Sunday, November 18, 2018

Cricut - Using Iron on Vinyl on Cardstock

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Have you ever used iron on vinyl (also known as heat transfer vinyl or HTV) on cardstock?

If you haven't, you should give it a try. It's so much easier when you're working with lots of small pieces/letters that you want to keep positioned exactly as they are cut.

For example... this Merry Christmas image was cut with cardstock. It was really tricky trying to line up each line of text and even when I was finished I wasn't happy with how it looked. Because the image was quite small it was also quite flimsy which made it even harder to line everything up.

I have in the past used painters tape or drywall tape to try and transfer my cardstock from the cutting mat to my project, but that hasn't been terribly successful.

That's why using iron on vinyl on cardstock is so much easier. Once you weed your vinyl the clear transfer sheet keeps everything in place. All you need to do is iron on each colour individually.

The heat settings for Cricut regular vinyl on cardstock when using the Cricut EasyPress is 140°C/280°F for 30 seconds.

For Cricut glitter vinyl it's 145°C/290°F for 30 seconds.

When ironing on multiple colours I generally heat press the first colour for 20 seconds, carefully remove the clear coversheet (some bits might not be totally adhered so go slowly), then place the next colour and press again. When I get to my last colour I press for the full 30 seconds.

This week I took it a step further and used HTV on cardstock that I had embossed. I thought I'd show you the results of my testing. :)

I wanted to see which worked better... embossing then ironing on the vinyl, or doing the iron on first, then embossing.

The two photos below show you the results when using regular Cricut Iron on.
Both work fine, but if you don't want to see the imprint of the embossing on your vinyl then you should emboss first, then add your iron on. (You can see in the first photo that there was one small area when you could ever so slightly see the embossing). 

The next thing I wanted to test was using Glitter heat transfer vinyl.

I used the same Christmas Tree image as in my first photo. Here are the results:

The image on the left was embossed first then ironed on. The image on the right was ironed on first then embossed.

On an image this small you can't really see much difference. However, like the blue sample above, the embossing has been pressed into the vinyl if you emboss last.

For that reason, I prefer embossing first then applying the iron on vinyl.

As a side note, heat pressing the embossed cardstock didn't appear to flatten the embossing at all. But when applying the iron on first I noticed that in the areas around the image it didn't emboss as deeply.

Which is another reason to emboss first. 😊


I hope this has encouraged you to try using heat transfer vinyl on cardstock.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy crafting!  ♥






Monday, November 12, 2018

Free Double Pleated card cut file

It's Day 6 of our Let's Get Festive 2018 event over at Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Today's project is a Double Pleated Card. Also known as a Double Pleated Curtain card.

Here are my two sample cards.

  


Here's my assembly video for the card on the left.



You can get the free Design Space cut file for this project in my Facebook group.



Happy crafting!  ♥






Monday, November 5, 2018

3 Tier slider card

We've started a new challenge and giveaway over at Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Each weekday from 5th - 30th November we'll be posting a new project for you to make.

Enter your version of each days project to be entered into the giveaway.  You have until December 15 to complete and submit your versions of the projects into the challenge album.

Here is our first project.



Head over to the group to get the free Design Space cutting file.

Here's the assembly video.




Happy crafting!  ♥











Sunday, October 28, 2018

Cricut writing fonts

Did you know that there are 220 writing style fonts in Cricut Design Space?  And that 147 of them are included in Cricut Access?

I know this because I've just finished compiling previews of them all into a PDF which I have posted in my Facebook group Cricut Explore, Maker and More.

Head over there to download it. (Click the link above.) You'll find it in our Files section.  It's totally free!




I'm also putting the finishing touches to my "Complete guide to Cricut Fonts" book.  It now includes previews of every Cricut font (that I know of) as well an expanded section on how to use fonts in Design Space. (Cricut and System.)

I'll post when it's ready. The current version is available in the sidebar of this blog. It's only current up to last year though.




Happy crafting!  ♥






Sunday, October 14, 2018

Cricut EasyPress carrying case

If you have the 9" x 9" Cricut EasyPress and have been looking for a carry case, the following two items from Amazon might interest you. 

Be sure to ask if it fits the new EasyPress 2 9x9 before you purchase.




Happy crafting!  ♥







As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.


Saturday, October 6, 2018

Cricut EasyPress 2 9x9” on sale

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

If you’re quick you can get the 9’ x 9” Cricut EasyPress 2 while it’s on sale for $145.87 at Amazon.


This price won’t last long so be quick if you’re after this model. Current price at Cricut.com is $189.99.  Let me know if you have any questions. 😀

Happy crafting!  ♥






Thursday, October 4, 2018

Heat Transfer Vinyl project

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Here's a recent project that uses heat transfer vinyl on an unusual surface.

This is a faux leather notebook holder that I purchased for about $10 at KMart Australia.



The quote came from The September bundle from Craftbundles.com.  (There's only three days left to get that bundle so check it out if you want this image.)

The arrows were also part of the bundle, but I think I liked it better without them!

I used Cricut Glitter HTV in White and Chestnut and Cricut Holographic HTV in Gold.

It was a super easy project and just one way of using Heat Transfer Vinyl on a surface other than fabric.

Let me know if you have any questions. 



Happy crafting!  ♥






Wednesday, October 3, 2018

How to change the Cricut Maker Knife blade



This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

I recorded a quick video today showing how to replace the blade in the Cricut Maker Knife Blade housing.  Hope you find it useful. 








You can purchase the Knife blade replacement kit here:

#ad  https://cricut.pxf.io/c/3506890/  (Cricut online store)

Heavy Chipboard - https://cricut.pxf.io/ORQOXr (Use code NARELLE on this item to get 10% off and receive free economy shipping in US/CA.

Free cutting file for my Tool Caddy can be found in my Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/cricutexploreandmore



Happy crafting!  ♥











Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Cricut Maker Tool Caddy - free file!

Today I released the Design Space cutting file for my "no glue" Cricut Maker Tool caddy.



This file is free and currently only available in my Cricut Explore, Maker and More Facebook group.

Head on over and grab it!  If you're not a member yet, you'll need to answer our three entry questions.  Be sure to tell us at question 3 that you saw this post! ♥

Happy crafting!  ♥






CRICUT: The EasyPress 2 is here!

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

They're finally here... The EasyPress 2  Machines are now available. You can see them all here:


There are three EasyPress 2 models available - 6" x 7"; 9" x 9" (the same size as the original EasyPress™) and 12" x 10".



What's new with the EasyPress 2EasyPress 2?

Easy    Press 2™ Original EasyPress™
 Adjustable heat up to: 400℉ (205 C)  Adjustable heat up to: 350℉ (180 C)
 Colour: Raspberry  Colour: Sky
 Available in three sizes
 6" x 7" - ideal for small items like baby
 clothes.
 9" x 9" - ideal for T-shirts and other regular
 size  clothing as well as pillows, bags, aprons
 and more.
 12" x 10" - ideal for larger T-shirts, sweatshirts,
 banners, blankets, and more
 Available in one size -  9" x 9"
 EasyPress™ 2 heats more quickly - up to 25%   faster
 When you power on the EasyPress™2 it   remembers the last temperature that you set and   will automatically heat to that temperature.
 Each EasyPress™ 2 comes in a carry bag to suit   its size. 

Heating times to heat to 315℉ are as follows:

6" x 7" - Just under 1 minute
9" x 9" - Just under 2 minutes
12" x 10" - Just under 3 minutes

Each size has a matching EasyPress™ Mat. However, you can use a smaller EasyPress™ on a larger mat.

You'll find the EasyPress™ Mats here: EasyPress Mats



To match the new EasyPress 2 - Cricut have just released the Cricut Explore Air 2™ in Raspberry!


The Raspberry Air™ 2 is $299.99.  Or you can purchase it in one of two bundles.

The Cricut Explore Air™ 2 + Essentials Bundle - $418.93. It contains:

Deep-Point Blade + Housing
Machine mat Variety Pack, 12" x 12"
Scoring Stylus
Basic Tool Set
Pen Set, Candy Shop
Window Cling, Black

*Items may be replaced with those of equal value based on availability

And the Cricut Explore Air™ 2 + Everything Bundle - $595.77. It contains:

          Deep-Point Blade + Housing Machine Mat Variety Pack, 12" x 12"
          Scoring Stylus Basic Tool Set
          Portable Trimmer Pen Set, Metallic
          Multi Pen Set, Gold Vellum Sampler, Metallic
          Printable Iron-On, Light Printable Iron-On, Dark
          Window Cling, Black Window Cling, White
          Printable Sticker Paper Faux Leather, Wood Grain
          Poster Board, Metallic Premium Outdoor Vinyl, Light Blue
          Vinyl, Dry Erase Vinyl Sampler, Home
          Vinyl Transfer Tape 2 Premium Fine-Point Replacement Blades

*Items may be replaced with those of equal value based on availability.

Current Promo codes available:

Use code NARELLE at checkout to save 10% on supplies and materials and get free shipping in the USA and Canada. *Does not work on Explores, Makers, EasyPress, Bright Pad, bulk items or Cricut Access subscriptions.

Use code FREESHIP9 to get free USA/Canada shipping on orders over $99.


Happy crafting!  ♥






Wednesday, September 5, 2018

One dollar design deals starting in 4 hours

Fontbundles-dot-net are kicking off another “one dollar deals” event in just over four hours.  

The $1 Design Event will include 21 SVG/Craft File Bundles. There are limited quantities of each bundle available so make sure you visit the site now and take a look at the bundles that are going to be available.  Here’s the link to the $1 deal event page: 


The event starts at 11am CDT and the deals don’t last long. 




Hope you grab a bargain. 🙂


Monday, August 20, 2018

CRICUT: Offline software survey

If you've always wanted an offline version of the Design Space program, make sure you complete this survey by Cricut.



Don't miss your chance to have your say! 🙋


Happy crafting!  ♥






Friday, August 3, 2018

CRICUT: Maker scoring wheel is now available

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

If you’ve been waiting to purchase the scoring wheel for the Maker it’s now available at the Cricut store.




The Scoring Wheel combo pack includes two professional-quality scoring wheels that give you extra-deep score lines and a flawless finish on everyday and specialty material project.  I can’t wait to use this on my cards! 

My NARELLE discount code doesn’t work on this item, but if you add another item that does attract the discount you can use the code to get free shipping in the USA and Canada.

If you also need a Cricut Maker it’s currently 10% off if you have a Cricut Access membership.  See the Maker here

Check out their Buy one - get one 50% off sale. Applies to most accessories, cutting materials, mat, blades and tools. *Excludes new, bulk and bundles. Discount applied upon checkout.

Use my discount code NARELLE for 10% off and free shipping - USA and Canada. Access and Circle discounts also apply. 

There’s also free shipping on orders over $99 - just use the code AUGSHIP.

Hope you grab a bargain! 



Happy crafting!  ♥






Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Tim Holtz Mixed Media mat back in stock

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.



The Tonic Studios Tim Holtz glass media mat has been out of stock everywhere for ages. 

But it has started showing up recently. 

Scrapbook.com has it in stock and on sale! You can purchase it there for $35.99.  You can check it out here: Scrapbook.com.

You'll also find the Glass Media Mat Tool Set there. It contains one Media Edge (it's not a ruler, but is used as a guide) and one Media Scraper and is used with the Glass Media Mat. Check the description of the product for more info. 

It's on sale for $16.19.

Just a heads up that ALL Tonic Studios products are on sale there. 😎




Happy crafting!  ♥






Saturday, June 23, 2018

Great gift idea plus a giveaway!

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

If you are looking for a gift that is suitable for young children then check this out.

Warren Leow from The Hungry JPEG may be familiar to some of you.

Warren has recently started a personalised books site called Amazing Fables.



There are currently four books available... three for 3 - 12 year olds and one for 12+ year olds. There are also two more coming soon. 

By completing certain details during the ordering process you can personalise the books with your childs name, gender and you can even pick from a selection of avatars. You can also add a customised dedication that will be printed at the beginning of the story. Once you've completed those details you can preview the book before purchase. 

Amazing Fables ships world wide. There are two formats available. Soft cover - US$24.99 and hardcover - $29.99. The hardcover format has a sturdy cover with glossy laminated or matte finish.

The softcover edition comes with thick and child-friendly paper. (If you're ordering more than one book you can use the code AMAZING20 to save 20%. 

You can check out the books here: Amazing Fables

So... onto the giveaway!! Warren is giving a book away to one lucky member of my Facebook group).  (Shipping is included too!)  If there are more than 100 entries Warren is going to give two books away.

To enter all you need to do is head over to Cricut Explore, Maker and More (yes, we've had a slight name change) and you'll find all the details.

Entries will close in 48 hours.... so be quick so you don't miss out.  If you have any questions about the books I'm sure Warren would be happy to answer them. 

Happy crafting!  ♥






Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Free Note Card SVG from Dreaming Tree

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.


Dreaming Tree SVG's have released  a new Card freebie. The file includes a matching envelope.


Dreaming Tree Floral Note card image


I think this is a design that I could use over and over for many different occasions.

Download it for free from here: https://tinyurl.com/FreeFloralNoteCard


Also, for a limited time you can get the "Give a Gift" SVG bundle for free if you purchase $9.98 or more from their store. Use code FREEGIFT at checkout. https://tinyurl.com/ycgmkj8z

Dreaming Tree Give a gift bundle


Don't forget we have a free Dreaming Tree "Tealight Garden" SVG available in the files section of my "Cricut Explore and More" Facebook group. This file has been provided by Leo at Dreaming Tree exclusively to my group. Head over there to download it for free.

Dreaming Tree Tealight Garden image


Happy crafting!  ♥






Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Craftbundles June bundle giveaway

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

Take a look at Craftbundles.com June bundle.  

Craftbundles Magical Craft Bundle


The Magical Craft Bundle contains over 110 SVG cut files for only $19.  The bundle is valued at $261 and all the files include a full commercial license.

You can purchase your copy here: Craftbundles Magical bundle


Would you like a chance to win this bundle?  If you do, head over to Cricut Explore and More Facebook group where Craftbundles.com have given us three bundles to giveaway.  😆

Entries close Friday, June 15. Hurry on over so you don't miss your chance! 


Happy crafting!  ♥






Saturday, June 2, 2018

Sale alert on Spectrum Noir products

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. 

For the next 11 hours Blitsy has 40% off all their Spectrum Noir products.

For those of you who don't do stamp colouring, check out their Sparkle pens. They're great for using on your die cut images to add a bit of sparkle without adding glitter. I have one set of the Sparkle pens and the three pack of clear pens. They're sparkly without shedding glitter.

   
  



Don't forget that Blitsy has free worldwide shipping once you meet a certain order threshold.  You'll find more info on that here.

Happy crafting!  ♥






Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Mixed Media project - Hello card

Here's my project for Mixed Media Monday over at Cricut Explore and More.



I followed a technique found over at the Blitsy.com website.   I used texture paste (in place of the embossing paste they used); a Tim Holtz stencil and 6 colours of Ken Oliver Color Burst powders. 

Once the texture paste was completely dry I used a white paint pen to doodle over the design.

I created the Hello sentiment used an image from Cricut Design Space (image #M38B1E which is included in Cricut Access) and popped it up used Stampin' Up Dimensionals.



Happy crafting!  ♥






Monday, May 21, 2018

Mixed media canvas - Timeless

Today I'm sharing a mixed media canvas I've titled "Timeless".



My focal point feature is a mason jar image from Cricut Design Space.  I cut the image multiple times and adhered them together to give me a dimensional image.

Here's my step by step video.


View it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/UjDuwU5-r_M

Because I was testing some new (to me) products I used a sheet of cardboard from an old packaging box for my canvas.  I kind of wish I'd used a real canvas now because I'm really happy with how it eventually turned out.

What you're seeing is my second attempt. I wasn't happy with the colours I had chosen first time around so I painted over everything again with black gesso and started again.  Being able to do that really takes the pressure off!  And because I'm not embarrassed about sharing my disasters, here's what it looked like before I painted over it.



Am I the only one that keeps going back and back to their projects and adding a touch more paint/ink here and there?  I still think this one need some more shadows... but the time comes when you really have to stop and move on to the next project.  Comment if you find yourself returning to old projects and adding/fixing something.

Also, please let me know if you have any questions.  Don't forget to head over to my Facebook group to check out our other "Cricut meets Mixed Media" projects. Click here to go to Cricut Explore and More. I have a fabulous design team who do such amazing projects!

Most of the products I used are listed below.  These are affiliate links and I will receive a small commission (at no cost to you) if you purchase a product after clicking that link.  ♥






Happy crafting!  ♥






Friday, May 11, 2018

Cricut Easy Press - Amazon Deal of the day

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links

Just a heads up that the Cricut Easy Press is the Amazon Deal of the day for Friday 11th May 2018. 



As of publication of this post there is just 18 hours left to purchase it for $105.58.

Purchase here: CRICUT EASY PRESS

This machine is not dual voltage so if you're not in the USA (or somewhere that uses the same voltage as the USA) do not purchase unless you also purchase a transformer. A travel adapter is not sufficient for this machine.

Happy crafting!  ♥






Thursday, May 10, 2018

March 2018 Digital Mystery Box

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

The March Digital Mystery Box is still available to purchase. I don't know how long it will still be there. I just grabbed my copy!

You can purchase yours here: March 2018 Digital Mystery Box

Price is $29.99 less Cricut Access and Cricut Circle discounts.   NARELLE discount code does not apply to this product.

Here's what's included: Five Digital cartridges for use in Cricut Design Space.

Dreaming Tree - Springtime Gifts




Hide & Seek Phrases and Sentiments


LoveSVG - Summer Forever


Mandalas


Sweet Dreams Phrases and Sentiments





Happy crafting!  ♥






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