes with Cricut Video

Prepare your flat cardboard for the Cricut Machine

Cricut Design Space Prep

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Cricut Machine cut settings for flat cardboard

How to make your Cricut made DIY cardboard shapes pretty

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How to make your own lanyard with Cricut

Learn how to make your own lanyard with Cricut with Infusible ink.

Can you use Infusible Ink on wood?

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED

GRAB THE DESIGN HERE

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN LANYARD WITH CRICUT

QUESTIONS ABOUT USING INFUSIBLE INK

What is Infusible Ink?

Which Cricut machines work with Infusible Ink projects?

How is Infusible Ink different from iron-on vinyl?

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How to make a mug with Infusible ink pens

Learn how to make a mug with Infusible Ink Pens

GRAB MY FREE CRICUT MUG PRESS GUIDE

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED

HOW TO MAKE A MUG WITH INFUSIBLE INK PENS

ADD WRITING FONT

DRAW AND CUT THE DESIGN WITH CRICUT

ADD COLOR TO THE MUG WRAP TEMPLATE

Easy Christmas Cupcake Topper Tutorial with Cricut

APPLYING INFUSIBLE INK WITH THE CRICUT MUG PRESS