Learn How to Layer Heat Transfer Vinyl

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I have been using my Cricut for several years now, but I just recently figured out how to layer heat transfer vinyl.  I have been making shirts for a while.  Check out my cute Disney shirts here.  My desire for a more colorful Disney design led me to make this adorable reverse canvas.

After successfully pulling this off, the time had come to make a shirt.

What You Need to Layer Heat Transfer Vinyl

Cricut EasyPress

Teflon Sheet

Pressing Pillows

Press Board or Mat

Here is my version of essentials:

Parchment paper is an inexpensive, readily available alternative to Teflon sheets.  You can even get it in sheets here. The khaki board pictured above is my pressing board.  I made it with a scrap of MDF shelving, cotton batting, and a scrap of duck cloth.  I didn’t spend a dime on it!  The pressing pillows are a must have especially when working with onesies or small children’s shirts.  The pillow is put under the shirt to elevate the area where you are applying the vinyl.  I made mine with some by-the-yard foam and iron board fabric (tutorial to follow.)

Here is a preview of the finished project.

I am very happy with how it turned out.  Layering the ladybug was challenging.  Watch my video for complete details on how to layer HTV.

Main Points

If you don’t want to watch the video, or even if you did watch, here are the main points to remember when layering heat transfer vinyl.

-Always use an Easypress or other heat press.  Unless you have a very high-quality iron, it is too difficult to get the desired temperature.

-Pressing pillows are a must!

-Layout your design on your project to get the placement right before you apply the bottom layer.

-When layering vinyl take into account how much heat time cumulatively the bottom layer will get.  I usually cut heat time in half for bottom layers to avoid scorching of the vinyl.

-Be sure to use parchment paper to cover any of your designs you have already removed the carrier sheet from.  If the vinyl comes in direct contact with the heat press, it will melt!  Even if you think you won’t get the heat press on a certain part of vinyl, cover that area with parchment paper.

-Layered designs in Design Space have registration marks on the layers to help you line up the layers correctly. Look for them!

Don’t be afraid to try a layered heat transfer vinyl design.  The first time is a little scary, but remember to follow my tips, and it will turn out great!