Are you on the hunt for the perfect iron-on vinyl for your Cricut machine? This guide contains a comprehensive list of high-quality brands, showcasing both well-known names like Cricut and Siser, and hidden gems that provide outstanding quality and unique features.
In addition to highlighting the best products, I’ve also provided tons of info on the advantages and drawbacks of each brand. This will help you find the perfect fit for your needs. You’ll also find tips on how to properly apply and take care of your iron-on vinyl.
So let’s get started!
| Siser EasyWeed Iron-On Vinyl |
| Hot peel option saves time. Easy weeding with backing that stays in place. Wide range of vibrant colors. Durable and can withstand multiple washings. |
| Cricut Everyday Iron-On |
| Perfect match for Cricut machines. Vibrant colors and textures. Versatile application onto various surfaces. Durable and long-lasting. Nice choice of colors and special finishes. |
| Cricut Smart Iron-On |
| Ability to cut without a mat for long designs. Perfectly calibrated for Cricut machines. Versatile application. Durable and long-lasting. |
| HTVRONT HTV Vinyl |
| Wide range of roll sizes. Eco-friendly and certified quality. Easy to weed and durable thickness. Available in various colors and finishes. |
| Vinyl Frog Heat Transfer Vinyl |
| Unique colors not found in other brands. Effortless weeding. Durable and flexible. Available in 5-foot and 12-foot rolls. |
Siser EasyWeed Iron-On Vinyl — Best all-around with a hot peel option and perfect for layering
Siser EasyWeed is super popular in the vinyl industry because it’s awesome!
One of the best things about it is that it’s a hot peel vinyl.
So you can remove the carrier sheet right after pressing, which is perfect if you need to press a lot of designs quickly.
It’s also really easy to stick to a variety of fabrics.
Like cotton, polyester, cotton/poly blends, and even leather.
Plus, it’s thin and flexible, so you can layer designs without making them bulky.
Both Hot and Cold Peel
One of the best features of Siser EasyWeed is the hot peel time-saving feature that most other iron-on vinyls don’t have.
You don’t have to wait for the design to cool down before peeling the liner.
No matter if you’re using a heat press or a household iron, you can remove the backing sheet right after pressing.
Then you can immediately apply the next layer or work on another design.
And if you’re afraid of peeling it hot, you can always wait for your project to cool down.
The liner will go off just as well if you peel it cold.
Easy Weeding
Weeding can sometimes be a difficult task, but not with Siser EasyWeed.
Its backing doesn’t lift during the weeding process.
It stays put even when you’re working on intricate designs with tiny details.
This vinyl lives up to its EasyWeed name.
Easy Cutting Too
Cutting Siser EasyWeed is incredibly easy on any type of cutting machine.
The whole process is not hard but is fun and easy.
Large Range of Colors
Siser EasyWeed is available in an extensive range of 70 shades to choose from,
Including silver, gold, fluorescent, and glow-in-the-dark colors.
The vinyl has a nice-looking semi-gloss finish.
High Durability
Siser EasyWeed is an incredibly strong HTV material, designed to withstand multiple washings while keeping its vibrant colors and adhesive quality intact.
And the hot peel process doesn’t compromise the durability or brightness in any way.
Just let it set for 24 hours before the first wash.
Safety: CPSIA Certified
Siser EasyWeed has proudly achieved CPSIA certification.
This makes it a fantastic choice for children’s clothing.
You can create personalized garments with peace of mind, knowing they meet safety standards.
Layering Made Easy
With its low, 90-micron (3.5 Mils) thickness, Siser EasyWeed is perfect for layered designs.
The one-second tack application makes layering smooth and easy.
Layering doesn’t affect the garment’s lifespan.
And you don’t need to follow any special laundering methods.
Just machine wash warm or cold with a mild detergent.
Roll Size Options
When purchasing Siser EasyWeed, you have the option to choose from two different roll sizes.
The 5′ rolls are ideal for those who want to explore various colors without committing to larger quantities.
For frequent users or those requiring ample material, the 15′ rolls offer convenience and flexibility.
Pros:
- Hot peel feature saves time and streamlines the process.
- Easy weeding with backing that stays in place, even for intricate designs.
- Smooth and precise cutting on any cutting machine.
- Wide range of vibrant colors to choose from.
- CPSIA-certified, making it safe for children’s clothing.
- Durable and can withstand multiple washings.
- Ideal for layered designs with its thin and lightweight composition.
- Semi-gloss finish adds a touch of sophistication.
- Available in 5′ and 15′ rolls for flexibility and convenience.
Cons:
- Can be relatively less budget-friendly compared to off-brand iron-on vinyl options on the market.
Cricut Everyday Iron-On — Best match for Cricut and very beginner-friendly
If you’re new to using a Cricut machine, here’s the perfect material for you.
Cricut Everyday Iron-On is super easy to work with and is specifically designed to be used with Cricut machines.
You’ll get amazing results every time.
Ideal Cricut Compatibility
Cricut Everyday Iron-On is the perfect match for Cricut cutting machines.
It’s also manufactured by Cricut, which means it’s designed to work seamlessly with all their cutters.
You don’t have to worry about calibrating settings because Cricut has done the work for you.
Just choose the pre-calibrated settings in Design Space, and you’ll get ideal cuts every time.
This makes all the process super-easy even for complete beginners!
Effortless Weeding
This vinyl is just as easy to weed as Siser vinyl.
And the backing stays put.
You can quickly remove the excess material and weed small details and fonts with no frustration.
Vibrant Colors, Textures, and Finishes
With Cricut Everyday Iron-On, you have an ever-growing selection of on-trend colors, textures, effects, and finishes to choose from.
At the moment, Cricut offers 36 vibrant colors, including specialty finishes like glitter and holographic.
You can find a super-pretty match for any surface from fabric to wood.
Convenient Roll Sizes
The Cricut Everyday Iron-On is available in rolls of 2 feet and 12 feet.
This gives you flexibility for any project sizes.
Whether you’re working on a small design or a larger-scale blank, you can choose the roll size that suits your specific needs.
Versatile Application
The versatility of Cricut Everyday Iron-On is what makes it truly awesome.
It can be applied to various surfaces, including wood, and works well on different fabric types.
You can even press it onto stretchy athletic mesh fabric.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Cricut Everyday Iron-On is designed to withstand the test of time.
It can outlast over 50 washes and your creations will stay vibrant and intact.
You can wear and use your personalized items heavily without worrying about the vinyl fading or peeling.
Cold Peel Drawback
There is one thing to keep in mind with Cricut Everyday Iron-On.
Unlike Siser EasyWeed, this vinyl is specifically intended to be peeled while cold.
This means you need to wait for it to cool down before removing the carrier sheet.
While it may require a bit of patience, the professional and long-lasting finish you achieve is still worth the wait.
If you’re a beginner, I’d recommend peeling any vinyl’s carrier sheet cold anyway, so that you don’t get any burns.
Pros:
- Precise cuts and compatibility with Cricut cutting machines.
- Effortless weeding, making the process smooth and easy.
- An extensive range of vibrant colors, textures, effects, and finishes to choose from.
- Versatile application onto various surfaces, including fabric and wood.
- Durable and long-lasting, with the ability to withstand multiple washes.
- Convenient roll sizes are available, catering to different project needs.
- Works well with Cricut Heat Press and provides ideal press settings through the Cricut Heat Guide.
- Layering capabilities, allowing you to create multidimensional designs.
Cons:
- Only cold peel, requiring you to wait for the vinyl to cool down before removing the carrier sheet.
Cricut Smart Iron-On — Best for matless cutting and long continuous cuts (great for banners)
Cricut Smart Iron-On is an innovative material that’s perfect for cutting without a mat.
This makes it perfect for big projects, like banners, where you need long continuous cuts.
You Can Cut Long Designs Without a Mat
Cricut Smart heat transfer vinyl is a game-changer!
It has a special backing that allows you to cut it without a mat.
This means you can make cuts longer than the traditional mat size, up to an impressive 12 feet.
It’s awesome to have the freedom to create larger designs without the constraints of a mat.
So it’s perfect for banners, wood signs, large towels, etc.
However, smaller scraps (less than 6 inches long or wide) still need to be cut on a mat to prevent shifting.
Perfectly Calibrated Cricut Compatibility
Cricut Smart Vinyl is designed to work seamlessly with Cricut Explore 3, Maker 3, or Joy machines.
These modern units are perfectly calibrated to cut this vinyl flawlessly for high-scale but clean results.
Plus, this material is fully compatible with the Cricut EasyPress heat press.
But don’t worry if you don’t have a Cricut unit.
You can use any heat press or even a household iron for your projects.
Limited Color and Finish Options, but Still Versatile
While Cricut Smart Vinyl might not provide the extensive array of colors and finishes found in regular Cricut iron-on vinyl, it still offers a nice selection to meet your artistic preferences.
You can choose from 10 solid colors, including metallic gold and silver, plus a number of glitter options.
Although the selection may be more limited, it still has enough versatility for most crafters.
Various Lengths for Flexible Crafting
Cricut Smart Vinyl comes in a 13-inch width.
This provides a bit more space for your designs than the regular Cricut iron-on.
It’s available in lengths ranging from 3 feet to a whopping 75 feet!
So you can choose a roll for a small DIY project or get enough material for a huge banner.
Easy to Cut, Weed, and Layer
Working with Cricut Smart Vinyl is as easy as with the beginner-friendly Cricut Everyday Iron-On.
It’s also easy to cut and weed.
So the crafting process is smoother and more enjoyable than with many other vinyls.
Layering this material is a seamless task too.
You can create long and large-scale multidimensional and eye-catching projects.
Cold Peel
Cricut Smart Vinyl is a cold peel vinyl, just like Cricut Everyday Iron-On.
When using it, you need to wait for it to cool down before removing the carrier sheet too.
But this is a safer way to remove the liner for a beginner anyway.
Long-Lasting
In terms of durability, this vinyl holds up as well as the materials you cut on the mat.
It stays intact for over 50 washes.
Even the glitter vinyl retains its sparkle for up to 50 washes too.
Your creations will stand the test of time.
Versatility
Another great feature of Cricut Smart Vinyl is its versatility.
It can be applied to any type of surface, including wood.
With its larger cut lengths, it’s an amazing material for personalizing home decor and creating custom banners or signs.
Pros:
- Ability to cut without a mat, allowing for longer designs up to 12 feet.
- Perfect match for Cricut Explore 3, Maker 3, and Joy machines.
- Versatile application with compatibility for Cricut EasyPress heat presses, as well as other heat presses or household irons.
- Comes in several colors and finishes.
- Convenient roll lengths available, ranging from 3 feet to 75 feet.
- Easy to cut, weed, and layer.
- Durable and long-lasting, with designs staying intact for over 50 washes.
- Can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood.
Cons:
- Limited color and finish options compared to regular Cricut iron-on vinyl.
- Compatible only with Cricut Explore 3, Maker 3, and Joy machines, not older models or other cutters.
HTVRONT HTV Vinyl — Best choice of roll sizes plus rare finishes available
One of the best features of HTVRONT HTV Vinyl is the variety of roll sizes available.
Whether you’re working on a small project or need to create a large design, HTVRONT has a roll size that will fit your needs.
Roll Sizes for Every Need
HTVRont HTV Vinyl offers the convenience of different roll sizes to cater to your specific project requirements.
You can buy a small roll of it to test out a design or a larger one for extensive crafting.
There are options ranging from 5 feet to 25 feet.
And if you want to try out different colors, the multicolor set of 14 pieces of 3-foot rolls is a great choice.
Nice Colors and Rare Finishes
HTVRont also offers a good selection of colors and finishes.
In addition to glitter, you can find other options.
Like, for example, textured flocked finish.
While the selection of colors and effects may not be as extensive as the Cricut iron-on vinyl line, it still offers ample opportunities for customization and personalization.
Eco-Friendly and Certified Quality
HTVRont HTV Vinyl holds an SGS certification for being eco-friendly.
This certification means that the vinyl meets strict environmental and safety standards.
If you’re eco-conscious, you can use a product that aligns with good practices.
Easy To Weed And Durable Thickness
HTVRont vinyl is slightly thicker to cut compared to Cricut brand vinyl.
You may need to adjust the blade pressure on your Cricut machine for better results.
However, this thickness improves its durability and resilience.
This vinyl holds up remarkably well in the wash.
The colors stay vibrant without fading, peeling, or cracking.
Plus, PVC film’s thickness makes it easier to weed smaller details than when you’re dealing with thinner vinyls.
At the same time, large areas may be slightly harder to weed because of the vinyl’s increased weight.
Pressing and Cooling Times Drawback
HTVRont HTV Vinyl is compatible with both heat presses and household irons.
However, this material requires slightly longer pressing time compared to some other vinyls.
The best temperature for pressing it is around 320 degrees Fahrenheit.
And you’ll need to press it for about 30 seconds.
This will help the vinyl stick properly and last longer.
HTVRont HTV Vinyl is another cold peel vinyl on this list.
Again, this means you need to wait for it to cool down after application before peeling off the liner.
Subtle and Stretchable
HTVRont HTV Vinyl is designed to blend seamlessly with the fabric.
This creates a subtle feel that is similar to the look of graphic tees you can find in retail stores.
The vinyl layer is not thick or bulky.
And once applied, it feels like part of the shirt material.
Plus, it’s stretchy enough for a comfortable and natural fit.
Pros:
- Wide range of roll sizes available.
- Multicolor sets offer versatility and variety.
- Made by an SGS-certified eco-friendly manufacturer.
- Easy weeding of smaller details and intricate designs.
- Compatible with both heat presses and household irons.
- Available in various colors and finishes, including glitter and flocked options.
- Thin and lightweight, seamlessly integrating with the fabric.
- Durable and long-lasting, withstands multiple washes without fading, peeling, or cracking.
Cons:
- Thicker than some other vinyl brands.
- Limited color and finish options compared to Siser or Cricut.
- Longer heat pressing time needed for optimal adhesion.
- Cold peel process may require additional patience during application.
Vinyl Frog Heat Transfer Vinyl — Unique colors not carried by other brands
While Vinyl Frog is not a famous brand like Siser or Cricut, their vinyl is definitely worth checking out.
They’ve got some colors that you won’t find in other brands’ lines, which is perfect if you want to make your project or product really stand out.
Unique Colors
Vinyl Frog’s HTV line has 30 colors available, which is quite a lot.
What I like about this brand’s selection is that it has shades that may not be found in Cricut’s or Siser’s lines.
You can choose both bold and vibrant hues and subtle and muted tones.
All colors have a nice-looking matte finish.
Each hue is available in 5-foot or 12-foot rolls.
So you can choose the perfect amount for your projects.
Effortless Weeding
Vinyl Frog Heat Transfer Vinyl is easy to cut and weed.
You can remove excess material effortlessly.
This saves you time, especially when working with intricate designs or small details.
Durable and Flexible
Vinyl Frog Heat iron-on has a nice durability.
This vinyl holds up well even after multiple washes.
I also like its flexibility and stretchability.
The vinyl moves and stretches with the fabric.
It retains its shape and does not deform, even when subjected to stretching or bending.
Your designs will be comfortable to wear.
And they’ll stay intact for a long time, with no flaking or cracking.
Cold Peel Process Drawbacks
While the manufacturer allows for warm peeling, it’s still better to use the cold peel method with this vinyl.
If you wait for the vinyl to cool down before removing the liner, the material will adhere better.
And this can prevent damage or lifting of your design.
In addition to that, you’ll need a bit more patience when cold peeling this vinyl compared to other brands.
Always add an extra 5 minutes after the vinyl has cooled down for the best results.
This is because the Vinyl Frog material is thin and stretchy.
It’s easy to tear or deform it if you handle it too roughly or if you remove the carrier sheet too soon.
So be very careful when pulling away the liner to avoid any damage.
Pros:
- Wide range of colors available, including unique shades not found in other brands.
- Matte surface finish for a modern and sleek look.
- Easy to weed, saving time and effort in the crafting process.
- Durable and long-lasting, withstands multiple washes without flaking, cracking, or fading.
- Flexible and stretchy, moves with the fabric without deformation.
- Comes in 5-foot and 12-foot rolls, providing options for different project sizes.
Cons:
- The cold-peel process requires additional patience compared to other brands.
- Challenging liner removal, may be less forgiving for mistakes and excessive pulling.
- Thinner and more stretchy, making it more prone to tearing or deformation if mishandled.
Iron-on vinyl overview
Heat transfer vinyl, commonly referred to as iron-on vinyl, is a special material compatible with Cricut machines. It lets you easily make custom designs on various surfaces, including fabric.
It’s a thin, flexible vinyl that comes in various colors, patterns, and finishes.
It allows you to personalize clothing, accessories, and home decor.
Here’s how it works:
First, you use your Cricut machine to cut out your design from the vinyl.
Then you weed it to remove the excess material.
Next, you position the carrier sheet with the design on your fabric or other blank, and apply heat using an iron or heat press machine.
The heat bonds the vinyl to the fabric, creating a durable and long-lasting design.
The beauty of iron-on vinyl is that it gives your projects a professional look.
Plus, you can cut intricate and detailed designs on it with a cutting machine.
You can make custom t-shirts, shoes, tote bags, or spruce up your home with personalized pillows or wall art, wood signs, coasters, and more.
Iron on vinyl buying guide
Here are a few important factors to consider.
Let’s break them down:
1. Quality and Durability.
You want a material that can handle everyday use and that is resistant to color fading.
Get a vinyl that sticks well to fabric and doesn’t peel or crack easily.
2. Ease of Use and Application.
The last thing you want is to struggle with vinyl that’s difficult to work with.
Find vinyl that cuts smoothly, weeds easily, and transfers onto fabric without any fuss.
User-friendly instructions and a hot peel option can make a big difference here.
3. Variety of Colors and Finishes.
Having a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes at your fingertips allows you to get creative.
Look for brands that offer a diverse selection, pretty colors, and special finishes to suit your style.
There are different types of textures and finishes available in iron-on vinyl, including matte, glossy, glittery, metallic, and holographic.
A special effect vinyl can give the design a unique and eye-catching look, adding dimension and visual interest.
However, always check the compatibility of the special vinyl with different fabrics.
Some finishes may not work well with certain types of fabric or projects.
For example, glittery vinyl may not be suitable for garments that will be subjected to heavy wear and tear.
4. Compatibility with Cricut Machines.
Since you’re using a Cricut machine, make sure the vinyl you choose is compatible with it.
Opt for vinyl that’s either specifically designed for Cricut and recommended by the manufacturer or is easy to cut with your unit.
5. Washability and Care Instructions.
Look for vinyl that can handle washing without losing its quality.
Check if it’s labeled as machine washable and read the care instructions.
Make sure it can withstand different laundering conditions without peeling or fading.
6. Versatility and Adhesive Options.
Some vinyl brands go beyond fabric adhesive.
If you love experimenting with different crafts, look for brands that provide versatility and compatibility with other materials too.
Get an iron-on that also sticks well to wood, metal, leather, and other surfaces.
7. Hot Peel or Cold Peel.
Do you prefer a quick process or don’t mind waiting a bit?
Consider whether you want hot peel or cold peel vinyl.
Hot peel lets you remove the liner right after pressing, saving time.
Meanwhile, cold peel requires waiting for the vinyl to cool before removing the liner to prevent lifting.
Choose the peel type that suits your preference and experience level.
How do I cut iron on vinyl with Cricut?
To cut iron on vinyl with Cricut, you first need to create your design in Cricut Design Space.
Then, load your iron on vinyl onto your cutting mat and insert it into your Cricut machine.
Follow the prompts in Design Space to select your material and adjust your settings, then hit “Go” to start the cutting process.
How do I apply Cricut iron on vinyl to a surface?
To apply iron on vinyl to a surface, first place it on the surface with the carrier sheet facing up.
Then, use a heat press or household iron to apply heat and pressure to the vinyl, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finally, remove the carrier sheet to reveal your design.
How do I know what temperature and pressure to use when applying Cricut iron-on vinyl?
Follow the excellent Cricut Heat Guide or your particular vinyl manufacturer’s instructions for the best temperature and pressure.
You can also do a test cut and apply it to a small piece of fabric to see how it adheres before using it on your final project.
Can iron-on vinyl be applied to all types of fabric?
While HTV can be used on a variety of fabrics, always make sure your chosen material can withstand the heat needed for application.
Cotton, polyester, and cotton/poly blends tend to work well with heat transfer vinyl.
However, nylon or silk may melt during the heat application process.
Don’t forget to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the types of fabric that are suitable for their specific product.
Do I need a heat press to apply iron-on vinyl?
While a heat press can make the application process easier and more consistent, you can so apply HTV with a household iron.
Just use the appropriate temperature and pressure settings.
Can I layer Cricut iron-on vinyl designs?
Yes, many HTV products are layerable, including Siser EasyWeed.
Regular (non-special finish) iron-on vinyls can usually be applied in up to 4 layers.
Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for layering and application.
Can I wash clothing items with iron-on vinyl?
Yes, most HTV products are designed to withstand repeated washings without fading, cracking, or peeling.
Always wash your garment inside out on a gentle cycle warm or cold with a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners,l or bleach, as this may affect the vinyl’s adhesion.
Then hang it to dry or tumble dry on a low heat setting.
Can I reuse iron on vinyl?
No, this material is not removable, let alone reusable, once it has been applied to a surface.
However, if you have enough leftover vinyl after you cut a project, you can save it for future use.
I really hope that this buying guide has given you some helpful tips on choosing the best iron-on vinyl for your Cricut.
Don’t forget that your project’s quality depends on the quality of the vinyl you use.
So, be creative and choose wisely to make your ideas come to life.
