Did you know you can use iron on vinyl / HTV on cardstock? Here are my best tips and tricks for making it work, plus get the free cut files to make this “FOREVER” adoption banner!
When I first started learning to use my Cricut, I thought that iron on vinyl (also called heat transfer vinyl or HTV) was exclusively for fabric. Want a cute t-shirt? Iron on vinyl is the way to go.
But after crafting with my Cricut for more than five years, I’ve come to love using iron on vinyl on a wider array of base materials. I’ve used iron on vinyl on wood, cork, metal and other materials. But I come back to paper and cardstock a lot—it’s inexpensive and you can get a professional look easily using HTV on cardstock!
To show how to use iron on vinyl on cardstock, I’m making this Forever banner. I originally designed this file for my friend Sarah, from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free (seriously, if you want delicious gluten free treats, Sarah’s your girl) when she was adopting her two kids. It’s the perfect adoption banner, but it also works for engagements, weddings, and anniversary parties as well!
Download the Free Forever Adoption Banner Files under SVGs C204
This file can be found in my Free Craft Resource Library. The file number is: C204.
Want access to this free file? Join my FREE resource library! All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below!
Banner Supplies
Using Iron on Vinyl on Cardstock Instructions
To make this banner, cut out the file using your Cricut Explore or Maker. Need help uploading an SVG to Cricut Design Space? I’ve got a tutorial for that. The file will come in with each banner piece being 5″ x 7″, but you can resize if you’d like.
Note that for the iron on vinyl, you will need to MIRROR that layer so that your letters are facing the correct direction when you iron them onto your cardstock.
Once you have your cardstock and glitter iron on vinyl cut, weed the negative space on your iron on vinyl. You can see all my best weeding tips and tricks here.
Then carefully line up your iron on vinyl pieces over your cardstock flags.
I like using my Cricut Easypress over another heat method (see my comparison post), but you can also use an iron or even a heat press. For cardstock, I use a lower heat than I normally use for glitter iron on—290°. Then press for 30 seconds, flip, and press for 15 seconds from the back. Then peel off the plastic liner.
To keep the paper from curling, I place each banner piece underneath some heavy books while they cool.
Once you’ve finished your banner pieces, string them together using ribbon.
Love these tips and tricks for using Cricut Materials? I have a HUGE online Cricut course with a module dedicated to Cricut materials and tools. You’ll get helpful tutorials to help you stop being frustrated and start making amazing things with your Cricut. Check it out here!
Make This Project
ADOPTION BANNER USING IRON ON VINYL ON CARDSTOCK
Equipment
- Cricut Maker or
Instructions
- To make this banner, cut out the file using your Cricut Explore or Maker. The file will come in with each banner piece being 5" x 7", but you can resize if you'd like.
- Note that for the iron on vinyl, you will need to MIRROR that layer so that your letters are facing the correct direction when you iron them onto your cardstock.
- Once you have your cardstock and glitter iron on vinyl cut, weed the negative space on your iron on vinyl. You can see all the best weeding tips and tricks here.
- Then carefully line up your iron on vinyl pieces over your cardstock flags.
- For this project the Cricut Easypress was used over any another heat method, but you can also use an iron or even a heat press. For cardstock, use a lower heat than normal use for glitter iron on—290°. Then press for 30 seconds, flip, and press for 15 seconds from the back. Then peel off the plastic liner.
- To keep the paper from curling, place each banner piece underneath some heavy books while they cool.
- Once you've finished your banner pieces, string them together using ribbon.
Comments & Reviews
Paula Witt says
I want to make a banner like this for my husbands 50th. I used your link to the cardstock. But it will be an outdoor even so I need something sturdier but I’m no expert! Do you have any suggestions on what gsm/lb paper I should use!
Dimple says
I am new to the cricut works ans I was wondering why you would use iron on vinyl for card stock versus regular vinyl?
Amy Motroni says
Hi there,
Using transfer tape on paper can be really tricky. We find that iron on just cooperates better overall!
Hope that helps!
Amy, HLMS Reader Support