Are you tired of dealing with vinyl that doesn’t stay or fades after a few washes? In this blog post, I’ll give you a full guide to finding the perfect Cricut permanent vinyl for your cutting machine.
And this can be tricky, especially if you’re new to crafting. That’s exactly why I’ve thoroughly tested and evaluated all the products, considering important factors such as their adhesive qualities, the range of colors offered, and overall ease of use. Plus, I’ll also give you some tips on choosing the right vinyl for your project and how to use it with your Cricut machine.
So, let’s get started:
| Oracal 651 Permanent Adhesive Vinyl |
| Industry standard for permanent adhesive vinyl. Versatile choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Outstanding durability for indoor and outdoor applications. Wide color range. Convenient roll sizes. |
| Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl |
| Perfect match for Cricut machines. Lies flat on the cutting mat. Vibrant colors with glossy or special finishes. Convenient roll sizes and sampler sets. Strong and long-lasting. |
| Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl |
| Matless cutting up to 12 feet. Perfect compatibility with select Cricut machines. All-weather durability. Versatile application to many surfaces. Convenient roll sizes. |
| Siser EasyPSV Patterns Permanent Adhesive Vinyl |
| Lovely pattern options. Versatile application and long-lasting results. Compatibility with popular craft cutters. User-friendly. |
| Oracal 751 Marine Grade Permanent Vinyl |
| Industry standard for marine-grade vinyl. Extra-permanent adhesive. Excellent durability for indoor and outdoor applications. Premium cast vinyl with easy conformability. |
Oracal 651 Permanent Adhesive Vinyl — Best all-around and used by pros
This is the permanent vinyl many pros use for signs, decals, and vehicle graphics.
It’s ideal for people who make custom items for sale or create their own outdoor ads and signage for their business.
That’s because it’s very durable.
But it’s also great for DIYers and is very beginner-friendly.
Versatile and Professional-Grade
Oracal 651 is the industry standard for permanent adhesive vinyl.
It’s the go-to choice for professionals in the sign and decal industry.
But don’t worry, it’s also perfect for DIY enthusiasts.
It’s an ideal material for stickers, labels, and for sprucing up wood, glass, porcelain, or other surfaces.
This vinyl delivers outstanding results every time.
Durability for Indoors and Outdoors
One of the best features of Oracal 651 is its amazing durability.
This vinyl is made to withstand the elements.
So it’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
You don’t have to worry about your designs fading or peeling.
I’ve used this vinyl for outdoor decals, and they’ve held up for over five years so far!
According to the manufacturer, Oracal 651 vinyl holds up to 6 years outdoors.
Just remember, this vinyl is water-resistant, not completely waterproof.
Even though the manufacturer claims it’s dishwasher-safe, I only handwash items decorated with it, and avoid placing them into a dishwasher.
Compatibility and Ease of Use
Oracal 651 is compatible with pretty much all the craft cutting machines out there, including the popular Cricut and Silhouette.
I’ve personally used it with my Cricut, and it works perfectly.
Cutting this vinyl is a breeze, and the precision and detail you can achieve are amazing.
Weeding is also super-easy.
It’s best to weed it while the design is still on the cutting mat, and you’ll be able to do it like a pro.
A Ton of Colors
Oracal 651 offers a whole color wheel to choose from.
Most shades have a glossy finish.
There are 60 glossy and matte colors available, including transparent, matte white, and matte black.
In addition to that, it’s sometimes available in 12″x12″ patterned sample sheet sets.
For example, you can buy an Easter set or marble patterns.
Convenient Sizes
The 12.125″ roll width is pretty awesome.
It allows you to use it on Cricut 12″ wide mats with no trimming.
This width is also perfect for 12″x12″ scrapbook pages.
The sizes of the rolls are very convenient.
Oracal 651 is available in 10′, 25′, or even 50′ rolls.
And if you want to try different colors without commitment, get a multicolor variety pack.
These sets of 12″x12″ sheets in different hues are a great way to experiment, especially when using 12″x12″ Cricut mats and standard scrapbooks.
Convenient Storage
Oracal 651 makes managing your vinyl rolls a breeze with its convenience and simplicity.
The rolls come with a sturdy cardboard core, which is really handy for storing and organizing them.
You can place these rolls on a special vinyl storage rack to keep them neat and tidy.
No more worries about them unraveling.
Pros:
- Professional-grade industry-standard vinyl from a famous brand.
- Durability for both indoors and outdoors.
- Excellent adhesive strength to various surfaces.
- Compatibility with all cutting machines, including Cricut and Silhouette.
- Easy to cut and weed.
- Wide color range.
- Choose from a wide range of conveniently-sized rolls and assorted variety packs.
- Convenient storage.
Cons:
- Limited special finishes.
Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl – Best match for Cricut and beginner-friendly
Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl is an absolutely ideal match for your Cricut machine.
This material is made by the same manufacturer as your cutting unit.
Plus, the vinyl is super beginner-friendly and great for DIY crafting, or even making items for sale.
Its permanent adhesive is perfect for creating long-lasting designs for home decor, personalized gifts, and more.
Made for Cricut: Perfect Compatibility
Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl is specifically designed by Cricut for their cutting machines.
So this material will be a perfect match for your Cricut.
Each machine has pre-calibrated settings for the brand’s own vinyl.
So you can trust that your cuts will be precise and flawless with no guesswork or wasted materials.
Flawless Application and Cutting
Unlike some other brands, this vinyl lays completely flat on the Cricut cutting mat.
No cupping, tunneling, or bubbling to ruin your project.
This means smooth cutting and easy weeding, saving you time and frustration.
I’ve had my fair share of vinyl mishaps with some other no-name products.
But with Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl, my cuts are always spot-on.
Vibrant Colors and Glossy Finish
The colors of this vinyl are absolutely stunning!
Cricut offers an incredible range of on-trend colors, textures, effects, and cute patterns to choose from.
Including glitter and even color changing finishes.
And the glossy finish of solid colored and patterned vinyls makes your designs pop with vibrancy.
Cricut has some fun collabs with popular brands.
Check out their Disney Princess vinyl, for example.
Convenient Sizes and Sampler Sets
Cricut offers this vinyl in 4′ rolls for those who want to dip their toes in without a huge commitment, and 15′ rolls for heavy users.
In addition to that, they sell 6-piece multicolor 12″x12″ sampler sheet sets.
These are perfect for testing out different colors and patterns.
Plus, they are a great size for 12″x12″ Cricut mats.
Strong and Versatile Adhesive
Cricut vinyl’s permanent adhesive is also very strong.
It’s designed to withstand various conditions, including weather, UV rays, and water exposure.
This makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor DIY projects.
Your designs will stay put outdoors for up to 3 years.
This is less than what Oracal offers, but is still a decent amount of time.
Cricut vinyl sticks well to any surface you like, from glass to metal to just about anything you can think of.
It’s perfect for creating all kinds of stickers, decals, and signs.
Just a word of advice: while the manufacturer may claim it’s dishwasher-safe, I’ve found that handwashing is the way to go for longer-lasting results.
Pros:
- Perfect compatibility with Cricut.
- Lies flat on the cutting mat.
- Vibrant colors and glossy finish or special finishes.
- Convenient roll sizes and sampler sets.
- Strong and long-lasting.
- Versatile application to many surfaces.
- Trusted brand.
Cons:
- A bit less long-lasting than Oracal 651.
Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl – Best for matless cutting and long continuous cuts
If you’re looking for matless cutting and long continuous cuts, Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl is definitely the way to go.
Cutting without a mat offers numerous advantages, one of which is the incredible level of flexibility and creative freedom it provides for sizing your design.
You can work with bigger pieces of vinyl and make really long banners without being limited by the size of your mat.
Plus, matless cutting saves you time by letting you cut your design in one piece instead of having to split it up and cut it in sections on a mat.
No more hassle of constantly placing and removing those pieces on and off the mat.
Matless Large-Scale Cutting
The most exciting feature of Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl is its special backing that allows you to cut it without a mat.
That means you can create cuts longer than the mat size, up to a whopping 12 feet!
Imagine the possibilities for long signs, wall decals, and other large-scale projects.
Use it for any creative project you imagine with no size limitations.
Perfect Compatibility with Cricut
Keep in mind that Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl is compatible only with Cricut Explore 3, Maker 3, or Joy machines.
However, these machines have special settings and are perfectly calibrated to cut this vinyl flawlessly.
Convenient Roll Sizes
Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl is available in both 3′ and 12′ rolls.
This gives you the flexibility to choose the amount you need based on your project’s scale.
You can find a roll that will suit both small decals or massive mural, or sign designs.
All-Weather Durability and Fade-Proof Quality
Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl can withstand any weather condition and has a fade-proof quality, just like its non-Smart Premium permanent counterpart.
It can remain intact and vibrant for up to 3 years.
So it’s another great choice for long-lasting signs and wall decals that can stand the test of time.
Versatile Application to Any Surface
Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl is not just ideal for making long signs and wall decals, but it’s also a fantastic option for crafting a wide range of decorations and stickers.
Its strong adhesive makes it stick to just about any surface you can imagine.
From water bottles to laptops, and even custom labels, this vinyl delivers reliable results with ease.
Just, again, avoid placing it in a dishwasher.
Pros:
- Matless cutting up to 12 feet.
- Perfect Cricut compatibility.
- All-weather durability.
- Versatile application to almost any surface.
- Convenient roll sizes.
Cons:
- Limited machine compatibility: Only compatible with Cricut Explore 3, Maker 3, and Joy machines.
- Scraps under 6″ must be cut on mat.
Siser EasyPSV Patterns Permanent Adhesive Vinyl — Best patterned permanent vinyl
This high-quality vinyl comes in a variety of vibrant and eye-catching patterns.
Patterned vinyl is a great way to experiment with different color combinations and textures.
Pretty Patterns
Siser, known for their top-notch iron-on vinyl, also excels in the realm of permanent adhesive vinyl.
What sets this vinyl apart is its gorgeous patterns.
From watercolor and leopard to plaid and mermaid scales — the pre-printed designs are all gorgeous.
The colors are vibrant and beautiful.
Plus, you can easily cut out multicolor designs in a single go, saving you time and effort.
Versatile Application and Long-Lasting Results
Siser EasyPSV Patterns Permanent Adhesive Vinyl is a great vinyl for a wide range of surfaces.
It sticks well to various materials.
You can use it on many different projects.
Plus, its durability will help your designs stay vibrant and intact for up to three years.
However, remember that this vinyl is different from the amazing Siser EasyWeed iron-on.
So, like any other permanent vinyl, it’s not suitable for use on shirts.
For fabric projects, opt for heat transfer iron-on vinyl like Siser EasyWeed.
Compatibility and User-Friendly Experience
Siser EasyPSV works seamlessly with all popular machines such as Silhouette and Cricut.
No matter which craft cutter you have, this vinyl is super easy to work with and weed.
However, bear in mind that it’s slightly thicker than other permanent vinyls.
If you’re using a Cricut machine, you may need to slightly adjust the settings for a clean cut.
This may require 2-3 Multi-Cut passes.
Patterns Design Size Limitation
The patterns on Siser EasyPSV are truly eye-catching.
Just keep in mind that they might appear larger than what you see in product photos.
For best results, choose larger-scale designs and big fonts.
Small intricate details and miniature letters may not come out as well since the patterns are better suited for a greater scale.
Try to find the right balance between pattern size and design complexity.
Solid Colors Also Available
If patterns aren’t your thing, or you want to mix and match, Siser EasyPSV Permanent Vinyl is also available in solid colors.
Both patterns and solids have the same quality and performance.
Pros:
- Lovely patterns.
- Versatile application.
- Long-lasting results.
- Compatibility with popular craft cutters like Silhouette and Cricut.
- User-friendly.
Cons:
- Thicker than other vinyls, which may require adjusting settings.
- Patterns appear larger than pictures, not suitable for small designs.
Oracal 751 Marine Grade Permanent Vinyl — Best for all weather and ultra-durable
If you’re on the hunt for a vinyl that can hold up against tough weather and last for a long time, then try Oracal 751 High Performance Cast Permanent Vinyl.
This vinyl is specially made to survive in harsh marine environments.
So it’s a top option for any weather-resistant and long-lasting projects.
Unparalleled Performance for Marine Applications
Oracal 751 sets the industry standard for marine-grade vinyl, and for good reason.
Its extra-permanent adhesive and cast PVC film are specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions of boats and water-related projects.
This material can handle constant exposure to water, extreme weather, or temperature fluctuations.
The solvent-based permanent adhesive forms a strong bond to any smooth, non-porous surfaces.
Built to Last in Outdoor Elements
Oracal 751 has excellent longevity.
It boasts an impressive indoor durability of 8-10 years or more.
That’s why it’s a reliable choice for professional projects.
Outdoors, it can withstand the elements for 5-8 years or more, depending on the color.
For example, some specific shades like gold and brilliant blue may be less outdoor durable.
But white and black stand out as particularly robust options.
So your creations will maintain their vibrant appearance even in challenging conditions.
Tough Adhesive with Amazing Sticking Power
One notable feature of Oracal 751 is its strong and aggressive adhesive.
It sticks exceptionally well.
This vinyl has a lot more adhesive strength than other popular vinyl options like Cricut and even Oracal 651.
However, this strength can make Oracal 751 difficult to remove or reposition.
So be extra-careful to avoid any potential damage to the surface when you’re taking it off.
Premium Cast Vinyl with Excellent Conformability
Oracal 751 is a premium cast vinyl.
So it’s thinner and more pliable than thicker calendered vinyls like Oracal 651.
Since it’s thin (about 2 mil), it has an excellent flexibility and conformability to various surfaces.
It effortlessly wraps around curves and contours.
That’s why it’s the best option for making large decals for curved and irregular surfaces.
Limited Color Selection on Amazon
Oracal 751 is actually manufactured in 117 colors in wide 630-1260 mm rolls for professional use.
But its color selection when it comes in rolls for DIY cutting machines is pretty limited.
Especially compared to other vinyl options like Oracal 651 or Cricut.
This vinyl never comes in prints or patterns.
Water Resistance
Oracal 751 boasts exceptional water resistance.
After all, it’s branded as a marine-grade vinyl.
It’s the best vinyl on this list for use on cups, tumblers, and water bottles.
You can even place stuff decorated with it in a dishwasher.
However, I still handwash my custom 751 items.
Take this extra step to make sure this vinyl stays vibrant and lasts long enough.
Pros:
- Industry standard for marine-grade vinyl applications.
- Extra-permanent adhesive.
- Excellent durability for up to 8–10 years.
- Water and weather resistance.
- Premium cast vinyl with easy conformability to various surfaces.
Cons:
- Limited color selection for DIYers, no prints or patterns.
- Very difficult to remove or reposition, you can’t make a mistake.
What is permanent adhesive vinyl for Cricut?
Permanent adhesive vinyl for Cricut is a special kind of vinyl that’s all about durability.
It’s perfect for those projects where you want your designs to stay put for a long time.
Think decals, labels, and signs that need a strong adhesive bond.
This vinyl is made to stick firmly to surfaces like glass, metal, plastic, and even textured materials.
So your creations won’t budge easily.
What makes permanent adhesive vinyl stand out is its ability to handle the elements.
It’s built to resist fading, water, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions.
So if you’re thinking of making outdoor signage, car decals, or personalized water bottles, this vinyl is up to the task.
With your Cricut machine, you can cut intricate designs, letters, logos, and shapes from this vinyl and easily transfer them onto different surfaces.
That means you can personalize all kinds of items and let your creativity run wild.
It’s a great material for long-lasting custom creations or branding.
Best permanent vinyl for Cricut buying guide
Here are the key decision-making factors for the best permanent adhesive vinyl for Cricut:
1. Durability
You need a material that can handle the elements and won’t fade or deteriorate over time.
It should look as new for at least 3–5 years outdoors even when exposed to sunlight, water, and regular wear and tear.
2. Adhesion
Look for vinyl with strong adhesive properties that can stick firmly to different surfaces.
Such as glass, metal, plastic, and textured materials.
You don’t want your designs peeling off!
3. Compatibility
Make sure the vinyl you choose is compatible with your Cricut machine or other cutters you use.
It should work with their standard permanent vinyl settings (maybe with just a bit of adjustment).
You want hassle-free cutting and easy set-up.
4. Quality
Seek out high-quality vinyl that offers vibrant colors, a smooth finish, and professional-looking results.
This is what this guide is for.
5. Versatility
The best permanent adhesive vinyl should work well for various projects.
That way you’ll be able to make decals, labels, signs, or other personalized items.
It should be suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
6. Colors
Permanent vinyl is used for long-lasting projects, so choose colors wisely.
They’ll be difficult to change once you’ve applied the vinyl to your surface.
Look for brands that offer a nice selection of colors and even patterns.
This will give you plenty of options for creating your projects.
Also consider the quality and consistency of the colors.
High-quality vinyl will have consistent shading throughout the roll, with no dyeing or printing defects.
7. Finish
Permanent vinyl for Cricut is also available in a variety of special finishes.
Such as glitter, shimmer, holographic, foil, and more.
These finishes can add a unique and eye-catching element to your designs.
For example, glitter vinyl has a sparkly finish for adding some glamour to your project.
Holographic vinyl has a rainbow-like effect that changes color depending on the angle of the light.
Foil vinyl has a shiny metallic surface and can be used to create festive elements and decorations.
You can use these special types of permanent vinyl in your projects by cutting it with Cricut in the same way as ordinary vinyl.
8. Ease of Cutting
Look for vinyl that cuts smoothly with your Cricut (or other) machine.
It will save you time and frustration, allowing you to create intricate designs with ease.
9. Ease of Weeding
Make your life easier with vinyl that’s easy to weed.
Removing excess material should be quick and straightforward, so you can move on to other steps.
What are some tips for cutting permanent vinyl with Cricut?
1. Use the correct blade:
Make sure you are using the Fine Point blade and that it is sharp and in good condition.
2. Use the correct mat:
For permanent vinyl, use the green StandardGrip mat.
It provides the right amount of grip to keep your vinyl in place.
3. Secure your vinyl:
Use a brayer to help your vinyl attach to the mat to prevent it from shifting or moving during cutting.
4. Weed carefully:
After cutting, carefully weed out the excess vinyl using a weeding tool and tweezers.
Take your time and be gentle to avoid accidentally removing important parts of your design.
5. Use transfer tape:
To transfer your vinyl design onto your desired surface, use transfer tape to lift and move the vinyl without damaging it.
Apply the tape evenly and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles.
Can I use permanent vinyl on fabrics or clothing?
No, permanent vinyl is not recommended for use on fabrics or garments.
It’s designed for sticking to hard, smooth, non-porous surfaces.
Instead, use heat transfer vinyl (HTV) aka iron-on vinyl made specifically for textiles.
This type of vinyl is specially formulated to adhere to fabrics and can withstand washing and wear.
Can I apply permanent vinyl on curved surfaces?
Absolutely! Permanent vinyl is flexible enough and can be applied to curved surfaces.
Just make sure to place it properly and smooth it out with a scraper to create a secure bond without any wrinkling or lifting.
Can I use permanent vinyl with cutting machines other than Cricut?
Yes, permanent vinyl is compatible with a wide range of cutting machines, including popular ones like Silhouette and other brands.
As long as your cutting machine allows for the use of adhesive vinyl, you can use it with permanent vinyl.
Just make sure to adjust the settings and blade depth according to the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific machine.
How long does permanent vinyl last?
The longevity of permanent vinyl can vary depending on factors like exposure to the elements, surface conditions, and even the color you choose.
Generally, permanent vinyl is designed to last several years.
Indoor durability ranges from 5-10 years or more, while outdoor durability can range from 3-8 years or more.
Keep in mind that different colors or finishes may have varying levels of outdoor durability.
For example, Oracal’s black is always the most UV-resistant color. And brilliant blue fades quicker than other hues.
So it’s a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specs for the shade you’re planning to use.
How should I care for items decorated with permanent vinyl?
Of course, it’s always best to handle them with care to make the decal last longer.
While permanent vinyl is usually water-resistant, try handwashing these items instead of using a dishwasher.
The high heat and strong detergents in dishwashers may ruin the vinyl’s adhesive and PVC film over time.
Also, avoid harsh scrubbing or using abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
Can I use permanent vinyl for both indoor and outdoor projects?
Yes, permanent vinyl is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
It’s actually a great choice for various projects, including signs, decals, home decor, and more.
This is because it’s usually durable and water, weather, and heat-resistant.
Can I layer permanent vinyl to create multi-color designs?
Yes, this vinyl is ideal for layering.
Just make sure each layer is fully adhered before adding the next one.
And don’t forget to consider the thickness of the vinyl when layering to avoid excessive bulk or uneven surfaces.
How do I ensure the longevity of permanent vinyl on outdoor projects?
Always clean, dry, and prepare the surface before applying permanent vinyl.
In additon to that, avoid exposing your decal to excessive sunlight or extreme weather conditions.
Can I remove permanent vinyl once it’s applied?
While permanent vinyl is designed for long-lasting adhesion, it can be removed.
However, keep in mind that the adhesive used in some types of permanent vinyl may be strong and aggressive.
So removal may need extra care.
And possibly some residue may still be left behind.
You can try applying heat from a fan or using adhesive removers, or rubbing alcohol to loosen the adhesive or to get rid of residue.
Is there a specific temperature range for applying permanent vinyl?
It’s always best to apply permanent vinyl at room temperature or in a temperature range of 50-90°F (10-32°C).
Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can affect the adhesive properties and overall performance of the vinyl.
Can I use permanent vinyl on textured or rough surfaces?
Permanent vinyl adheres best to smooth, non-porous surfaces.
So it may not stick to textured or rough surfaces.
You can try testing a small piece of vinyl on your particular surface.
Plus, try a stronger type of vinyl, like Oracal 751 and see if it sticks (although it may be difficult to remove).
If you want your Cricut projects to look amazing for a long time, it’s super important to pick the right permanent vinyl.
Luckily, there are lots of great options to choose from!
Oracal 651 is the industry standard and a great choice, but you might prefer the Cricut Premium Permanent Vinyl or the convenient Cricut Smart Permanent Vinyl.
And if you want to get really creative, check out Siser EasyPSV for some fun patterned options.
Just make sure you think about things like how durable the vinyl is, how strong the adhesive is, what colors are available, and whether it works with your cutting machine.
And don’t forget to follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
