How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)


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How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas) Learn how to make custom t-shirts using a Cricut machine. The world of shirt making has soared with sublimation and DTF transfers, but let's dial it back to just what we can do with a Cricut machine. This includes using heat transfer vinyl, iron-on varieties and freezer paper. You'll also need a heat press for optimal transfers and we'll go over that too.

How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)



Learn how to make custom iron-on t-shirts using a Cricut machine.


The world of shirt making has soared with sublimation and DTF transfers, but let's dial it back to just what we can do with a Cricut machine.


This includes using various materials: heat transfer vinyl, iron-on varieties and freezer paper.


You'll also need a heat press for best results and optimal transfers and we'll go over that too.


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas) Learn how to make custom t-shirts using a Cricut machine. The world of shirt making has soared with sublimation and DTF transfers, but let's dial it back to just what we can do with a Cricut machine. This includes using heat transfer vinyl, iron-on varieties and freezer paper. You'll also need a heat press for optimal transfers and we'll go over that too.



SUPPLIES NEEDED TO MAKE CUSTOM SHIRTS WITH CRICUT:


affiliate links: of course there are more options for all these things on Amazon, but I am referring products that I have used and recommend.


Cricut Cutting Machine:

(any one of these electronic cutting machine varieties is a great choice for iron-on shirt making)


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)


EasyPress:

a household iron just will not cut it, they don't get hot enough and heat evenly

How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)

Heat Press:



How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)


Heat Transfer Vinyl/Iron-On:


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)


Puff Vinyl:



OTHER TOOLS:




IMAGES:



NOTE: When designing a new project in Cricut Design Space, be sure mirror image is on before cutting.


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas) Learn how to make custom t-shirts using a Cricut machine. The world of shirt making has soared with sublimation and DTF transfers, but let's dial it back to just what we can do with a Cricut machine. This includes using heat transfer vinyl, iron-on varieties and freezer paper. You'll also need a heat press for optimal transfers and we'll go over that too.


Here's the ultimate guide, step-by-step tutorial, step-by-step guide to follow for the entire process of making T Shirts:



Step 1: Design


Begin by deciding on a t-shirt design. (references and options in the supplies list above)


Step 2: Cut Design


Now place the heat transfer vinyl of your choice, shiny side down on the cutting mat.


The most important thing is to make sure you mirrored the design so it cuts it out in reverse, since you are cutting the back of the iron-on material.


When I did my own shirts for the first time, there was a LOT of mistakes and wasted product.


So take your time and make sure you are doing each step.


Have the Cricut machine cut out the design by clicking the cut image button, the flashing cricut button.


The great thing is that you can cut intricate designs, use different fonts, add logos or your own custom drawings!


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)

Step 3: Weed Design


Use the hook tool to weed the cut vinyl, only the negative space or the parts you do not want to show up on the shirt.


Be sure to get the little dots inside of letters like O's and A's.


The positive space will stay adhered to the carrier sheet.



How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)


Step 4: Heat Press


The next step is to place the t-shirt on a Easy Press Mat and placing the iron-on design on the right place of the shirt.


If you are placing an image on the center of your shirt, place it in the center about 2-4 inches down from the collar, don't drop it too low or it will accent the belly.


Check out the Heat Guide for your fabric and your vinyl and you'll know the best way to heat your t shirts with your heat source.


Cover your iron-on design with a piece of butcher paper, parchment or teflon sheet, then use the heat press for the recommended time...then turn the shirt over and press the back for 15 seconds.


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas)

Step 5: Cold Peel


Let the shirt cool down completely and peel the carrier sheet off while it's cold...it's really almost always the right way to peel off when it's cooled off.


That's it!


That's the entire process for making shirt designs.


Start off with one-color design and in no time you'll be making a cute multicolor infusible ink shirt or vintage sunset t-shirts!


Here's a bunch of Cricut shirt ideas, each of them is their own post, some with free design files and full tutorials (some video tutorial posts too) on how to make every one!


How to Make a Custom Shirt with Cricut (T-shirt Ideas) Learn how to make custom t-shirts using a Cricut machine. The world of shirt making has soared with sublimation and DTF transfers, but let's dial it back to just what we can do with a Cricut machine. This includes using heat transfer vinyl, iron-on varieties and freezer paper. You'll also need a heat press for optimal transfers and we'll go over that too.


Cricut Shirt Design Ideas:



How to Make Atom Cats & Fallout Themed Shirts DIY!


Hey Vault Dwellers--Let's make all the Fallout themed shirts for the ultimate in geek chic apparel!


I'm showing how to make 3 shirts: Atom Cats, Vault boy and Vault-Tec--which is your favorite?


The Vault-Tec logo single image shirt is done solely with the Cricut Maker, let me show you how easy it is.


Hey Vault Dwellers--Let's make all the Fallout themed shirts for the ultimate in geek chic apparel! I'm showing how to make 3 shirts: Atom Cats, Vault boy and Vault-Tec--which is your favorite?


How to Make a Reflective High-Vis Running Shirt!


Make the perfect high visibility shirt for outdoor activities in the dark.


Customize it with your favorite silhouette design, using different vinyls is so much fun.


I'm featuring the Fallout Vault-Tec logo on the front and the Vault 76 logo on the back...would you say that it looks radioactive? ðŸ˜†​😆​😆​



How to Make a Reflective Running Shirt! Make the perfect high visibility shirt for outdoor activities in the dark. Customize it with your favorite silhouette design. I'm featuring the Fallout Vault-Tec logo on the front and the Vault 76 logo on the back.



Periodic Table Funny Science T-Shirts with Cricut Maker!


Making funny shirts is one of my favorite hobbies and it's perfect for back to school time.


These two shirts are the perfect match for a science nerd, and are easy to make. 


Periodically I'm DyNAmITe...and Expect SArCaSm periodically. 


Use the Periodic Table of Elements to spell out words! 


Whip out these 2 shirts in a matter of minutes with Cricut Maker and Cricut Design Space.


Periodic Table Funny Science T-Shirts with Cricut Maker! Making funny shirts is one of my favorite hobbies and it's perfect for back to school time. These two shirts are perfect for a science nerd, and are easy to make. Periodically I'm DyNAmITe...and Expect SArCaSm periodically. Use the Periodic Table of Elements to spell out words! Whip out these 2 shirts in a matter of minutes with Cricut Maker and Cricut Design Space.



Pac-Man Ghosts Shirt with Glow in Dark Puff Vinyl!


Pac-Man ghosts shirt!? Yesss!!!


Does it get better than that? Yesss!!!


Glow-in-the-dark...and Puff Heat Transfer Vinyl, all the favorite things!


Learn how to make the perfect Pac-Man Ghost shirt, for comic conventions, the geek in your life or just for a fun shirt to wear during the Autumn time.


This shirt checks all the boxes.


Pac-Man Ghosts Shirt with Glow in Dark Puff Vinyl! Pac-Man ghosts shirt!? Yesss!!! Does it get better than that? Yesss!!! Glow-in-the-dark...and Puff Heat Transfer Vinyl! Learn how to make the perfect Pac-Man Ghost shirt, for comic conventions, the geek in your life or just for a fun shirt to wear during the Autumn time. This shirt checks all the boxes.



FREEDOM Phonetic Alphabet Patriotic Shirt made with Cricut Maker!

     

Land of the free and the home of the brave! I love Independence day and the Red, White and Blue...I love seeing patriotic Summer time crafts. 

This quick shirt is perfect for a last minute patriotic craft!


My husband served in the military and now I understand more what it means to give your all for your country. 

I'm thankful for all the brave men and women that defend freedom. Freedom is a power word.  Let's make it a shirt!


FREEDOM Phonetic Alphabet Patriotic Shirt made with Cricut Maker!


Weasley Is Our King Shirt with Cricut Iron-on!


Harry Potter crafts are my favorite--I'm such a geek. Weasley is our King! Make a Harry Potter inspired shirt in just a few minutes using a Cricut machine and iron-on vinyl.

This is the perfect shirt to celebrate Harry Potter's birthday on July 31st!


Weasley Is Our King Shirt with Cricut Iron-on! Harry Potter crafts are my favorite--I'm such a geek. Weasley is our King! Make a Harry Potter inspired shirt in just a few minutes using a Cricut machine and iron-on vinyl.



Make a Logo in Cricut Design Space for Family Reunion Shirts!


Are you planning a family reunion this year? Maybe a family vacation somewhere amazing? Design a custom logo in Cricut Design Space for the perfect matching shirts.


Making shirts is undoubtedly my most favorite craft. The good news is it's super fast and so rewarding. Shirts make great last-minute gifts and look very professional. You can create your own custom shirts for any occasion.




Make a Logo in Cricut Design Space for Family Reunion Shirts


Addams Family Movie Song Lyrics Shirt DIY with Cricut


The Addams family is a classic! I grew up watching the black and white Addams family show on TV. I loved the opening theme song and learned to play it on the piano...of course singing along and snapping! 

This shirt is perfect to whip up in a few minutes to wear to all October long. It's perfect for all year long, such a crowd pleaser!



Star Wars Sugar Skull Shirts with Cricut!


The best combination is Star Wars and Halloween! 


Make an amazing shirt for any day of the week featuring these fun Sugar Skull designs from Cricut.


These shirts look extra amazing because I used black iron-on vinyl intricate designs on black shirts. 


They are subtle but stand-out!


Star Wars Sugar Skull Shirts with Cricut! The best combination is Star Wars and Halloween! Make an amazing shirt for any day of the week featuring these fun Sugar Skull designs from Cricut. These shirts look extra amazing because I used black iron-on vinyl on black shirts. They are subtle but stand-out!


Hood Life Cricut Layered Infusible Ink Shirt DIY


Cricut Infusible Ink is a dream! 


I love the way the ink is infused into the shirt, leaving it smooth and flawless. 


Learn how to layer multiple colors of Cricut Infusible Ink on a shirt with this tutorial.





1990's "S" Shirt with Freezer paper + Fabric Paint!


Did you grow up in the 90's? If you did, you know this "S", right? I remember sitting outside at recess and drawing this on paper over and over...I must have snuck a notebook and pen out there with me.


I love this S, especially now that my last name starts with an S! This shirt is the perfect conversation piece for everyone that recognizes it, let's make it now!


This shirt is made with Freezer paper and paint and is a great option if you want your image a little distressed.



1990's "S" Shirt with Freezer paper + Fabric Paint!


Lucky Clover Cricut Infusible Ink Shirt DIY


Have you tried Cricut's Infusible Ink yet? It's amazing! 


The Cricut Infusible Ink Transfers are cut in reverse and pressed onto the shirt, magically infusing the color and design right into the shirt in a smooth transfer. 



The Cricut Infusible Ink Transfers are cut in reverse and pressed onto the shirt, magically infusing the color and design right into the shirt in a smooth transfer.



How to Make Harry Potter Shirts with Cricut!


Make the perfect Harry Potter shirts for any occasion with the Cricut! I love Harry Potter! 


I love using my Cricut to create custom shirts, mugs and other items. Customizing things is the best! 


It's not always easy to find the exact shirt you have in mind, but if you can make it yourself, it's a win!


The Cricut is my favorite crafting tool and all the different ways to use it. 


I love the versatility that it offers and use it all the time. 


It is my go-to item for customizing gifts and of course, Harry Potter shirts!


The Cricut is my favorite crafting tool. I love the versatility that it offers and use it all the time. It is my go-to item for customizing gifts and of course, shirts!


Cricut Infusible Ink Valentine Love Heart Shirt DIY!


Cricut Infusible Ink is magic! It's the perfect way to make a shirt without any screen printing, iron-on or texture. Seriously, this product just bonds with the shirt and leaves the most professional finish! 

Make the perfect Valentine Love Heart shirt using Cricut Infusible Ink!


Cricut Infusible Ink Valentine Love Heart Shirt DIY! Cricut Infusible Ink is magic! It's the perfect way to make a shirt without any screen printing, iron-on or texture. Seriously, this product just bonds with the shirt and leaves the most professional finish!



How to Make an Iron-on Shirt with Cricut Maker!


Hi friends, if you have been around my blog long, you'll know I love my Cricut Maker and I love making shirts with it. Iron-on shirts are fast and are perfect for family vacations, team shirts, customizing or upcycling shirts in the closet...and great for gifts.


This gold foil vinyl is my favorite type of vinyl!




My Best Friend is Better than yours Shirt DIY with Cricut!


My best friend is better than yours. Isn't this the best shirt? 


My most adorable friend had a birthday and I wondered what to give her. Of course a shirt! 


So I thought a while about what it should say...and then it came to me. It's like those half heart BFF necklaces from the 80's!  


Do you have a bestie that needs this shirt!? 


Make the shirt in minutes and give it as a gift with chocolate, of course!


My Best Friend is Better than yours Shirt DIY in gold foil iron on cut with the Cricut Maker and pressed with the EasyPress 2.



Hibiscus Swim Shirt with SportFlex Iron-on Vinyl with Cricut


Hey Doodlecrafters, I love Hibiscus! 


If you've been around here long, then you'd know how much I love this gorgeous tropical flower. 


I decided to spruce up an old athletic shirt so I can wear it as a swim cover up. 


This hibiscus swim shirt is easy to make in less than 15 minutes! 


Stick around--the best part is a huge CRICUT giveaway at the end of this post!


Hibiscus Swim Shirt with SportFlex Iron-on Vinyl with Cricut


Nintendo Controllers Let's Play Iron-On Vinyl Shirt!


I love Nintendo.  Back in 1989 my family got an original Nintendo...and guess what?  It still works.

 
During the mid 1990's when everyone was getting rid of their Nintendo's, my dad bought every single one he could find at thrift stores, all the games too.  


Seriously, he ended up with a stack of 9 or 10, and over 100 games.  


He gave us one for a wedding gift and we played Nintendo until the console broke...and then we returned it to his stack.  


So this year I asked my dad for another original Nintendo, so my kids to play some old school games that I remember.  I love Mario Brothers and Legend of Zelda, obviously...but also Mickey Mousecapade and T&C Surf...Contra was another big fave.  


What old school games did you love? Click the link to make this and other custom t-shirts.





Star Wars Chewbacca 'Messy Hair Don't Care' DIY Shirt with Cricut


Hey Doodlecrafters, check out this cute shirt!


I'm sharing an especially fun Star Wars themed shirts that take only minutes to DIY!  


Cricut has just released Star Wars themed images and they are uniquely awesome! 





The Book Was Better Funny Iron-On Vinyl Shirt DIY!


We all have that friend...or maybe we are that friend...you know, the one that loves books!  


This is the perfect shirt for your book-loving friend.  


I love reading books with my kids before the movies come out so we can compare them.  


9 out of 10 times, the book was better.  


There's a couple books that I didn't like as much as the movies...like The Princess Bride.  


The book just was so hard to get into.  


And while I love the Lord of the Rings trilogy, there were a few things that I loved the way they portrayed them in the movies--not the entire movie vs. book though...and definitely not The Hobbit movies!  


But basically, as a general rule, the book was better!


Using Cricut explore air 2 to make custom shirts


Boss Level Shirt with Cricut Iron-on Foil DIY!


Take your conference call Zoom t-shirt up to the next level with the Boss level shirt. It's easy to make high quality shirts using a Cricut cutting machine, heat transfer vinyl and an Easypress. I love making shirts! They are fast and inexpensive for a fun, custom finish!


Lots of us have spent more time at home and indoors during the past year than we'd like to admit. Loungewear is all the rage, it's the new black, it's trending. Make some fun shirts to lounge around in, and yet still assert your dominance. 


Boss Level Shirt with Cricut Iron-on Foil DIY! Take your conference call Zoom t-shirt up to the next level with the Boss level shirt. It's easy to make high quality shirts using a Cricut cutting machine, heat transfer vinyl and an Easypress. I love making shirts! They are fast and inexpensive for a fun, custom finish! Lots of us have spent more time at home and indoors during the past year than we'd like to admit. Loungewear is all the rage, it's the new black, it's trending. Make some fun shirts to lounge around in, and yet still assert your dominance.




Make the perfect Harry Potter shirt in minutes!  From The Prisoner of Azkaban, Mr. Weasley tells Harry who Sirius Black is and asks Harry not to go looking for him or trouble.


Harry replies with "Trouble usually finds me".  Great shirt for Harry Potter parties, themed gifts or for a family vacation to Hogwarts--The Wizarding World at Universal Studios! (read about my trip last year)  Start to finish, this shirt only took 10 minutes!


Trouble Usually Finds Me--Harry Potter Funny DIY Shirt! Make the perfect Harry Potter shirt in minutes! From The Prisoner of Azkaban, Mr. Weasley tells Harry who Sirius Black is and asks Harry not to go looking for him or trouble. Harry replies with "Trouble usually finds me". Great shirt for Harry Potter parties, themed gifts or for a family vacation to Hogwarts--The Wizarding World at Universal Studios! (read about my trip last year) Start to finish, this shirt only took 10 minutes!



Animal Silhouettes with Scripted Power Words!


I love power words and shirt making.  


I am in love with my Cricut Maker and use it nearly daily.  


Shirts are my favorite craft project.  


They are fast to make and totally useful---plus, my dollar store sells lots of tee's, and I am good with that price.  


However, I have major issues with a lot of kids shirts these days.  


So many of them are sassy, snarky and mean.  


I am a fan of building up and lifting, so shirts with powerful animals and strong words are more my style.  


Reciting positive things to oneself can have a wonderful impact.  


Help children know that they are Strong, Brave, Free, Wild or other different names.


Animal Silhouettes with Scripted Power Words! I love power words and shirt making. I am in love with my Cricut Maker and use it nearly daily. Shirts are my favorite craft project. They are fast to make and totally useful---plus, my dollar store sells lots of tee's, and I am good with that price. However, I have major issues with a lot of kids shirts these days. So many of them are sassy, snarky and mean. I am a fan of building up and lifting, so shirts with powerful animals and strong words are more my style. Reciting positive things to oneself can have a wonderful impact. Help children know that they are Strong, Brave, Free, Wild and more.


Buffalo Plaid Heart HTV Shirt with Cricut Explore Air 2!


Buffalo plaid is all the rage.  It's so fun and so in--and now you can make it with 2 layers of iron-on vinyl.  


If you have a Cricut Explore Air™ 2 machine, you can make this buffalo plaid heart shirt in mere minutes.  


Perfect for a valentine’s day shirt!

Buffalo Plaid Heart HTV Shirt with Cricut Explore Air 2! Buffalo plaid is all the rage. It's so fun and so in--and now you can make it with 2 layers of iron-on vinyl. If you have a Cricut Explore Air™ 2 machine, you can make this buffalo plaid heart shirt in mere minutes.

That's it!


Now you know how to make custom shirts using Cricut and a heat press.


These fun DIY shirts are quick to make and once the initial investment, they can be very inexpensive.


Which one of these fun shirts is your favorite?


Like, Pin and Save!


Now you know how to make custom shirts using Cricut and a heat press. These fun DIY shirts are quick to make and once the initial investment, they can be very inexpensive. Which one of these fun shirts is your favorite?







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