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Digital technologies/Textiles/Die-cutting using Cricut (view source)
Revision as of 18:27, 30 August 2024
, 30 August→Machine initialization and placing material
====== Machine initialization and placing material ======
====== Machine initialization and placing material ======
Once you have your design, click on continue and, connect your laptop or the one available at the Makerspace to the Cricut machine using the USB cable or pair with Bluetooth. Ensure that the machine is connected to the outlet.
# Use the trimmer to measure and cut out the material you need.
# Place your material on the mat. Do not throw the plastic protector, which was on the mat ,away. Put it back on the mat after use.
# Use the scraper to firmly adhere your material to the mat.
# Press the ‘ON’ button on the Cricut machine.
# Ensure that there is a blade in Clamp B------(load clamps)
# Place the mat inside the Cricut between the mat guides and click on the blinking load/unload button to load the mat into the machine. The mat will be rolled once so that the machine measures its size, then again before the cut.
# Click on the blinking play button to start the cut.
# Keep watch on the machine when it is operating.
==== After Cut ====
==== After Cut ====
After the cut,
# Use the load/unload button to remove the mat.
# The spatula can be used to remove the cut-out piece from the mat’s surface.
# The scissors can be used to cut the material where your cut part is situated or for any additional trimmings.
# Use the weeding tool and the tweezers to help in removing and holding smaller cut-out parts, respectively.
# The scraper is useful when applying transfer tape to your design or when applying your design to a surface.
== Using the Heat Press ==
== Using the Heat Press ==
The heat press would be integral when your dealing with iron-on vinyl.
Follow the following steps to use the heat press at the Makerspace:
# Plug the heat press and set a temperature of 305 ̊ F/151.7 ̊C, if you are using iron-on vinyl from the Makerspace.
# Position your design on your fabric with the shiny side facing upwards.
# Place your fabric under the head of the heat press, ensuring that the design is centered under it.
# Press the head of the heat press down onto the fabric using the clamp and wait 10 seconds, if using iron-on vinyl from the Makerspace.
# Lift the clamp on the heat press, press again if necessary, then remove the fabric.
# Remove the sticky backing from the fabric and allow to cool
Note: Temperature settings and the quantity of time you should wait depend on the material you are using.
== Safety considerations ==
== Safety considerations ==
Safety should always be taken into account during any project you are working on. For a smooth operation, keep in mind the following instructions:
=== Cricut machine ===
* Prevent blade contact with hand or body to avoid injury.
* Do not open, modify or tamper with the machine
* Turn the machine off before unplugging.
* Do not place your fingers or other objects in the machine while it is powered on or during a cutting operation.
* Disconnect machine when not in use by unplugging the cord from the outlet.
* Be careful the mat will be rolled quickly when the load/unload button is pressed.
=== Heat Press ===
* Avoid using materials which are sensitive to heat in the Heat Press.
* Leave the Heat Transfer pad open after or between use.
* Do not put your hand on the Heat Transfer pad when the Heat Press is on to avoid burns.
* Disconnect the electrical cord from outlet after use.
If you are feeling unsure about the operation of the machines, kindly seek assistance from a staff member at the Makerspace.
== Materials at the Makerspace ==
== Materials at the Makerspace ==
The material that is usually used in the Cricut machine, at the Makerspace, is the iron-on vinyl, also known as HTV-Heat Transfer Vinyl.
To put your design on your fabric:
* You need to place the vinyl, with the shiny side up on your fabric.
* Apply heat using the heat press.
Some other materials at the Makerspace would be adhesive vinyl(permanent and removable), pre-folded cards and smart materials. Each category of materials come with some slight changes that should be made during their applications.
== Other uses of the Cricut machine ==
== Uses of the Cricut machine ==
The Cricut machine can also be used to make crafts, wishing cards and personalize items with its cutter or pen, to make calligraphies.
== References ==
== References ==
* [https://d2e2oszluhwxlw.cloudfront.net/help/warranties/Maker_booklet_english.pdf Cricut user's manual]
* [https://d2e2oszluhwxlw.cloudfront.net/help/warranties/Maker_booklet_english.pdf Cricut user's manual]