Adhesive vinyl can come in all kinds of colors and finishes but it will always have a paper backing and be sticky to the touch when that backing is peeled off.
Cricut vinyl types and uses.
Cling vinyl is great for any temporary window decals you want to place.
Window cling vinyl or static cling vinyl doesn t have any sort of adhesive at all.
And then there is htv or heat transfer vinyl also known as iron on vinyl that you use to heat press onto clothing or tote bags or anything fabric.
It s also perfect for removable decorations for lockers mirrors and whiteboards.
Patterned vinyl is a removable vinyl that is available in a variety of patterns including licensed characters from disney star wars and marvel to name a few.
This second one is the kind that is mostly used for fabrics because it is ironed onto your surface t shirts hats tote bags and so on.
Use patterned vinyl to add patterns to home decor and other craft projects.
The other side is where the adhesive is it is not sticky or tacky to the touch.
It uses the power of static electricity to stick to smooth surfaces like glass plastic and metal.
So it s best to get them straight in your head before you begin.
All types of cricut vinyl explained the two most basic types of vinyl are the regular adhesive backed vinyl and htv or heat transfer vinyl.
Anything that is going to need to hold up to water heat or the elements should be made with 651 or permanent vinyl.
This type of vinyl can stand up to heavy use and is even used on commercial signs.
Let s look at adhesive vinyl first.
The types of vinyl you use for cricut depends on what you want to do.
What is it used for.
You can technically use it on more temporary projects but the strong adhesive is likely to leave a lot of residue and possibly peel up paint from your surface.
Cricut calls this iron on vinyl this is the kind of vinyl you will use for fabric projects you want to adhere vinyl to t shirts dresses canvas bags felt makeup bags purses socks stuffed animals etc.
Heat transfer vinyl on the other hand does not have a paper backing instead htv has a clear plastic carrier sheet that covers the top of the vinyl.
There are also basic patterns like florals plaids and stripes.
You can t use the same type of vinyl for every cricut project and there are certain types of vinyl for each project.
Oracal 651 is water resistant so it can be used outdoors no problem.
651 vinyl or permanent vinyl is a better choice for outdoor applications mugs plates signs etc.