Today, I'm sharing some fun ways to decorate for the holidays using Infusible Ink!
On my most recent trip to the craft store, I scoured the store for compatible bases that you might not have thought about using! If you've used Infusible Ink before you know there are certain restrictions around the type of bases you can use with it! You can read more about it here.
When it comes to using Infusible Ink there are a few important things to understand. First off, for Infusible Ink to fully adhere to a surface of the blank, it must contain a high percentage of polyester or have a polymer coating.
The higher the content of polyester, the brighter and more vibrant the results will be. Because of this, you can use some everyday items that have a high synthetic content with Infusible Ink instead of sticking solely to Cricut-approved blanks.
I’ve tested out a variety of different bases to find items that work with Infusible Ink giving you even more ways to use this fun new product.
Here’s some advice when looking for bases, flip the product over or find the tag to see what the content of the material is. If it can handle high temperatures without melting and has at least 80% polyester content it will most likely work!
Keep in mind that you’ll want to look for lighter colored bases for the best results.
If you happen to fall in love with a base that’s not compatible at all (non-Cricut branded metal, cotton t-shirt, etc…) there’s an easy workaround as long as it’s able to have glitter Iron-On adhered to it. We’ll talk more about this fun method at the end of the post.
If you're brand new to Infusible Ink read this post first!!! It will walk you through all of the basics on Infusible Ink.
Table of Contents
Faux Fur Blanket
When using a Minky blanket check the contents listed on the tag to ensure that it has at least 80% polyester. Follow the Cricut Instructions for Polyester shirts.
Grosgrain Ribbon
Grosgrain Ribbon is primarily made of polyester making it a great base for Infusible Ink. It's able to withstand high temperatures and comes in a wide variety of different colors. I used the same settings for the ribbon as Cricut lists for their polyester shirts.
Sequin Fabric
Reversible sequin fabric is so fun to use because you can create a hidden image. Flip all of the sequins in one direction, adhere the Infusible Ink and then flip the sequins in the opposite direction. As with the above materials, I used the same Cricut instructions as the Polyester shirt.
I turned this fabric into a pillow to add to my Christmas decor!
Metal
Now, this is the method I'm most excited to share!! As I was experimenting with Infusible Ink, I came across the idea of using Glitter Iron-On as a base for Infusible Ink on bases that aren't compatible.
This method works really well with Infusible Ink because the glitter is polyester-based which allows the Infusible Ink to adhere to it.
For this method, you'll want to apply the Iron-On to the base for about 5 seconds. Remove the liner and place the Infusible Ink on top of the Glitter Iron-On. Use the same Cricut EasyPress settings as recommended for a polyester shirt.
Wood Slice
For this project I used basswood coasters that have been kiln-dried, are completely flat, and are untreated.
Wood is a natural substance and does not contain polyester, the reason it’s able to work is because it’s surface is so porous that the infusible ink sinks into it.
You won’t get the same vibrant results as you would with polyester but you will get a slightly weathered look.
You will need to finish the surface to lock the infusible ink into the wood. I used a coating of Mod Podge.
Here's a finished photo of all of the decorations I made with Infusible Ink and supplies I found at JOANN.
I'm looking forward to seeing what you create with Infusible Ink!
Be sure to share your SRP crafts with me on Instagram or in my crafting Facebook group!
Leah says
What time and temp do you recommend for infusible ink and wood?
Naomi says
After viewing this post, I was motivated to try the glitter hack. Oh my goodness!!! That is one of my favorite “secret tricks” now! Thanks for sharing.
Nicole says
Thankyou, this is fabulous. I can’t wear polyester so the whole idea of glitter htv first is so exciting. Will try it onna tshirt. Will the glitter vinyl crack or peel underneath or does the infusible ink sort of cement it on?
Janice Holtzclaw says
Can infusible ink be used on crocheted blanket or clothes?