Ever tried to make a beautiful custom Cricut Infusible Ink shirt only to end up with a faded mess after a couple of washes? You put time and effort into your creation, and it practically vanishes after laundry day. This means you’ve used the wrong type of shirt for infusible ink.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best shirts for Cricut Infusible Ink. No more trial and error, no more faded disappointments. Let’s get you a shirt that doesn’t just survive the wash but becomes your go-to canvas for those vibrant, long-lasting designs.
| Cricut Shirt |
| Perfect compatibility with Cricut Infusible Ink. |
| Bella Canvas Triblend |
| Distinct Vintage Look |
| Hanes Cool Dri |
| 100% polyester: ideal for Cricut Infusible Ink. |
Best shirts for Cricut Infusible Ink
Infusible Ink is a magical product that infuses your design right into the fabric.
This creates a bond so strong that it won’t fade, peel, or crack, no matter how many times you throw it in the washing machine.
So, what shirt should you use with Cricut infusible ink?
It must have a high polyester count and be light-colored. Ideally white or very light pastel.
1. High polyester count
First, the secret to a successful Infusible Ink project lies in the fabric of your chosen shirt.
High polyester content is the key here.
This is because polyester absorbs the ink better than natural fibers like cotton, allowing it to become one with the fabric.
The more polyester in your shirt, the more vibrant and long-lasting your design will be.
2. Light-colored fabric
Infusible Ink is a bit of a diva – it only shows its true colors on light or white fabrics.
So, when choosing a shirt, think sunny whites or pastel shades.
Dark fabrics won’t do your Infusible Ink justice because the design won’t be visible.
Best Cricut Infusible Ink Shirt Brands:
Cricut Shirt — Best overall for Cricut infusible ink
Okay, let’s talk about Cricut’s own T-shirt line that’s made to play perfectly with their Infusible Ink goodies.
I love how it works seamlessly with my trusty Cricut machine and the brand’s vibrant Infusible Ink sheets and markers.
Perfect Match for Cricut Infusible Ink
The cool thing is that Cricut designed this shirt specifically for their line of sublimation ink products.
So it’s a perfect combo for crafting with your cutting machine.
Using this tee with Cricut’s Infusible Ink and Easypress heat press (or any heat press) is a breeze.
And the results will always be smooth and beautiful.
Color Soaks Right
The fabric absorbs Infusible Ink like a sponge, giving you rich results.
All the transfers come out vivid and vibrant on this shirt.
And they feel as smooth as a perfectly iced cake.
Quality That Can’t Be Ignored
Quality-wise, Cricut claims they’ve perfected the formula of the fabriv for their Infusible Ink shirt.
And honestly, they’re not bragging.
Those rich colors stay permanent.
Wash after wash, they stay put.
With no fading, no cracking, and definitely no peeling, even after you’ve thrown this tee in the wash more times than you can count.
Plus, the tee doesn’t shrink after multiple washes.
Polyester Count
This shirt is mainly 95% polyester and 5% spandex, which is the ideal recipe for Infusible Ink magic.
Some places might list it as 100% cotton, but that’s a mistake – trust the manufacturer on this one.
The fabric feels soft and not at all cheap.
In fact, it feels as close to cotton as you can get.
Not Just for Infusible Ink
Cricut shirt isn’t just a one-trick pony.
It’s great for other sublimation ink projects too.
Whether you’re into all kinds of crafting or just testing the waters, this tee in its basic, lightweight, crew-neck style comes in various sizes, so there’s something for everyone.
Size Limitations
Now, here’s the tiny little hiccup.
These shirts run a bit on the small side, and the size options aren’t as plentiful as you’d hope.
So, be sure to double-check the size chart before buying.
Pros:
- Perfect compatibility with Cricut Infusible Ink.
- High-quality, durable, and vivid heat transfers.
- Ideal 95% polyester and 5% spandex blend.
- Excellent ink absorption for rich colors.
- Versatile for other sublimation ink projects.
- No post-wash shrinkage.
Cons:
- Sizing runs slightly small.
- Limited size options.
Bella Canvas Triblend — Best shirt for a vintage look
Alright, let’s dive into the Bella Canvas Triblend, a shirt that offers a unique twist to your Infusible Ink projects, giving them a vintage vibe that’s pretty hard to resist.
The Blend of Magic
The magic happens with this shirt’s blend of 50% polyester, 25% cotton, and 25% rayon.
Sure, you might think more polyester is the way to go for that ultra-bright Infusible Ink effect, but Bella Triblend offers something different and equally appealing.
Vintage Vibes with Distressed Look
Here’s the scoop:
The Cricut Infusible Ink results on this shirt aren’t super bright, and that produces a unique effect.
The ink doesn’t saturate the fabric like it would on shirts with higher polyester percentages.
This creates an almost worn-in, old-school charm.
You get a distressed and vintage appearance that looks even more stylish than a smooth bright design.
A Rainbow of Colors, but Choose Wisely
While Bella Canvas Triblend shirts come in a variety of colors, you should always stick to the light shades for Infusible Ink projects.
This is where the ink stays visible and the vintage magic truly works its charm.
The distressed effect shines best on light gray, pink, light yellow, peach, and light blue shirts.
Durable Vintage Look
The beauty of it is that despite the intentionally worn-out look, the Infusible Ink absorbs into the fabric and holds its ground.
It won’t fade away with each wash.
So it’s a durable choice for those who want their vintage design to stand the test of time.
Comfort Meets Style
Bella Canvas Triblend shirts are unisex-sized, offering a comfortable and slim fit.
The fabric is incredibly soft, and the shirt itself is thin and light.
This makes it a perfect choice for those looking for both style and comfort.
In addition to that, it doesn’t shrink!
Pros:
- Distinct Vintage Look
- Soft and Comfortable
- Durable Results
- Color and Size Variety
- No Shrinkage
Cons:
- Less Vibrant
- Limited to Light Colors
Hanes Cool Dri — Best shirt for hot weather and training, good size range
Hanes Cool Dri is a shirt that’s not just about style but is designed to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.
So it’s perfect for hot weather, training, and all-around active pursuits.
Polyester Perfection
This Hanes tee is made from 100% polyester.
That’s a perfect canvas for sublimation enthusiasts.
With the ideal polyester count, it’s no surprise that this shirt partners seamlessly with Cricut Infusible Ink.
It delivers bright, vibrant results that will make your crafting heart skip a beat.
Just remember to go with light colors, with white being the best one.
Vibrant and Durable
The vibrancy doesn’t fade away easily, even after multiple trips to the washing machine.
That’s the kind of staying power we all love in our favorite tees.
The Perfect Workout Partner
Here’s where the Hanes Cool Dri shines.
Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just braving the summer heat, this lightweight shirt will be ideal.
It’s designed to wick away moisture, helping regulate your temperature and keeping you cool.
Quick Drying and Fresh
Hanes Cool Dri isn’t just about keeping you dry; it’s about doing it fast.
Thanks to Hanes Cool DRI technology, this shirt dries quickly, ensuring maximum comfort.
Plus, its moisture-wicking Cool Comfort fabric lifts away sweat, leaving you feeling refreshed throughout your active endeavors.
And, if you’re worried about post-workout odors, fret not.
The Hanes FreshIQ advanced odor protection technology fights off odor-causing bacteria for all-day freshness.
Quality and Durability
Now, about the feel and quality, the poly interlock jersey material is both light and silky against your skin.
It’s thin but doesn’t compromise on quality or construction.
The stitching is durable, and this shirt stands the test of time.
It’s roomy and comfortable, and it doesn’t shrink after a wash.
Choices Galore
You’re not limited to just one option.
Hanes Cool Dri comes in assorted colors and a range of sizes.
Still, remember to choose light and pastel ones for your infusible ink projects.
Best for Warm Weather
The only tiny downside is that it’s designed to keep you cool in the heat.
Which means it may not be too warm for colder months.
But when the sun’s out, this shirt is your best friend.
Pros:
- 100% polyester: ideal for Cricut Infusible Ink.
- Keeps you dry in hot weather.
- Quick-drying technology.
- Odor protection.
- Durable and high quality.
- Comes in various sizes and colors.
Cons:
- Not good for cold weather.
Infusible ink overview
Cricut Infusible Ink is a special ink that infuses your designs directly into specific materials, such as shirt polyester fabrics, poly-coated ceramics, or stainless steel.
When you apply heat, this ink turns into a gas and becomes one with the fabric or polyester coating.
This creates designs that are not just vibrant but also practically permanent.
No fading, no cracking, and definitely no peeling with this stuff.
So, in simple terms, it’s the secret sauce to creating custom, high-quality, and long-lasting DIY projects.
Cricut Infusible Ink shirt buying guide
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect shirt for Infusible Ink, there are some key things you should keep in mind to assess how well a product performs:
1. High Polyester Count:
As I’ve already mentioned, the amount of polyester in the fabric is a big deal.
More polyester means better ink absorption, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting designs.
So, you want to check how much polyester a shirt has.
Get a shirt with at least 60% polyester content, with 100% poly being the ideal one.
2. Color Compatibility:
Once again, when choosing colors, select light shades, especially white.
These are like a canvas for your Infusible Ink.
So, a shirt’s performance gets a boost if it pairs well with these preferred shades.
3. Durability:
You don’t want your beautiful designs to fade after a few washes, right?
So, the shirt’s ability to keep that ink quality intact is a vital factor in assessing its performance.
4. Comfort and Breathability:
If you’re planning to wear your Infusible Ink shirt in hot weather or during workouts, comfort is key.
How well it keeps you dry and comfy matters.
5. Quick Drying:
Quick-drying shirts are a bonus.
Especially if you’re working up a sweat or facing humid conditions.
You’d rate a shirt higher if it dries out fast.
6. Quality and Build:
Is the fabric soft and well-made?
How’s the stitching and overall construction?
The shirt’s overall quality affects its performance and durability.
7. Size and Fit:
Variety in sizes and the fit of the shirt are also super-important.
It’s all about finding the one that suits you best.
8. Shrinkage Resistance:
Nobody likes a shirt that suddenly becomes too small after a wash.
The performance here is about keeping the size and fit intact.
9. Versatility:
Can you use the shirt for various crafting projects, not just with Infusible Ink?
A shirt’s adaptability and versatility count towards its performance.
Can I use any shirt with Cricut Infusible Ink?
Not quite. To get the best results, it’s essential to choose a shirt with a high polyester content, preferably over 60%.
Light colors are your best bet, especially white. They make the Infusible Ink designs pop.
Think of them as a blank canvas for your creative projects.
How well does the ink hold up in the wash?
The performance of a shirt for Infusible Ink is partly judged by how well the ink stands up to multiple washes.
Look for ones that promise not to fade or peel.
And often it depends on the fabric.
The ink won’t absorb well into 100% cotton and will fade after the first wash.
Are there specific care instructions for infusible ink shirts?
The care instructions can vary, but generally, it’s a good idea to machine wash these shirts in cold water.
Also, avoid using harsh detergents.
Plus, turning the shirt inside out before washing can help protect the design.
Be sure to check the label for any specific recommendations.
How do I make sure I’m getting the right size when shopping online?
Shopping online can be a bit tricky when it comes to sizing.
To make sure you’re getting the right fit, carefully measure yourself and compare it to the size chart provided by the seller.
Can I use infusible ink shirts for sublimation projects other than Infusible Ink?
Polyester shirts are pretty versatile and are a great fit for various sublimation ink projects, not just Infusible Ink.
Do these shirts come in kid’s sizes for family crafting projects?
It depends on the brand, but many of them offer kids’ sizes, making it perfect for family crafting fun.
For example, check out Cricut kids-sized infusible ink blanks.
Final thoughts
So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to finding the perfect shirt for infusible ink projects.
Remember, a high polyester count and a light or white fabric are key for vibrant and long-lasting transfers.
With these tips in mind, you can confidently create beautiful and unique designs with infusible ink.
