Cutting Fabric with the Cricut

Through much trial and error, I have come up with a pretty good way to cut fabric using the Cricut.  I have tried many methods and the one I'm about to show you is fairly foolproof.  From time-to-time, the fabric will snag or something undesirable will happen.  I would suggest that you have extra fabric on hand incase something goes wrong with your cuts.  I just kinda threw this tutorial together, so I will add more tips as I think of them.  Remember* BE PATIENT and HAVE FUN!!!  Be sure to take pictures!.  I will eventually put a linky party up for all of your applique projects!!!  I'd love to see what you come up with!!

 For this project you will need:
                                          -A garment or item to which you will be applying the applique
                                          -fabric
                                          -an iron and ironing board
                                          -spray starch
                                          (liquid would probably work well, I just can't find it anywhere)
                                          -Cricut
                                          -Fusible web like "HeatnBond" or "Steam-a-Seam 2"

*Please note: the picture shows "Steam-a-Seam 2 Lite"  I DO NOT recommend using the "lite" version!  It is not stiff enough to use with the Cricut.  It is, however, GREAT for hand-cut applique. 
I have used both "HeatnBond" and "Steam-a-Seam2."  I prefer the "Steam-a-Seam2"  It is a little sticky, so it is easier to keep in in place on your garment before ironing.  It is also a little less stiff once it is ironed onto the garment. 

**FOR THIS PROJECT, I USED "Steam-a-Seam2"**
       
 OPTIONAL:
                                             -Sewing machine or thread and needle
                                             -a pillowcase or fabric to protect the ironing board
                                              from getting fusible web stuck on it when ironed.
                                             (this has happened to me and it is a pain because it can
                                              get on other items you iron. )
                                             -a bone folder or brayer to assist with pressing the fabric onto
                                              the Cricut mat
 HERE WE GO:
                                                                          SUPPLIES

**Make sure to use your Paper blade for this part**

***I recommend starching and ironing a couple of times until the fabric is stiff like paper.***

TIPS:

                         -I suggest washing & drying your garments and fabrics first

                                       to prevent bleeding & shrinking (don't use fabric softener)

                         -I usually keep the blade depth at 6

                                     -I use the normal blade housing. 

                                            No need for the Deep Cut housing

                                     -For thicker fabric, you may need to use the Multi Cut feature

                                     -Intricate images do not cut well

                                     -I prefer to cut the "shadow" image because it is

                                            easier to sew around

                                     -Stretchy fabrics do not cut well.  Cotton works best.

                                     -before cutting with the Cricut, use the arrows on the machine

                                            to move the blade downand over just a teeny bit. 

                                            You are less likely to snag the fabric this way

                                     -When starching your fabric multiple times, it may leave "boogers"

                                       brush those off before cutting with the Cricut.

                                     -It helps to have a sticky mat

                                     -Label the Cricut blades used for cutting fabric.

                                       Don't use these blades to cut paper as paper dulls the blades

                                     -you might want to use a Test piece of fabric so you can

                                             adjust the speed and pressure as needed.

                                     -really small images do not cut well

                                     -I usually put the speed and pressure on max...

                                            but again..every image is different..

                                            so you might have to make adjustments until you get it right

                                     -If a baby or someone with sensitive skin will be wearing

                                            the clothing, I suggest washing it before wearing it

                                            because the starch may irritate their skin

                                     -The applique will get less stiff after it is washed a few times

Please note*  I have Never used fusible web on clothing without sewing it afterwards.  Therefore, I can not guarantee that the appliques will stay when washed.  I suggest washing in cold water and line drying if you will not be sewing the appliques on.

       

Thanks for looking!!  Good luck!  Please link back to this post if you post the tutorial on your blog.  If you have any questions, email me or leave a comment. I will help you the best I can!!

If you would just rather have someone design and make a garment for you, I'm the lady to ask!  Just email me!

Peace!!

~allie B

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