Cricut Materials: Comparing the Materials & Uses

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cricut. All opinions are 100% mine.

Ever wondered what’s the difference between Removable & Permanent Vinyl? Or maybe you’re not sure what type of Iron-On to use. If you’re new to Cricut then you most likely have these questions, I know when I first started using my machines I was overwhelmed with all the options and what each material could be used for. So, I’ve compiled some tips and info on the differences between materials and their uses.

So, let’s compare the Cricut Materials & uses!

Cricut Materials:
Comparing the Materials & Uses

For this comparison guide I’ll mainly be focusing on the different types of adhesive Vinyl and heat transfer Iron-On materials. I’ll also explain the difference of Cricut’s other materials like Infusible Ink, Transfer Tape, Paper, & more.

So, ready to learn more? Read on.

Removable Vinyl

The most common material is the removable Vinyl. With removable Vinyl you can apply designs to almost any surface as it will stay removable for up to two years without residue. It will lay flat with cutting for ease and accuracy, plus it’s easy to weed and effortless to apply. This is a must to have with your Cricut machine.

Removable Vinyl Uses

• Decal Crafts
• Labels
• Window Decor
• Wall Decals
• Paper Crafts, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Removable Vinyl

Permanent Vinyl

My most favorite material is Cricut’s Permanent Vinyl. With Permanent Vinyl you can also apply designs to almost any surface, NOT walls! Even though it’s called Permanent, it still can be removed with some added effort. However, if you plan on using Permanent Vinyl make sure you don’t intend to remove it anytime soon. It’s great for indoor & outdoor projects, it’s water-resistant, UV-resistant, and can last up to three years.

Permanent Vinyl Uses

• Outdoor Projects
• Mugs
• Drinkware
• Plates and more kitchen items
• Coasters
• Wood Crafts
• Jewelry
• Signs, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Permanent Vinyl

Shimmer Vinyl

I find myself constantly using Shimmer Vinyl, since I have 2 little girls any decal I make for them tends to be Shimmer! The Shimmer Vinyl is a perfect glittery/shimmer mix and it’s considered permanent so all of the above rules apply.

Also, when it comes to applying Shimmer you’ll need to use Strong Grip Transfer Tape. When I first used Shimmer, I made the mistake of trying to use regular Transfer Tape and was so frustrated until I realized why it wasn’t working.

Shimmer Vinyl Uses

• Same as Permanent Vinyl
• Outdoor Projects
• Mug, Drinkware, Plates and more kitchen items
• Coasters
• Wood Crafts
• Jewelry
• Signs, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Shimmer Vinyl

Everyday Iron-On

Everyday Iron-On is also known as HTV, or heat transfer vinyl. Cricut’s Everyday Iron-On with StrongBond™ Guarantee works with the widest variety of base materials, including wood. Iron-On is a must to add decals and art to any fabric project, think custom shirts, bags, tea towels, and more. It’s also best to use a Cricut EasyPress for flawless iron-on application.

Iron-On Uses

• Shirts, tanks, hoodies, baby clothes, and more
• Fabric or Canvas Totes
• Cosmetic or Pencil Bags
• Hats
• Throw pillows & Blankets
• Wood Crafts, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Iron-On

Glitter Iron-On

Another must in my household is Glitter Iron-On! Just like everyday Iron-ON, Glitter Iron-On can be used on anything where heat can be applied. I like to use elements of the Glitter Iron-On in my crafts mixed with Everyday Iron-On, giving it that little extra pop. It’s also great for holiday decor. When using Glitter Iron-On, I suggest making sure your machine is set to “Custom” where you can then specifically select “Glitter Iron-On” from Design Space.

Glitter Iron-On Uses

• Same as Everyday Iron-On
• SHOP HERE >>> Glitter Iron-On
  

Specialty Iron-On

Specialty Iron-On includes everything else Cricut has to offer. Think Patterned & Prints (like floral designs or Disney art), Foil, SportsFlex, Mesh, Iron-On Designs, and more.

Specialty Iron-On Uses

• Same as Everyday Iron-On
• SHOP HERE >>> Specialty Iron-On
  

Holographic

Holographic comes in both Vinyl and Iron-On. With Holographic you can add reflective and eye-catching shine to any project. It comes in an array of colors and it’s so much fun to create and work with.

Holographic Uses

• Same as Vinyl & Everyday Iron-On
• SHOP HERE >>> Holographic

Infusible Ink

Another material which also opens up an entire new world is Cricut’s Infusible Ink. You can create unbelievable projects with pre-inked sheets, that are available in an array of solid colors & patterns. Don’t forget to check out Cricut’s Infusible Blanks.

Infusible Ink Uses

• Coasters
• Mugs
• Mouse Pads
• Shirts
• Bags, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Infusible Ink
  

Transfer Tape

With every Permanent or Everyday Vinyl project you’ll need to use Transfer Tape. As I mentioned above, with Shimmer or Glitter Vinyl you’ll need the StrongGrip Transfer Tape. For heat transfer projects using Iron-On you can also use the Iron-On Protective Sheet, but it’s not required.

SHOP HERE >>> Transfer Tape

Paper & More

The possibilities with Paper are endless. Cricut offers paper, cardstock, adhesive backed paper, cardboard, foil, kraftboard, and so much more. They have everything from solid, glitter, prints and patterns, to premade card templates.

Paper Uses

• Cards
• Gift Boxes
• Art
• Stickers
• Scrap-booking
• Party Supplies
• Paper Flowers, and so much more
• SHOP HERE >>> Paper & More
  

Smart Materials

If you have a Cricut Joy, then Smart Materials are a must. It’s not required, but it makes using the Joy so much quicker. Essentially, Smart Materials are any of the above listed materials but setup to the perfect size for Cricut Joy. You also don’t need to use a cutting mat with them.

• SHOP HERE >>> Smart Materials
  

Even with all the above materials mentioned, Cricut still offers so much more. If you have a Cricut Maker then you’ll want to see all the additional materials.

So, what material is your favorite? I can never have enough Permanent Vinyl or Iron-On, these are probably my most used materials. But lately I’ve been using paper for more crafts, like paper flowers and custom art prints.

Don’t have Cricut product yet? Shop here!

I hope you found this comparison guide helpful, and hopefully now you know which Cricut material is right for your next project. Keep Crafting and Enjoy!