Posted in Decal, Layered Vinyl, Lesson Learned

It’s Been Too Long

Products Used

Making Do As We Go

Yeah, it has been a while. In the past, I try my best to keep up with posting on a regular schedule of Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Unfortunately, this past month has been a complete and utter wash. But it has been for good reason and I am doing my best to keep motivated to work. I love making and sharing content and that is what I intend to keep doing to the best of my ability. Sometimes though, life has other plans that makes us have to adjust.

Even though I am not at home for the time being, I can always adjust to make the best out of things. That’s kind of what this project represents to me…the transformation of work flow and surroundings and making it work. It also happens that my niece, who recently got a Cricut of her own, has been wanting to learn how to layer vinyl. This multilayered butterfly was a good opportunity to show her first hand.

Teaching Layering

Making the multilayered butterfly with my niece is the first opportunity I’ve had to teach someone in person how to layer vinyl. It gave me a wonderful opportunity to allow me to rethink how I present information and how to better provide details as I work. It also had me thinking about how to help others adapt in smaller work spaces for their own projects and even filming.

In this project, my niece garnered enough confidence in what she learned to later make her very first layered vinyl decal: an apple with two layers. Then, in true ‘me’ fashion, dove straight into ‘how hard can I make it’ seven layered mandala design. The joy for me was watching her take the knowledge I shared and made her own projects. It allowed me to see first hand how even one person can be positively impacted by my art and efforts to share it with the world.

SMAAAAAAAAALLLLL SPACE

My niece’s workspace is small…I mean tiny! We really had to think of how to best work in the small space. The space that you see on IG where we are both weeding is the only workable space available. The Cricut at the top of the screen is pushed as far up on the table as possible. Needless to say, it made the actual layering process a bit of a challenge.

When there is little elbow room, how does one remove transfer tape between layers? Seriously, I don’t know even after this project, so it you have an idea of how to do it, let me know!! We were able to clear off one side of the table in order to pull the transfer tape in that direction each time, but it feels like there could be a better way. Maybe there’s another layering technique we could try?

Vinyls and Cut Settings

I’ve received multiple questions across platforms as the which settings I use for each project. It’s my goal to begin including that information in each project blog post from here on out to help others get smooth, detailed cuts themselves. Keep in mind that these settings are specific to Cricut Design Space. When I am back home, I will also try to include the cut pressure as well for those using different machines.

  • TechWrap Craft matte holo vinyl – washi sheet setting on default
  • Heat Transfer Source glossy adhesive vinyls (both colors) – washi sheet setting on default pressure
  • TechWrap Craft opal vinyl – washi sheet setting on more pressure
  • Cricut holographic sparkle vinyl- holographic sparkle vinyl setting on default pressure

Needing That Positive Motivation

We are all human and thrive on positive interactions with others. In saying so, has there been a project or post of mine that has brought you joy? Anything here or on my other socials that has benefited your crafting in some way? I’m finding myself eager to hear others’ perspective and continue learning how to best present information and art to continue to positively impact others. Any feedback in that regard, be it positive or constructive criticism, is more than welcome. Drop a line below in the comments, or contact me directly on any of my socials to share. 🙂

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