Loading vinyl depends on the type of vinyl and the machine you're using, but generally, for heat transfer vinyl (HTV) and using a cutting machine like a Cricut, the process involves placing the vinyl shiny-side down on a cutting mat before feeding it into the machine.
Here's a breakdown:
- Identify the correct side: For heat transfer vinyl (HTV), the shiny or glossy side is the carrier sheet and should be placed down on the cutting mat. The dull or matte side is the actual vinyl that will be cut.
- Prepare the cutting mat: Ensure your cutting mat is clean and sticky enough to hold the vinyl in place during cutting.
- Place the vinyl on the mat: Position the vinyl, shiny side down (for HTV), onto the cutting mat, smoothing it out to avoid bubbles or wrinkles.
- Load the mat into the machine: Align the edge of the mat with the guides on your cutting machine (like a Cricut). Press the "load" button (often indicated by double arrows) to feed the mat into the machine.
Important Note for HTV: When loading heat transfer vinyl, remember the saying, "shiny side down." This ensures the blade cuts the correct layer. The shiny carrier sheet protects the design during heat application.
