If you’re new to the world of Cricut projects, it’s likely that you’ve run into Cricut Infusible Ink and Sublimation.
Knowing the differences can help you see what might be best for your particular project.
So, in this guide, we’re going to look at both sides of the Cricut Infusible Ink vs Sublimation debate and discuss how they differ!
What is Cricut Infusible Ink?
This ink comes with special software that allows you to cut and design on fabrics.
Cricut’s Infusible Ink is a unique non-woven fabric that has a sticky adhesive on one side.
When you use the software, you can cut out designs, wrap them around a roller and then stick it on the sticky side, which will permanently stick to the fabric.
You can then wash the fabric.
Cricut Infusible Ink is ideal for creating garments and home decor. You can also use it for creating clothing patterns for sewing.
Especially for beginners and sewists who are new to the industry, this is a great tool to get started with.
Read our related article on How to Use Cricut Infusible Ink for a detailed guide PERFECT for beginners!
What is Cricut Sublimation?
Cricut Sublimation is a printing method where sublimation ink is applied directly to the fabric.
Sublimation printing is more expensive than direct printing, but it is also the only printing method that allows you to print designs on any fabric.
When using sublimation, the design looks like a screen print but with a much softer and more subtle look.
Cricut Sublimation ink is ideal for creating t-shirts, home decor, bags, and accessories.
You can also use it for creating patterns for sewing garments and creating custom patterns for making clothing.
Read our related article on How to Do Sublimation with Cricut. We go over everything you need to know to get started and create successful prints!
How does Cricut Infusible Ink work?
You will only be able to cut designs with Cricut’s Infusible Ink on fabrics specially made for the machine.
There are two options for infusible ink which are ink sheets and ink pens.
Let’s look at how infusible ink sheets work:
- Load the infusible ink sheet in your Cricut machine ink side up. Choose your design and then set your machine to get to work.
- Weed the design like normal and lay it onto your project.
- Apply heat with a heat press or Easypress to adhere your design to the desired material.
Here’s a look at how infusible ink pens work:
- Draw your design onto laser copy paper using the infusible ink pens.
- Lay the copy paper with your design drawn onto it on top of your project.
- Apply a heat press or Easypress to adhere and transfer the ink to your design.
Here is a great video showing how to use Cricut Infucsible Ink:
Read our related article on Cricut Infusible Ink Shirts for a step-by-step guide on making t-shirts with Cricut Infusible ink!
How to use Cricut Sublimation in your projects
Cricut Sublimation ink can be used on any fabric, including cotton, polyester, denim, etc.
If you are a beginner and want to use the sublimation printing method for the first time, you will want to make sure that you are printing on white or light-colored fabric.
You will then choose the cut setting and the size of the design. After that, you’ll print your design, and then iron the design.
Read our related article, Can You Use a Cricut Heat Press for Sublimation? The Cricut EasyPress can be used for sublimation – here’s how!
Cricut Sublimation benefits
- Create Patterns for Sewing: Cricut sublimation is a great way to create patterns for sewing garments. You can use the sublimation technique to create patterns for t-shirts, jackets, dresses, etc.
- Create Custom Patterns: Cricut sublimation is a great way to create custom designs for knitting, woven garments, bags, and accessories.
- Sell Your Handmade Prints: You can also sell your handmade clothes or other prints made with Cricut sublimation.
Cricut Sublimation drawbacks
- Expensive: Sublimation is one of the most expensive printing methods, so you will want to make sure that you create something unique.
- Requires Special Equipment: Sublimation printing requires special equipment, so you will want to make sure that you have a dryer and iron before starting your project.
- Can’t Be Used on Everything: Sublimation printing is limited. For example, you can’t use it on leather or canvas.
- Only Works on Specific Fabrics: Cricut sublimation is only used on specific fabrics. This means that you will need to buy new fabrics just for this printing method.
FAQs
How long does the Cricut Sublimation printing method take?
It only takes a few seconds to 1 minute for the sublimation design to be transferred to the fabric you’re printing on.
Is Cricut sublimation permanent?
Yes, it is a permanent way of customizing or personalizing your material. It should stay on as long as it was printed on the correct material type.
What is the difference between silk screening and sublimation printing?
Cricut sublimation uses heat to melt the ink and transfer it to the fabric.
Silkscreen uses pressure by hand or a screen press machine to apply ink onto the fabric.
Final Words
Cricut Infusible Ink is the most popular printing method ideal for beginners.
Cricut sublimation is ideal for those who love creating custom patterns and selling handmade fabrics.
No matter what method you choose, you’re sure to make some pretty amazing designs with your Cricut machine!