If you’re a crafter, you know vinyl is an awesome material for making unique projects, such as stickers and decals. But if you’re wondering if Cricut pens can write on vinyl, the answer is yes! In this article, we’ll dive into the types of vinyl that Cricut pens can write on and give you some tips for crafting with this cool tool.
So, if you’re looking to jazz up your projects with a Cricut pen, this post is for you!
Can Cricut pens write on vinyl?
Yes, almost all Cricut pens and Markers do work on vinyl, but not just any kind of vinyl.
You’ll need to use writable label vinyl, as it’s designed to work with any pen or marker, including Cricut pens.
The best one for this purpose is Cricut Smart Label Vinyl.
This type of vinyl is great for making labels, as the ink will stay put and won’t smear or smudge.
However, traditional vinyl such as permanent adhesive or removable vinyl, including Oracal 651 or 631, won’t work with Cricut pens.
The brand’s pens are actually similar to fine tip Sharpie markers.
And the ink just won’t stick, especially on glossy vinyl like Oracal 651. It will smudge instantly.
So only use ordinary, non-writeable vinyl for cutting, not for drawing or writing.
Another great alternative is to use printable vinyl and then run it through an ink jet printer to create a custom design.
If you’re using printable or writable vinyl for drink cups or tumblers, you should also top it off with a clear waterproof laminate sheet. This will keep your design looking great and will protect it from the elements.
Can Cricut Infusible Ink Pens write on vinyl?
You can’t use Cricut Infusible Ink Pens to write on any kind of vinyl, including writable label vinyl, Smart Label Vinyl, or printable vinyl.
If you want to use these pens in your craft project, you’ll need laser copy paper.
Draw with infusible ink pens on that paper and transfer the design to a surface with a heat press.
After all, Cricut Infusible Ink Pens and Markers are a great addition to the Cricut crafting family.
And they let you create intricate designs and patterns that can then be transferred to fabric, ceramic, and metal surfaces.
Cricut pens and markers overview
Cricut pens and markers let you create awesome drawings and custom calligraphy.
Cricut manufactures pens in two sizes — for the regular Cricut and Cricut Joy machines.
These pens come in a wide variety of colors, line weights, and effects, so you can easily write, draw, or sketch precise details.
Using Cricut pens and markers is easy.
Just select the Draw linetype, insert the pen into Clamp A when prompted, and watch your machine work its magic.
Cricut and Circut Joy Pens and Markers are a great choice for crafting projects you want to keep for years to come.
They are water-based, acid-free, non-toxic, and permanent once dry, ensuring your work will look great.
You can use them on paper, cardstock, and writable label vinyl, and they are safe for children and animals.
What type of vinyl can Cricut Pens write on?
Cricut Pens can write on special writable label vinyl.
This vinyl is specifically designed to work with pens and markers, making it the perfect choice for creating labels and stickers.
Whether you’re labeling jars, bottles, boxes, or other containers, this vinyl is easily removable and won’t damage surfaces.
Cricut has its own line of writable vinyl called “Smart Label Vinyl.”
It comes in three colors — white, black, and transparent. So you can choose the best color for your project.
For example, you can create cool chalkboard designs on the black writable vinyl.
You can also cut the Smart Label Vinyl to any size or shape you want with your Cricut machine.
This allows for maximum customization and flexibility.
Plus, if you have a Cricut Explore 3 or Cricut Maker 3, or Cricut Joy, you can even use it without a mat because it’s a Smart Material.
Cricut Smart Label Vinyl is available in two sizes:
13″ wide for Cricut Explore and Maker machines and 5.5″ wide for Cricut Joy machines.
And in two varieties — permanent and removable.
The removable labels are repositionable.
Not only is this vinyl great for working with Cricut Pens, but it’s also budget-friendly. This makes it a perfect option for all your custom labeling needs!
However, Smart Label vinyl is not made for use with printers.
How to use Cricut pens to write on Smart Label Vinyl
Creating with Cricut pens on Smart Label Vinyl is a breeze!
- To get started, all you need to do is insert the Fine Point Blade into Clamp B and the pen or marker into Clamp A.
- Then, simply choose a Draw linetype for your desired text or image and select the correct material setting.
- When you’re ready, select the ‘Load Without a Mat’ option and carefully insert and align the Smart Label Vinyl.
- Click the ‘Load’ button, press the ‘Go’ button, and the machine will do the rest. It will draw the designs and then cut the labels.
- Once the project is finished, make sure to unload the vinyl with extra care. Be extra gentle so you don’t smudge it.
How do I know if my Cricut pens will work with writable label vinyl?
If you’re not using the Smart Label Vinyl and are unsure if the vinyl you have on hand is writable or not, there are a few ways to tell.
First, look for a label on the vinyl that says “writable vinyl”, “label vinyl”, “printable vinyl” or something similar.
If the label isn’t present, check the back of the vinyl for a list of materials or tools that it is compatible with.
If the list includes pens or markers, then it is likely writable.
Finally, you can always test the vinyl with a Cricut pen or any pen or marker.
Write on a small area and then gently rub it with your finger.
If the markings remain, then the vinyl is writable.
Keep in mind that printable vinyl may not be writable and vice versa.
How to prevent Cricut Pen ink from smudging on writable vinyl
First, to ensure that your Cricut pen ink stays put on writable vinyl, it’s important to give it enough time to dry before handling.
This is especially true for gel and glitter pens and markers, which may take longer to dry.
So take a few extra minutes to let ink dry before beginning to cut or handle your labels!
Even though Cricut pen ink sticks very well to writable vinyl, you should still keep labels made with it from moisture as much as possible.
You can do this by avoiding handling jars with the labels using wet hands.
To further prevent smudging, you can add an extra layer of protection.
One option is to cover the labels with clear 651 vinyl or Avery self-laminating sheets.
Do it after writing with the Cricut Pen but before cutting the label sheet into individual labels.
This will make them waterproof and keep the ink in place.
If you prefer, you can also cut clear tape and apply it over the labels or use a topcoat of finishing spray, like Krylon or Rust-Oleum.
Another option is to use a coat of Mod Podge, a decoupage medium that acts as a glue, sealer, and finish all in one.
With these simple tips, your Cricut Pen ink labels will be smudge-free and ready to use!
Cricut Pens are an awesome way to make your vinyl projects extra special and personal. Just remember, they won’t work with regular vinyl – you’ll need to use something like smart label vinyl for your designs to stay put. Armed with this knowledge, you can easily pick the perfect vinyl and let your Cricut Pen work its magic!
